NORTHWESTERN YUNNAN
In China’s far southwest, northwestern Yunnan rises towards the Tibetan Plateau, where towering mountains, deep river valleys and highland grasslands meet a rich tapestry of cultures. Once traversed by caravans carrying tea and horses, the ancient Tea Horse Road links historic towns, traditional villages and communities shaped by centuries of trade and cultural exchange.
We focus on this remarkable corner of Yunnan for its exceptional variety of landscapes, cultural traditions and regional cuisines. Its well-developed infrastructure, carefully selected places to stay and excellent local food make it possible to explore this richly varied region in comfort, without compromising on the depth of discovery.
PLACES TO EXPLORE
LIJIANG
At an altitude of 2,400 metres, Lijiang’s old town is a maze of cobbled lanes, timber houses and stone bridges, reflecting centuries of Naxi culture and the town’s history as a trading hub. Its Dongba heritage brings together shamanic beliefs, ritual practices and an ancient pictographic writing system, offering insight into traditions that continue to shape Naxi identity.
Well connected to major Chinese airports, Lijiang is a natural starting or finishing point for exploring Northwest Yunnan, with access to Shaxi, Shangri-La and the region’s striking mountain landscapes.
Suggested stay: 1–3 days
SHAXI
Shaxi is where the Tea Horse Road lives on. Its beautifully preserved market square, traditional Bai architecture and historic lanes evoke its past as a trading stop along this ancient route. Set at around 2,000 metres in a mountain valley, the town offers an intimate glimpse of Bai heritage, traditional crafts and everyday village life.
The surrounding mountains invite exploration on foot, with trails linking remote villages and following old trading routes. Nearby Shibao Shan is home to Buddhist grottoes, centuries-old statues and intricate carvings.
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
SHANGRI-LA
At 3,300 metres, Shangri-La lies amid the high-altitude landscapes of the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, where Kham Tibetan culture shapes its monasteries, architecture, cuisine and daily life. The recreated old town offers a range of local restaurants and accommodation, alongside colourful streets and lively scenes.
Beyond the town, yak-grazed grasslands, remote Tibetan villages and mountain trails reveal a more intimate view of life on the plateau. Exploring these surrounding landscapes offers a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural traditions, pastoral heritage and enduring connection to the mountains.
Suggested stay: 2–3 days
FURTHER AFIELD
Away from the best-known destinations, a more remote side of Northwest Yunnan awaits. Naxi villages cling to hillsides above the turquoise waters of the Yangtze, while Bai hamlets preserve age-old traditions such as curing ham.
Closer to the Tibetan border, Buddhist monasteries, sacred waterfalls and traditional crafts offer encounters far from the usual routes. Accompanied by local naturalists, we venture into ancient forests seldom visited by outsiders, or seek out the elusive Yunnan snub-nosed monkey in its natural habitat.
Suggested stay: 1-2 days in each destination
WHERE TO STAY
From characterful heritage properties to secluded mountain lodges and exceptional hotels, Northwest Yunnan offers a distinctive range of stays, each chosen for its setting, design and sense of place, combining local character with considered comfort and hospitality.
BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATION
Smaller properties chosen for their individual character, thoughtful design and personal hospitality, from restored courtyard houses to contemporary hideaways.
SPECIAL STAYS
Distinctive stays where setting and character take centre stage, from historic residences and restored village homes to immersive glamping in secluded landscapes.
EXCEPTIONAL HOTELS
A curated selection of high-end hotels and lodges offering outstanding settings, generous comfort, attentive service and a more elevated way to experience the region.
CULTURE, CRAFTS & LOCAL LIFE
Cultural traditions remain woven into everyday life across Yunnan. Discover Tibetan Buddhist practices around Shangri-La, explore Naxi heritage in Lijiang and admire the traditional Bai architecture of Shaxi. Visit local markets, learn about ancestral customs and encounter time-honoured crafts while meeting the people who keep these traditions alive.
Centuries of exchange along the Tea Horse Road have shaped the region’s rich cultural diversity, still evident in its communities today.
WALKING & HIKING
One of the most rewarding ways to discover this region is on foot. Follow ancient Tea Horse Road trails and paths linking remote villages, or take on the dramatic trek through Tiger Leaping Gorge. Traverse rugged mountain landscapes, encounter communities shaped by centuries of trade and tradition, and enjoy sweeping views across deep valleys and towering peaks.
Gentle village walks and more demanding mountain hikes offer options for different interests and abilities. For those seeking a greater challenge, we can design multi-day hiking journeys tailored to your pace and interests
FOOD & FLAVOURS
Yunnan’s cuisine reflects its mountain landscapes, rich cultural diversity and centuries of exchange along ancient trade routes. Seasonal ingredients, wild mushrooms, traditionally cured meats and artisanal cheeses give the region’s cooking its character, while locally produced wines, craft beers and emerging drinks producers bring new influences to the table.
Together, these traditions and contemporary expressions make Yunnan one of China’s most rewarding regions to explore through food.
NATURE & LANDSCAPES
Northwest Yunnan is a land of dramatic contrasts, where snow-capped peaks rise above forested valleys, rivers carve deep gorges and highland meadows open beneath vast mountain skies. Take in the grandeur of its mountain ranges, explore the formidable depths of Tiger Leaping Gorge or follow trails through alpine pastures and remote villages.
Each setting offers a different perspective on this remarkable corner of China, shaped by the interplay of rugged terrain, open highlands and winding river valleys.
GUIDE TO PRICING
Every Fujian programme is tailored to your interests, travel style and budget, with a Personal Explorer, private transport, meals and your choice of accommodation. As each journey is individually designed, pricing varies according to your preferences and arrangements.
Indicative pricing: RMB 1,400–2,500+ per person per day, depending on group size and programme specifications. Rates are generally lower for groups of six or more and higher for two travellers. Prices assume two people sharing a room.
Travelling with children? Children under 6 travel free of charge, while children aged 6–12 receive a 10% discount on the per-person programme price.