Lijiang, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Lijiang, China? If you're planning to go to Lijiang, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Lijiang
- Important essentials for Lijiang
- Activities for Lijiang
- Lijiang in January: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in February: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in March: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in April: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in May: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in June: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in July: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in August: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in September: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in October: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in November: weather and what to pack
- Lijiang in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Lijiang, China
Based on the climate and weather in Lijiang, China, the best time to go is May. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Lijiang, China
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lijiang, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Lijiang, China by month
January
If you vacation in Lijiang during January, you will probably notice that it can be brisk. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Fleece
Extra socks
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Jacket or coat
Light gloves or mittens
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
February
If you vacation in Lijiang during February, you are likely to notice that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this one
Jacket or coat
Warm pants or jeans
Light gloves or mittens
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
March
March in Lijiang can be chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
April
April here can be chilly. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Pants or jeans
Light jacket or fleece
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light and heavy skirts
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.
Travel neck pillow
A versatile choice is this one
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
May
May in Lijiang is mild. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) to low 70s F (low 20s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 40s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light skirts
Rain poncho
A weatherproof rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for bad weather.So your stuff stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let water in. We like:
Rain pants
These are essential in a storm.
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
June
June in this region is mild. Temperatures average in the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Rain poncho
A quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket saves you time and money by protecting your nice coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a necessity. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for bad weather.So your stuff remain dry. Even the finest suitcases can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These are a lifesaver in heavy rain.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great kit.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you get the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
July
If you vacation in Lijiang during July, you will probably notice that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 70s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Sandals
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your nice jacket. We like this one.
The stormy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots are great for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is made for stormy weather.So your things don't get wet. Even the best suitcases can let rain in. We like:
Rain pants
Rain pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
August
Traveling to Lijiang in August, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat stormy. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Rain poncho
A high quality rain poncho to wear over your jacket can be a lifesaver by protecting your coat. We like this one.
Rainy weather makes rubber rain boots a must. These boots work well for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is built for storms.So your belongings stay dry. Even the most durable luggage can let moisture in. We recommend:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
September
If you visit Lijiang during September, you are likely to find that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Light and heavy skirts
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Light jacket or fleece
Pants or jeans
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Rain poncho
A good rain poncho to wear over your coat can be a lifesaver by protecting your main coat. We like this one.
Stormy weather makes rubber rain boots essential. These boots are well-suited for stormy weather:
An umbrella
This excellent one is designed for bad weather.So your things don't get wet. The finest suitcases can let moisture in. We like:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to find the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
October
Traveling to Lijiang in October, you will notice that it is relatively cool. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Travel shoe storage
If you bring multiple shoe options,
travel shoe storage.Light jacket or fleece
Dresses
You can find some great options here
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Extra socks
Light and heavy skirts
Pants or jeans
Long sleeve shirts or blouses
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be careful to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
November
If you vacation in Lijiang during November, you will probably find that it can be extremely cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 30s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Jacket or coat
Fleece
Warm pants or jeans
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best option: this
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
December
December in Lijiang is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Jacket or coat
Lip balm
In our opinion, the best is: this
Extra socks
Light gloves or mittens
Warm pants or jeans
Fleece
Sneakers or comfortable shoes
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Lijiang. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
If you go to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
What to do in Lijiang, China
Lijiang, located in southwestern China, is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. Known for its old town, Lijiang is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore the city's historical sites, shop for souvenirs and admire the stunning natural landscape. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Lijiang.
1. Lijiang Old Town
Lijiang Old Town is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lijiang. Located in the heart of the city, it is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional wooden buildings, and canals. Visitors can explore the town's numerous shops, restaurants, and bars or visit historical sites such as Mu's Palace and the Wangu Pavilion.
2. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a spectacular mountain range located to the northwest of Lijiang Old Town. The snow-capped peaks reach over 5,000 meters and provide a stunning backdrop to the city. Visitors can take a cable car up to the peak to enjoy the panoramic views or visit the Naxi village at the foot of the mountain.
3. Black Dragon Pool
Located in the north of Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool is a tranquil oasis where tourists can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The pool has crystal clear water and is surrounded by lush greenery and ancient architecture. Visitors can take a walk around the pool or visit the Dongba Culture Museum located nearby.
4. Tiger Leaping Gorge
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world and is located about 60 km from Lijiang. The sheer cliffs on either side of the gorge rise over 4,000 meters, making it a popular hiking and trekking destination for tourists. The area offers stunning views of the Jinsha River and the surrounding mountains.
5. Shuhe Ancient Town
Shuhe Ancient Town is located to the northwest of Lijiang Old Town and is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and is home to many ancient temples, bridges, and courtyards. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine and shopping in the area.
Overall, Lijiang offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers who want to experience the best that China has to offer. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Lijiang is an unforgettable destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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