Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Snow-capped peaks at 5,596 metres — Lijiang's most dramatic natural backdrop

Qianyi L.
By Qianyi L.·Updated May 2026·10 min read
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain glacier and alpine meadows, Lijiang, Yunnan, China
Time needed
4-6 hours
Rating
AAA

Overview

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Xueshan) is the southernmost glacier in the northern hemisphere and the most visually spectacular feature of the Lijiang landscape. The mountain rises to 5,596 metres and is permanently snow-capped, its glacier visible from central Lijiang on clear days. A cable car system provides access to three different altitude levels, the highest reaching 4,506 metres on the glacier itself.

Plan your visit

Best time to visit

October-May for clearest skies. Summer brings afternoon cloud that can obscure the glacier.

Getting there

From Lijiang Old Town: taxi (¥100) or tour bus. The mountain is about 25 kilometres north of Lijiang. Combined scenic area tickets and cable car tickets can be purchased at the entrance or in advance.

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