Lijiang distinguishes itself from other ancient cities culturally, ethnically, and architecturally. It is made the capital of Naxi ethnic group, thus its architectural style, culture and customs are full of ethnic features, so are the local entertainment activities. Even the bars in Lijiang seem so different from that in other places, being pervaded with cozy, quaint and nostalgic atmosphere. Let TOC be your guide of this fun-seeking journey!
"Do as the Romans do"
In Lijiang, especially in its Old Town, a lot of shows performed by Naxi people are available for travelers.
Naxi Ancient Music and Dance Show
It is said that admiring Lijiang breathtaking sceneries by day and enjoying Naxi ancient music and dance show by night have become quite popular among travelers from both home and abroad. Naxi ancient music and dance show is performed by the local Naxi people who have inhabited Lijiang for a long time. Naxi ancient music is very valued and priceless, ranked among the top classic orchestral music in China. Here the word "ancient" contains three meanings-the music, the performers and the music instruments. Especially the performers, they are usually aged ones, as the music is so time-honored that young people sometimes have difficulties in playing it. At present, there are two places for visitors to see the authentic Naxi music and dance show.
Naxi Concert Hall
Address: No.11 Jishan Valley, Xinyi Street of the Old Town
Show time: from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Ticket price: from 80 to 120 PRM/ per person(about $11 to $15)
The Dongba Palace
Address: located at East Street of the Old Town
Tel: 0888-5181598
Ticket price: 5 RMB(about 7cents)
Nightlife of Lijiang
Bar Street-Xinhua Street
On the right side of Dashiqiao lies the world famous Xinhua bar street along with a lot of bars decorated in different styles. It is another highlight of Lijiang. When night falls, many travelers from all over the world gather here, either sharing their most romantic travel experience, or just immerse themselves in the fascinating sceneries, or unwinding themselves by joining in a real booze-up. It is worth mentioning that some bars are owned or operated by foreign friends who are crazy about this fantastic place. Most of the bars are two-storied wooden constructions, full of quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.
Xiao Bali(Paris)
Address: NO.111, Cuiwenduan, Xinhua Street, the Old Town of Lijiang.
Reason for recommendation: the owner of the bar is from Paris, and has settled here because of the local attractive ethnic cultures and customs. The bar is decorated with wooden wine-colored chairs and tables and European-styled fireplace, pervaded by cozy atmosphere. Every night, some shows featured with ethnic minority styles are available here for appreciation; some local dishes as well as French and Italian delicacies are offered as well. What a perfect mixture of eastern and western ideas!
Old Tree Bar(Gu shu ba in Mandarin)
Address: located at Luoshui Village, Lugu Lake.
Tel: 0888-6689989
Reason for recommendation: It is named after a millenary-old walnut tree on its viewing platform. The main body of the bar borrows the traditional Muleng-house-style of the Mosuo group, with the decoration to be classic and exotic. Customers can read books and novels when enjoy a cup of fragrant tea, aromatic coffee or various wines.
Editor's words:
The nightlife of Lijiang is somewhat different from that of Beijing or Shanghai. If you want to experience something ethnic and Lijiang-styled, then Naxi ancient music and dance shows are highly recommended. If you have some ideas and want to add in your Lijiang tours, please talk to our trip advisors for fulfillment. Wish you have a nice trip in Lijiang!
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