Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Glacier Cableway + Scenic Train

10 hours

Easy

Ride on the new scenic sightseeing train to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and visit the Glacier Park, Spruce Meadows and Blue Moon Valley

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the southernmost snow mountain in the Northern Hemisphere. As a must-see attraction in Lijiang City, Yulong Snow Mountain consists of 13 peaks, with the highest peak, Shanzidou, rising to 5,596 meters above sea level. The mountain range stretches 35 kilometers from north to south and 15 kilometers from west to east. The snowy, fog-shrouded mountain looks like a giant jade dragon when seen from Lijiang Old Town, hence its name, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.


  • Option 1 Glacier Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley Tickets (No Transport)
  • Option 2 Glacier Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 2-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 3 Glacier + Spruce or Yak Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 2-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 4 Glacier + Spruce + Yak Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 2-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 5 Glacier Cableway + Impression Lijiang + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 2-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 6 Glacier + Spruce Cableway + Impression Lijiang + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 2-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Self-Guided Tour)

For option 2 to 6, Take the sightseeing train from Lijiang Town to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit Glacier Park, Spruce Meadows and/or Yak Plains (option), watch Impression Lijiang performance (option), take shuttle Blue Moon Valley and take the sightseeing train back to town. This is a self-guided tour.


  • Option 7 Glacier + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 8 Glacier + Spruce or Yak Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 9 Glacier + Impression Lijiang + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / Self-Guided Tour)
  • Option 10 Glacier + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / English-speaking Guide)
  • Option 11 Glacier + Spruce Cableway + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / English-speaking Guide)
  • Option 12 Glacier + Impression Lijiang + Shuttle to Blue Moon Valley + 1-way Sightseeing Train Tickets (Shared Vehicle / English-speaking Guide)

For option 7 to 12, we will pick you from your hotel in Lijiang, watch Golden Sunshine on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain at Dongba Valley, Visit Glacier Park, Spruce Meadow or watch Impression Lijiang (option), take shuttle to Blue Moon Valley and take the sightseeing train back to town. The tour ends at the sightseeing train station in Lijiang town near Baisha Ancient Town. This is a join-in tour for foreigners (no domestic tourists). Options 10 to 12 include English-speaking Tour Guide.


Please take note that the cableway tickets are subject to availability and the time slots of the cableway is based on first come first serve. It is recommended to book the cableway tickets at least 7 days in advance to have a high chance of getting good time slots. If we are unable to purchase the cableway tickets, a full refund will be given.

Scenic Train Ride

Enjoy a glass-domed scenic sightseeing train ride through forests and Tibetan villages. The sightseeing train features a panoramic design offering passengers breathtaking views of the majestic Yulong Snow Mountain, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning gorges.


Glacier Park via Asia’s Highest Cableway

Ascend to 4,680 meters using the Glacier Park cableway, one of the highest in Asia. Witness the stunning glaciers, including hanging and cirque glaciers, and enjoy panoramic views from the summit. The cableway ascends through clouds to a 4,506-meter glacial sanctuary. Atop the ancient ice field, hike to touch the rugged tongue of the 40,000-year-old "White Water No.1 Glacier". Sunlight refracts rainbows through ice crystals in summer, while snow transforms peaks into divine sculptures in winter.

Note: Be prepared for altitude sickness; oxygen canisters are recommended.


Spruce Meadows 

Spruce Meadow is a huge lawn hidden in the original spruce forest, with an elevation of 3,240 meters. Watch the beautiful scenery. The colors of the lawn change in four seasons and the forest on the edge of the meadow form a natural barrier with the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Enjoy folk dances around the Spruce Meadow, you will see some girls dressed in bright ethnic clothing, they dance on the meadows and in the forests.


Yak Plains 

Yak Plains nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Lijiang, is a captivating alpine meadow known for its pristine natural beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Located within the greater Jade Dragon Snow Mountain range, this area serves as an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.


Blue Moon Valley – Turquoise Lakes

Explore the terraced turquoise lakes colored by glacial minerals, resembling a crescent moon. Snowmelt weaves magic through this crescent valley with four ethereal lakes: Jade Liquid Lake sinks like sapphire into bedrock; Mirror Pool reflects the mountain in crystalline perfection; Blue Moon Lake curves like a fallen moonbeam; Listening Waterfall cascades in nature’s symphony. Waters shift from azure to milky white with weather—a spell cast by the mountain’s tears.


Dongba Valley

A natural canyon integrated with Naxi culture. Danxia cliffs form spectacular landscapes, and the morning "Golden Mountain Sunrise" is iconic. Artisan Street showcases intangible heritage like Dongba script writing and Remeicu dance, blending geology with ethnic traditions.


What's included?
    • Glacier Cableway Tickets + Shuttle Service to Blue Moon Valley
    • Spruce Cableway Tickets (option 6 and 11), Spruce or Yak Cableway Tickets (option 3 and 8), Spruce and Yak Cableway Tickets (option 4)
    • Impression Lijiang Tickets (option 5, 6, 9 and 12)
    • 2-way scenic sightseeing train tickets (option 2 to 6) or Hotel Pickup + 1-way scenic sightseeing train tickets (option 7 to 12)
    • English-speaking Tour Guide (option 10 to 12)
    Exclusions

      Admission Ticket to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (CNY100/person)

      Tips and Gratuities

      Meals & Beverages

      Personal Expenses

      Please note

        OVERVIEW

        Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the pride of Lijiang, with 13 majestic peaks stretching across 35km. Its highest summit, Shanzidou, rises to 5,596m, earning the range its name - from Lijiang Old town, the mist-covered ridges resembles a jade dragon lying in the clouds. With glaciers, turquoise lakes, meadows, and rich Naxi culture, it's one of China's most breathtaking alpine destinations.

        TOUR OPTIONS

        • Self-Guided Tours (options1-6) - flexible itineraries with scenic train and multiple cableway choices.
        • Shared Tours with Pickup (options 7-12) 
          • includes hotel pickup in Lijiang, group transport, Dongba Valley sunrise, and return scenic train. Options 10-12 include an English-speaking guide.
          • Foreigners only, no locals or domestic tourists.

        KEY TRAVEL INFORMATION

        • Glacier Cableway - Asia's highest cableway, reaching 4,506m at Glacier Park. From here, visitors can hike up to 4,680 for glacier views.
        • Altitude Risk - high elevation  means possible altitude sickness. Walk slowly, stay hydrated, and consider carrying oxygen bottles (widely available in the area).
        • Weather & Cableway Operations - the cableways do not always operate daily. Services may close, suspended or delayed due to strong winds, heavy snow, or dense fog for safety reasons.
          • Tip: if the Glacier Cableway is closed, you can still explore Blue Moon Valley, Spruce Meadows, Yak Plains, or enjoy the Impression Lijiang cultural show (depending on your package of choice). These areas remain open most of the time and provide incredible scenery and cultural experience.
        • Ticketing Notes
          • Cableway tickets are subject to availability. Highly recommended to book at least 7 days in advance.
          • Passport/ID is required for ticket redemption.
        • Weather Conditions - mountain weather changes quickly - expect sunshine, snow, or fog in the same day. UV rays are strong all year-round.
        • Accessibility
          • Glacier Park requires climbing stairs and walking boardwalks; not wheelchair accessible.
          • Spruce Meadows and Yak Plains are gentler alternatives but still at high elevation.
          • Not recommended for travellers with serious, heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions. You may also consult your Doctor before booking.
        • Children & Seniors - suitable with caution. Carry snacks, water, and oxygen bottles if needed.
        • Food & Drink - limited and pricey inside the park. Better to eat before visiting or bring your own snacks.
        • Restrooms - available at main scenic areas and cableway stations, but facilities are simple. Bring tissues or wet wipes.
        • Crowds & Timing - the Glacier Cableway is the most popular and busiest. Early morning slots usually mean clearer skies and fewer crowds.

        BEST TIME TO VISIT

        • Spring (Mar-May) - clear skies, blooming meadows, and vivid glaciers.
        • Summer (Jun-Aug) - lush alpine scenery, strong UV rays, occasional rain.
        • Autumn (Sep-Nov) - golden valleys, crystal-clear lakes, best season for photography.
        • Winter (Dec-Feb) - snow-covered peaks, fewer crowds, dramatic alpine beauty.

        LOCAL TRADITIONS & ETIQUETTE

        • Respect prayer flags and sacred sites - do not touch or remove them.
        • Ask before photographing locals in traditional dress.
        • Support the community by purchasing Naxi or Tibetan crafts and dining locally.

        BENEFITS OF BOOKING WITH THIS TOUR

        • Scenic glass-doomed train ride with panoramic mountain views.
        • Flexible tour options - from self-guided freedom to guided group experiences.
        • Access to multiple attractions: Glacier Park, Blue Moon Valley, Spruce Meadow, Yak Plains, and the Impression Lijiang cultural show.



        What to bring

          CLOTHING & WEATHER PROTECTION

          • Layered Clothing - temperatures can swing from warm sunshine at the base to freezing winds at Glacier Park. Think T-shirts, fleece, and a warm jacket.
          • Windproof & Waterproof Outerwear - sudden rain, snow, or strong gusts are common.
          • Gloves, scarf, hat/ear warmers - essential at higher altitudes, especially in winter.
          • Comfortable Walking Shoes or Hiking Boots - with good grip for boardwalks and sometimes slippery paths.
          • Sunglasses - strong glare from snow and ice can strain the eyes.
          • Sunscreen & Lip Balm with SPF - UV rays are intense even in winter.
          • Buff or Neck Gaiter - doubles as sun, dust, and wind protection.

          HEALTH & SAFETY

          • Oxygen Canisters - available for rent/purchase in Lijiang and at scenic areas; useful if altitude sickness kicks in.
          • Altitude Sickness Medication (if prone) - consult your doctor before travel.
          • Reusable Water Bottle - hydration helps prevent altitude symptoms.
          • Personal Medications - bring enough for the whole trip (pharmacy access is limited onsite).
          • Basic First-Aid Kit - painkillers, band-aids/plasters, motion sickness pills if needed.

          PERSONAL ESSENTIALS

          • Passport/Valid ID - mandatory for ticket pickup and checks.
          • Cash & Digital Payments - while Alipay/WeChat Pay are common, some shops may prefer cash.
          • Snacks & Light Food - meals inside the park are limited and overpriced. Energy bars, nuts, or fruit are ideal.
          • Portable Charger/Power Bank - cold weather drains phone batteries faster.
          • Tissues or Wet Wipe - restrooms at scenic spots may not be well-stocked.
          • Hand Sanitizer - always handy when facilities are basic.

          TRAVEL TIPS/HACKS

          • Book the earliest Glacier Cableway Slot - clearer skies, fewer crowds, better photos.
          • Pack a Lightweight Foldable Down Jacket - easy to carry and perfect for sudden cold snaps.
          • Use Eco-Buses Strategically - getting off one stop early lets you walk quieter boardwalk sections away from the crowds.
          • Bring your Own Oxygen Early - it's cheaper in Lijiang than at the mountain.
          • Snack Smart - carry high-energy bites like chocolate or dried fruit to fight fatigue at high altitude.
          • Think "light but prepared". They key is layers, hydration, and flexibility - so you're comfortable whether it's sunny at Blue Moon Valley or icy at Glacier Park.