Ropeway to the glacier park
Yulong Snow mountain
Yulong Snow mountain
Yakniuping
Yak Ping
Lijiang eternal love performance
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Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Yak Cableway + Full Day Private Vehicle

10 hours

Moderate

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Yak Cableway + Shuttle Bus to Blue Moon Valley + Full Day Private Vehicle

We provide Private Tours specifically for Foreigners

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Private Tour

Enjoy a private, customized day tour to explore the natural wonders and cultural heritage around Lijiang. With your private vehicle and driver, you'll explore iconic sights like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Blue Moon Valley. You can choose to visit attractions like Dongba Valley, Yushui or Yuhu Naxi Village, Black Dragon Pool, Baisha or Shuhe Ancient Town, Lashihai Wetland Park, and even experience horseback riding across the legendary Tea Horse Road.The Jade Dragon (Yulong) Snow Mountain is noted as the southernmost snow mountain in Northern Hemisphere. 


As a must-see attraction in Lijiang City, Yulong Snow Mountain is made up of 13 peaks with the highest one, Shanzidou, rising 5596 meters above sea level. The mountain range stretches 35 kilometers from north to south and 15 kilometers from west to east. The snowy and fog-shrouded mountain looks like a giant jade dragon seen from Lijiang Old Town, hence the name ''Jade Dragon Snow Mountain''.


We will pick you from your hotel in Lijiang, watch Golden Sunrise on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or Black Dragon Pool while having morning tea and snacks. (weather permitting).


Take the Yak cableway to Yak Plains.

Yak Plains (also known as Maoniuping), located in the high-altitude region of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a beautiful plateau meadow renowned for its natural scenery and rich ecology. It is not only an ideal spot for appreciating the magnificent views of the snow mountain but also a perfect place to experience local ethnic culture and ecological environment.


Take the shuttle bus to Blue Moon Valley which has the shape of crescent moon and when it is sunny the water looks blue.

Seen from a distance, the valley is like a blue moon at the bottom of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.


Drop off at your hotel at the end of the tour. 


What's included?

    Full Day Private Vehicle 

    Yak Cableway Tickets

    Shuttle Bus to Blue Moon Valley 

    Self-Guide Instructions with online English/Chinese speaking customer support and tour guidance 


    Exclusions

      Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Admission Ticket (CNY100/person)

      Tour Guide (extra fee)

      Meals & Beverages

      Personal Expenses

      Please note

        Essential tips on altitude, weather, and tickets to help you enjoy Jade Dragon Snow Mountain with ease.


        PHYSICAL FITNESS & ALTITUDE

        • Snow mountain is located at a high altitude (up to 4,680 meters). 
        • Visitors may experience high altitude sickness; consult your doctor if you have any health concerns.
        • Acclimatization in Kunming/Dali is recommended before the trip. This allows your body to adjust to a higher altitude gradually.
        • Moderate physical fitness is required.


        BEST TIME TO VISIT

        • Spring & Autumn (Mar-May, Sep-Nov) - Clear skies, best for photography.
        • Summer (Jun-Aug) - Green landscapes but higher chance of clouds or rain.
        • Winter (Dec-Feb) - Snowy peaks and crisp mountain air.
        • TIP: Morning visits often provide the clearest views.


        DO'S & DON'TS

        Do's

        • Wear layered, warm clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
        • Move slowly at altitude and rest often.
        • Use sunglasses and sunscreen - UV rays are stronger at high elevation.
        • Respect local culture and natural surroundings.

        Don'ts

        • Don't rush on the glacier stairs.
        • Don't ignore altitude sickness symptoms.
        • Don't rely on same-day cableway tickets, especially during peak season.
        • Don't smoke or drink alcohol before or during your visit.


        THINGS TO KNOW

        • Cableway tickets sell out fast - Aether Tours secures them in advance.
        • Passport required for ticket collection and entry.
        • Optional: hire an English-speaking guide for cultural insights and smooth logistics.


        ACCESSIBILITY

        • Glacier Cableway - Includes many stairs; limited wheelchair or stroller access.
        • Blue Moon Valley - Easier walking paths but uneven in places.


        HEALTH & ALTITUDE

        • Glacier Cableway peak reaches 4,506m
        • Portable oxygen canisters available at the base.
        • Not suitable for travellers with serious heart, lung, or blood pressure conditions.
        • Stay hydrated, eat light, and avoid alcohol or smoking.
        • Overnight stay in Lijiang is recommended for altitude adjustment.


        DINING AVAILABILITY

        • Food options inside the scenic are are very limited - mostly small snack stalls near the cableway base and parking areas.
        • Restaurants are more available back in Lijiang Old Town or the city centre.
        • It's best to carry light snacks (nuts, energy bars) and a reusable water bottle for the day.
        • Pro Tip: Eat a light meal before ascending - heavy food combined with high altitude can make some travellers uncomfortable.


        INTERESTING FACTS & TRAVELER TIPS

        • Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is sacred to the Naxi people, known as the "God of Snow Mountain."
        • Blue Moon Valley is nicknamed, "Little Jiuzhaigou" for its surreal turquoise lakes.
        • Morning visits usually have the clearest views.
        • The mountain's weather can change dramatically - sunshine, mist, or snow, sometimes all in one day.
        What to bring

          CLOTHING & WEATHER PROTECTION

          • Warm Layered Clothing - temperatures near the glacier can drop below freezing, even in summer.
          • Windproof Jacket, Gloves, & Hat - essential for comfort at higher elevation.
          • Comfortable Walking Shoes - with good grip for stairs and uneven paths.
          • Sunglasses & Sunscreen - UV rays are stronger at high altitude.
          • Rain Poncho or Umbrella - sudden showers are common.

          HEALTH & ALTITUDE ESSENTIALS

          • Altitude Sickness Remedies - bring medication such as acetazolamide (consult your doctor) or herbal options to alleviate symptoms.
          • First Aid Kit - include band-aids/plaster, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and any personal medications.
          • Lip Balm -  keep your lips moisturized as the dry mountain air can cause chapping.
          • Oxygen Canister (optional) - for those highly sensitive to altitude, portable oxygen canisters can provide relief.

          PERSONAL HYGIENE & COMFORT

          • Hand Sanitizer - quick refresh after public restrooms or before snacks.
          • Tissues or Wet Wipes - a lifesaver when facilities are a little too basic.
          • Lip Balm & Moisturizer - protect against dry mountain air.