Lijiang Entertainment

The entertainment situation in Lijiang is pretty similar to that in Dali. The development of a foreign-oriented tourism industry, means that the city now boasts numerous good bars and cafes, set amidst a rich cultural atmosphere.

Most of the bars and cafes here are located in the old town and are frequented by foreign visitors. Many function as restaurants and bars and, most importantly,as travel information centers.

The bars are generally located along the Yuhe River which meanders its way through the old town. The Sakura Cafe, the Well Bistro, and the Sun Room Cafe are all currently popular.

While the bars and cafes are good fun, any visit to Lijiang should include a Naxi Ancient Music Concert. The Naxi Ancient Music Institute is the best place to experience this, although the Dongba Palace opposite the institute also hosts numerous cultural activities and music performances.

As the foreign-oriented tourism industry has developed in Lijiang, many new good bars and cafes have sprung up set amidst a rich cultural atmosphere. Most of them are located in the Old Town and are frequented by foreign visitors and many function not only as restaurants and bars but also as travel information centers.

The bars are generally located along the Yuhe River that winds its way through the Old Town. The Sakura Cafe, the Well Bistro, and the Sun Room Cafe are all popular venues.
While the bars and cafes are good fun, any visit to Lijiang should include a Naxi Ancient Music Concert. The Naxi Ancient Music Institute is the best place to catch one, although the Dongba Palace opposite the Institute also hosts numerous cultural activities and musical performances.

Naxi Ancient Music and Dance Show
Long-time inhabitants of Lijiang, the Naxi have created a unique and splendid Dongba culture while absorbing the cultural essence of other groups as well. Dongba culture is basically a religious culture that imbues every aspect of daily life. The ancient Naxi music and dance are two pearls of the mysterious Dongba culture.

One of the most popular Lijiang tour itineraries for travelers from home and abroad includes enjoying the scenic spots by day and enjoying the Naxi ancient music and dance show by night. At present, there are two venues where visitors can see the authentic Naxi music and dance show.

Dongba Palace
The newly-built Dongba Palace is decorated with typical Naxi religious symbols and ornaments which add much color to the otherwise solemn atmosphere. 

The Palace is located just opposite the Naxi Ancient Music Institute and has a daily performance which begins at 19:30 and costs CNY 25-40. In addition to Naxi music, the Dongba Palace hosts various other cultural activities including Naxi dancing and staged religious rites.
Address: Dongda Jie, Lijiang
Phone: (888) 5184372

Naxi Concert Hall
Every night from 20:00 to 21:30 there is a wonderful concert of melodious Naxi music performed by a group of local senior musicians whose average age is 60 years. Because each year any number of these great musicians passes away, it is reported that this rare art form is already in danger of being lost. A highlight of the show is the brilliant running commentary of Xuan Ke in English and Chinese. He has made a great contribution to the restoration of Naxi musical culture.
Address: 11 Jishan Valley, Xinyi Street of the Old Town.
Tickets: Cost ranges from CNY 80 to CNY 120 per person (approximately US$10 to $15).

Impression Lijiang 
Located 3,300 meters above sea level, this cultural play is billed as the world's highest performance. Although it sounds like a classic tourist trap it is one of the must-see attractions in Lijiang. Designed by Zhang Yimou (director of Hero and House of Flying Daggers), Fan Yue, and Wang Chaoge, and employing a cast of over 500 people as well as a number of horses with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as a backdrop, the production is tastefully done, visually striking, and will leave a lasting impression. Tickets cost CNY 190 and can be bought from the ticket booth in the Old Town (make a right at the water wheels and walk down the main street, the booth will be on your left). The theater is outdoors with no roof so dress appropriately. A sun visor and pillows to sit on are provided.