Elephant Hill in Lijiang

Elephant Hill (象山) is located in the northeastern part of Lijiang's Ancient Town (丽江古城) within the Black Dragon Pool Park (黑龙潭公园) in Yunnan Province. It enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate, with an open hours range of 07:00 AM to 04:00 PM. Notable nearby attractions include the Black Dragon Pool (黑龙潭), the Dongba Culture Museum (东巴文化博物馆), and the Qingxi Reservoir (清溪水库).

The hill consists of twin peaks, and from the east peak, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lijiang Ancient Town and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). The west peak is home to a telecommunications antenna. Some sections of the path require visitors to travel in groups for safety.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Lijiang Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its well-preserved architecture that blends the cultural features of various ethnic groups. The town has a remarkable ancient water supply system that still functions today. Located at an altitude of over 2,400 meters, Lijiang's Ancient Town covers 3.8 square kilometers and has a population of over 25,000, with the majority being Naxi (纳西) people. The town is a vital historical and cultural hub, often referred to as one of the four best-preserved ancient cities in China.

Scenic Views from Elephant Hill

Lijiang, historically known as Dayan Town (大研镇), is nestled between mountains, with Elephant Hill (象山) located to the north of the town. When looking north from Lijiang Ancient Town toward the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the surrounding peaks include Shizi Mountain (狮子山) on the left and Elephant Hill on the right. Elephant Hill is particularly notable for its twin peaks, with a small pavilion on the left peak and a communications antenna on the right.

Fire Incident on Elephant Hill

On April 12, 2011, a wildfire broke out on Elephant Hill, affecting an area of nearly 2 hectares. The fire was successfully extinguished by 6:00 AM the following day after aerial firefighting efforts.

Climbing Elephant Hill

While in Lijiang, I was eager to see the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, but the weather was rainy, and the snow-capped peaks were hidden behind clouds. However, I noticed Elephant Hill, which piqued my interest. I inquired about climbing the hill, and the local guesthouse owner advised against it. Undeterred, I continued to look towards the mountain, but the snow mountain remained obscured by clouds. However, Elephant Hill and Shizi Mountain were visible.

After asking a local guide at Black Dragon Pool, I learned that there was a path leading to the top of Elephant Hill. Following their advice, I walked towards the western foot of the hill until I found the stone stairs leading upwards.

Despite my enthusiasm, I was stopped by a young man who appeared to be a police officer at the foot of the stairs. He explained that there had been several recent robberies in the area and prohibited solo travelers from ascending. After explaining my situation and convincing him, I signed a waiver acknowledging the risks before he allowed me to proceed.

The path to the top is a narrow stone staircase, winding its way up in a zigzag fashion. It was physically demanding, so for safety, I teamed up with a local family to climb. The family had two children, and we proceeded slowly. Halfway up, the family had to rest, and I continued alone to the summit.

Upon reaching the ridge, I discovered a graveyard on the peak, which seemed unusual as the locals had chosen such a high point for burial. The path then split, leading to the peak with the antenna to the right, and to the pavilion on the left, which I chose to visit.

The view from the top was breathtaking, especially as the weather cleared. Looking southeast, I could see Lijiang Ancient Town in its entirety. To the northwest, I finally caught a clear, stunning view of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which was even more magnificent than I had imagined. The clouds occasionally covered the snow mountain, but I captured the moment, savoring the beauty of the scene.

Practical Information

• Location: Yulun Road, opposite the Huama Street Gas Station, Lijiang Ancient Town, Yunnan

• Opening Hours: 07:00 AM - 04:00 PM

• Nearby Attractions: Black Dragon Pool, Dongba Culture Museum, Qingxi Reservoir