Zili Old Town in Yongsheng County, Lijiang

Zili Ancient Town – A Thousand-Year Market in the Bend of the Jinsha River

Tucked along the banks of the Jinsha River in Yongsheng County, Lijiang (altitude 1,850 m), Zili Ancient Town once guarded a key pass into Tibet on the legendary Tea Horse Road. Today, it still keeps its age-old market tradition: every 1st and 6th day of the lunar month, the riverside street comes alive with bustling stalls stretching for miles.
Here, Naxi, Yi, Lisu, Bai, and Han communities mingle in a living tapestry of cultures — earning Zili the nickname “Living Border Museum.”

No entry fee. Open year-round, but April–October is the best time to visit.

Location & How to Get There

From Lijiang Old Town: ~50 km, 1–1.5 hours by car.

From Yongsheng County: ~90 km.

By Public Transport

From Lijiang Bus Station, take a bus to “Lijiang–Yongsheng.” Tell the driver you want to get off at Jin’an Bridge (about 50 km, RMB 25–30). From the bridge, take a local minivan or hike 10 km along the river path to Zili Village.

By Car/Private Hire

Navigate to “永胜梓里古镇” (Yongsheng Zili Ancient Town). The route from Lijiang is paved except for the last 10 km of gravel — still passable by sedan.

For Hiking Lovers

Zili → Yong’an → Xiumei → Banqiao → Jiahe → Taiji is a classic 4–5 day trek through the Jinsha River Valley. Trails can be tricky — a guide is recommended.

Must-See Highlights

Jinlong Bridge (Zili Iron Chain Bridge)

Built in 1879, this 190 m-long swaying bridge crosses the mighty Jinsha River — with water swirling like silver threads below.

“Wooden Ladder” Cliff Path

In Xiumei Village, a dramatic section of the Tea Horse Road clings to the cliffside, with wooden beams anchored into the rock — a 200 m vertical drop beneath your feet.

Monkey Slope Forest

A raw, rocky forest with vines, wildlife, and wild monkeys. A 30-minute climb rewards you with sweeping views of the U-shaped bend in the Jinsha River.

Laku Cave & Ancient Banyan

In Banqiao Village, a century-old banyan tree wraps its roots around boulders, creating a natural stone arch with a freshwater spring trickling through.

Vibrant Multi-Ethnic Market

On lunar days 1 and 6, locals gather from nearby mountains to sell mountain herbs, honey, black pears, leather goods, copperware, and handwoven Lisu textiles.

Jiahe Bonfire Night

Stay overnight in Jiahe Village to join Naxi and Yi locals dancing “A-li-li” around the fire, sipping homemade corn wine.

Unique Experiences ✨

Hiking: Choose an easy half-day trek (Zili ↔ Jinlong Bridge) or a full five-day river valley adventure.

Photography: Morning mists, sunset “fire clouds,” market portraits, and traditional costumes.

Hands-on Workshops: Learn to hammer a Naxi copper lock with a silversmith or spin traditional Lisu fireweed cloth.

Taste of Zili

Black Pear – Paper-thin skin, juicy and sweet, available only August–October.

Jinsha River Fish – Fresh carp simmered with sour papaya; spicy, tangy, unforgettable.

Yongsheng Ham – Cured from free-range highland pigs; perfect steamed over rice.

Stone-Grilled Buckwheat Cakes – Crispy outside, soft inside; best with honey.

Market Snacks – Grilled tofu, chickpea jelly, freshly roasted dairy treats — all under RMB 10.

Accommodation & Supplies

In Zili Village: 3 guesthouses (RMB 80–120 per twin), simple but clean, hot water available. Small shops for basic supplies.

Along Hiking Routes: Yong’an, Xiumei, Banqiao, Jiahe offer basic homestays (RMB 30–50 per person) — book via local guides or village heads.

Camping: Flat sites at Monkey Slope or Jiahe riverbank — bring your own tent and watch for snakes & dampness.

Travel Tips & Essentials

Best Season: April–October (pear blossoms in spring, lush green summer, golden rice in autumn).

What to Pack: Hiking shoes, sun hat, rain jacket, headlamp, power bank (some villages lack electricity).

Safety: Phone signal is patchy; hike with company or a guide. In July–August, beware of landslides.

Entry Fees: Ancient town is free; small privately maintained spots may charge RMB 5–10 for upkeep.

In a Nutshell

In Zili, one day lets you walk a thousand years of history, two days take you through a ten-mile riverside gallery, and three days will make you forget the outside world.
Pack your bag — the golden bend of the Jinsha River is calling! ?