Shuhe Old Town
Just north of Lijiang Old Town sits a well-preserved stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Shuhe Ancient Town reflects the Naxi culture through its historic architecture, decorated doorways, flowing canals, and quiet streets.
What is Shuhe Ancient Town?
Shuhe Ancient Town is a small town located just outside of Lijiang Old Town, offering a quieter experience of Naxi culture and architecture. Here, you can find local people tending to their gardens, unwind in a quiet café or just wander the stone streets along the canals.
History of Shuhe Ancient Town
Shuhe Ancient Town was an early settlement of the Naxi people in Lijiang and an important town along the Tea Horse Road. The town’s name means ‘a village at the foot of a peak’ in Naxi language.
Shuhe was known for leather production and fur processing, with its central market serving as a trading centre for artisans across the region.
The Dragon Pool, not to be confused with the Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang Old Town, is the source of the river and canals that flow through Shuhe. The spring was considered sacred by the Naxi people, and Beiquan Temple was built here for prayer.
What makes the town special
The town’s ancient stone alleyways are lined with small shops and cafes tucked behind traditional-style doorways decorated with paintings and wood carvings.
Walking through Shuhe Market Square, the layout feels similar to Lijiang Old Town. This is because Lijiang Old Town was designed after Shuhe following the early development of the area.
What sets Shuhe Ancient Town apart is its quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier, more commercial Lijiang Old Town.
Experiences in Shuhe Ancient Town
Time in Shuhe Ancient Town is usually about slowly exploring historic alleyways, visiting markets and following the canals and rivers.
At the centre of the town is Sifang Street. The area becomes livelier on market days, with local craftsmen selling leather products and traditional clothing and art.
One of the most recognisable sites of Shuhe is Qinglong Bridge, which crosses the town’s river lined with willows. This stone bridge has over 400 years of history. Shops sell woven goods, paintings and embroidery as well as wood carvings, Naxi-style pottery and silver jewellery.
When to visit
The town generally experiences mild weather and can be visited throughout the year. Spring and autumn often bring clearer days to walk through the alleys at a slower pace and enjoy the willow trees lining the river. On weekdays, it is generally quiet. Many travellers find it feels noticeably calmer than Lijiang Old Town, especially in the mornings. Midday and weekends may bring larger crowds.
Does Shuhe Ancient Town meet your trip requirements?
Shuhe Ancient Town is more about slowing down and taking time to explore the quiet ancient streets, small shops, and cafes. It suits travellers who enjoy combining history, local markets and time walking in the open air.
Due to Shuhe Ancient Town’s proximity to Lijiang Old Town, it is often visited as a half-day trip with many travellers spending 2-3 hours there.
Shuhe Ancient Town with Wonders of Yunnan
When designing a journey through Yunnan, Shuhe Ancient Town is usually included with time in Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baisha Village.
This allows travellers to experience both the lively and quieter side of the historic towns inspired by Naxi culture.
If you are planning a journey through northwestern Yunnan, you can easily include Shuhe into your time in Lijiang Old Town, or choose to spend a bit more time in this charming, quiet corner of Lijiang.