“This route is beautiful all year round, each season has a different look. But November is probably the time that fascinates me the most - the snow covers Ngoc Long peak, Lam Nguyet Coc is as green as jade, and the trees on both sides of the road turn a brilliant yellow in the afternoon sun,” Linh Jii, owner of the TikTok channel Linh Thich Di Choi, began the story of her trip.
As someone who loves exploring China, Linh decided to take a 6-day, 5-night journey through three locations: Dali, Lijiang and Shangrila - where nature and culture intersect, creating fairy-like scenes.
Because she had experience traveling to many places before, it didn't take her too much time to prepare everything.
Dai Ly: Where Time Stops
The first destination on the journey was Dali, a peaceful city located on Erhai Lake, once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Nanzhao. “Dali appeared exactly like in the movie ‘Go Where the Wind Has It’ – a gentle and relaxing land,” Linh recalled.
She spent the morning wandering around Dali Ancient City, where ancient stone-paved streets wind between rows of traditional houses. The ancient city is a vivid picture, where visitors can clearly feel the slow pace of life of the local people.
Dali Ancient City from above
Not far away, Sa Khe Ancient Town offers a different feeling. As one of the important stops on the old Tra Ngua Road, this small town reminds me of the bustling trading days. “I am most impressed with Sa Khe Ancient Town, next time I have the chance to come back I will stay here longer,” Linh said.
Sa Khe Ancient Town - the setting in the movie "Go where the wind is"
This place is as beautiful as a miniature painting.
Shangrila: Journey to the Promised Land
If Dali is a peaceful stop, Shangrila opens up a world imbued with Tibetan culture. Here, Linh is especially impressed with Songzanlin Monastery, which is considered the “miniature Potala” of this land. The brilliant golden architecture and quiet space of the monastery make visitors feel like they are lost in a fairyland. Taking photos in traditional Tibetan costumes here, Linh recorded unforgettable moments amidst the majestic cultural and natural picture.
Peace in Songzanlin Monastery
The next day, the journey began with a visit to Songzanlin Monastery and the Great Buddha Temple - two sacred structures with ancient and quiet beauty. At noon, Linh continued to explore Na Pa Lake, a green gem located in the Napahai Nature Reserve at an altitude of 3,270m above sea level. The lake's surface is as calm as a giant mirror, fully reflecting the mountains and the blue sky.
The idyllic Napa Prairie
In the afternoon, Linh left Shangrila and got on the bus to return to Lijiang. The last rays of sunlight cast a golden glow on the road, ending a day full of experiences and opening up excitement for the beauty of the next destination.
Lijiang: Magnificent beauty at the foot of Jade Dragon Mountain
Returning to Lijiang, Linh was immediately captivated by the splendid and poetic beauty of this place. The highlight of the journey was the conquest of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain - the proud symbol of Yunnan.
Overcoming the height of 4,680m by cable car and an hour of hiking, Linh stood before the white snow scene stretching to the horizon. At the foot of the mountain, Lam Nguyet Coc was like a green gem, where crystal clear ice water flowed through each crevice of the rocks. The water glistened under the sunlight, making the scenery here as beautiful as in a dream.
Overcoming an altitude of 4,680m by cable car and an hour of climbing, Linh stood before a scene of white snow stretching to the horizon.
In the afternoon, Linh enjoyed the show “Impression Lijiang”, one of the four musicals dedicated to the famous director Zhang Yimou. Staged outdoors on a grand scale, the show made a strong impression with the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as a natural backdrop. Each scene seemed to blend with nature, creating an experience that was both pleasing to the eye and full of artistry.
At the foot of the mountain, Lam Nguyet Coc is like a green gem, where crystal clear ice water flows through every crevice of the rocks.
When night falls, the old town of Lijiang is lit up by red lanterns reflecting on the small canals. Linh spends the evening strolling around, enjoying local cuisine, sipping coffee, and feeling the peaceful beauty of the land where nature and people together create a masterpiece.
Memorable experiences and suggestions from a tiktoker
Linh shared that, despite the 6-day journey, she still did not feel tired. The beautiful sunny weather throughout the trip was a lucky factor, but she also emphasized the importance of Google Translate when she did not know Chinese, helping her communicate more easily.
With rich travel experience, Linh shared: "Because I have been to many places before, for me, preparing for the trip is not too complicated. Just pick up your backpack and go. However, for those who come for the first time, referring to articles and sharing on social networks will help save time and prepare better. If you want to be simple and comfortable, you can also choose to go on a tour so that everything is taken care of in advance."
For first-time visitors, referring to articles and sharing on social networks will help save time and prepare better.
Linh also did not forget to suggest special dishes during the trip. Dali Rose Cake is a lovely and unique gift to bring back, while Shangrila Yak Hot Pot is a must-try dish with tender, fresh and flavorful beef.
According to Linh, Dali, Lijiang and Shangrila are ideal destinations for everyone, from those who love peace to those who love to explore. With only about 13 million VND, you can have a "delicious-nutritious-cheap" trip and experience the wonderful beauty of these lands. Each destination brings a unique beauty, and you will surely find a part of your soul among the majestic and peaceful scenery here.
Go to find a part of your soul among the majestic and peaceful scenery here.
