Yulong Snow Mountain

Address Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Lijiang, Yunnan
Hours 07:00–18:00 (Cable cars usually stop boarding by 15:30; verify current wind conditions)
Phone +86 888 5131068
Announcement: National Scenic Area & Glacier Park
Entrance ¥100
Hours 07:00–18:00 (Cable...
Best Season November to April...
Time needed 6–8 hours (Full day)
Last visit: Jul 11, 2026
Author: Wei Zhang
Reviewer: Lili Feng

Yulong Snow Mountain Overview

A breathtaking mountain massif featuring glaciers, alpine meadows, and the famous Blue Moon Valley. It is sacred to the local Naxi people and features one of the highest cable cars in the world, reaching an altitude of 4,506 meters.

Yulong Snow Mountain Opening Hours & Tickets

  • 07:00–18:00 (Cable cars usually stop boarding by 15:30; verify current wind conditions)
  • Best season: November to April for the clearest skies and most visible snow and glaciers
  • Ticket note: Mountain pass entry is approx 100 CNY. Glacier Park Cable Car is around 120-140...

Essential Yulong Snow Mountain Visitor Information

  • Enquiries: +86 888 5131068
  • Oxygen vendor stations
  • Medical clinics
  • Large visitor center
  • Internal shuttle buses
  • Cable cars
  • Restaurants and shops

How to Get to Yulong Snow Mountain

Take the dedicated Snow Mountain Express bus from Lijiang Old Town, hire a private driver, or join an organized day tour. It is about a 45-minute drive from downtown.

Yulong Snow Mountain Travel Safety & Advice

Dial 120 for medical emergencies. Oxygen stations and medical staff are on standby at the 4,506m cable car terminal.

Practical Info

  • Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Lijiang, Yunnan
  • 07:00–18:00 (Cable cars usually stop boarding by 15:30; verify current wind conditions)
  • +86 888 5131068
Wei Zhang
Wei Zhang
Certified Senior Tour Guide
Wei Zhang, a Chengdu-based Certified Senior Tour Guide, specializes in Southwest China itineraries covering Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, and Daocheng Yading.

We keep this guide current.

Ratings

★★★★☆ 4.3 (20 reviews)

On-site notes & editorial review

Tickets

  • Mountain pass entry is approx 100 CNY. Glacier Park Cable Car is around 120-140...

Online booking may be required

Tips

Purchase oxygen canisters in Lijiang city beforehand as they are much cheaper. Move very slowly on the summit stairs to avoid triggering alt...

Reality Check

  • High altitude sickness is very common; oxygen canisters are essential
  • The main cable car tickets sell out quickly and must be booked days in advance
  • Freezing temperatures at the summit even in the middle of summer

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Recent Reviews

4.3 ★★★★☆ (20)
RickyG_adven Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I’ve been to a lot of mountain spots, but Yulong Snow Mountain really stands out. The contrast between the green valleys and the white peaks is stunning. We took the cable car to the highest point (4560m) and though it was freezing, the panoramic view of the clouds and neighboring peaks was absolutely worth it. Pro tip: buy oxygen beforehand in town—way cheaper than at the base. 10/10 would go again.

Katie_gets_l Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place is pure magic! We hiked the lower meadow trail instead of taking the cable car all the way, and it was the best decision. The wildflowers were in full bloom, and we had a clear view of the snow cap the whole time. The fresh mountain air and the sound of the stream made it feel like a fairytale. Can’t recommend enough—bring your camera and a good pair of boots!

TravelingPet Jul 06, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

A solid experience overall. The scenery is undeniably majestic—those jagged peaks against the blue sky are postcard-perfect. My only gripe is the constant crowds; it’s hard to find a quiet spot to just soak it in. The shuttle buses run efficiently, but the whole process feels a bit rushed. Worth doing once, but I’d suggest going early on a weekday to avoid the chaos.

Jenna_n_wand Jul 06, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly, I was a bit let down. The views from the lower cable car station are pretty, but once you’re up there, the glacier is mostly hidden by clouds and the platforms are packed with tourists. For the price of the tickets and the long wait, I expected more. The oxygen cans they sell are overpriced too. Maybe I just had bad luck with the weather, but I wouldn’t rush back.

AlexM_trailb Jul 06, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! We arrived just after sunrise and the golden light hitting the peaks was something I’ll never forget. The cable car ride up is smooth and offers incredible views of the pine forests below. Even though it was crowded, the staff managed the lines well. Definitely a must-visit if you're in Lijiang—just bring layers, it gets chilly up top!

CloudWalker_ Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

I’ve been to a lot of mountains around the world, but Yulong Snow Mountain is unique. The contrast between the subtropical forest at the base and the alpine glacier at the summit is incredible. The cable car ride is long but thrilling—you feel like you're flying over the cliffs. At the top, it was windy and cold, so dress in layers. The oxygen bars at the summit are a nice touch. Visited in autumn and had clear skies. An unforgettable day out!

JadeDragon_T Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

If you're into hiking, don't just stop at the cable car. The Spruce Meadow trail (Yunshanping) is a hidden gem—less crowded and surrounded by towering pines with the snow peak as a backdrop. We took a packed lunch and had a picnic there. The air is crisp and the whole vibe is peaceful. I also loved the Naxi culture performances near the base. Only tip: book tickets well in advance, they sell out fast even in low season. 10/10 would return.

TravelBug_Ka Jun 23, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Hands down one of the most breathtaking places I've ever been! The cable car ascent gave us panoramic views of the entire Lijiang basin, and stepping onto the 4,506m platform felt surreal. The snow wasn't heavy in May but the limestone peaks were majestic. We spent a couple of hours just sitting and absorbing the silence. Also, the cloud forest trail on the way down was magical—mossy trees and wild rhododendrons. Absolutely worth every penny. A must-do in Yunnan!

MountainLove Jun 23, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Overall a solid experience, but be ready for crowds. We arrived at 8am and the queue for the cable car was already an hour long. The views from the top are stunning—jagged peaks and the blue sky—though the thin air hit us hard. Bring oxygen cans! The Glacier Park section felt a bit touristy with all the photo lines. Still, the hike around the Blue Moon Valley after was serene and made up for the wait. Would recommend going on a weekday if you can.

SarahInYunna Jun 23, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

We visited Yulong Snow Mountain last week and unfortunately the weather was not on our side. Heavy clouds rolled in by midday, and we barely saw the glacier. The cable car ride was smooth, but at the top it was just whiteout conditions. Also, the souvenir shops near the base were way overpriced for basic snacks. Honestly, for the ticket price, I expected a bit more. Maybe it's better in winter, but this felt like a gamble that didn't pay off.

Lily_Outdoor Jun 01, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

The Blue Moon Valley at the base of the mountain is gorgeous—turquoise water against the grey rock, wow. But the whole scenic area feels overly commercialized with endless souvenir stalls and overpriced food. Also, the shuttle buses between spots are crowded and poorly organized. Still, the natural beauty is undeniable. I'd give it 4 stars if they improved the logistics.

Jake_Adventu Jun 01, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Pro tip: get the very first cable car slot. We did and had the summit almost to ourselves—pure magic. The sunrise hitting the snow-capped peaks was unreal. The hike up the wooden stairs to 4680m was tough but so rewarding. If you're fit, skip the oxygen and just take it slow. This place is a must-see for any adventurer.

Mountain_Vib Jun 01, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly a bit let down. I get that it's weather-dependent, but we went in late March and the peak was completely hidden in clouds the whole time. The cable car ride was cool, but at the top you're just standing in fog with nothing to see. Plus the entrance fee is ridiculously high for what you actually get. Wouldn't bother going again unless I was sure of perfect weather.

Sarah_J_Trav Jun 01, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

The scenery is stunning, no doubt about it. We visited on a clear morning and the glacier was visible. However, the ticket system is a mess—online booking was confusing and we still had to queue for over an hour. Also, the oxygen cans at the shop are way overpriced. Worth it for the view, but be prepared for the hassle.

Alex_Ramirez Jun 01, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! We took the cable car up to 4506m and the views were like something out of a dream. The weather shifted from clear blue skies to a light snow flurry within minutes—so surreal. Dress in layers and bring oxygen if you're not used to altitude. One of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. 10/10 would recommend.

BudgetBackpa May 28, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Solid experience but not cheap. The entrance fee plus cable car and bus add up quickly, and the food at the base is mediocre and expensive. On the plus side, the shuttle system within the scenic area is well-organized and the views, when the clouds part, are genuinely spectacular. If you're on a tight budget, maybe skip the glacier cable and just hike around the lower trails — still beautiful and much easier on the wallet.

PhotoHunter_ May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

This place is a photographer's dream! I spent hours just at Blue Moon Valley alone — the turquoise water against the snowy backdrop is unreal. Even the lower meadow areas offer incredible compositions. Went up to the glacier park as well and despite the altitude, the 360-degree panoramic shots were worth every dizzy step. Pro tip: bring a polarizer filter to cut the glare on the snow. Will definitely come back!

Mtn_Trekker_ May 28, 2026
★★★☆☆ 3.0

Honestly a bit let down. We arrived on a cloudy morning and couldn't see the summit at all — just grey mist. The queue for the cable car took over an hour, and once we got up, the visibility was so poor we could barely see ten meters ahead. The staff were polite but the whole experience felt rushed and overpriced for what we got. Maybe try a different season if you want clear views.

Wanderlust_S May 28, 2026
★★★★☆ 4.0

Really enjoyed the mountain itself — the scenery is stunning and the cable car ride is smooth. However, it was quite crowded even on a weekday, and the oxygen cans they sell at the base are way overpriced. Also wish there were more marked hiking trails instead of just the boardwalk. Still a great day out, just manage your expectations on crowds and costs.

AdventureJun May 28, 2026
★★★★★ 5.0

Absolutely breathtaking! Took the early morning cable car up to the glacier park and the views were surreal — pristine white peaks piercing through a crystal-clear blue sky. The oxygen levels are no joke, so definitely bring a canister, but the whole experience feels like stepping into another world. Highly recommend going as early as possible to beat the crowds and catch the morning light on the snow. Worth every penny!

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Yulong Snow Mountain Travel FAQ

Are there any hidden costs during peak season?
Yes, and it's annoying. In summer, some attractions hike prices unofficially, or guides charge extra for "fast-track" entry. Always book tickets through official channels like the Lijiang tourism WeChat mini-program or reputable sites like Trip.com. Also, restaurants in the old town may add service charges during busy times—check the bill carefully. I once saw a family charged double for tea because they didn't ask for a menu with prices.
Can I visit Lijiang in winter if I hate the cold?
It depends on your tolerance. Daytime can be sunny and okay with a good jacket, but nights are chilly. If you're sensitive to cold, stick to midday activities and choose hotels with reliable heating. The upside? You'll have iconic spots like the Mu Residence almost to yourself. I'd say give it a try, but pack thermal wear and hand warmers.
I get altitude sickness easily. Can I still go to Yulong Snow Mountain?
You can, but you need a plan. The cable car takes you from 3300m to 4506m in 10 minutes – that's a rapid ascent. If you're worried, choose the Spruce Meadow (Yun Shan Ping) cable car instead. It goes to about 3200m, a much milder altitude with stunning forest and meadow views. You still get the mountain experience without the extreme height. Regardless, move slowly, stay hydrated, and consider spending your first night in Lijiang just relaxing to acclimatize before attempting the mountain.
How can I avoid altitude sickness at Yulong Snow Mountain?
Acclimatize in Lijiang for at least 24 hours before going up. Drink lots of water, avoid heavy meals, and move slowly. I recommend buying portable oxygen cans at the base (20 CNY each)—use them at the first sign of dizziness. If you have a history of heart issues, skip the highest points and stick to Blue Moon Valley.
Do I need a guide to visit Yulong Snow Mountain?
Not necessarily. The park is well-signposted in English, and you can DIY with this guide. But if you're nervous about logistics or want cultural context, hire a local guide through your hotel or Klook. Avoid random touts at the entrance; they often overcharge. I charge 400 CNY for a half-day tour, but prices vary.
What's the best way to book tickets without a Chinese phone number?
Use Trip.com or Klook—they accept international cards and email confirmations. You'll get a voucher to exchange at the ticket office. Alternatively, ask your hotel to help with the WeChat booking; most will do it for a small fee. I've helped many travelers with this; just tip the staff 20 CNY for their trouble.
Is Yulong Snow Mountain wheelchair accessible?
Partially. The visitor center and Blue Moon Valley have paved paths, but Glacier Park involves steps and uneven boardwalks. Cable cars have narrow doors. If you have mobility issues, stick to the lower areas and rent an electric cart. I've guided elderly visitors who enjoyed Blue Moon Valley without going up high.
Can I visit Yulong Snow Mountain in winter?
Yes, but be prepared. From December to February, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow might close cable cars temporarily. Check the forecast on the official Lijiang Travel website before you go. The upside: crowds are thinner, and the snowy landscapes are magical. I love winter visits for photography, but dress in thermal layers.
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