Lijiang Sanyi International Airport Overview

Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG) is the air gateway to Lijiang in northwest Yunnan, a city known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and snow-capped mountain views. The airport opened in 1995 and is operated by Yunnan Airport Group. At about 2,243 metres above sea level, it sits high on the Yunnan plateau.

Location and Distance to Lijiang Old Town

The airport is south of the city, roughly 25 to 28 kilometres from Lijiang's centre and the Old Town. By road the trip usually takes 40 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and where you are staying.

Terminal and Facilities in Lijiang

Passengers use a single terminal with domestic and international areas. It is straightforward to navigate, with check-in halls, restaurants, snack counters and shops selling Yunnan specialities such as local tea and flower cakes.

Airlines Serving Lijiang Sanyi

Most flights are domestic. Carriers include Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and Lucky Air, linking Lijiang with Kunming, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu and many other Chinese cities. The airport also has a small number of international routes, so check the current schedule for your destination.

Getting from the Airport to Lijiang City

Airport shuttle buses run to several points in the city, including stops near the Old Town, and are the most economical choice. Taxis and ride-hailing cars wait outside arrivals, and many hotels offer pick-ups if you book ahead. Vehicles cannot drive into the Old Town's lanes, so expect a short walk to guesthouses there.

Places to Visit Around Lijiang

Lijiang Old Town, with its canals and Naxi wooden houses, is the main draw. Nearby, the villages of Shuhe and Baisha, Black Dragon Pool and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are popular stops, while Tiger Leaping Gorge makes a memorable day out.

Tips for Flying into Lijiang

Lijiang's altitude can leave some visitors short of breath, so take the first day slowly and drink plenty of water. Evenings are cool for much of the year, so pack a warm layer even in summer.

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