At night, Lijiang will never disappoint her friends who have
come from far away. When dawn arrives, various recreational activities
will be played in the Old Town. As well as the exotic local scenery
to be enjoyed during the day, the colorful nightlife in Quick Guide will give you a profound understanding of the mysterious cultures
practiced by the local ethnic groups.
Naxi
Ancient Music and Dance Show
The Naxi People, who have inhabited Lijiang for a long time, have
created their unique and splendid Dongba Culture, while also absorbing
the essence of the other groups. The same as other groups' civilizations
in the world, Dongba Culture is a kind of religious culture, involving
every aspect of the locals' daily life. Amongst them, the Naxi
ancient music and dance are two pearls in the mysterious Dongba
Culture.
Currently, the most appreciated tour itinerary of travelers from
home and abroad in Lijiang is to admire the scenic spots by day
and enjoy the Naxi ancient music and dance show by night. At present,
there are two places for visitors to see the authentic Naxi music
and dance show.
Naxi Concert Hall
Every
night from 8pm to 9:30 pm, there is a wonderful concert played
in this hall, which is located at No.11 Jishan Valley, Xinyi Street
of the Old Town. The melodious Naxi music is performed by a group
of local senior musicians whose are more than 60 years old on
average. Because annually one or two of these great musicians
pass away, it is reported that the rare art is already on the
brink of being lost. The other highlight of this concert is the
brilliant running commentary of Xuan Ke in fluent English and
Chinese. He has made a great contribution to the restoration of
Naxi music.
Ticket: The charge ranges from CNY80 to CNY120 per person (approximately
$10 to $15 US).
The Dongba Palace
In comparison to the performances at the Concert Hall, the performance
played in Dongba Palace attracts a great deal of audiences by
its grand scenes, delicate production and intriguing theme. It
is a must to watch the gorgeous live theatre-Mountain and River
Show, which involves the unique customs, daily life and fairy
tails of Naxi People. Additionally, there are some other wonderful
exotic performances acted in the palace from 8pm daily.
Bars
A large number of bars, which are decorated in different styles,
are another highlight of Lijiang. Xinhua Street
lying on the tranquilly flowing water in the Old Town is a street
famous for its local bars. Every night, many travelers from around
the world get together here, communicating their romantic experience
in Lijiang with each other or just involving themselves in the
fascinating night scenery of Lijiang. It is worth mentioning that
some bars in Lijiang are owned or operated by westerners who have
become deeply fond of this city. Additionally, escaping from the
reinforced concrete buildings in the cities, most of the bars
here are two-storied wooden constructions. In a word, the nightlife
of Lijiang is as rich and varied as your expectation.
Le Petit Paris
It is one of the most popular bars for travelers. The romantic
love story of its host from France and his Chinese wife has been
going round for a long time. Another attraction here is the antiphonal
singing by the local Naxi maidens at night. Of course, the audiences
also can participate in the singing no matter where you are from.
Location: No.111, Cuiwen Duan, Xinhua Jie, the Old Town, Lijiang
Sakura
Another well-known bar in Lijiang, it was opened by a Chinese
and his Korean wife in 1996. At present, not only a bar but also
a western food restaurant has been built here.
Location: No.123, Cuiwen Duan Xinhua Jie the Old Town, Lijiang
Mosuo Bar
The bar is the in the typical Mosuo style, serving some snacks
of Mosuo Group.
Location: No.8, Cuiwen Duan, Xinhua Jie, the Old Town
Prague
It provides drinks, dinner and accommodations here and it is favored
by lots of visitors.
Location: No.80, Mishi Xiang, Xinyi Jie, the Old Town
Café
Well Bistro
Listening to melodious music is a very enjoyable thing, so this
bistro should not be missed.
Location: No.32, Mishi Xiang, Xinyi Jie, the Old Town
Blue Bird
It is well decorated and for a reasonable price drinks and dinner.
Location: No.3, Baidui Fang, Xinyi Jie, the Old Town
Left Bank Café
Traditional English afternoon tea and Italian Pizza are available
here.
Location: in the mid section of Baisui Fang, Xinyi Jie, the Old
Town
Rembrandt Café
With a French owner, it is another ideal place to spend some free
time.
Location: No.6, Baisui Fang, Xinyi Jie, the Old Town
Ni Ya Gallery
In fact, it is not a gallery but a good café.
Location: No.9, Baisui Fang, Xinyi Jie, the Old Town
Blue Pawpaw
As well as serving coffee, it cooks authentic Italian dishes.
Location: also situated in the Old Town