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Lijiang Travel Checklist

Lijiang Travel Checklist

Lijiang Yunnan, China Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

Follow this guide for timely preparations.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

Verify your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date, with two blank pages. Renew if needed.

Visa Application

Research China visa requirements and begin the application process. This process takes time.

International Flights

Book international flights to China. Early booking often yields better rates.

2

-2 Months Before

Domestic Travel

Book domestic flights or high-speed train tickets to Lijiang. These may sell out during peak season.

Accommodation

Book guesthouses or hotels in Lijiang, notably for popular periods.

Health Consultation

Consult your doctor for vaccinations and altitude sickness prevention.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Document Copies

Organize digital and physical copies of all important documents. Store copies separately.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans.

VPN Test

Test your VPN connection to ensure functionality in China.

Advance Bookings

Securing elements of your trip in advance for peace of mind.

Items to Reserve

  • International and domestic flights.
  • High-speed train tickets.
  • Popular hotels or guesthouses (especially within Lijiang Old Town).
  • Major cultural shows (e.g., "Impression Lijiang") or Jade Dragon Snow Mountain cable car tickets.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Lijiang's unique charm and offerings.

Areas to Explore

  • Lijiang's unique Naxi culture and its traditions.
  • The history of the Ancient Tea Horse Road.
  • Specific attractions you plan to visit, like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or Tiger Leaping Gorge.
  • Local customs and etiquette.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and manage logistics before your departure.

Security & Utilities

  • Secure your home (locks, alarms).
  • Suspend mail or deliveries.
  • Turn off unnecessary utilities.
  • Final check of travel documents.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Organize plant watering.
  • Leave spare keys with a trusted contact.
  • Consider house-sitting arrangements.

Emergency Contacts

  • Notify trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contact information.
  • Prepare some local currency (CNY) for initial expenses.
  • Charge all your electronics and power banks.

Visa & Passport Advisory

Confirm passport validity and visa requirements for China well in advance of your travel dates. This step is useful for a smooth entry.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Lijiang are straightforward with these steps.

Upon Landing

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Have your passport, valid visa, and completed Arrival/Departure Card ready. Be prepared for fingerprint collection.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Proceed to baggage claim to retrieve your bags.

  • 3
    Find Airport Transfer

    Follow signs for the airport shuttle bus or taxi stand. Confirm your Didi pick-up spot if using the app.

Settling In

  • Obtain Local Map

    Once at your accommodation, secure a local map of Lijiang Old Town and the surrounding area.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a walk around your immediate neighborhood to identify nearby restaurants, shops, and landmarks.

  • Confirm Mobile Payments

    Confirm the functionality of your mobile payment apps (WeChat Pay/Alipay) for local transactions.

Connectivity & Local Services

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount of cash at the airport for initial transport or minor purchases.

Plan to mainly rely on mobile payments.

Local SIM Card

If you do not use an e-SIM, purchase a local SIM card at an official carrier store in the city.

Remember to bring your passport for registration.

Transport to Accommodation

Utilize the airport shuttle bus or a Didi/taxi directly to your lodging.

Select the closest accessible point near Lijiang Old Town for convenience.

Transport Tip

Utilize airport shuttles or Didi for convenient transit from Lijiang Sanyi International Airport to your accommodation.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to avoid last-minute stress and ensure a smooth exit from Lijiang and China.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase desired souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and procedures for large/fragile items at local post offices or with vendors.
  • Awareness of your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.
  • Pack smartly and consider items for check-in vs. Carry-on.

Travel Documents

  • Reconfirm your return flights (international and domestic).
  • Check in online for flights to save time at the airport.
  • Process VAT refunds for eligible purchases at the airport before international departure from China (if applicable).
  • Pack valuables and important documents in your carry-on luggage.

Departure Timing

Allow ample time for departure procedures.

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Lijiang Sanyi International Airport (LJG) for domestic flights:1.5-2 hours before departure
  • Lijiang Railway Station for trains:30-45 minutes before departure
  • Security checks and platform locating:Allocate extra time
  • International departures from China:Allow extra time beyond domestic recommendations

Final Checks

  • Confirm any arranged airport or train station transfers.
  • Charge all your electronics and power banks fully.
  • Ensure mobile payment apps are fully functional or have local currency.
  • Arrange home care (pets, plants, mail) if needed.

Smooth Exit

Reconfirm all return bookings and complete online check-in where available.

Pack valuables and critical documents in your carry-on for security.