Lijiang, Shuhe & Baisha: Exploring Yunnan's Ancient Towns

More than just Lijiang - Discovering China's Authentic Ancient Towns (and traditional food)

Destination:ChinaProvince:YunnanCity:Lijiang
More than just Lijiang - Discovering China's Authentic Ancient Towns (and traditional food)
Feeding Foca - food-inspired travels2025-02-0720 min

We fell in love with these towns in Yunnan Province, let us show you why. Before visiting China, Vero just heard about the famous cities like, Beijing, Shanghai or Xian. But she has never heard of this magical region that is settled between China, Myanmar and Laos. I wanted to show her this region, to give her a nice surprise about how China can look like. And this town was especially a great experience. Welcome to the Old Town of Lijiang, Yunnan. But hold on, we will also show you the incredible towns of Shuhe and Baisha Ancient Town. December, 2024 | Shuhe, Baisha and Lijiang, China

--- Feeding Foca - food-inspired travels
February 7, 2025, Winter in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Introduction to Lijiang
  2. 1:27Shuhe Homestay experience
  3. 2:46Shuhe's leather trade
  4. 4:09Three-eyed wells water system
  5. 4:43Yunnan rice noodles
  6. 6:00Naxi language and culture
  7. 8:53Mushroom hot pot
  8. 11:42Exploring Baisha Ancient Town
  9. 13:29Naxi letters in Baisha
  10. 16:37Visiting Lijiang Old Town

Vero and Li's Yunnan adventure reveals captivating ancient towns, delicious food, and heartwarming encounters. A must-see for China travel inspiration!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Consider staying in a homestay in Shuhe for a more authentic and less crowded experience compared to staying in the main Lijiang Old Town. It offers a quieter and more immersive cultural experience. (1:27)
  2. Tip 2Take your time walking through the streets of Shuhe and Baisha. Observe the locals, sip Pu'er tea, and soak in the relaxed pace of life. Engage in conversations and appreciate the local culture. (3:05)
  3. Tip 3Visit the three-eyed wells in Shuhe, a marvel of ancient engineering. Learn about the ingenious water purification system and its historical significance. It's a unique aspect of the town's infrastructure. (4:09)
  4. Tip 4Indulge in a Yunnan mushroom hot pot. This unique hot pot experience uses natural flavors of fresh mushrooms, offering a diverse range of tastes and textures. It's a culinary highlight of the region. (9:05)
  5. Tip 5Explore Baisha Ancient Town, a less touristy area that retains its original charm. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, visit local cafes, and interact with the friendly locals. It offers a more authentic experience. (11:42)
  6. Tip 6Visiting during the low season can offer advantages such as avoiding entrance fees for attractions like the Black Dragon Pool in Lijiang. This can significantly reduce travel costs. (17:26)

Explore the enchanting ancient towns of Lijiang, Shuhe, and Baisha in Yunnan, China, with Vero and Li as they uncover the region's rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural blend. From the charming Shuhe's ancient water system to Baisha's untouched beauty and Lijiang's bustling Old Town, this journey is a delightful mix of cultural immersion and culinary adventures. Discover the magic of Yunnan's mushroom hotpot, sample local delicacies, and witness the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity. This video offers a captivating glimpse into a lesser-known side of China.

More about the current video:

More than just Lijiang - Discovering China's Authentic Ancient Towns (and traditional food)

This video by Feeding Foca, titled "More than just Lijiang - Discovering China's Authentic Ancient Towns (and traditional food)", takes viewers on a culinary and cultural journey through the Yunnan Province in China. The video focuses on three ancient towns: Lijiang, Shuhe, and Baisha. Instead of directly staying in the famous Lijiang Ancient Town, Vero and Li chose a homestay in Shuhe, a decision that allowed them to experience a more authentic side of the region.

Shuhe, described as Lijiang's suburb, boasts a unique charm with its rich history dating back over a thousand years. The video highlights the town's ancient water system, still functional after 800 years, featuring three-eyed wells for drinking water, washing vegetables, and clothes. The town's slow pace of life, local interactions, and traditional leather craftsmanship are also showcased.

The video then delves into the culinary experiences of Yunnan, featuring rice noodles, a local staple, and unique pastries like rose cakes made from edible roses. The travelers' exploration of Baisha, another ancient town untouched by mass tourism, reveals charming cafes, street food, and the local specialty of baozi, particularly a delicious pork and matsutake mushroom variation.

The video concludes with a visit to Lijiang's Old Town, showcasing its beautiful architecture and the unique skills of local carpenters who build without blueprints. While acknowledging the downsides of mass tourism in Lijiang, the video emphasizes the charm and authenticity of Shuhe, recommending it as a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Yunnan.

Throughout the video, Vero and Li share their personal insights and emotional moments, from watching the sunrise over the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to enjoying a mushroom hot pot, highlighting the unique details and authentic experiences that make their journey stand out. The video's conversational tone and vivid descriptions create an engaging narrative for viewers interested in exploring the cultural and culinary richness of China.

FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)

Q: What was the most memorable part of your trip?
A: It's hard to choose just one! But waking up to the sunrise over the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Shuhe was definitely breathtaking, and the mushroom hot pot was an unforgettable culinary experience.
Q: What was your favorite town?
A: We loved Shuhe the most. It had the perfect balance of tourism and authenticity. It was relaxed, the locals were friendly, and the setting was beautiful.
Q: What advice would you give to someone planning a trip to this region?
A: Definitely stay in Shuhe or Baisha instead of just Lijiang if you want a more authentic experience. And don't miss the mushroom hot pot!

Lijiang, Shuhe & Baisha: Exploring Yunnan's Ancient Towns

We fell in love with these towns in Yunnan Province, let us show you why. Before visiting China, Vero just heard about the famous cities like, Beijing, Shanghai or Xian. But she has never heard of this magical region that is settled between China, Myanmar and Laos. I wanted to show her this region,...

Exploring Yunnan's Ancient Towns: Shuhe, Baisha & Lijiang

Discover the hidden gem of Yunnan Province in China! Forget the bustling cities; this journey unveils the authentic charm of ancient towns like Lijiang, Shuhe, and Baisha. Explore captivating landscapes, rich culture, and delightful surprises beyond the typical tourist trail. Let's explore the magic of this region nestled between China, Myanmar, and Laos, where ancient towns and incredible experiences await!

Attractions in this video: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Black Dragon Pool, Three Eyed Wells