How to Get to Lijiang from Singapore

Lijiang, located in China's Yunnan Province, is a popular tourist destination known for its well-preserved ancient town, picturesque mountains, and rich culture. Traveling from Singapore to Lijiang may seem complicated due to the distance and the lack of direct flights, but with proper planning, it can be an enjoyable journey. Below, we'll outline the various travel options available to get from Singapore to Lijiang, including flights, layover cities, ground transportation, and travel tips.

1. Flight Options from Singapore to Lijiang

There are no direct flights from Singapore Changi Airport to Lijiang Sanyi International Airport. Travelers must take connecting flights, usually stopping in major Chinese cities such as Kunming, Chengdu, or Guangzhou. Here are the most common routes:

• Singapore to Kunming: Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) is the closest major airport to Lijiang. Several airlines, such as China Eastern Airlines and SilkAir, offer direct flights from Singapore to Kunming. The flight duration is approximately 4.5 hours.
• Singapore to Chengdu: Another option is to fly from Singapore to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). Sichuan Airlines and Singapore Airlines operate this route, and the flight takes around 5 hours.
• Singapore to Guangzhou: Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) is another major hub for connecting flights to Lijiang. The flight from Singapore to Guangzhou takes about 4 hours.

Once you arrive in one of these cities, you'll need to take a domestic flight to Lijiang. Flights from Kunming, Chengdu, or Guangzhou to Lijiang are frequent and take about 1 to 2 hours.

2. Connecting Flights to Lijiang

After arriving in your layover city, catching a connecting flight to Lijiang is relatively easy. Here are some options based on your layover city:

• Kunming to Lijiang: From Kunming, it is a short 1-hour flight to Lijiang. Airlines like Lucky Air and China Eastern Airlines provide multiple daily flights.
• Chengdu to Lijiang: Flights from Chengdu to Lijiang typically take around 1.5 hours.
• Guangzhou to Lijiang: This flight takes about 2 hours, with frequent services provided by China Southern Airlines.

3. Alternative Routes

If you prefer a scenic route, consider flying to Kunming and then taking a train or bus to Lijiang. This option provides a chance to explore more of Yunnan’s countryside, but it adds time to your journey.

• Train from Kunming to Lijiang: The high-speed train from Kunming to Lijiang takes around 3 hours. The trains are modern, comfortable, and offer fantastic views of the Yunnan landscape.
• Bus from Kunming to Lijiang: Long-distance buses are also available, though the trip takes longer—around 8 to 9 hours. This option is budget-friendly but less convenient than the train.

4. Travel Tips for Lijiang

Here are some additional travel tips to ensure a smooth journey:

• Visa Requirements: Singaporean citizens do not require a visa for stays in China of up to 15 days. If you plan to stay longer, ensure you apply for a visa in advance.
• Best Time to Visit: Lijiang is most enjoyable in spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Avoid traveling during the Chinese New Year and Golden Week holidays, as flights and accommodations tend to be fully booked.
• Currency Exchange: It is advisable to exchange Singapore dollars to Chinese Yuan (CNY) before your trip, as currency exchange services may be limited in Lijiang.
• Language: While Mandarin is the official language, many locals in Lijiang speak Naxi, the native language of the Naxi ethnic group. English may not be widely spoken, so learning a few basic Mandarin phrases could be helpful.

5. Exploring Lijiang

Once you arrive in Lijiang, you'll find plenty of attractions to explore:

• Lijiang Ancient Town (Dayan Ancient Town): A UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient town is known for its charming narrow streets, canals, and traditional wooden houses. It’s a great place to stroll, shop for local crafts, and try local delicacies.
• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Located just outside of Lijiang, this majestic mountain is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and photography. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks.
• Lugu Lake: A serene lake located about 200 km from Lijiang, Lugu Lake is famous for its clear waters and the unique culture of the Mosuo people, often referred to as one of the last matriarchal societies in the world.
• Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the deepest gorges in the world, this natural wonder is ideal for adventure seekers looking for hiking opportunities.

6. Final Thoughts

Traveling from Singapore to Lijiang may require a bit of planning, but the experience is well worth it. Whether you choose to fly directly to a layover city or take a scenic route through Kunming, you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to explore one of China’s most beautiful regions. Remember to book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, and prepare for an unforgettable journey to Lijiang.