2007-11-06

(photo source: www.cnyntrip.com )

--Intro:
Consisting of 13 peaks, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yulong Mountain) is the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere.
It is located in Lijiang of southern Yunnan Province.
Looking from Lijiang Old Town in the south, which is 15 kilometers away, the snow-covered and fog-enlaced mountain resembles a jade dragon lying in the clouds, hence, the name Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

--Attractions:
-13 peaks
The 13 peaks, which have altitudes of at least 4,000 meters, are covered by snow all year round; the mountain is called the "Natural Glacier Museum" for it has all types of glacier. It is said during the World War II, pilots of the American air force found that there was a beautiful paramedic silver seamark on the Route Hump. That is the main peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Yunshanping (Spruce Plateau) is grassland with gigantic spruces. A long time ago, it was a place for young lovers to sacrifice their lives in honor of true love and to escape from arranged marriages and feudal ethics.
Ganhaizi (Dry Sea) used to be a highland lake, the meadow was formed after the water had dried up.

-Rare animals and wild plants:
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a sanctuary for rare animals and wild plants. In fact, one fourth of all plant species in China can be found here and 20 primeval forest communities shelter a big family of 400 types of trees and 30 kinds of animals, which are protected by the state. These species live in different temperature levels and create different kinds of views.

--Activities:
Skiing. The mountain is a fine natural skiing area. It is the world's longest and warmest ski resort. For the convenience of tourists, a tramway was built.
Riding, you can ride a horse from Yunshanping to Ganhaizi and enjoy the good scenery on the road.

--Admission Fee:
RMB 80 or $ 11 for entrance
RMB 40 or $ 5.5 for the Protection Fare of the Old Town

--Transportation:
By air, Beijing to Lijiang takes 4 hours and costs RMB 2,410 or $ 323. A flight from Shanghai to Lijiang is 5 hours, with a ticket price of RMB 2,430 or $ 325.

--Accommodation:
There are many hotels and guesthouses in Lijiang. Some are very modern and others are built as replicas of courtyard style inns. Price is moderate, about USD 30 to USD 60 per room.

--Tips
Best time: Winter, you'd better get there in the early morning, because the peaks will be glossed over by heavy clouds at noon.
Take thick jackets and you can rent skiing outfits on the mountain.

(with reference to www.travelchinaguide.com )