The Legend of a Lake and People
On the border between Yunnan Province and Sichuan Province, there is a legendary lake which is an Arcadia in people's hearts (just like the isolated mountainous region of Greece that inspired ancient poets). A mysterious Chinese ethnic minority, the Mosuo people, live around the lake. The highest mountain by the lake is believed to be the Goddess of the Mosuo people. Lugu Lake is just like a magical mirror of "the Goddess" presenting incredible scenery as the seasons change.
In spring, azaleas dot the landscape with pink. In summer, white flowers blossom on the bright lake. In autumn, the golden grass sea turns the lake into an oil painting. In winter, the lake is a paradise for migratory gulls.
In this 3-day Lugu Lake tour, you will not only tour the scenic sites around the lake in a smart way, but also truly meet the matriarchal Mosuo people who still keep their authentic customs and lifestyle.
Tour 'Wow' Points
Stir the Golden Lake Water
Have a boat ride in the late afternoon on the "Bright Sea". When the dusk sunlight turns the lake water into a piece of golden silk, it is the best time to feel the gentleness and charm of Lugu Lake.


Enjoy an Exclusive View of Secret Princess Island
Follow a well-paved path, which is untrodden by most tourists, to have a relaxing hike and enjoy exclusive views of the lake.


Jump on a Magic Grass Trampoline
Explore the 'grass sea' by a wooden boat and find the floating meadow hidden in the grass. Walk and jump on it. Have childlike fun on this grassy 'magic carpet'.


Unveil the Authentic Culture of the Mosuo Minority
Visit a Mosuo home. Sit in the grandma's room and listen to stories of the matriarchal clan society.


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12 day trip to Kunming, Dali and Lijiang
![]() Our tour guide cum driver for Kunming, is Jack Lee. He took good care of us, especially when there is any descending or ascending hike during the trip. He gave excellent suggestion for dinner and even show us the authentic way to eat the food. We had a fantastic 6 days in Dali area. Our guide, 王立婷, is from the Bai ethnic group. She is very knowledgeable in the custom and history of Yunnan as well as the different Ethnic group of the area. We learn a lot of interesting things from her. If I were to go to Dali again, I will definitely look for her. The last stretch of our trip, is 3 days in Lijiang with our guide , 和绍春. He is from the Naxi Ethnic group. He shared with us his knowledge of his people and also how to handle high altitiude. Luckily for us, we had him to look out for us as some of us were unwell during and after the ascent of Yulong snow mountain. Last but not least, our driver, 卞师傅,spent 9 days with us and is a safe driver and a friendly person. more
Apr 2025, Boon Keow L
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Lijiang and Kunming
![]() Thanks to Camillia Jiang from China Highlights who created our itinerary we had a wonderful holiday in Lijiang and Kunming. Our guides in Lijiang Alice and Lulu in kunming were wonderful in taking care of our needs from the word go and made our holidays so much better. more
Apr 2025, Chng S
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Amazing 9D8N Yunnan Experience!
![]() Our group of 8 had an amazing time in Yunnan with China Highlights!We’re on 9D8N tour in Shangrila, Lijiang, Dali and Kunming. Special thanks to Liberman (key coordinator) for his patience in meeting our many requests and changes, I’m really impressed with his good English competency, prompt responses and follow-up. We were blessed with great weather, sunshine when we visit Pudacuo and Songzhanlin, Hotel Indigo is an excellent choice for hotel stay in Shangrila. We were able to ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Lijiang too, it was snowing slightly and the mountain was covered by thick white snow, making our experience a very special one. Thumbs up to Lijiang guide Jack, he’s one of the few guides who would hike up the mountain side by side with guests. Our special thanks goes to our guides - James (Shangrila), Jack (Lijiang), Alice (Dali), Lydia and May (Kunming). They have worked very hard to ensure our Yunnan experience is an amazing one with beautiful scenery, delicious food, great shopping! I will definitely travel with China Highlights again andwill highly recommend them to my friends. more
Apr 2025, savvy Traveler
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Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a suggested itinerary. We are happy to customize a tour according to your interests.
We will drive you from Lijiang to Lugu Lake (206 km, 4 hours). On the way, you will enjoy the wonderful view of Jinsha River (Yangtze River). After arriving, you will have a panoramic view of the lake from a purpose-built platform. Have lunch in Daluoshui village, and then have a dreamy boat ride in the late afternoon near your hotel.
Starting from your hotel, you will explore the lake in your privately-driven car after breakfast. Stop at Lovers' Shore to take painting-like photos. Walk around Lige village, and take in the picture-postcard scenery of Lige Peninsula. Climb up to Luyuanya Cliff to see the prayer stones and prayer flags.
Enjoy a moderate hike on the mountainside after lunch with exclusive views of Nüshenwan ('Goddess Bay') and Princess Island. Then explore the "Grass Sea" by wooden boat and have fun on the floating meadow.
Relax to the Mosuo minority singing and dancing show in the evening.
Have a relaxing morning, and then we'll drive you back to Lijiang for your departure or the continuation of your tour. Do let us know below if you'd like any further assistance or tour customization or extension.
Hotel Selection
—the Icing on the Cake
Boutique hotels are recommended to enrich your travel experience.



Price includes:
- Private air-conditioned business car with big windows and ample space
- English speaking local guide
- Activities, hotels, and meals listed in the itinerary
- 24/7 helpline for while you are traveling
Tour code: lj-6