In January, Lijiang (Yunnan) enters its dry season. Though lacking midsummer’s lush greenery or the rainy season’s gentle moisture, it boasts crisp clear skies and fresh mountain air—ideal for savoring authentic plateau winter scenery. With over 10°C day-night temperature gaps, noon is warm for leisurely strolling, but mornings and nights turn chilly, so bundle up warmly. Knowing these traits helps you dress/pack smartly and plan a seamless trip, whether exploring the ancient town’s charm or admiring snow-capped mountain vistas.
Core Characteristics of Lijiang January Weather: Dry and Sunny with the Magic of Temperature Difference
Lijiang weather in January features a typical plateau monsoon climate, with “dry” and “large temperature difference” as the most prominent weather labels. Data shows that the average temperature in Lijiang this month ranges from 1°C to 13°C, cooler than most cities in inland China but far from frigid. When the sun bathes the bluestone roads of the ancient town during the day, the temperature often rises above 10°C, and a thick coat paired with a sweater is sufficient for comfort. Many visitors take advantage of this time to wander around the ancient town or visit scenic spots in the suburbs. However, as the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly, and it may even fall below freezing at midnight. If you stay in a guesthouse in the ancient town without central heating, you need to prepare a warm sleeping bag or thick blanket in advance.
Besides the temperature difference, Lijiang has minimal precipitation in January, with an average monthly rainfall of less than 10 millimeters. Most days are clear and cloudless. While this dry weather is favorable for travel, it can easily cause dry skin and a sore throat. Visitors must remember to carry moisturizer and a water bottle with them to stay hydrated. Additionally, the ultraviolet (UV) radiation on the plateau remains strong in winter. Even on clear days without direct sunlight, it is advisable to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to prevent sunburn. Overall, Yunnan Lijiang January Weather is very friendly for travel. As long as you handle the temperature difference and dryness properly, you can fully enjoy the winter scenery here.
Wangguan and Dounan Wetland Park, Kunming, Yunnan
Dressing and Packing List for Visitors
In response to the uniqueness of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather, appropriate dressing is key to ensuring travel comfort. Here, we recommend visitors adopt the “layered dressing method” to adjust flexibly according to temperature changes. For the upper body, it is recommended to wear thermal underwear, a sweater or fleece jacket from the inside out, and a thick, windproof and waterproof outer coat such as a down jacket or冲锋衣 (hard shell jacket) on the outermost layer. A lightweight, compressible down jacket is preferred, as it is easy to take off and store when the temperature rises at noon. For the lower body, thick pants are necessary. If you plan to go to places with higher altitudes like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, prepare a pair of fleece-lined thermal pants to keep your legs warm.
Keeping your feet warm is equally important. In January, the ground in Lijiang may occasionally frost over, especially outdoors in the early morning. A pair of non-slip, wear-resistant snow boots or hiking shoes is the best choice, as they not only keep your feet warm but also prevent slipping. For accessories, scarves, gloves and hats are essential. Woolen scarves and gloves offer better warmth retention, and it is recommended to choose a hat style that covers your ears. In addition to clothing, you must not neglect your personal items. Due to the dry weather, moisturizing skin care products such as lip balm and hand cream are a must. If you wear contact lenses, it is advisable to bring artificial tears to relieve eye discomfort.
Furthermore, the daylight hours in Lijiang are relatively short in January, and it gets dark around 6 p.m. Visitors should prepare a portable flashlight or turn on their mobile phone’s flashlight function to avoid getting lost in the narrow alleys of the ancient town. If you plan to take photos of the beautiful scenery, camera batteries drain faster in low-temperature environments. Remember to bring spare batteries and keep them warm—you can put the spare batteries in your inner pocket to maintain their power with your body temperature. Dressing and packing in line with Yunnan Lijiang January Weather will make your journey more secure and comfortable.
Best Times to Visit the Ancient Town and Surrounding Areas
Taking advantage of the favorable Yunnan Lijiang January Weather, planning your visiting time properly can double your travel experience. For Lijiang Ancient Town, early morning is the most charming time. At this hour, the temperature is relatively low, and there are few tourists. The bluestone roads still carry the coolness of dawn, and you may occasionally see local residents walking by with vegetable baskets, while smoke curls up from the roofs of the ancient town, filled with a sense of daily life. You can wander along the alleys of the ancient town, enjoy the sight of the sun slowly casting light on the ancient buildings, or stop at a roadside breakfast shop to try the local pea flour, experiencing the authentic Lijiang morning.
Noon is the best time to visit the scenic spots around the ancient town. By then, the temperature has risen and the sun is shining, making it suitable for a trip to Lashi Lake Wetland. Although Lashi Lake in January lacks the blooming flowers of spring and summer, it attracts a large number of migratory birds for the winter. You can rent a bicycle and ride along the lake, or take a boat to watch the birds on the lake, enjoying a leisurely time. After 3 p.m., the temperature begins to drop gradually, and it is best to return to the ancient town. You can step into a street-side café, order a hot drink, and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the ancient town through the window. In the evening, the lanterns in the ancient town are lit one after another. The warm yellow light blends with the cool air, creating a unique charm. At this time, put on your thick coat and take a walk in the ancient town for an excellent experience.
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain January Weather: Colder Than the Urban Area but Prime Time for Summit
When it comes to traveling in Lijiang, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is an unmissable scenic spot. The characteristics of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather also make Jade Dragon Snow Mountain enter its prime time for summiting. It should be noted that Jade Dragon Snow Mountain stands at an altitude of 5,596 meters, and the weather on the summit is harsher than in Lijiang’s urban area. The average temperature in January ranges from -5°C to -10°C, accompanied by strong winds that can sometimes reach level 5-6. Standing on the summit, you can even feel the biting cold of the wind. However, compared to the rainy season, the weather at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in January is more stable, with very few rainy or foggy days. You can clearly enjoy the magnificent scenery of the snow-capped mountains, and the probability of witnessing the spectacle of “Golden Mountain at Sunrise” is much higher.
In view of the special weather at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, visitors must make adequate preparations before climbing. In addition to the thick clothes you wear, it is recommended to rent a down jacket and a pair of crampons at the foot of the mountain. The crampons can effectively prevent slipping on the snowy mountain roads. The oxygen content on the summit is relatively low, which may exacerbate altitude sickness. You can buy oxygen cylinders in the urban area in advance, and if you experience symptoms such as dizziness and shortness of breath during the climb, inhale oxygen in time to relieve the discomfort. Besides, the UV intensity on the summit is much higher than in the urban area, so you must take sun protection measures to avoid severe sunburn. Although the weather at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in January is relatively harsh, when you stand on the summit and overlook the beautiful scenery of white snow against the clear blue sky, you will find that all the preparations are worthwhile.
Yulong Snow Mountain
Benefits of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather: Unique Folk Customs and Winter Food Experiences
In January, Lijiang, Yunnan not only boasts pleasant weather but also offers rich and distinctive folk activities, adding a unique touch to visitors’ journeys. January coincides with the twelfth lunar month, and the Naxi people in Lijiang begin to prepare for the Spring Festival. The ancient town is decorated with lanterns everywhere, filled with a festive atmosphere. You can step into the traditional dwellings of the Naxi people, experience folk activities such as making Baba (a local staple food) and brewing Sulima wine, and feel the local living customs. Some scenic spots also hold winter folk culture exhibitions, displaying the Naxi people’s traditional costumes and handicrafts, allowing you to gain an in-depth understanding of the Naxi cultural heritage.
In the cold weather, Lijiang’s winter delicacies are not to be missed. In the street-side shops of the ancient town, a bowl of steaming preserved spare rib hot pot can instantly drive away the chill. The preserved spare ribs, stewed for a long time, have tender meat and rich soup. Paired with local seasonal vegetables, it is nutritious and delicious. Besides preserved spare rib hot pot, black goat hot pot is also a specialty of Lijiang. The tender black goat meat is rich in protein, making it the most nourishing food to eat in the cold January. In addition, there are local snacks such as chickpea flour and Baba. You can wander around the ancient town while tasting these special delicacies, experiencing Lijiang’s food culture. Yunnan Lijiang January Weather brings not only unique scenery but also these unmissable folk customs and food experiences.
Lijiang Outdoor Activities in January: Choose the Most Suitable Ways Based on Weather
Based on the dry and sunny characteristics of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather, outdoor activities have become the first choice for many visitors. However, different outdoor activities have different adaptability to the weather, so choosing reasonably can ensure safety and fun. If you prefer gentle outdoor experiences, hiking around the ancient town is a good option. Starting from the ancient town, hike along the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Along the way, you can enjoy various landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, meadows and streams. Although the meadows in January are not as green as in summer, they have a unique bleak beauty in winter. Matched with the snow-capped mountains in the distance, it is like an ink wash painting. It is recommended to choose the noon time when the temperature is higher for hiking, plan the route in advance, and carry enough water and food.
For adventure-loving visitors, January is also a great time for outdoor exploration in Lijiang. In addition to climbing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you can also visit Tiger Leaping Gorge. Although the water volume of Tiger Leaping Gorge in January is not as abundant as in the rainy season, the current is still turbulent. The scenery on both sides of the gorge is magnificent. Standing on the viewing platform, you can feel the majestic power of nature. It should be noted that some sections of Tiger Leaping Gorge have steep terrain. Coupled with possible frost in January, the roads are slippery. When walking, you must step firmly and follow the safety instructions of the scenic spot. In addition, if you like cycling, cycling around Lugu Lake is also a good choice. In January, part of Lugu Lake will freeze, forming a unique landscape. During the cycling trip around the lake, you can enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, and also visit the Mosuo villages along the lake to experience the local ethnic culture.
Tips for Dealing with Yunnan Lijiang January Weather: Answers to Common Questions for Visitors
Facing the characteristics of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather, many visitors may have various questions. Here are answers to common questions to help you deal with the weather better. Some visitors ask whether it is necessary to bring anti-freezing supplies when going to Lijiang in January. The answer is yes, especially if you plan to go to places with higher altitudes like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Electronic products such as cameras and mobile phones are prone to freezing in low temperatures. You can bring anti-freezing bags or keep the electronic products in your inner pocket to keep them warm. In addition, it is recommended to choose skin care products with good moisturizing effects to avoid skin peeling caused by dryness.
Other visitors are concerned about whether the weather in Lijiang in January will affect transportation. Generally speaking, the weather in Lijiang in January has little impact on transportation, and the airport and highways usually operate normally. However, in case of extreme weather such as heavy snowfall, some mountain roads may be temporarily closed. It is recommended to check the latest transportation information before departure and plan your itinerary in advance. In addition, the roads in Lijiang Ancient Town are mostly bluestone roads, which may frost over in the early morning of January. When walking, you should watch your step to avoid slipping. Finally, regarding altitude sickness, the air in Lijiang is relatively dry in January, and altitude sickness may be more obvious than in other seasons. It is recommended to rest for a while after arriving in Lijiang, avoid strenuous exercise immediately, and drink more warm water to help your body adapt.
Lijiang Travel Summary for January: A Pleasant Winter Wonderland Awaits You
To sum up, Yunnan Lijiang January Weather can be called “golden weather” for travel. The dry and sunny weather ensures smooth trips, and the unique plateau temperature difference brings diverse experiences. Whether you want to feel the quiet charm of the ancient town in winter, challenge the grandeur of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, or experience the Naxi people’s folk culture and characteristic delicacies, Lijiang in January can meet your needs. For visitors, as long as you grasp the characteristics of Yunnan Lijiang January Weather in advance, make proper dressing and packing preparations, and plan an itinerary that fits the weather, you can gain an unforgettable journey in this winter wonderland.
In January, Lijiang is free from the crowds of the peak season and has more tranquility and simplicity. You can enjoy a moment of peace in the ancient town in the early morning, enjoy the scenery to your heart’s content under the noon sun, and savor the steaming hot food in the cold night. Every inch of land here shows its most unique charm under the blessing of January weather. Don’t hesitate any longer. Pack your bags, bring your longing for winter scenery, step into Lijiang, Yunnan, and start your own plateau winter journey in the pleasant January weather.
