From the Tang Dynasty (618-907), an important trade road, just as famous as the Silk Road was prosperous in southwestern China. Later to be known as the Tea-Horse Ancient Road, this road moved through Sichuan and Yunnan provinces and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau Thousands of years of changes has resulted in the disappearance of the road. The exception is Lijiang Old Town, which was a vital commercial distributing center. The town including its original commercial pattern centering round the Square Street is in service to this day.
 
What to buy
In recent years, with its tourist industrial development, Lijiang offers various kinds of souvenirs to its visitors. Of particular interest are the exotic handcrafts of the Naxi Group.

Local crafts are colorful and unique. Naxi bracelets and necklaces carved with ancient Dongba hieroglyphs seem popular with tourists. Individually designed T-shirts can be created as locals have the capacity to paint on the Dongba hieroglyphics required. Knitted shawls of the Naxi Group have been popular with female travelers for quite some time. All of these things can be easily found in Lijiang Old Town at a reasonable price.

Other popular souvenirs include the Bunong and Jixiang Bells and Naxi murals. Bunong Bells draw their inspiration from the bells of the horse caravans that once traveled the Tea-horse Ancient Road. Local handcrafts show the romantic horse caravan culture from years ago. The Jixiang Bell, known as the lucky bell, was a sacrificial utensil of the Naxi Group. The Naxi Mural is praised as the gem of Naxi culture reflecting the kind and intelligent aspect of Naxi people. A piece of Naxi mural, with its elaborate pictures and use of pastel colors provides a wonderful decoration for your house or serves as a memorable gift to family and friends.

Two kinds of mild wine produced in Lijiang are favored by some travelers. U Wines history can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Sulima Wine is specially brewed by Mosuo people who live in Ninglang Yi Autonomous County, northeast of Lijiang City. It is important to check your countrys Customs restrictions prior to purchase if you intend taking these wines out of the country.

Where to buy
The most famous shopping center of Lijiang is Square Street, the most bustling area of the city. It provides another interesting experience to your trip. A large number of souvenir shops are located here, selling various kinds of decorations and handicrafts. Some shops are owned locals while others are opened by gold diggers from other places in China.

Bu Nong Ling (Bunong Bell)
The best place to buy the exotic Bunong Bell. Belles sold here are completed designed and made by the shopkeeper.
Location: East of the big stone bridge of Lijiang Old Town.
Dongba Ji Xiang Ling (Dongba Lucky Bell)
Location: No.1, Xinyuan Alley, Guangyi Street, Square Street, the Old Town, Lijiang City

Li Yin (Lis Silver)
A formal shop sells many kinds of hand-crafted silver ornaments.
Location: No.43, Guanyuan Alley, Guangyi Street, Square Street, the Old Town, Lijiang City
Sun Wood-carvings
Location: Mishi Alley, Xinyi Street, Square Street, the Old Town, Lijiang

Lijiang has no train connection; however it does have its own airport and has a convenient link to the highway system within Yunnan Province. As a mid-size airport, Lijiang Airport provides good air connections to other cities in China. However most visitors like to enjoy well-known ancient Dali first then travel to Lijiang by long-distance bus. Therefore, Kunming Airport which has more domestic and international connections is preferred by travelers from home and abroad. Actually, this itinerary is recommended for its convenience.

The highway system of Yunnan Province improved markedly since the 1990s. Living standards for ethnic groups inhabiting Yunnan has increased also. In addition to frequent bus connections with nearby cities, Lijiang has four bus stations operating services to Kunming, Shangri-La and tourist attractions in and around Lijiang.

Public transportation in Lijiang City is relatively convenient now. Except for the Old Town, which is only reachable on foot, you can go to any corner of this city easily by city buses and taxi. In fact, Lijiang is not a very large city, so getting around by bicycle or by foot is sufficient to enjoy the beauty of the place.