Blue Moon Valley White Water River
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Blue Moon Valley White Water River

4.7
·392 reviews·Lijiang, China

A breathtaking valley with surreal blue waters and unique limestone terraces at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds, capture soft light

CrowdLow
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Blue Moon Valley White Water River

Blue Moon Valley White Water River

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds, capture soft light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking valley with surreal blue waters and unique limestone terraces at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

4.7
(392 reviews)

"The water looks light blue in color and water is crystal clear. The environment is so ambience, comfortable and natural."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive by 7 AM

Beat the crowds for stunning photos and a peaceful experience.

🎫 Bus 101 from Lijiang

Easy and affordable transport from Lijiang Old Town.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Vivid Blue Waters

The Vivid Blue Waters

Blue Moon Valley

Mesmerizing turquoise lakes and a bright blue river, colored by mineral deposits. A photographer's dream!

White Water Terraces

White Water Terraces

Baishui River

Natural limestone cascades forming unique, tiered platforms. A stunning geological wonder.

Reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Blue Moon Valley

Crystal-clear pools perfectly mirror the majestic snow-capped peaks above.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Blue Moon Valley

Arrive early, especially if visiting during peak season or holidays. Many travelers suggest aiming for a 7 AM arrival to experience the valley's serene beauty before the main tourist influx. This allows for better photos and a more peaceful exploration of the White Water River and its colorful pools. Reddit

Combine with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Blue Moon Valley is conveniently located at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Many visitors combine these two attractions for a full day of exploration. Consider purchasing a combined ticket for efficiency, and be prepared for varying weather conditions at higher altitudes. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, capture soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer local tourists
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, vibrant colors
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

fell in love with China🥹🇨🇳🌸🌼 #china #yunnan #lijiang #dali #erhai #shangrila #kunming #chinatravelguide #travelguide
@cannyclaudya
137.1K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Arrive by 7 AM

Beat the crowds for stunning photos and a peaceful experience. Reddit

🎫 Bus 101 from Lijiang

Easy and affordable transport from Lijiang Old Town. Reddit

This is Lijiang China 🇨🇳 云南丽江 Wandering through flower fields, stumbling upon a hobbit house and sparking in the bluest skies I’ve seen in China #chinatravel #explorechina #yunnan #云南
@wisteria_voyage
53K likes • 837.8K views
13 November 2024 | Blue Moon Valley, White Water River & Lijiang Performance Show❤️ #companytrip✈️ #yunnan #yunnantrip #china
shima_shim1403
3 likes • 126 views

📸 Photography Paradise

Bring your camera! The blue hues and reflections are incredible. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Terraces

Walk along boardwalks to admire the White Water Terraces. Instagram

21 Mei 2025. Blue Moon Valley & White Water River Lijiang, Yunnan, China
cxgjun
5 likes • 92 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive by 7 AM

Beat the crowds for stunning photos and a peaceful experience. Reddit

🎫 Bus 101 from Lijiang

Easy and affordable transport from Lijiang Old Town. Reddit

📸 Photography Paradise

Bring your camera! The blue hues and reflections are incredible. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Terraces

Walk along boardwalks to admire the White Water Terraces. Instagram

🧥 Dress in Layers

Weather can change quickly, especially near the snow mountain. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(392 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the surreal, vivid blue waters and the stunning natural beauty of Blue Moon Valley, often comparing it to a fairytale. The White Water Terraces are a unique geological highlight, and the reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are breathtaking. It's considered a must-visit for its picturesque scenery and photography opportunities. InstagramReddit

"The Blue Moon Valley is located at the bottom of the Jade Dragon Snow mountain. It's scenery is very unique and nice. The water looks light blue in color and water is crystal clear. The environment is so ambience, comfortable and natural. Many people are visiting this place and also few wedding couple are taking scenic pictures. It is a must to visit whenever comes to Lijiang Ancient Town."

James Ong

"Have experienced on Winter 2024, you can take bus 101 from Old Town Lijiang and then buy ticket shuttle to Blue Moon Valley.
Need full day for explore all area at JDSM, nice weather and beautiful view."

Diah Novianti Dewi

"Baishui River and Blue Moon Valley is actually next to each other. Blue
Moon Valley is formed by the melting snow and glaciers from the
mountains, which flow down along the cliffs.

The water was so transparent!
View also nice.
Lots of couple came here for shooting wedding photo."

J-Ho S. C.

What People Like

Vivid blue water
Stunning reflections
Unique terraces

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Limited food options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common and recommended way is to take bus 101 from Lijiang Old Town. This bus will take you directly to the area. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi for a more direct but pricier option. Reddit

While ambitious, some travelers attempt this. It's advisable to start very early at Blue Moon Valley (around 7 AM) to beat crowds and then head to Tiger Leaping Gorge. This will be a packed day with significant travel time. Reddit

Yes, taxis are available from Lijiang to Blue Moon Valley. This offers more flexibility but is generally more expensive than public transport. Negotiate the fare beforehand. Reddit

There are eco-friendly shuttle buses available that connect Blue Moon Valley to the various points of interest on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, including cable car stations. TikTok

The bus journey from Lijiang Old Town to Blue Moon Valley typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, an entrance ticket is required for Blue Moon Valley. You can purchase tickets at the entrance or often as part of a package that includes access to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Reddit

The entrance ticket typically grants access to the valley and its main attractions like the colorful pools and White Water Terraces. Shuttle bus tickets within the scenic area might be separate or included in a package. Reddit

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or children. It's advisable to check the official ticketing website or inquire at the ticket counter for current offers. Reddit

Blue Moon Valley generally opens early in the morning, around 8:00 AM, and closes in the late afternoon, around 6:00 PM. It's best to verify the exact hours closer to your visit. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to save time and potentially secure your entry. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spots are along the boardwalks overlooking the turquoise lakes, especially where the reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain are clear. The White Water Terraces also offer unique photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the vibrant blue hues and reflections without many people in the frame. Reddit

A standard digital camera or smartphone with a good camera will suffice. The natural beauty is the main draw, but a polarizing filter can help enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed throughout the scenic area. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid using tripods in crowded areas where they might obstruct pathways. Instagram

Expect stunning landscape shots featuring the surreal blue water, the White Water Terraces, and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Many couples also take wedding photos here. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can walk along the boardwalks to admire the colorful pools and the White Water Terraces, take photos, and enjoy the natural scenery. Shuttle buses are available to navigate the area. Instagram

To fully appreciate the beauty and take photos, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If combining with Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, plan for a full day. Reddit

Yes, there are well-maintained wooden boardwalks and paths that make walking around the main attractions easy and enjoyable. Instagram

Yes, there are restrooms and some small shops selling souvenirs and snacks within the scenic area. Reddit

Some visitors refer to the natural beauty and the visual spectacle of the valley as a 'performance.' There might also be cultural performances in the broader Lijiang area, but Blue Moon Valley itself is a natural attraction. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Blue Moon Valley is a fantastic destination for families. The easy-to-navigate boardwalks make it accessible for strollers, and the vibrant blue water is captivating for children. It's a great place for kids to marvel at nature's beauty without strenuous hiking. TikTok

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as options within the valley can be limited. The shuttle buses are also a fun way for kids to get around. While the water is stunning, it's important to supervise children closely near the water's edge. Reddit

📸 Photographers' Dream

For photographers, Blue Moon Valley is a must-visit. The unreal blue hues of the water, the reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and the unique White Water Terraces offer endless shooting opportunities. Instagram+1

Aim for early morning to capture the best light and avoid crowds. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color and reduce glare. Be prepared for varying light conditions throughout the day, and don't forget to capture the details of the terraces as well as the grand landscapes. TikTok

💑 Couples & Romance

The ethereal beauty of Blue Moon Valley makes it an incredibly romantic destination. The serene atmosphere, the stunning blue waters, and the majestic mountain backdrop create a fairy-tale setting. TikTokInstagram

It's a popular spot for wedding photoshoots, adding to the romantic ambiance. A leisurely stroll along the boardwalks, hand-in-hand, with the breathtaking scenery surrounding you, is an unforgettable experience for couples. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Geology Behind the Blue

The striking blue color of Blue Moon Valley's water is not artificial; it's a natural phenomenon caused by the high concentration of calcium carbonate and other minerals in the glacial meltwater from Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. As this mineral-rich water flows over the limestone bedrock, it creates the unique, almost ethereal turquoise and azure hues that give the valley its name. The White Water Terraces are also a product of this geological process, forming natural, tiered platforms as the mineral-laden water deposits calcium carbonate over time. InstagramReddit

This unique composition also contributes to the water's clarity, allowing for stunning reflections of the surrounding landscape. The interplay of sunlight with these minerals creates a mesmerizing visual experience, shifting from deep blue to emerald green depending on the angle and intensity of the light. It's this natural wonder that draws photographers and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Instagram

Navigating the Scenic Area

Once you've entered Blue Moon Valley, getting around is made easy with a network of wooden boardwalks and paved paths that wind through the colorful pools and along the White Water River. These paths are generally well-maintained and offer excellent vantage points for photography and enjoying the scenery. Instagram

For longer distances or to access different parts of the valley and the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, an eco-friendly shuttle bus service is available. These shuttles are a convenient way to cover more ground without excessive walking, especially if you plan to visit multiple attractions within the larger scenic area. The shuttle system helps manage visitor flow and preserves the natural environment. TikTok

Cultural Touches in a Natural Wonder

While primarily a natural attraction, Blue Moon Valley is situated in Yunnan, a region rich in Naxi culture. Visitors might notice traditional prayer flags or subtle ethnic motifs incorporated into the landscape or nearby facilities, hinting at the local heritage. Instagram

The valley is also a popular spot for wedding photography, with many couples choosing the surreal blue waters and mountain backdrop for their special day. Seeing these celebrations adds another layer to the experience, highlighting the romantic and picturesque nature of the location. InstagramReddit

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