Day 1Lijiang, China

Welcome to Lijiang - It is time to unwind!

It is time to relax, unwind and mingle with the other members on the same retreat! It is a free & easy day.

Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Today is a day to focus on yourself and your mental state of mind. Dr. Lim will guide you through a simple yoga and mediation session to exercise mindfulness. Find yourself surrounded by the element of wood, and beautiful greenery in a peaceful park. The afternoon will be a continuation of this spiritual journey- where time for self-reflection gives us insights into our thoughts and aspirations. Remember to pen down your thoughts, as this will be important for tomorrow’s visit to the monastery. 

Next you will encounter the element of fire, with creation. You may have noticed small cat-shaped items on rooftops while passing by the Chinese traditional buildings in Lijiang. They are the guardian animals of Lijiang- the cat tiles. Here you will have the chance to paint your own cat tile and learn the methods of traditional incense making.  

Immerse yourself in the beautiful historic Tea Horse Road while travelling on horseback. This gives you a chance to catch a glimpse of the daily activities at the Naxi village. Take the time to admire the traditional Naxi architecture, where carpenters are hard at work restoring the old buildings. Watch the farmers in the lush fields and share the happiness of the local children running and playing outside. If you are lucky, you may also spot the native water buffalo!

Upon reaching the top of the hill, you will experience the breathtaking view of Lashi lake. We will stop here to indulge in a local Naxi lunch at a traditional Naxi farmhouse. It will truly be a feast for the body and soul. 

After lunch, we will be visiting Wenfang Monastery where it is time to burn away the contemplation paper you wrote yesterday during the reflection session. This signifies a new beginning where all negativity and burden is to be released and burnt away.

Wake up fresh and ready for another adventure day filled with breath-taking sights! The first element we encounter today is the element of water. We will be passing by the first bend of the Yangtze- the largest and most important river in China. You will notice a sharp “V” shaped bend where we can stop to admire this truly spectacular view. Continue this scenic journey, to Shigu, where you get the chance to visit The Long March of Red Army Monument, the famous Stone Drum from ancient China, the old chain bridge, and enjoy a specially prepared performance by Naxi musicians. 

Dare to travel a little deeper to reach the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge. Venture down the water’s edge with a 25-minute hike toward glass lookout for a view of the rushing river. Hiking evokes the element of metal, as it signifies achievement. 

Relax in the late afternoon with a fruit picking session at the hotel’s farm and enjoy the fruits of your labour! This activity meets the element of earth.

There is no better way to end the trip than with a culture-rich performance and a magnificent panoramic view on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Be in awe of the vertical cliffs of this small mountain range rise dramatically from the clear turquoise waterway to the glaciated peak. 

It is high in the mountains,  where you will experience an open air ethnic show against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This is a truly spectacular performance of outdoor dancing and singing showcasing the traditions and lifestyle of the local people of Lijiang. Innovatively staged, The Impression Lijiang brings to you the highest real landscape performance, reaching an altitude of about 3100 meters above sea level.

Travel back home feeling relaxed and refreshed, with a new positive mindset, and a lot of new friends!