During my last trip to Lijiang I joined Carol, the lovely Singaporean owner of Jayden Lodge, for a Kundalini yoga class. The traditional wooden and stone guesthouse and yoga studio are grouped around a small and quiet courtyard, right at the edge of Shuhe and the hills, so it's very quiet and peaceful. Carol and her husband and small son live here too so it's bit like a homestay. There are only a few spacious rooms for guests. Carol and her husband are excellent hosts, serving breakfast, coffee and tea in the courtyard. They also organize small group tours around Yunnan.

Smaller than I thought. Really small! Pizza and burgers were good, music selection was excellent, as was the beer selection. Four stars instead of five because we were literally the only people there.

I have been studying here for nearly 2 semesters. I have been fascinated by the vibe of the city. Lijiang is a very slow city. On a good day, you can see the Yulong snow mountain on the back. People here seem to be very polite and very nice to you especially if you are a foreigner. It has been always amazing when you still can see some local people here wearing their own traditional costumes. The school is small but cozy. The staff here are very nice and we live like a big family. The school has provided quality teaching. My classrooms have only around 3-5 students which is very good for us since the teachers can pay more attention to the students. Regarding the food, there is a nice American restaurant next to the school. Additionally, on the back of the school, there are a lot of local and cheap restaurants. The only thing i need to comment is dormitory condition. The room is simple and plain which is absolutely ok, but I think more maintenance is required. Overall, I am satisfied with Huayang and living in Lijiang has been by far one of the best time in my entire life.

The only place worth going for a beer in Lijiang. Small place with a super friendly vibe. Great relaxed hangout for locals and travellers alike.

Expect to meet the locals and the expats. The most diverse clientele in Lijiang. Just reach out and you'll know Lijiang directly form the people who live and love the place.