Where to stay in Lijiang for first-time tourists

Though built on a small scale, Lijiang has long been a popular destination for Chinese tourists, and what was already a good choice of accommodations has grown with increased international interest. Expect to pay a premium to stay in the old town area, with hotels overlooking the main canals particularly popular. Head out of the old town and you'll find a good range of more cost-effective, smaller guesthouses, hostels, and hotels, either in the suburban residential areas, or on the main roads leading out into the hillier areas of the region.