Baisui Bridge crossing a canal in Lijiang Old Town, Yunnan province (China)

"The valley of the Blue Moon that Shangri-la lamasery overlooks is sheltered in the mountains and is both a physical and spiritual paradise. The people are happy and without want."

Shangri La, mystical place

claimed to be Lijiang 

described by James Hilton

Tiger Lap Gorge Bridge across the river Jinsha near Lijiang City, Yunnan (China)

Tiger Leaping Gorge is the longest, deepest, and narrowest gorge in the world. The Gorge acquired its name because, according to local legend, a tiger once leaped over its rapids to escape from hunters who had chased it into the Gorge.

Legend

Drawing of a bridge at the Old Town of Lijiang, Yunnan (China)

"The Old Town of Lijiang, which is perfectly adapted to the uneven topography of this key commercial and strategic site, has retained a historic townscape of high quality and authenticity. Its architecture is noteworthy for the blending of elements from several cultures that have come together over many centuries."

The Old Town of Lijiang

in the UNESCO World Heritage List