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Snow Mountain Ride in Lijiang, Yunnan

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Overview

Embark on a 5-day, 4-night all-inclusive horseback journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Lijiang, Yunnan—a region where the ancient Tea Horse Road once thrived and Naxi culture still breathes.

This immersive experience blends a short intensive riding course with wilderness expeditions, carefully designed for both beginners and experienced riders.

Beyond the saddle, you’ll indulge in a culinary journey through Yunnan—wild mushroom hotpot, a chef’s table fine dining experience, and locally sourced farm-to-table ingredients—and capture timeless memories with a professional equestrian photoshoot beside your horse.

  • 15 saddle hours over 3 days, traversing 40 km of diverse terrain

  • English-style horsemanship training integrated with wilderness riding techniques

  • Professional equestrian photoshoot with your horse

  • Culinary journey: wild mushroom hotpot, chef’s table fine dining, and farm-to-table Yunnan cuisine

  • Small group size (max 6) for personalized attention

Trip Highlights

 

  • Ride Guide

    Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights / 3 Days Riding

    Opening Months: January to June, September to December each year

    Cost:

    • HKD 16800 per pax (Group of 3 - 6)

    • HKD 17800 per pax (Group of 2)

    Guide languages: English

    Max Riders: 6

    Min Riders: 2

    Age: 11 - 55

    Arrival / Departure: Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG)

    Riding Level: Beginner to Intermediate (similar riding level in one group)

    Weight Limit: Maximum of 80kg

    Time in the saddle: 11 hours total; 2 - 5 hours per day

  • The Team

    Teaching Method: Our teaching methodology is rooted in English-style horsemanship, integrated with wilderness riding techniques. Through a combination of theory and practice, we enable students to learn riding relatively quickly—even complete beginners.

    Our core principle: “Ensuring everyone experiences the joy of horesriding freely and the beauty of the landscape—all within a framework of absolute safety.” The key to riding safety lies in stable, well-trained horses and meticulously planned routes. Our exclusive riding paths avoid complex terrain, and all horses are selected from our own ranch. Each horse is personally trained by our coaches, who understand their individual temperaments and match them to suitable riders.

    Equipment: We provide students with helmets, body protectors, and leg guards—all compliant with European equestrian safety standards. Western-style saddles with secure stirrups will be used during the expedition to maximize safety and comfort.

  • Accommodation

    Four nights of accommodation provided at a Mountain-viewed Villa (Single/Double-bed Suite)

    ✓ From your villa, you may gaze upon the magnificent spectacle of Yulong Snow Mountain bathed in the first light of dawn — start your day with a Golden Sunrise.

    ✓ Wander along stone pathed roads, every corner tells a story, quietly revealing the rich heritage of this ancient town.

    ✓ Just a five-minute walk from our ranch, you can wake to mountain views and within moments greet your horse.

About the Route

Lakeside Ride at Pearl Lake

Starting from the ranch, we will trail through the vast expanse of Lijiang countryside, a three-dimensional canvas of farmlands, herd lands, and forests. The wilderness riding routes traverse these field paths, allowing you a glimpse into the most authentic Lijiang. After meadows where herds of cows and horses graze leisurely under prayer flags, we will reach the Pearl Lake, where the snow-capped mountain casts a clear reflection. Here, the coach will guide you in trying out a light canter, synchronizing the horse’s rhythm with the shimmering ripples of the lake.

Feiyu Valley — Realm of Silver Grass

Tucked away at the southern foot of Yulong Snow Mountain, Feiyu Valley is a hidden gorge rarely visited by tourists. From November to January, the valley is covered in silver grass nearly as tall as a person, swaying like rolling waves in the autumn wind. The riding route follows an abandoned rock mining track through Lijiang countryside before opening up to a breathtaking view: the entire grassland shimmering like feathers under the sunlight (hence the name "Feiyu," or "Flying Feathers"). The ever-changing wind conditions and complex terrain here demand steady pacing from the horses, making it the ultimate test of the skills honed over the previous two days of training.

Itinerary

People walking and riding scooters on a bustling street with traditional Asian buildings, colorful flowers, and a partly cloudy sky. 
Day One

Arrival | Acclimatization

Accommodation: Mountain-View Villa

On your arrival to Lijiang, we have arranged a mountain-view retreat in Baisha Ancient Town. This day is to allow your body ample time to acclimatize to the 2,400-meter altitude, effortlessly preventing altitude sickness. Baisha Ancient Town is the most well-preserved Naxi heritage site, nestled near pastures and filled with authentic local cuisine—feel free to explore on your own.

Several horseback riders wearing helmets riding on a field with white fencing, with trees and mountains in the background under a partly cloudy sky. 
Day Two

Departure | Heartbeat Resonance

Accommodation: Mountain-View Villa

Meet us at the ranch in the morning, where we will start with the most basic equestrian knowledge. An experienced coach will select a suitable horse for you and provide personal riding guidance, helping you feel the rhythm of the horse’s movements and gradually synchronize with your steed.

You'll then set out on a short wilderness expedition to grow comfortable riding in the wild, while giving our coaches the chance to observe your progress and fine-tune your training for the days ahead.

2 hours riding AM; 2.5 hours riding PM

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dinner: Yunnan Mushroom Hotpot

A dog with black and white fur looking at a river, with green trees, mountains in the background, and people riding horses along the shoreline under a clear blue sky. 
Day Three

Advancement | Rhythmic Poem

Accommodation: Mountain-View Villa

The coach will teach advanced rein control and riding techniques, including trotting practice. Ride through cow-dotted meadows and experience the exhilaration of a light gallop. Venture into Yuhu Village, where you can try out lakeside canter under the guidance of your coach.

2 hours riding AM; 2.5 hours riding PM

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dinner: Yunnan Fusion Cuisine

Two people riding horses on a grassy hill with a clear blue sky above.
A person uses a knife to cut a large piece of cured ham or prosciutto on a wooden stand with a scenic outdoor background visible through a window.
A white plate with a piece of cooked fish topped with sautéed mushrooms and chopped green onions, on a wooden table. 
Day Four

Finale | From Snow Peaks to Palate

Accommodation: Mountain-View Villa

Morning: After two days of training and wilderness riding, you will face the ultimate high-altitude trail: follow old railway tracks through fir forests to the hidden paradise of Feiyu Valley, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with your horse before the snow-capped mountains.

Afternoon: We have arranged an equestrian photoshoot to capture precious moments with your horse.

Evening: We prepared an exclusive Snow Mountain Fine Dining experience, featuring Yunnan’s seasonal organic ingredients in a surprise menu, concluding your journey with YEA Ma through the essence of local flavors and culinary wisdom.

2 hours riding AM

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Dinner: Snow Mountain Fine Dining

Residential neighborhood with houses featuring tiled roofs, lush green trees, and a mountain range with snow-capped peaks in the background under a cloudy sky. 
Day Five

Return

Feel free to explore more on your own, or book our private coach service to spend more time in the beautiful city of Lijiang.

A private coach will be arranged for airport drop off.

Meal included: Breakfast

About Your Stay

  • Courtyard of a modern building with two large trees, a stone pathway, and colorful artwork of animals on the wall in the background.

    The Courtyard

  • Modern hotel room with two beds, a sitting area near large window, and minimalistic decor.

    Double Bed Room

  • Hotel room with three beds, a sitting area with two chairs and a small table, and a window with curtains. A bathrobe hangs on a wooden coat rack.

    Double Bed Room

  • Hotel room with large window showing mountain landscape at sunrise, king-sized bed, artwork on wall, flower vase, and clothing rack.

    Single Bed Room

  • A modern hotel room with a large bed, a flat-screen TV, a freestanding bathtub near floor-to-ceiling windows, and a small sitting area with a table holding a bottle of wine and glasses, overlooking a street outside.

    Single Bed Room

  • A wooden chair with a woven backrest and cushioned seat placed in front of a simple wooden desk or counter, with teapots, a cup, and a small bowl of limes on the surface.

    Inside the Room

  • Modern bathroom with a free-standing bathtub, a walk-in shower, and a robe on a wooden rack.

    Inside the Room

  • A modern bathroom with a white bathtub near large windows with beige curtains, a wooden stool with a bowl of green fruit, a cushioned chair covered with a grey blanket, and views of traditional rooftops outside.

    The Bathtube

  • Modern bathroom with a marble sink, an illuminated oval mirror, and a wooden wardrobe with a white bathrobe hanging inside. There is a window with sheer curtains on the left and a bedroom with a bed visible through the mirror reflection.

    The Bathroom

  • Modern bathroom with glass shower enclosure, toilet, small window, and marble-like wall tiles, visible from a nearby bedroom with curtain and bed.

    The Bathroom

  • Teddy bear sitting on a balcony with a wine glass, candles, and rose petals, overlooking a mountain range during sunset.

    The Rooftop

  • Four people standing outdoors in front of a colorful mural, smiling and making peace signs or thumbs-up gestures. The mural features bright, cartoon-style flowers, shapes, and Chinese characters.

    The Owners

✓ Wake to Golden Sunrise Over Snow Mountains

From your villa rooftop, gaze upon the magnificent spectacle of Yulong Snow Mountain bathed in the first light of dawn—a silent, majestic performance of nature, as if the heavens were playing a morning sonata just for you.

✓ Stroll Through History

Nestled in Baisha Old Town—the ancient birthplace of the Naxi people and once the heart of the historic Naxi Kingdom—this retreat offers a world away from the hustle of Lijiang’s more crowded corners. Wander along meandering cobblestone paths, where small shops glow with warmth, and the wind itself whispers age-old tales. Every corner tells a story, quietly revealing the rich heritage of this ancient town.

✓ Steps Away from the Ranch

Just a five-minute walk from our ranch, you can wake to mountain views and within moments greet your horse—beginning a day of connection and adventure.

About the Cuisine

“Welcome to my courtyard—where flavor begins.”

Chef Wu Tao is a Yunnan chef who has spent decades in front of the stove. From the moment he first picked up a cleaver at fourteen, he knew his life would be a lifelong conversation with ingredients.

The Chef’s Path | From Songtsam to Baisha

  • Former Chinese cuisine director at Songtsam Hotels, with deep roots in researching and developing Yunnan’s folk cuisine

  • Skilled at blending wild mountain herbs with traditional cooking, giving each dish unique layers of flavor

  • Top 32 Chef on Chef of China 2

Ingredient Philosophy: The mountains of Yunnan are my storage

  • Organic vegetables nourished by rich black soil

  • Free-range pigs and chickens raised for over six months

  • Freshly milked dairy delivered straight from the farm

  • Wild mushrooms and mountain stream greens, available only in the rainy season

No imported ingredients—only a child of the land. Every dish is a miniature of the season’s mountains and fields.

A bowl of yellow soup with pieces of fish, green vegetables, and garnishes on a wooden table.
A plate with a serving of grilled fish topped with a yellow sauce, garnished with green vegetables and small pieces of black seaweed, on a wooden table.
A piece of cooked fish topped with chopped mushrooms and green herbs on a white plate on a wooden table.
Close-up of crispy bacon slices placed on roasted vegetables, including cauliflower and potatoes.
Close-up of a small plate with a piece of prosciutto-wrapped mushroom on a black background.
Elegant plated dish with various vegetables, greens, and garnishes on a white plate, against a dark background.
A man dressed in black clothes is tending a small outdoor fire on a metal grill, with flames and smoke rising, surrounded by greenery on a stone patio.
Wooden dining room with trees visible through two large windows, a round dining table surrounded by wooden chairs, a lamp on a corner table, and a large potted fern in a decorative vase.
Rustic indoor or porch setting with a brown leather and wood armchair, a small round wooden table with a textured vase of pink and white flowers, a potted plant with red berries, and a wooden wall
A rustic wooden dining table set with Asian-style dishes, including a bowl of vegetables, a plate with meat and herbs, a glass of beverage, and traditional chopsticks and utensils in warm lighting.

The Earth's Bounty – Wild Mushroom Hotpot

Yunnan is known as the "Kingdom of Mushrooms". For our first dinner together, we dive deep into this local treasure with a traditional wild mushroom hotpot.

Gathered around a steaming pot of richly flavored broth, you'll sample a variety of locally foraged fungi. Served with fresh vegetables and local meats, this isn't just a meal; it's a warm, communal ritual that connects us to the forests we've been riding through.

Tradition Reimagined – Yunnan Fusion Feast

For our second evening, we transition to a more refined setting. Here, Yunnan's rich culinary heritage meets contemporary creativity.

Expect familiar local ingredients reimagined with modern technique. The menu is a celebration of contrasts—earthy and bright, rustic and elegant—much like the landscape itself. It's the perfect setting to reflect on our journey so far, surrounded by warm lighting and the company of fellow riders.

Equestrian Photoshoot

“The lens may forget the landscape, but it will never forget the bond you shared.”

On the final day of your journey, we’ve arranged a professional equestrian photoshoot, allowing you and your horse—your companion over these three days—to create timeless memories witnessed by the majestic Yulong Snow Mountain.

What’s Included

  • 30-minute photoshoot

  • Retouched high-resolution photos

  • All original photos delivered via cloud storage

  • Props provided (e.g., saddles, hats, chaps)

Two women riding horses outdoors under a clear blue sky, with dry grassland below.
Woman riding a horse in a mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks and a clear blue sky.
Person riding a brown and white horse in a mountainous landscape with clear blue sky.
Two women riding horses with mountain range in the background under a clear blue sky.
A woman on a white horse in front of stone archways with statues, green trees, and mountains in the background.
A woman with shoulder-length brown hair riding a white horse with a braided mane in an open field with trees and a cloudy sky in the background.
A woman riding a white horse, seen through a wooden window frame, with mountains and trees in the background.
A woman with short brown hair, wearing a navy and white riding jacket, is standing next to a white horse with a braided mane and closed eyes. The woman is holding a black riding helmet and appears to be gently touching the horse.
A person riding a white horse on a dirt path surrounded by green grass and wooden posts with ropes, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
A woman riding a large beige dog with long fur, wearing a saddle, on a grassy hill. A young boy with a wide-brimmed hat and a woman in a beige cap stand nearby. The background features a mountain range under a cloudy sky.
A woman riding a white horse with a mountain landscape and cloudy sky in the background. The horse has long, flowing hair and the woman is wearing casual outdoor clothing, including a gray cap and jacket.
Two young women, one in a white sweater and the other in a green jacket, riding a light-colored horse with a blonde mane. The woman in the jacket is smiling, while the woman in the sweater is looking at her. They are outdoors under a cloudy sky, with
A woman with dark hair in braids, wearing a patterned coat and black boots, standing next to a white horse with a black saddle in a grassy field with mountains and blue skies in the background.
A woman in traditional attire resting on a white horse in an outdoor landscape with a river, trees, mountains, and partly cloudy sky.
Two women riding horses outdoors with mountains and cloudy sky in the background.
Two women with dark hair and patterned clothing gently touch a white horse's face outdoors with mountains and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
A young woman with blonde hair wearing traditional clothing and a black hat standing next to a white horse with braided mane in an outdoor landscape with mountains in the background during cloudy weather.
A woman riding a white horse with braided mane, aiming a bow and arrow towards the sky in a scenic outdoor landscape with mountains and blue sky with clouds.
A woman wearing a cowboy hat and western attire stands next to a brown horse in a rural outdoor setting during daytime.
A woman dressed in white riding breeches and a white shirt, standing next to a horse in an outdoor riding arena. The horse is black and white, and the woman holds the reins while looking down at the horse. The background features mountains, trees, an
A woman with black hair and earrings touching her forehead with a brown and white horse with a black mane. Mountains in the background under a blue sky.
A young woman with long dark hair in a cowboy hat smiling with eyes closed, embracing a brown and white horse outdoors during daytime.

  • “As an equestrian, it’s you responsibility to find responsible ranches, and I think it’s really nice that you’ve been able to provide that.”

    Quote from our rider

  • “I feel that every place we went to was special and meant something to you guys, I really love that.”

    Quote from our rider

  • "I think between the amazing hospitality, the amazing food, places that I never would have expected in my life, even just the temperament of the horses, and how helpful all the people are, I thought that was just above and beyond what I have expected."

    Quote from our rider

What’s Included

  • Equestrian training (1:3 coach-to-student ratio) + on-site English translation

  • Photography: Coach-captured action shots + equestrian portraits ( retouched photos + all raw images)

  • Accommodation: 4 nights in a villa (private suite for up to 2 people)

  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Day 2 - 4, breakfast on day 5

  • Transportation: Round-trip airport transfers

  • Riding gear: Horse, saddle, and protective equipment (riding helmet, vest, leg guards)

  • Insurance: Lijiang outdoor sports insurance, Hong Kong Travel insurance (applicable for HK residents and HKID holders)

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare to/from Lijiang

  • Meals and entertainment expenses on Days 1 & 5

Registration Guideline

  • Our horseback riding journeys are suitable for anyone with a basic level of physical fitness—no prior riding experience required. The pace is relaxed and comfortable, focusing on enjoyment.

  • Weight Limit Policy: For the welfare of our horses and the safety of all riders, we strictly enforce a maximum weight limit of 80 kg. This policy is based on veterinary advice and equine biomechanics—not discrimination—to prevent fatigue, imbalance, or injury to the horse, which could lead to rider accidents.

  • Risk Acknowledgement: Horseback riding involves inherent risks. Participants must confirm they are in good health and physically prepared for trail riding. Upon payment, all riders are required to sign a liability waiver and agree to follow instructors’ directions at all times.

  • Safety & Support: This is a deep immersion riding experience. Coaches accompany all rides and design routes for maximum safety without sacrificing adventure.

  • Custom Group Options - We offer tailored experiences for: Corporate team-building, photography groups, family trips & parent-child activities, private group adventures

Essential Packing List

  • Riding gloves

  • Warm layers (fleece/down jacket) - Lijiang’s temperature fluctuates a lot between day and night. During noon, the weather is warm when the sun is bright. Mornings and nights can be quite cold.

  • Bottoms: Elastic, close-fitting trousers to reduce chafing

  • Footwear: Thin-soled shoes (avoid thick soles that could trap feet in stirrups) or boots

How It Works

  • Our Lijiang Ride has flexible travel date, available from September to June. Please enquire us on spot availability and we will confirm whether the ride can proceed.

  • Sign up and pay 50% non-refundable deposit to reserve your spot and secure the proceeding of the trip.

    Rest of payment to be made 14 days before departure.

    Cancellations can be made 14 days before departure, no refund will be made for your deposit.

  • After booking, we'll send you a Travel Essential with everything you need to know—detailed schedules, packing list recommendations, add-ons to consider, and more.

  • We'd recommend booking your transportation to and from Lijiang as soon as possible, to ensure you can arrive without any complications or delays.

  • Now all that's left to do is pack your bags and get excited for your new adventure.

Book Your Ride

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