Destination

Lijiang, China

Welcome to the Mekong Tourism Forum 2024

“Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel”

Returning this year to navigate the vibrant tourism landscape in the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS), the Mekong Tourism Forum 2024 (MTF2024) sets the stage against the breathtaking backdrop of Lijiang, China. Taking place from April 23-25, 2024, this year’s forum embraces the forward-looking theme, ‘Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel.’

The Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) is an annual gathering of tourism professionals, spanning both public and private sectors, dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation in the GMS tourism sector. The event provides an interactive platform, facilitating discussions among stakeholders on developing, marketing, and promoting travel within the region. The 2024 edition of MTF embarks on the challenge of reshaping the future of travel in the post-pandemic era, emphasizing visionary thinking, resilience, and adaptability in our ever-evolving industry. This edition represents a significant stride towards unlocking the full potential of the tourism sector, fostering positive transformation, and creating new opportunities across the GMS.

Under the theme ‘Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel,’ the forum aims to inspire a future-focused vision for tourism, addressing key aspects such as new trends, destination marketing and management balance, cultural integration, sustainable practices, inclusivity, and smart technology in creating travel experiences. This theme mirrors the shifting dynamics of the global travel sector, highlighting the importance of collaboration and inventive strategies.

Promising a diverse range of sessions, the MTF 2024 encompasses a keynote address, interactive panel discussions, a photo exhibition, and networking opportunities. The forum also offers a unique field research, providing delegates with an immersive experience in Lijiang’s Old Town. After the event, delegates will have the opportunity to explore Lijiang’s tourism highlights. For the event program, please click here.

Join us in Lijiang for insightful discussions, innovative strategies, and inspiring collaborative sessions. Be part of this visionary journey and contribute to shaping the future of collaboration in the GMS.

Registration for the Mekong Tourism Forum 2024 is now open and complimentary. Click here to register. Please note that registration will close at 23:59 hrs. (GMT+7) on April 8th, 2024, or when all available spots are filled. As space is limited, spots will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration is highly recommended.

Things To do

Explore the Lijiang Ancient Tea Horse Road:

The Lijiang Ancient Tea Horse Road, or Southern Silk Road, was a crucial ancient trade route linking Yunnan, Tibet, and India. Uncover merchants’ tales and their caravans of tea and horses. Encounter significant landmarks such as the Old Town of Lijiang, Stone Drum Town, and Tiger Leaping Gorge, resonating with cultural richness and regional history.

Discover the Charm of the Old Town of Lijiang:

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the Old Town of Lijiang is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. Wander through the cobblestone streets of the old town and admire traditional Naxi architecture, wooden houses, and picturesque canals.

Uncover Lijiang's Cultural Heritage with Museums:

Lijiang’s rich cultural heritage is showcased in key museums. Explore Lijiang Ancient Town, Dongba Culture, and Baisha Village for history and culture. For diverse experiences, visit the Yulong Snow Mountain Glacier, Shuhe Ancient Town, and Traditional Naxi Music Museums.

Try Local Cuisine:

Lijiang cuisine combines Naxi, Han Chinese, and Tibetan influences. Don’t miss must-try dishes like Black Goat Hot Pot, Naxi Baba, Chickpea Jelly with Sauce, and other regional specialties.

Savor the Local Tea Culture:

The Old Town of Lijiang served as a crucial stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road. Relax in one of the local tea houses that often feature traditional music performances. It’s a great way to unwind and savor local teas while immersing yourself in the local tea culture.

Browse and Buy Local Artisan Crafts:

In Lijiang’s Old Town, Square Street beckons as a vibrant marketplace showcasing an array of items. Explore diverse offerings, from traditional crafts to antique artwork, handmade jewelry, ceramics, pottery, local snacks, spices, and ethnic apparel.

Capture Ming Era Charms and Mountain Panoramas:

Located 1 km north of Lijiang Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool offers Ming Dynasty architecture, views from Xiangshan Mountain, and reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, creating picture-perfect moments.

Trek Jade Dragon Snow Mountain:

The sacred Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is renowned for its majestic peaks and cultural significance. Embark on a trekking adventure, hiking across varying elevations, or take a cable car ride to savor the breathtaking views. When exploring Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, do not miss Blue Moon Valley at the entrance.

Experience Impression Lijiang Show:

Witness the Impression Lijiang Show, a spectacular outdoor performance set against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The show incorporates local traditions and culture.

Stay in a Naxi guesthouse to delve into local culture:

Experience local life at Naxi family guesthouses along scenic Tiger Leaping Gorge, offering an authentic glimpse into Naxi culture and hospitality.

Relax at Lugu Lake:

Situated 200 km from Lijiang, Lugu Lake offers breathtaking landscapes and a unique opportunity to experience the distinctive Mosuo culture. Unwind by enjoying a boat ride, paying a home visit to a Mosuo family, and taking part in a campfire party with locals.

Travel Tips

In Lijiang, the altitude is about 2,400 meters or about 7,800 feet. Some people may get some altitude sickness. So, take it easy the first day or two.
Due to its high altitude, sun protection is necessary
Temperatures differ greatly between day and night. Convenient and comfortable layers are practical for taking on and off.
You may have mild symptoms of Altitude Mountain Sickness, which include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, breathlessness, headache and disturbed sleep. These usually develop over the first 36 hours at altitude and not immediately on arrival. AMS symptoms are experienced by people of varying ages and levels of fitness, and usually the symptoms will subside after a day or so. If symptoms worsen, you should seek medical advice and descend in altitude immediately. The following precautions may help to prevent or lessen the effects of AMS:

Since fluid loss usually accompanies the acclimatization process, drink plenty of fluids (3 – 4 litres daily at least) and eat carbohydrate food to keep the body properly hydrated
Do not overexert and only partake in light activity immediate after your arrival
Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or take other depressants such as tranquilizers and sleeping pills, as these depress the respiratory drive and reduce oxygen intake.
Never ascend to higher altitudes while showing symptoms of AMS
You must report any symptoms of AMS immediately to the organizer. Of course, the host and local guides will always endeavour to provide the assistance; however, please stay fit to travel
Travel medical insurance is recommended.

Getting to Lijiang

By Air:

Lijiang is accessible both internationally and domestically, though direct international flights are limited. Most international travelers will find it convenient to fly into major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, or Hong Kong, and then take a connecting flight to Lijiang Sanyi Airport (LJG). For a more direct route, consider flying into Kunming Changshui International Airport, which offers the highest frequency of domestic flights to Lijiang. Flight time from Kunming to Lijiang is around 1h 10 mins. Additionally, Ruili Airlines operates direct flights between Bangkok and Lijiang on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The Lijiang Sanyi Airport is approximately 30km from downtown Lijiang. *Please check with airlines for the most current flight schedules and availability.”

By Train:

If you are arriving from outside China, the most convenient train option is to first reach one of China’s major cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. These cities are well-connected to international destinations. From there, you can catch a high-speed train to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province. The trip from Kunming to Lijiang is a scenic journey lasting approximately 3 to 4 hours, with 6 to 10 departures daily. For domestic travelers, direct trains to Lijiang are available from various cities across China. Lijiang Railway Station is located about 10 km from the Old Town and 20 km from Lijiang Sanyi Airport. *Remember to book your train tickets in advance to secure your spot! Train tickets can be purchased at https://www.12306.cn/index/.

Remark: Please verify updated information regarding transportation services with local service providers.

Getting to the Official Hotel and Event Venues

Complimentary transfers will be provided throughout the event. See details on the Transfer page.

Visa

For details on which countries require a visa for entry into China, please refer to the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China. If you need to apply for a visa, kindly get in touch with your nearest Chinese embassy.

It is mandatory for all travelers to possess a passport that remains valid for a minimum of six months.

Note: Be cautious of certain visa service providers who might charge more than the official government rates. We advise initiating your visa application process via the government link mentioned above for accurate information and cost-effectiveness.

COVID-19 Travel Advisory

Starting from 30th August 2023, travelers visiting China are no longer required to undergo a COVID-19 PCR test or Antigen Rapid Test (ART) before entering China. It is also no longer necessary to declare the test result on the Health Declaration Form.

According to China’s General Administration of Customs, starting November 1, 2023, China Customs no longer requires individuals entering or exiting the Chinese mainland to complete the Entry/Exit Health Declaration Form. However, they are encouraged to report any infectious disease symptoms to Customs officers voluntarily. Individuals with symptoms of infectious diseases must cooperate with Customs officers in carrying out health quarantine procedures, including temperature checks, epidemiological investigations, medical examinations, and related testing.

*Current as of January 2024.