Shiguzhen
ALTITUDE – 2000m/6561ft
Overview
Old Town & First Bend of the Yangtze
Hike for the View
Weather
Associated Locations
Overview
The small town of Shiguzhen lies in the fertile valley carved by the mighty Yangtze River, and retains much of its original charm. The place is best known for two things, the First bend of the Yangtze River where its flow changes by 90 degrees, and the second is that this is where Chairman Mao crossed the Yangtze during the long march in 1934
Due to the dramatic mountain scenery around here, it makes a pleasant day/half-day from Lijiang, or a stop on the way to other areas.
Old Town & First Bend of the Yangtze
Shigu is a small town, nestled on the banks of the Yangtze River, which is by now a large river, although it still has over 3000km to go before reaching its estuary on the East China Sea.
All the other mighty rivers that rise in Tibet end up flowing south and leaving China, and if it was not for this bend in Shiguzhen, the Yangtze too would head south into Vietnam or Laos. Instead, the river heads NE and crosses all of China, giving a living artery that allows over 500 million people to live along its banks.
Hike for the View
Although walking by the banks is pleasant, the best views are from above, and a narrow trail leads uphill behind the village. From here, panoramic views of the river valley and villages can be seen. The hike is not strenuous, and local youths can be hired to carry your bags/tripod if you feel you need them.
Weather
As Lijiang, but a little warmer due to the drop in altitude.
Access
Shiguzhen is around 51km/31mi by road from Lijiang and takes a little over an hour to get there. The road is windy, but of good quality. The panoramic views from many points along the road make ideal stopping points, with views of Jade Dragon & Haba Snow Mountains.
