The Old Town of Lijiang represents a fusion of indigenous Naxi architecture and culture with external influences. Lijiang has an ingenious ancient network of waterways that is supplied by the mountain springs. Via canals the houses in town are connected to this network. The cobbled streets, bridges and houses add to the picturesque picture of this ancient town. The Old Town of Lijiang was listed as the World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in the year 1997. Although the authenticity of Lijiang is maybe lost forever as many parts of the town are already changed, the ancient buildings become souvenir shops, boutique hotels, restaurants, clubs and bars with Naxi cultural show for tourists, the town still has some place to admire especially in the suburbs of the old town.
