Starting September 8, 2025, Hong Kong Airlines will inaugurate a new direct route connecting Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) with the historic city of Lijiang (LJG) in China’s northwestern Yunnan Province. Operating three times a week, the new service enhances accessibility to one of China’s most picturesque and culturally rich destinations, strengthening Hong Kong’s role as a regional travel hub.
The service will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from Hong Kong to Lijiang, with return flights scheduled on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Flights will be serviced by the Airbus A320, offering passengers a comfortable and reliable journey over the scenic landscapes of southern China.
As the only Hong Kong-based airline currently serving the route, Hong Kong Airlines aims to cater to both leisure and business travellers with this direct, time-saving connection. The airline’s growing network of mainland Chinese cities—including recent route launches to Hulunbuir and Xi’an—reflects a broader strategy to meet rising travel demand and connect international travellers to China’s diverse regions.
Lijiang: A Timeless City at the Crossroads of History and Nature
Nestled on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Lijiang is famed for its harmonious blend of nature, tradition, and multicultural heritage. Recognised as a National Historical and Cultural City and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lijiang Old Town stands as a rare preserved example of ancient Chinese urban planning and Naxi ethnic architecture.
Originally a pivotal stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road and the southern Silk Road, Lijiang remains steeped in tradition. Cobbled alleyways, wooden bridges, and murmuring canals form the backdrop to a rich cultural tapestry that continues to enchant both domestic and international tourists.
One of the city’s standout landmarks, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, offers breathtaking alpine views, glacier access, and opportunities for cultural experiences with the local Naxi communities. The region’s unique high-altitude climate delivers cool, spring-like temperatures year-round, making it an ideal destination for travellers looking to escape the summer heat or seek autumn foliage.
Discover the Charms Beyond Lijiang Old Town
Beyond the famed Old Town, travellers can explore Shuhe Ancient Town, a peaceful and less commercialised village that retains its historical integrity. Just a short distance away lies Baisha Ancient Town, once the political and cultural centre of the Naxi Kingdom. Visitors can marvel at the Baisha Murals, vivid frescoes that date back to the Ming Dynasty and depict a fusion of Tibetan, Naxi, and Han influences.
Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers will also be drawn to Tiger Leaping Gorge, located roughly 60 km north of Lijiang. One of the deepest gorges in the world, it offers dramatic cliffs, gushing rapids, and hiking trails that rank among Asia’s most scenic.
For culinary explorers, Yunnan cuisine adds another layer of discovery. Lijiang’s offerings include signature dishes such as yak meat hotpot, crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, and wild mushroom delicacies—showcasing the biodiversity and cultural richness of the region.
Enhancing Connectivity and Regional Tourism Growth
With the new Lijiang service, Hong Kong Airlines not only strengthens intercity connectivity but also supports the broader Greater Bay Area tourism strategy by making Hong Kong a convenient transit point for travellers heading to western China. According to the Hong Kong Tourism Board, expanding air connectivity is vital to increasing tourism flows to secondary destinations in mainland China.
The airline’s flight schedule is designed to optimise connections for long-haul passengers from cities like Sydney, Bangkok, and Vancouver, enabling seamless onward travel to Lijiang via Hong Kong. This makes it easier for international tourists to explore lesser-known yet culturally significant regions in China.
Hong Kong Airlines’ Commercial Director Mr. Stanley Fung said, “Our new Lijiang service is part of our commitment to connect travellers to culturally immersive destinations across China. Lijiang’s beauty, heritage, and tranquillity make it a perfect complement to the vibrancy of Hong Kong.”
Travel Details and Flight Schedule
| Route | Flight Number | Departure | Arrival | Days of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HKG – LJG | HX412 | 19:50 | 22:45 | Mon, Wed, Fri |
| LJG – HKG | HX413 | 09:05 | 11:55 | Tue, Thu, Sat |
Flight bookings are now available through Hong Kong Airlines official website and major travel platforms.
Why Now Is the Time to Visit Lijiang
With growing interest in cultural tourism and eco-conscious travel, Lijiang presents a compelling destination for global travellers seeking authenticity, history, and stunning natural backdrops. As China continues to encourage inbound tourism through streamlined visa processes and regional promotions, the timing of this new service adds to the momentum.
According to data from the Yunnan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, Lijiang welcomed over 40 million tourists in 2024—a figure projected to rise as more international travellers explore inland China.
Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or culinary adventurer, Lijiang offers a captivating experience made even more accessible thanks to Hong Kong Airlines’ expanding regional network.
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