Lijiang, located in Yunnan, is an ancient town designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. During my 2007 visit, I was captivated not only by its architectural charm but also by the moments of simple and authentic beauty I was fortunate to capture with my camera.
As I meandered through the winding alleyways of Lijiang, every corner presented a living tableau of a rich and preserved culture. My camera first caught a courtyard of a tea house where two women from the Naxi minority shared convivial moments. This scene depicted their life in harmony with nature, a recurring theme throughout my journey.
The next image was of a local matriarch, focused on weighing her apples using a traditional scale. This moment, though seemingly mundane, stood as a powerful symbol of the persistence of traditions in the face of modern encroachment.
And then there was that panorama. A sea of Lijiang’s characteristic rooftops, with the majestic mountains of Yunnan in the backdrop. This image speaks to the delicate yet vital coexistence between man and his environment.
These captured moments in Lijiang remind me of the profound reason I travel: to seek out and connect with worlds that, though often forgotten, remain steadfast in their authenticity.
Have you ever visited a place that transported you to both an ancient and living world? Share your experiences in the comments below!
For more snapshots from this trip and other adventures, follow me on my dedicated Instagram account. @benoitbruchezphotography