R()

Author: Li Zhimin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-05-01
Features: A fun travel book, very casual.
1. This is a book about care in travel. The publishing industry is booming with travel books: concise introductions like postcards of attractions, hands-on advice, and in-depth storytelling, all aimed at making travelers more convenient in reaching and seeing. But has there ever been a book that goes beyond what meets the eye, offering genuine and natural humanistic care to travelers or readers, guiding them into or immersing them in the local life, soothing their souls, and making newcomers feel like they’ve returned to their homeland? That is what we aim to do.
2. This is a book about details in Lijiang. Lijiang is one of China’s most frequently mentioned tourist destinations in recent years. There are countless beautiful images and writings about Lijiang: natural landscapes, historical and cultural aspects, and religious and artistic elements. However, the emerging bar culture, the spiritual home of the new generation, and the cultural renewal under population exchange—while scorned by those who love and lament it—are rarely mentioned. What we present is the details of Lijiang.
3. This is a book that subverts traditional publications. It’s very casual, and you can start reading from any page. In terms of writing and design, it mirrors the style and rhythm of Lijiang itself: lazy yet busy, casual yet tidy, rustic yet avant-garde, warm yet tinged with the chill of snow-capped mountains. Nearly 2,000 images, primarily depicting everyday life scenes, are full-color, offering a visual feast that brings readers close to Lijiang, its people, and its way of life. While practical functions may not be our focus, we strive to emotionally immerse readers in Lijiang. We want to tell them: There are people who live this way, and you can find your kind here. Emphasizing reader interaction with the creative team is another key feature of this book. The writing style takes a humanistic approach, with a tone like a conversation with a friend—intimate yet not overly formal. The content places greater emphasis on personal subjective feelings.
Table of Contents (loosely organized)
Ancient Town: Interesting and Full of Life
The ancient town is both vivid in detail and charming in its old fragrance. In this distant little city, beyond the scenery, follow the gentle heart.
What to Do in Lijiang
Anything is possible in Lijiang—encounters, daydreaming, flying kites, or gathering around a fire for chats. These are just ideas; let your imagination run wild.
Daydreaming Accessories
Books and music related to Lijiang are plentiful, but most music has little connection to it. Having something to accompany you while daydreaming adds a touch of sophistication.
Friends You Meet by Chance
The days you meet friends by chance are the best gifts for memory. The people we introduce here are immigrants, locals, some with personality, and some without, but all are great friends.
Encounters in Bars
You don’t have to get drunk in bars—anything can happen. Experience 18 bars, affordable and even more delightful if you know the ropes.
Souvenirs
There are many tempting candies—some are mass-produced, others are heartfelt works of art. Shopping is a test of taste. Buy something and see how yours stacks up.
Food for Outsiders
Many complain about Lijiang’s food, but in the past two years, there have been some changes. Let us share some tips for finding good eats.
The Secret of Guesthouses
To dive into local life, staying in a guesthouse is smart. Compared to the often foolish choice of hotels, guesthouses are the way to go. We highlight 21 guesthouses and include a directory of 64 more.
Lijiang Life Elsewhere
Mostly visual, this section lets you feel the original life of Lijiang through visual imagination, with a touch of poetic prose.
The Reward of Mountains and Waters
The natural awe of mountains and waters versus the unnatural soul. Subjective impressions of 20 scenic routes and hand-drawn maps, plus tips for self-guided travel.