The Bivou Lijiang

The brunch menu runs until 2 pm. We really missed the good pour-over coffee after we left! The pan-fried dumplings were great, and our daughter loved the pizza. They also have baby chairs and puzzles and drawing books for kids.

I’ve met several guests who, like me, keep coming back to The Bivou. I first stayed there solo in 2024, then returned two or three times with family and friends. It’s become my Lijiang sanctuary, and I don’t look anywhere else when I visit. The team is always friendly and accommodating. I’m happy to spend a lazy afternoon enjoying the comforting food and drinks and the slower pace. The room also has carefully put together maps for walking and exploring, which are especially useful for English speakers since English-language resources are scarce. The place has a real heart and soul that you feel as soon as you arrive.

The rooms were spotless and comfortable, and the two resident cats were friendly. We also appreciated the tasty breakfast and the hotel’s focus on sustainability. With nearby streets easy to reach, our stay felt memorable. The setting itself is quiet and peaceful, and the Bivou team made us feel warmly welcomed.

We loved being right in Shuhe Ancient Town, with shops and places to eat only a short walk away. The town is charming and quiet in the mornings, and the waterways are so clear you can see grass moving under the surface. We had first thought of booking in Lijiang Old Town, but I’m glad we picked this bnb for our two nights. Even arriving around 8pm on our first night, we were greeted by Audrey, a Singaporean staff member, and later by Hwee Ling, the Singaporean owner. My partner and I both live in Singapore, so running into fellow Singaporeans in Yunnan was the last thing we expected. The whole team was attentive and warm, and we felt cared for from check-in. There are thoughtful touches throughout, including heated toilet seats in the rooms. I also liked the retail corner, with local makers’ products ranging from yak cheese and ham to handmade crafts. As a creative, I enjoyed the stories behind the goods. The cosy restaurant and café plays jazz and offers Western and fusion food that’s easy for foreigners to enjoy, as well as local dishes like rice noodles and barbecue. My French partner felt right at home. We like trying local eateries too, so it was nice to have both choices. Service stayed excellent throughout. A wonderful stay, highly recommend!