Sifang Street

Sifang Street is the central square of Lijiang Old Town, easily identified by its wide, flat surface of polished, multi-colored stone tiles that radiate into six main streets. The square takes its name from its resemblance to a traditional square government seal. During the height of the Ming and Qing dynasties, this location functioned as the primary commercial hub of the Ancient Tea Horse Road. Merchants from across the region met here to exchange tea, salt, and horses, cementing the square's role as a center for economic and cultural activity.