German Huebner: Sharing Lijiang is my way to love it

In 2016, an unplanned trip to China brought Huebner, a German engineer, to northwest Yunnan’s Lijiang city. The charm of the Lijiang old town, with its millennium-old history, captivated him instantly.

The whispering roof tiles were telling stories of time, the alleys were snaking in parallel with the murmuring streams, and the serene beauty was untouched by the clamor of the outside world.

The Huebner family made a decision: they relocated from Germany and made their home beneath the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

 

Huebner cycles through Lijiang. 

His career as a meticulous engineer shaped his logical thinking, but when it comes to Lijiang, rationality gives way to a sparkle in his eyes.

Huebner has become an "unofficial ambassador" for Lijiang, sharing on social media the photos where stone bridges veiled in morning mist or the heartwarming moments when his Naxi neighbors bring him handmade snacks.

Each photo is an invitation. "Promoting Lijiang is the most direct outlet for my emotions. Every post is a deep gratitude for the sense of belonging this land has given us," said Huebner.

 

Huebner is at work.

For nine years, Huebner has been busy during holidays—His German relatives and friends followed his recommendations and arrived one after another.

He guides the German friends in ascending the snow-capped mountains to witness the sea of clouds, teaches them traditional dances in Sifang Street, and hosts them in his courtyard over cups of fragrant Pu’er tea.

As his guests marvel at the town’s well-preserved cultural fabric and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Huebner feels satisfied. "I’m delighted that more people see the beauty of Lijiang," he said.

 

Thanks to Huebner’s efforts, his friends flock to Lijiang for visits.

Huebner shows his friends around in Lijiang old town. 

Producing by Lijiang Digital Media Center