China Southern Airlines said that it launched a direct air route from Guangzhou, capital of Guangdong province, to Lijiang in Yunnan province, on Sept 1, according to a report on xinhuanet.com.

Passengers on the morning flight from Guangzhou can expect to arrive in Lijiang within two and a half hours, and they can then start exploring the city.

Yunnan is known for its ethnic diversity, beautiful scenery and mild climate, and it attracts many visitors from around the world. Lijiang Old Town is the famous World Cultural Heritage and the gateway to the mysterious Shangri-La.