2026 Xide Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Xide County, a hidden gem in Liangshan Prefecture. With warm winters, cool summers, and plenty of sunshine, it's perfect for a fall or winter getaway. 🚄Transportation: Chengdu to Xide: 3–4 hours by high-speed rail, tickets cost just over CNY 100. Recommended activities: 1️⃣High-strontium soft water hot springs♨️ Stay at Xide Sunshine Hot Spring Hotel🏨, which has outdoor hot springs. The weather is pleasant, making it a great place for families with kids. Or stay at Dexi Hot Spring Hotel🏨, which has unique cave hot springs. It's a great place to take photos! 2️⃣Xiaoxiangling Scenic Area If you want to see the scenery, don't miss Xiaoxiangling. Xiaoxiangling is a branch of the Daxue Mountains, with an elevation ranging from 1,988 meters to 4,500.4 meters at the peak of Eerze'e. There are 12 glacial lakes, 4 alpine waterfalls, and alpine rhododendrons. The scenery is stunning, making it a favorite among hiking enthusiasts. 3️⃣Yi New Year in late November Yi New Year is a festival that combines ancestor worship, cultural entertainment, and other folk customs. In 2024, Yi New Year in Xide will begin in late November, and the county will be bustling with excitement.

You've hit the jackpot, travelers! Xide County in Liangshan, Sichuan, is a truly underrated, off-the-beaten-path destination. As the birthplace of the Yi language, it boasts stunning mountain scenery, incredibly relaxing natural hot springs, and authentic Yi cuisine that will blow your mind. Follow this 3-day itinerary for a trip with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery! 🌞Day 1: An Introduction to Yi Culture 🏯 [Xide Yi Culture Museum] A must-visit first stop in Xide! It houses a wealth of Yi intangible cultural heritage artifacts, from exquisite lacquerware and clothing to ancient Bimo cultural exhibits. It's a great place to quickly grasp the thousand-year cultural lineage of the Yi people. The Yi script wall at the entrance is also perfect for atmospheric photos. 🚌 Transport: A Didi ride within the county seat costs CNY 5; it's also just a 15-minute walk from the central area. ⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays; it's recommended to check the official website in advance) 🎫 Admission: Free 🍲 [Aheige Yi Flavor Restaurant] A long-standing favorite among locals! Must-orders include Tuotuo meat, pickled vegetable chicken, and buckwheat cakes. The meat is fresh, locally raised pork, and it's served with a signature Litsea cubeba dipping sauce that's finger-licking good. It's great value, with a filling meal costing about CNY 40 per person. 📍 Address: Middle section of Guangming Avenue, Xide County 💴 Average cost: CNY 40 🌳 [Dengxiangying Ancient Post Station] An important post station on the Tea Horse Road during the Ming and Qing dynasties! It still retains its original adobe houses and stone-paved roads. The village is mostly inhabited by Yi locals, giving it a very authentic, lived-in atmosphere. It's a great spot for photos if you're wearing ethnic-style clothing. 🚗 Transport: A 20-minute chartered car ride from the county seat, costing about CNY 30 round trip ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day 🌃 [Xide County Night Market] The night market is super lively! Be sure to try the grilled pork, potato cakes, and bingfen (ice jelly). The grilled pork is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with chili powder—it's amazing. It's a great atmosphere to stroll and snack. 💡 Tip: It's recommended to stay in the county center on the first day for convenient travel and dining. 🌿Day 2: A Relaxing Trip to the Mountain Hot Springs ♨️ [Xide Hot Spring] A famous natural radon hot spring! The water temperature is consistently 40–50℃, leaving your skin feeling smooth after a soak. Surrounded by green mountains and trees, it's incredibly relaxing to soak in the hot spring while enjoying the mountain views. Remember to bring your own swimsuit! 🚌 Transport: Take the direct shuttle bus from the county seat; the ride takes 30 minutes and costs CNY 5. ⏰ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM–11:00 PM 🎫 Admission: CNY 30 🍜 [Snack Shop at Hot Spring Entrance] After your soak, enjoy a steaming bowl of Yi buckwheat noodle soup, paired with braised eggs and cold-dressed wild vegetables. It's warm, comforting, and filling for about CNY 15 per person. 📍 Address: Entrance of the hot spring scenic area 💴 Average cost: CNY 15 🚶 [Hiking Trail Around the Hot Spring] There are dedicated hiking trails around the hot spring, lined with pine forests and meadows. In spring, the mountains are covered in rhododendrons, and in autumn, you can forage for wild mushrooms. If you get tired, finding a patch of grass to sit and enjoy the breeze is incredibly healing. Remember to wear comfortable sneakers. ⏰ Recommended duration: 2–3 hours 🍢 [Homestay BBQ] If you're staying at a homestay near the hot spring, you must experience the homestay BBQ. The host will prepare local pork and mountain vegetables in advance. Grilling them yourself over charcoal while listening to the host sing Yi toasting songs creates an incredible atmosphere. 🏞️Day 3: An In-Depth Tour of Rural Scenery 🏡 [Taoyuan Village, Hongmo Town] A stunning village with unique Yi characteristics! Built on a hillside, every household features Yi-style painted walls. In spring, there are fields of peach blossoms, and in autumn, there are apple orchards where you can pick fruit. The villagers are incredibly welcoming. 🚗 Transport: A 40-minute chartered car ride from the county seat, costing about CNY 60 round trip ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all day 🥘 [Villager's Home Feast] You can book a home feast with local villagers in advance. It features authentic, freshly made Yi dishes and signature fermented grain wine. Taste the most authentic local flavors; for CNY 50 per person, you'll get a huge spread of hearty dishes. 💴 Average cost: CNY 50 🐑 [Alpine Pasture] A natural pasture near Taoyuan Village with herds of cattle and sheep. The breeze blowing through the grass is incredibly relaxing. Every photo looks like a Windows desktop wallpaper. You can also find herdsmen and try horseback riding—it's a great deal at CNY 20 per lap. ⏰ Recommended duration: 2 hours 🔥 [Yi Bonfire Party] If you visit on a weekend or during a Yi festival, the village hosts bonfire parties. Everyone dances the Dati dance around the fire, eats roasted whole lamb, and enjoys special Yi performances. The atmosphere is super high-energy, and you won't feel like a stranger at all. ✨ Practical Tips: 1️⃣ Transport: Didi rides within the county are very cheap. For trips to surrounding attractions, it's recommended to charter a car or carpool; just agree on the price before you leave. 2️⃣ Clothing: There is a large temperature difference between day and night. Regardless of the season, bring a thick jacket and wear comfortable sneakers for hiking. 3️⃣ Note: The Yi region has many unique customs. It's worth learning a little about them beforehand to respect the local culture. 4️⃣ Best time to visit: March–October. You can see flowers in spring and pick fruit in autumn, and the climate is very comfortable. Xide is truly a slow-paced, hidden gem of a town—the kind of place you won't want to leave once you arrive! Travelers, if you have any questions, please leave a comment below!

· 3-Day Itinerary: Drive or take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Xichang, then transfer to Xide County. Day 1: Check into a hot spring hotel and experience the ancient natural geothermal hot springs. In the evening, stroll through the Yi ethnic flower sea (camping lawns, hiking trails). Day 2: Hike and trek along the stream at Wa'er Waterfall (one of the ten major natural landscapes of Liangshan). In the afternoon, explore Zeyue Waterfall (pristine canyon, natural pools for playing in). Day 3: Spend the morning in the county town shopping for local specialties, then return home in the afternoon. · Must-Try Foods: Yi ethnic barbecue, Tuotuo meat, buckwheat cakes, and other local snacks. · Tips: Xide enjoys a constant summer temperature of 15-26℃, making it a cool and secluded haven in northern Liangshan. The natural hot springs are rich in various trace elements, perfect for relieving heat and fatigue. Accommodation and prices in the county town are affordable, making it suitable for family trips.

Liangshan Xide, a hidden Yi village secret beneath Xiaoxiang Ridge, gently embraces the mountain and wild moments Avoid the crowds in Xichang and head to the lesser-known secret of Liangshan, Xide. This small town nestled at the foot of Xiaoxiang Ridge has no commercial noise, only lush green mountains, ancient paths, soothing hot springs, and the purest Yi ethnic charm. Every scene comes with a natural healing filter, making it the perfect destination for a short, off-the-beaten-path trip in western Sichuan Xide’s romance begins with its vast and tranquil mountains and fields. Known as a natural oxygen bar, the Xiaoxiang Ridge scenic area is a masterpiece sculpted by nature. With a wide altitude range, the forests are dense and lush, alpine meadows soft and expansive, and scattered ancient glacial lakes crystal clear. In spring, rhododendrons bloom across the hills; summer offers cool forest retreats; autumn paints the forests in vibrant colors. Hiking here, you’ll feel the breeze through the trees and mist over the mountains. Look up to a clear blue sky, look down to endless greenery—every snapshot is a healing mountain scene, immersing you in the grandeur and gentleness of western Sichuan’s nature. The mountains hide waterfalls, and clear springs refresh the soul. Zemo Valley Waterfall and Wa’er Waterfall are Xide’s unique cool escapes. Glacial mountain springs gather into streams that cascade down steep cliffs. The 60-meter-high waterfalls roar powerfully, mist filling the air and echoing through the valley. The pools are clear and icy cold, surrounded by greenery and shaded by trees. In midsummer, the heat instantly fades here. Stream trekking, cooling off, and photography unlock the pure mountain wilderness charm, making it a hidden gem for summer relaxation and outdoor shoots. Half mountain and water, half ancient charm. Xide holds the Dengxiangying ancient post station, a millennium-old relic. As the best-preserved ancient post station on the southern Silk Road’s Lingguan route, it has endured over 2,000 years of history. The Han dynasty spirit and Ming and Qing dynasty charm remain vivid. Weathered bluestone paths, rustic old theaters, and scattered ancient buildings invite you to walk the thousand-year-old stone road and step back into the prosperous days of the tea-horse trade. The history you touch is warm and alive, creating a rich atmosphere perfect for authentic ancient-style travel photography. Venture deep into Yi country to encounter its warmth and gentleness. As the core of Yi language culture, the Xide Yi language theme cultural park holds rich ethnic heritage. Immerse yourself in Yi language culture, admire distinctive Yi architecture, and collect your exclusive Yi language passport to unlock unique cultural experiences. The nationally recognized intangible cultural heritage of Yi lacquerware features exquisite patterns and rich colors, carrying centuries of Yi craftsmanship. Watch the artisans at work up close and feel the unique intangible heritage romance of Liangshan. After exploring the mountains and fields, enjoy a century-old hot spring healing journey. Known as the “No. 1 hot spring in western Panxi,” the Gongtangzi natural hot spring is a local secret relaxation spot. Nourished by 600 years of natural mineral water, the water is warm, delicate, and rich in minerals. Soaking in the early morning mist is especially pleasant, accompanied by mountain breezes and warmth that soothes your whole body, washing away hiking fatigue. Evening breeze, hot springs, and mountain tranquility unlock the most relaxed travel state. Travel is more than just scenic mountains and seas; it’s about everyday life. Xide’s beauty is found in the Yi ethnic snacks on street corners, in the fragrant tea fields of Qieduo countryside, in the simple local customs, and in the peaceful, healing mountain life. Escape the city’s rush and slow down to feel the gentle passage of time. No need to chase crowds or travel far. Come to Xide, walk the thousand-year-old ancient paths, see mountain waterfalls, soak in natural ancient hot springs, and savor Yi culture and ancient charm. Between mountains, water, and everyday life, discover the most healing secret of western Sichuan

Xide - a secret base hidden deep in the mountains of Liangshan, Sichuan, this starry sky trip allowed me to learn how to slow down and feel existence. The journey departs from Daiama and takes you through mountain hot springs, ancient sites, mysterious humanities, and Buddha carvings and shining stars at night. Every kilometer has mountains throbbing, every night is worth looking up to. This line is suitable for you who want to get away from the hustle and bustle and slow down your breathing. Attractions one by one ・Itinerary recommendation 1️⃣ Daiama-Xide Resort 📍Nemberala/Oenggaut Pushing open the window, the world is vast! It’s recommended to wake up early in the morning and step out under the stars on the resort lawn to feel the sky turn from dark to blue and the stars slowly recede, “they’re still there, it’s just too strong.” This is perfect for shooting starry sky, aurora-feeling night scenes, blending into the vast tranquility of nature. 2️⃣ Hide - Hot Spring Resort 📍X06, Guangming Town, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province A must-have hot spring! The outdoor mountain view is super healing, no water addiction is not afraid, just breathing the air here is chill enough. Soaking in a hot spring and looking at the stars at night, there is a kind of "heaven and man" peace, healing inside and out. 3️⃣ Hide-Hide Ancient Site 📍Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture Mianshan Town, Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province If you want to trace the national memory of thousands of years, you must visit! The site is small in scale but restored to its original appearance, especially the details of the Buddha carvings (can be benchmarked against the close-up statues of hands you see). The daytime and nighttime atmospheres have their own characteristics. 4️⃣ Hide-Hangan Mo more get 📍Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture An authentic Yi cultural gathering place where you have the opportunity to meet locals in ethnic costumes. It is recommended to walk into the village, try traditional snacks, take pictures of the village scenery, especially in the evening, the colorful clouds reflect the mountainside, feel time slowed down. 5️⃣ Hind-Lomorada 📍Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture The last stop, belongs to the natural outdoor paradise. The seasons change here, and the valleys, woodlands, and the aurora-like starry sky at night are worth stopping to savor. It is highly recommended to capture the most beautiful scenery that blends humanity and nature from evening to night. Practical Tips for Starry Sky Journey 1. Wait for the sunrise Remember to get up early at least 45 minutes, preferably with a headlamp and a warm jacket, the temperature difference between morning and evening in the mountains is large. 2. Shooting the starry sky with your phone remember to manual mode, ISO adjusted up, fixed on a stone or tripod, definitely better than full automatic mode. 3. Do not make loud noises at the site and temple area, respect the religious, cultural atmosphere, especially before shooting the details of the statue can consult the caretaker opinion. 4. Occasionally puppies stray in the village, evening operations are recommended to accompany, double safety. Transportation & Food 🚗 Transportation: You can charter a car at Xichang Railway Station, between each point is recommended to carpool or local WeChat contact the driver, the road is in good condition but some mountain roads are more curved recommended easy to get dizzy remember to prepare medicine. 🍲 Food must-try: Recommend the village’s authentic lamb soup pot, Yi pepper chicken, and the resort breakfast’s homemade handmade corn tortillas, simple but hometown flavor! Look with your heart · Quiet with your heart · With your heart: The starry sky is no longer far away, but the moment you are willing to stop and see, has crossed all the dust and distance. #XideIn-depth Tour #Starry Sky Tour #Yi Culture #Aurora Photography #Travel Practical Strategy

On April 15, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, Qietuo Village in Qietuo Township, Xide County, will host the third "Tea Fragrance in Qietuo, Enjoying the Spring Breeze Together" tea picking experience event. The event covers the village committee, cultural and sports square, tea gardens, Pear Blossom Valley, and surrounding farmhouses, blending natural scenery with Yi ethnic culture to create an immersive spring experience at a national 3A-level scenic spot. Visitors can take the first countryside train after the opening ceremony, traveling through Pear Blossom Valley; personally pick fresh tea buds in designated tea gardens, watch villagers compete in tea picking, and learn about traditional tea-making processes; brew tea around the soapberry tree while enjoying local specialties like barbecue, cold noodles, and fried potatoes; stroll through the intangible cultural heritage market to admire and purchase handmade Yi lacquerware, silver jewelry, clothing, and other crafts; and in the evening, join a countryside concert and bonfire party to feel the warmth and romance of Yi nights under the starry sky. The entire park uses "Tea Charm Coins" for convenient on-site redemption, which can be used for tea drinks, food, shopping, and various other activities. Come to Qietuo in Xide, hop on the little train, pick a basket of spring tea, brew a pot of fragrant tea, listen to a countryside concert, and start your exclusive spring journey!

This is a 2-day 1-night travel guide for Liangshan (Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan), with a budget of around 1000 RMB, helping you easily enjoy Liangshan's natural scenery and ethnic culture. Liangshan Travel Guide (2 days 1 night, budget about 1000 RMB) Introduction Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture is located in southwestern Sichuan and is one of the important birthplaces of Yi culture in China. Here you will find magnificent plateau mountains and rivers, rich ethnic customs, and unique Yi culture. Whether visiting Yi villages, admiring natural scenery, or experiencing ethnic culture, Liangshan offers you an extraordinary travel experience. Day 1: Natural Scenery and Ethnic Cultural Experience Morning: Transportation and Arrival from Panzhihua to Liangshan It is recommended to arrange transportation in advance, departing from Panzhihua or Xichang by long-distance bus or chartered car, with a fare of about 100-150 RMB. After arriving in Liangshan, check into a pre-booked budget guesthouse, about 150 RMB per night. Noon: Local Specialty Meal Taste Yi ethnic dishes such as roasted beef, pickled vegetables, and Yi barley flour cakes, with a budget of about 30 RMB. Afternoon: Yi Villages in Meigu County or Mianning County Meigu County: Visit Yi villages to experience rich ethnic customs. Mianning County: Tour the "Ancient Yi Village" or "Hongge Scenic Area" to admire ethnic architecture and traditional culture. Entrance fees: mostly free or low cost (10-30 RMB). Suggestions: Take photos, try Yi handicrafts, or participate in ethnic song and dance performances. Evening: Experience Ethnic Nightlife Join a Yi ethnic bonfire party in the village or city area to feel the passionate ethnic culture, free or with a small fee. Day 2: Nature Adventure and In-depth Cultural Tour Morning: Natural Scenery in Jinyang County or Xide County Jinyang County: Plateau meadows, lakes, forests, suitable for hiking and photography. Xide County: Waterfalls, canyons, primeval forests, experience the charm of nature. Transportation: Can charter a car or carpool, cost about 100 RMB. Noon: Countryside Farmhouse Meal Enjoy local farmhouse dishes, budget about 30 RMB. Afternoon: Return Trip or Continue In-depth Tour If time permits, arrange to visit local Yi cultural museums or handicraft markets to learn about Yi traditional culture. Prepare to return to your departure point according to your return schedule. Budget Breakdown (Per Person) Item Cost (RMB) Transportation (round trip + local) about 300 Accommodation about 150 Meals about 60 Entrance fees and attractions about 50 Others (shopping, pocket money) about 50 Reserve/tips about 50 Total about 660 RMB With a sufficient budget, you can upgrade meals, buy specialty handicrafts, or attend ethnic performances. Tips Book transportation and accommodation in advance to save budget. Respect ethnic culture; do not take photos of ethnic costumes or scenes without permission. The plateau weather is changeable; bring warm clothing and sun protection. Try Yi ethnic specialty foods to experience different ethnic flavors. Wishing you an unforgettable cultural and natural journey in Liangshan! If you need more detailed routes or recommendations, feel free to ask!

Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan blends Yi culture, highland lakes, satellite technology, and warm sunshine. The experience varies greatly by season: summer is a cool retreat for the Torch Festival celebrations, while winter is a warm destination to enjoy sunshine and hot springs. 🌞 Summer in Liangshan (June-September): Torch Festival and Cool Escape Summer is the most vibrant season in Liangshan, with an average temperature around 20°C, very refreshing. The highlight is participating in the Yi Torch Festival, known as the "Oriental Carnival." The 2025 Torch Festival activities run from July 11 to August 18. Five premium routes are officially planned for you to choose based on your interests: · *"Colorful Liangshan · Summer Coolness" Wellness Vacation Tour** · **Core Areas/Attractions**: Xichang (Qionghai Lake, Lushan Mountain, Jianchang Ancient City, Dashiban Ancient Village) · **Theme Experience**: Lakeside leisure, ancient city night tours, watching the live fire show "A Re Niu" · *"Yi Sea Alliance · Dreaming Aerospace" Study Tour** · **Core Areas/Attractions**: Xichang Satellite Launch Center, Yi Sea, Xide, Yuexi, Ganluo · **Theme Experience**: Aerospace science popularization, red history, Yi language and lacquerware culture · *"Love in Daughter’s Kingdom · Exploring Shangri-La" Dream-seeking Tour** · **Core Areas/Attractions**: Lugu Lake in Yanyuan, Muli (Shangri-La Lake, Eya Village) · **Theme Experience**: Mosuo customs, highland lakes, Tibetan culture · *"Sichuan Style & Yunnan Charm · Glacier Hot Springs" Cultural Tour** · **Core Areas/Attractions**: Puge Luoji Mountain, Ningnan Kaidilila Hot Springs, Huili Ancient City, Dechang · **Theme Experience**: Ancient glacier wonders, hot spring therapy, ancient city nightlife, Sichuan-Yunnan cuisine · *"Passionate Torch · Enchanted Liangshan" Yi Ethnic Experience Tour** · **Core Areas/Attractions**: Zhaojue, Butuo, Gukede Plateau · **Theme Experience**: Pristine Yi villages, Torch Festival celebrations, alpine wetlands ☀️ Winter in Liangshan (December-February): Sunny Warm Winter and Hot Springs with Snow Winter in Liangshan is full of sunshine with comfortable daily temperatures, ideal for escaping the cold. Besides enjoying the sun, you can experience the "fire and ice" contrast: skiing at alpine resorts and warming up in waterfall hot springs. · *Recommended Short Trip Routes** Choose weekend trips based on your preference: · **Youthful & Energetic**: Xichang Qionghai + Jianchang Ancient City + Zhaojue Gukede Ski Resort · **Relaxing & Healing**: Luoji Mountain Snow Scenery + Luoji · Jiujiumuli Waterfall Hot Springs · **Wellness Vacation**: Dechang Phoenix City Hot Springs + Huili Ancient City Slow Life 📝 Practical Travel Tips · **Transportation**: The most convenient way is to fly into **Xichang Qingshan Airport**, or take the high-speed train from Chengdu to **Xichang West Station**. Attractions are scattered across the prefecture, so it’s recommended to base yourself in Xichang and travel to counties by **self-driving or chartered car**. · **Accommodation**: Xichang offers many lodging options, each with its own charm near Qionghai Lake, Dashiban Ancient Village, and Jianchang Ancient City. Book in advance during peak seasons (such as the Torch Festival). · **Food**: Don’t miss **Xichang firepot barbecue**, **Qionghai drunken shrimp**, **Yi ethnic cuisine** (such as Tuotuo meat), and snacks like **Huili chicken fire noodles**. · **Notes**: Liangshan has **strong UV rays**, so sun protection is necessary year-round. Respect local ethnic minority customs.

🏔️【Sea of Clouds Secret Realm Climbing to the Summit】Hiking the Taihuang Mountain, the Yi ethnic group's sacred mountain, encounter the wildest clouds in Western Sichuan! 🔥Xide's top attraction! Taihuang Sacred Mountain in Yi legend! 📍Location: Xide County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture 🚙 Travel tips: Self-driving recommended, 7-hour drive from Chengdu (off-road vehicle preferred) with many gravel road sections 🌄One-day intense itinerary: 1️⃣ Yi ethnic village at the foot of the mountain Red clay rammed walls + highland barley terraces, shepherds in ethnic costumes will offer barley cakes dipped in honey 📸Tips: Capture the stunning stilted buildings in the morning mist before 9 AM 2️⃣ Mid-mountain pasture route Encounter free-range black mini pigs! When passing prayer flag arrays, walk counterclockwise 3️⃣ 3750-meter Cloud Viewing Platform Suddenly meet a cloud waterfall around the corner! Remember to bring a windproof jacket (hail can fall suddenly even in June) 📷Must-shoot spots: ▫️Prayer flag Mani piles: Tibetan grandmothers will teach you to scatter dragon paper ▫️Cliff swing: Wild swing woven from vines by Yi young men (maximum safety) 🍜Yi ethnic cuisine highlights: ▪️Buckwheat cake dipped in wild honey (freshly baked at the mid-mountain shepherd hut) ▪️Tuotuo meat with sauerkraut and potato soup (firewood stove style) ❗️Real tips from experience: 1. Sunscreen! Highland UV can peel skin in an hour 2. Don’t wear light-colored shoes! Red soil roads turn into swamps when it rains 3. Carry cash (network may disappear anytime)

Ah!!! The moment I crossed mountains and valleys into Xiaoxiangling, I was instantly subdued by nature's raw power! 😱 Snow-capped mountains, meadows, alpine lakes, and forests all in one frame—my phone camera couldn't capture even a fraction of its beauty! Save this foolproof guide ASAP~ 🌅【Stunning 2-Day Itinerary】 Day1: · 8:00 Depart from Mianning County (1.5h drive) · 10:00 Arrive at Xiaoxiangling Scenic Area · 12:00 Hike to Moon Lake · 18:00 Camp under dazzling stars✨ Day2: · 6:00 Witness golden sunrise on snow peaks (tripod essential!) · 8:00 Explore primeval forest · 12:00 Discover hidden Ink Lake · 15:00 Return trip 🏞️【Must-See Attractions】 🌙Moon Lake: A sapphire at 3,600m! Mirror-like waters reflect snow mountains with unreal blue hues. 🌲Primeval Forest: Sunlight filters through soft decaying leaves—spot squirrels while wearing white dresses for magical photos! 🖤Ink Lake: Mysterious dark-green lake surrounded by bizarre rock formations, every shot looks cinematic! 🌄Golden Sunrise: 6am holy light gilds mountain peaks—utterly divine!!! 🚙【Transport Tips】 ✓Self-drive: Navigate to "Xiaoxiangling Scenic Area" (5h from Chengdu, SUV recommended) ✓Carpool: County shuttle 150/person round-trip ⚠️Note: No shuttle buses—all trails require hiking! 🍢【Local Food Recs】 · 5🌟Roasted potatoes: Crispy outside, fluffy inside with fermented tofu dip—heavenly! · 4.8🌟Ham pancakes: Flaky crust with savory filling · 4.5🌟Buckwheat tea: Locals' favorite digestion aid 💣【Must-Know Warnings】 ❗3,500m+ altitude sickness alert! Bring rhodiola + oxygen ❗Weather changes instantly! Windbreaker + sunglasses + hat essential ❗Pack snacks! No stores in scenic area ❗Download offline maps! Spotty signal ❗Respect customs! Don't photograph prayer flags randomly Final plea: This uncommercialized gem needs our protection—please treasure it❤️

| Flower Sea, Ink Lake, Yi Village Charm. ‌🌤️Weather and Outfit Guide‌ ‌Climate‌: Altitude 3,000-4,000m, large temperature difference between day and night. Summer summit temperature is around 10-15°C, winter can be as low as -5°C.‌ ‌ 🎒Essential Gear‌: Windproof and Warm: Hiking jacket/light down jacket + quick-drying base layer for high-altitude wind and cold protection.‌ Hiking Boots: Non-slip hiking boots (lots of gravel and muddy sections).‌ Protective Gear: Sunglasses, sunscreen (strong UV rays), raincoat (rainy season June-September). ‌ 🚶Day 1 Xichang → Erze'e Village → Ink Lake Round Trip‌ ‌Transportation‌: Drive to Erze'e Village (approx. 2.5h drive). You need to pass a fire prevention checkpoint at the village entrance. Non-local vehicles need to contact a guide (fee approx. CNY 200/group) and be led up the mountain by a villager.‌ ‌Hiking Section‌: Starting Point: Village parking lot → 10km gravel road (can be driven slowly) → Hiking trailhead.‌ Core Attractions: ‌Alpine Rhododendron Sea‌🌸 (full bloom in June, pink and white flowers intertwined with the sea of clouds).‌ ‌Ink Lake‌: A glacial lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. On a clear, windless day, you can capture symmetrical compositions.‌ Duration: Approx. 4 hours round trip (altitude 3,000m+, slow walking recommended).‌ ‌ 🚶Day 2 Xiaoxiangling Tea-Horse Trail → Today Mountain Scenic Area‌ ‌Cultural Hiking Route‌: Walk through the Xiaoxiangling Tunnel (3.5km) and experience the "Ten Miles, Different Skies" climate phenomenon.‌ Climb to the "Today Mountain" viewing platform to photograph the warhorse sculptures and the landscape.‌ Lunch Recommendation: Yi farmhouse restaurant on the mountainside. Try buckwheat pancakes + sour vegetable and potato soup (approx. CNY 40 per person).‌ ‌🍜 Food Guide‌: Breakfast from Xichang‌: [Dechang Laobing Mutton Restaurant]: Mutton rice noodles + mint leaves, rich and flavorful soup (search term: Dechang mutton rice noodles).‌ ‌Hiking Snacks‌: Roasted potatoes from the Yi guide's home, dipped in chili paste + pepper powder (portable and filling).‌ ‌Dinner after Descent‌: [Qionghai 17 Degrees Fire Pit BBQ]: Small intestine wrapped bean curd + Tuo Tuo meat (dipped in soybean chili powder).‌ [Erze'e Farmhouse Restaurant]: Firewood chicken + wild mushroom soup (approx. CNY 60 per person).‌ ‌⚠️ Safety and Environmental Tips‌: ‌Mandatory‌: No solo hiking. Must follow a guide (to prevent getting lost + deal with sudden weather changes).‌ ‌Water Source‌: Ink Lake water is not drinkable. Bring at least 2L of drinking water.‌ ‌Leave No Trace‌: Take away all trash, protect the alpine rhododendrons and the virgin forest.‌ 🚗Alternative Route Suggestions‌: If you have limited physical strength, you can wait for the new road to open (estimated completion by the end of 2025), which will lead directly to the trailhead.‌ Combined Itinerary: Xiaoxiangling + Luojishan (hot springs to relieve hiking fatigue).‌ Xichang Xiaoxiangling, an unspoiled plateau, reveals its natural beauty and rich culture to those who explore it on foot.✨

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|Attached is the guide. The city streets surrounded by light purple may have the exclusive romance of this season. If you also like purple, you don’t have to fly to Kunming. Sichuan has a similar Jacaranda Street Xichang is at its most beautiful at this moment, with endless sunshine and fruits everywhere. My three-day and two-night Xichang tour itinerary: Day 1: Chengdu - Xide County (3 hours by train) - Check in at Xidexi Hotel and put your luggage there - Check in at Xiaoxiangling (10 minutes by car) - Return to the hotel and soak in the hot springs Day 2: Hotel - Xichang City (1.5h) - Xinxingyue Hotel - Qionghai (300m away) Day 3: Sleep until you wake up naturally and see the Jacaranda trees in Chengdu About Xiaoxiangling Xiaoxiangling is very suitable for beginners to hike. ▲The plateau lake on the mountain The primeval forest azalea forest ▲ The stream and the road The grassland is amazing again and again! The scenery is so beautiful. About [Qionghai] Qionghai is very large, and great views can be seen everywhere. When you are tired of walking, you can find a chair to sit down, watching the ripples on the water and basking in the sun, which is very comfortable. Internet celebrity check-in spots: Diaoyutai, Moonlight Town, and Jinlin Beach. Diaoyutai has a long corridor and tree trunks extending into the water, which is very photogenic but there are so many people that you have to queue up to take pictures. There is an internet-famous coffee shop near the Moonlight Town. Jinlin Beach is just a small beach with coconut trees. About [Jacaranda shooting position Hangtian North Road (most densely populated with flowers, suitable for taking environmental portraits): Zhuijia Shooting time: 16:00-18:00 in the afternoon The densely populated areas on this road section are mainly concentrated on the east side of the road Wenhui East Road (the flowers are the most compact, suitable for flying drones): Zhuijia Shooting time: noon 11:00-13:00 There are high-rise buildings on both sides of this section 3 Jianchang East Road (with a memorial archway as the background, the combination type is best): Zhuijia Shooting time: 9:00-11:00 am There is a memorial archway on this section of the road, and the memorial archway faces the west 4 Jiankang Road (two-way lane, the widest road, suitable for taking photos of city streets): Zhuijia shooting time: noon 11:00-13:00 There is a local specialty Tianma chicken nearby to eat~ About [Hotel] First Day Xidexi Hot Spring Hotel: It is only 1 hour away from Xichang by car. The hotel is only 10 minutes away from the train station. It is a 5-diamond luxury hotel. Each room has its own hot spring pool. The package is valid until June 30, 24! The next day Zhongxin Star Moon Hotel: The geographical location is very advantageous. It is located in the Dashiban Ancient Village Scenic Area in Xichang, 300m away from Qionghai, adjacent to Qionghai Wetland Park, and backed by Lingying Ancient Temple in the east. You can enjoy the tranquility of the ancient village and the Zen of the ancient temple. With its superior geographical location, complete facilities and high-quality services, it has become an ideal place for tourists to explore Xichang.