2026 Ya'an Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Depart from Chengdu, 4 hours direct! Explore this sapphire secret in western Sichuan. Few people, free entry, and easy for beginners to handle Don’t want to be crowded at Siguniang Mountain? Then you must save this guide—Baoxing, Ya’an · Changhai Lake (Baokang route), a glacial alpine lake hidden in the heart of the “Sichuan version of Duku Highway.” Snow-capped mountains, meadows, streams, yaks, wildflowers, and a lake so blue it’s unreal—all in one view. Best of all, it’s currently quiet and free. Before the crowds arrive, go now! 📍 How to get there? Don’t enter the wrong destination in navigation! Navigation setup (two steps, don’t get it wrong): · Step 1: Navigate to “Zhonggang Village” (Baoxing County, Ya’an) · Step 2: After arriving at Zhonggang Village, navigate to “Jihong Tibetan Courtyard” (also called Lianghekou) ⚠️ Do not navigate directly to “Changhai Lake” as it will be incorrectly located! Road conditions: From Chengdu to Baoxing is all highway + national road, about 4 hours; but from Baoxing to Zhonggang Village there are about 68 hairpin turns. If you get car sick, prepare medication in advance. After Zhonggang Village, there is about 6 km of gravel and dirt road. SUV recommended; private cars proceed with caution. 💰 Cost details: Free means truly free! · Admission: $0! Only a 30 yuan per person trash cleaning fee · Parking: Free parking around Jihong Tibetan Courtyard · Mountain access (private cars cannot continue uphill): · Pure hiking: About 2 km walk from parking lot to trailhead · Local pickup truck: 30 yuan per person one way, bumpy but thrilling · Chartered car: 300 yuan per vehicle (up to 5 people), direct to the lake shore, cost-effective for groups 🏔️ What’s on the way? Breathtaking beauty! · Alpine meadows stretch to the horizon, yaks grazing slowly with bells ringing · Snowy peaks peek through the clouds, streams so clear you can count the stones · Wildflowers bloom wildly from June to August, purple and yellow covering the slopes—over 20 species of alpine flowers bloom simultaneously. The flower sea is denser than Jiuding Mountain, and the wind looks like spilled paint · If lucky, you might spot a chubby marmot from afar. They’re friendly and may take cookies, but don’t touch them 🥾 Hiking difficulty: Easy for beginners! · Round trip about 10–12 km, total elevation gain only 300–400 meters · Trailhead altitude about 3,700–3,800 meters, lake shore highest at 4,100 meters · Entire route is farm road + pasture trail, no dangerous steep slopes · One way about 2–3 hours, round trip 4–6 hours Even people who get winded climbing stairs can handle it, really no difficulty! 🆘 High-altitude survival tips Altitude 3,800–4,100 meters, going too fast can cause shortness of breath and dizziness: · Must bring three essentials: glucose, oxygen bottle, trekking poles · Big temperature difference—short sleeves at noon, but when the wind picks up in the afternoon, put on down jacket + fleece + hat and scarf · Shoes must be waterproof, slip-resistant, and mid-height; lots of gravel road · Slow down the pace, no running or jumping, stop immediately if dizzy to rest 🏠 Food and lodging arrangements? No shops along the way. Bring at least 2 liters of water, beef jerky, and chocolate packed. Trash bags are a must. Leave no trace! Three lodging options: · Same-day round trip: depart at 6 AM, return to Chengdu by 10 PM, tiring but saves lodging cost · Stay in Baoxing County: good conditions, about 2 hours drive from trailhead · Stay in Zhonggang Village or Longdong Town: closest, farmhouse level (about 150–280 yuan per night), convenient for early start ⚠️ Hardcore tips to avoid pitfalls · Snow remains in May, don’t go for nothing; June to August is peak beauty with wildflowers everywhere · Always close the pasture gates tightly to prevent cattle and sheep from escaping · The mountain road from Baoxing to trailhead causes car sickness, take medicine in advance; some sections have falling rocks, don’t speed or block the road · The lake surface is windless and the snow mountain reflection clearest from 6 to 8 AM; weather changes easily in the afternoon, so go early and return early · -- This route is so gentle that even people who get winded climbing stairs can finish it easily. If you want to quietly enjoy the snow mountain reflection without fighting for a spot, Changhai Lake is worth taking a day off for. Before the crowds arrive, go now! Questions? See you in the comments, I’m online to reply~

Known as Asia’s 360° panoramic viewing platform, Niubei Mountain stands at 3,666 meters. Beneath your feet is a vast, rolling sea of clouds, while the distant Gongga Snow Mountain stands quietly; during the day, wait for the golden sunlight on the peaks, and at night, the Milky Way stretches across the mountains. Many travelers journey thousands of miles to western Sichuan just to experience the romance of the sea of clouds and starry sky here. This tested guide includes transportation routes, top mountain hotels, best viewing times, high-altitude protection, and photography spots—perfect for a weekend two-day trip. 1. Basic travel information 📍 Location: Niubei Mountain, Yingjing County, Ya’an, Sichuan 🎫 Tickets: Scenic area package (admission + shuttle bus), valid for two days. Be sure to book real-name tickets in advance via the official mini program. Capacity limits apply on holidays. 🚗 Important rules: Private cars are not allowed to drive directly to the summit. Park at the Changhai Parking Lot and transfer to the scenic area shuttle bus to go up. If you have limited stamina, you can pay to take a UTV off-road vehicle to the top. ⏰ Best travel seasons ✅ October–April: Winter and spring have clear air, high chances of sea of clouds and golden sunlight on the peaks, and excellent star visibility ✅ May: Alpine rhododendrons bloom, combining sea of clouds and flower fields ❌ June–August rainy season: Thick fog and unstable visibility, not recommended for a special trip 2. Top mountain accommodations (tested and compared, choose as needed) 1. Xingpo Resort Hotel [Top luxury choice on the summit | recommended for photography/honeymoon] 💰 Price reference: Off-season from 1,400 CNY, peak season 1,800–4,200 CNY per night ✅ Highlights: Front-row ridge location facing the Gongga peaks; panoramic floor-to-ceiling glass windows, some rooms with suspended terraces and cloud bathtubs; full-floor heating + oxygen supply to ease altitude sickness; cloud café and scenic restaurant available, no need to crowd public viewing platforms. 👉 Suitable for: Those seeking comfort and privacy, not wanting to stay in tents, couples on honeymoon, photography enthusiasts 2. Xingchen/Xingyun spherical tent camp [Top starry sky atmosphere] 💰 Price reference: 700–1,500 CNY per night, with shared bathroom triangular tents and private bathroom spherical tents ✅ Highlights: Next to the Guangmingding viewing platform, direct access to photo spots; dome tents allow you to gaze at the Milky Way from bed; equipped with electric blankets and warm sleeping bags, ready to move in. ⚠️ Drawbacks: Strong mountain winds at night, tents have average sound insulation; shared bathroom tents are inconvenient for washing 👉 Suitable for young people, star lovers, moderate budget, and those wanting an immersive cloud camping experience 3. Foot of the mountain Yingjing/Lengqi homestays [Cost-effective option] 💰 Price reference: 260–400 CNY per night ✅ Advantages: Lower altitude, less likely to have altitude sickness, complete dining options ❌ Drawbacks: Need to get up early next day to catch the first shuttle bus up, may miss the golden morning sea of clouds 👉 Recommendation: If you’re new to high altitudes and worried about altitude sickness, stay at the foot of the mountain the first night to acclimate, then move to the summit the next day 3. Classic 2-day 1-night itinerary (leisure photography route) Day 1 Chengdu → Niubei Mountain → sunset sea of clouds → late-night Milky Way 07:30 Drive from Chengdu (about 4 hours), simple lunch en route 12:30 Arrive at Changhai Parking Lot, check tickets and transfer to shuttle bus up the mountain 14:00 Check in at summit hotel, rest slowly, avoid strenuous activity 17:00–18:40 Wait at Guangmingding viewing platform for sunset, watch the sea of clouds turn orange-red 22:00–3:00 AM If weather is clear, go to a dark area to photograph the Milky Way ⚠️ Temperatures drop sharply at night. Don’t stay outside too long when shooting. Dress warmly Day 2 Golden sunlight on the peaks → cloud waterfall stroll → return trip 05. 30 Get up and head to the viewing platform (sunrise is earlier in summer) 06. 30–07:10 Golden hour: Gongga’s golden sunlight, sea of clouds surging like a waterfall Morning: Hike along the Yueshan corridor, visit the cloud walkway and popular photo frame 10:30 Take the shuttle bus down and return 4. Best viewing and photography times 🌄 Sunrise golden peaks: Summer 5:30–7:00 / Winter 7:00–7:40. Best photos after rain on clear days ☁️ Sea of clouds and cloud waterfall: One hour before and after sunrise, valley air currents surge, creating the most spectacular cloud waterfall 🌌 Starry sky and Milky Way: 11:00 PM–4:00 AM. Avoid full moon nights. Best Milky Way visibility at the start and end of the lunar month 📸 Key photo spots: Guangmingding viewing platform, Xingpo suspended terrace, Cloud Gate cloud waterfall viewpoint 5. Essential gear list (very important) ✅ Clothing: Quick-dry base layer + fleece + windproof shell or lightweight down jacket! Even in summer, summit temperatures approach 0°C in the morning and evening; hat, gloves, sunglasses ✅ Supplies: Thermos, high-calorie snacks (chocolate, beef jerky), oxygen bottle, sunscreen, lip balm ✅ Photography: Tripod, headlamp, spare batteries (cold drains batteries quickly) ❌ Prohibited: Climbing over viewing railings, camping without permission, flying drones 6. Altitude sickness protection and tips The summit is 3,666 meters high. On arrival day, avoid bathing, alcohol, and running; if you have persistent headache or chest tightness, rest immediately and descend halfway if necessary. Supplies are scarce and prices high at the summit, so bring your own water and snacks. Don’t trust roadside guides offering “private car rides up the mountain.” The cliffside mountain road is dangerous and strictly controlled by the scenic area. Book rooms 7–15 days in advance if possible. Summit rooms are very limited on weekends, with no scalper-reserved viewing rooms. Weather changes quickly. Check both the weather forecast and real-time scenic area conditions before traveling. Heading to Niubei Mountain is a mutual journey with the sea of clouds and starry sky. When city lights fade, thousands of stars fill the sky, clouds flow beneath your feet, and Gongga Snow Mountain stands quietly in the distance. There’s no need for perfection—just witnessing a sunset, a sea of clouds, and a sky full of stars is the best gift of this trip.

✨Chengdu’s summer heat is hard to bear. Take a 1-hour high-speed train to Ya’an, the rain city, where green mountains and flowing water are wrapped in a cool breeze. It’s the gentlest summer escape near Chengdu. ✅Real prices & hours Adult tickets to Bifengxia Scenic Area cost 100 yuan. Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Round-trip high-speed train tickets from Chengdu average 110 yuan per person. Most city attractions are free. 🔥Money-saving tips Buy tickets online first for small discounts. Avoid expensive meals inside the scenic area. Explore Cangping Road snack street for local prices that are very affordable. Skip overpriced private tours; regular independent travel is enough. ❤️Play, food, and hotel recommendations For a relaxed experience, visit Bifengxia early morning to see clear streams and quiet valleys, and maybe spot a lazy giant panda. Stroll along the Qingyi River in the afternoon, where the gentle evening breeze soothes all fatigue. In your free time, visit the ancient tea mountain village to feel the unique poetic charm of Ya’an’s landscape. 🍚Must-try local food includes authentic tata noodles, handmade and chewy with rich minced meat sauce. The signature claypot Ya fish is slow-cooked in a black clay pot, with fresh broth and tender meat, unlocking the flavors of western Sichuan. Street snacks like cold jelly and fried potatoes refresh and cleanse the palate, full of local life. For lodging, choose hotels in Ya’an’s main urban area, costing 180–260 yuan per person, with convenient transportation. For an immersive view, pick a guesthouse by the Qingyi River for peace and quiet. ⚠️Avoid pitfalls Ya’an has frequent showers, so bring rain gear and wear non-slip shoes. The mountain area has large temperature differences between day and night, so pack a light jacket even in summer. Local dishes tend to be fresh and spicy; if you don’t eat spice, inform the restaurant in advance. Book guesthouses early during holidays. ✨This hidden small town near Chengdu has no crowded crowds, only cool breezes, mountains, rivers, and lively local food. Would you like to spend a refreshing slow trip in Ya’an?

How to book free admission? Don’t foolishly go to the site The scenic area has long canceled on-site ticket sales. You must book in advance with real-name verification through the official "Daocheng Yading" WeChat account or website. Daily entry is expected to be limited during the free admission period, especially around National Day. It’s best to try booking 3–7 days in advance. Bring your original ID on the day of entry. You must scan your ID and show your booking code to enter. Remember to select the sightseeing bus ticket when booking. You can’t buy just the admission ticket without the bus ticket because the 38 km mountain road is inaccessible without a vehicle. What to wear in August? The “four seasons in one day” on the plateau is no joke I tested this in early August at Luorong Pasture. At noon, with the sun out, wearing a thin fleece made me sweat. In the evening, a rain and snow mix made me shiver. Daytime temperatures are 15–20℃, but nights can drop below 5℃. A windbreaker plus a thin down jacket is the bare minimum for survival. Don’t trust those bad tips about wearing dresses for photos in August. Shoes must be waterproof, slip-resistant hiking boots. The rocky slope from Luorong Pasture to Milk Lake gets slippery after rain and can discourage hikers. Use sunscreen with SPF 50+ and apply it thickly. The high-altitude UV rays can cause peeling even through clouds. Realistic time for the two routes—don’t overestimate your stamina Short route (Chonggu Temple → Pearl Lake): Get off the shuttle at Zhaguanbeng and walk 500 meters to Chonggu Temple, then hike 1.5 km on a gentle wooden boardwalk for about 1.5 hours to Pearl Lake. The whole trip takes 3–4 hours easily. The best time to photograph the reflection of Xianuodiri is 3–5 PM. This route is suitable for seniors, children, or those sensitive to altitude sickness. Long route (Luorong Pasture → Milk Lake → Five Color Lake): Take the electric shuttle 20 minutes to Luorong Pasture, then hike 10 km round-trip with a 550 m elevation gain. Actual time is 6–8 hours. Milk Lake at 4,600 m and Five Color Lake at 4,700 m are truly breathtaking, but the last 1.5 km steep slope will leave you gasping for breath every few steps. You must start descending before 2:30 PM to catch the last shuttle and sightseeing bus. For most people, it’s best to split into two days: one day for the short route to acclimate, one day for the long route. Don’t try to do both in one day. Your health comes first. How to get there? Differences between driving and flying By plane: Fly to Daocheng Yading Airport (4,411 m, the world’s highest civilian airport). Altitude sickness is common on arrival. It’s recommended to book a car from the airport to Shangri-La Town (about 2 hours, 300 yuan per car). Avoid strenuous activity right after landing. By car: From Chengdu, take G318 through Ya’an, Kangding, Xinduqiao, Litang to Daocheng, about 760 km total. It’s best to split the drive over 2–3 days. Stay the first night in Xinduqiao (3,300 m) to acclimate, then cross Jianziwan Mountain to Litang (4,014 m) and take S217 to Daocheng the next day. August is rainy season. Be prepared for sudden rain or landslides on Zheduo Mountain and Litang sections. Check real-time road conditions before departure and keep snow chains and snacks in the car. Where to stay? Shangri-La Town is more comfortable than Yading Village Strongly recommend staying in Shangri-La Town (Riwa Township) at about 2,900 m elevation. You won’t have trouble breathing or showering, and you can catch the first sightseeing bus at 7 AM the next day. Yading Village has stunning scenery but is at 3,900 m. Beginners staying there usually suffer insomnia and altitude sickness. It’s not worth pushing yourself. One last reminder: hike the long route within your limits. If you feel dizzy or short of breath, use oxygen and descend immediately. Don’t push yourself. The wildflowers at Luorong Pasture in August are truly beautiful, and the blue of Milk Lake is truly pure, but safety always comes first. With three months of free admission, pick a weekday to go for a much better experience.

🚗🚗🚗Travel itinerary Day 1: Jinsha Site Museum > Kangding Love Song Square Passing through Ya'an Tianquan Service Area (a popular panda-themed photo spot), one of the important nodes on G318. Kangding city has an elevation of 2,560m, with an average July temperature of 26°C–11°C, making it the best place for high-altitude acclimatization before entering Tibet. Day 2: Kangding Love Song Square > Gulong Village > Tagong Grassland Starting from Kangding city, first navigate to "Honghaizi," also known as "Jia'gacuo." This place is a bit of a rip-off; a small lake charges CNY 30. Just take photos at the entrance. Then navigate to "Kangding Airport Observation Deck," also known as "Rainbow Road." There have been no flights recently, and there's only an old jet next to the runway, so you can't get a shot of the snow-capped mountains with a plane. Note that at the observation deck, the road forks: one side leads to G318 Mount Zheduo, and the other to S434 for Tagong Grassland. Gulong Village in Tagong is a newly popular photo spot, with blue skies, white clouds, meadows, clear rivers with fish, and a direct view of Yala Snow Mountain. You can camp and picnic here; there are no Tibetan brown bears or marmots. I ordered a cup of coffee and a self-heating meal, sat there all afternoon, and time seemed to stop. It was very pleasant. Tagong Grassland is a great place that fulfilled my heart's desire, but the wind was fierce and the night was too cold. Important tip: Remember to wear a down jacket even on July nights! Day 3: Tagong Monastery > Muye Grand Temple > Moshi Park Scenic Area > Xinduqiao At Muye Grand Temple, located at the foot of Yala Snow Mountain, the phrase "Please follow me" profoundly purified the hearts of all beings, elevating the devotion of Buddhist followers in an atmosphere of coexistence! (Tagong Monastery, known as "Little Jokhang Temple," houses sacred relics such as Princess Wencheng's stupa and a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.) Day 4: Xinduqiao Ten-Mile Gallery > Kangding Airport Snow Mountain Observation Deck > Chengdu Xinduqiao's Ten-Mile Gallery is like the Ten-Mile Gallery of Jiangnan water towns, but the most beautiful season in Western Sichuan is golden autumn. Important tip: Although the scenery along the way is beautiful, there are too many yaks on the road. Drive safely! 🔥Must-visit attractions: Kangding Love Song Square: Yala Snow Mountain Observation Deck: Tagong Grassland: Gulong Village: Muye Grand Temple: Moshi Park: Xinduqiao Ten-Mile Gallery.

🐼 Many people think you can see giant pandas in any Chinese zoo. In reality, that's not the case. Most of the famous pandas don't live in zoos, but rather in specialized research and conservation centers where they are bred, studied, and prepared for life in the wild. 📍 I've put together a map of the best places in China to see pandas. 🐼 Chengdu — The world's most famous place to meet giant pandas. Dozens of adults and cubs live here, and the facilities are extremely tourist-friendly. 🌿 Wolong — A national nature reserve in the mountains of Sichuan. There are fewer crowds here, giving you a much closer feel of the pandas' natural habitat. 🏞 Dujiangyan — A panda rescue and rehabilitation center where you can learn how these animals are prepared for their return to the wild. 🌲 Bifengxia (Ya'an) — One of the largest panda conservation centers. It features spacious enclosures surrounded by forests, making panda-watching especially enjoyable. ✨ The best time to visit is early in the morning. Pandas are most active right after the centers open: they eat breakfast, play, climb trees, and rarely sleep. By noon, most of them head off for a nap. 💚 Another interesting fact: almost all giant pandas in the world trace their roots back to China's Sichuan province. A trip here is your chance to see these animals in their true homeland. 📌 Save this map if you're dreaming of seeing pandas in China. It will help you choose the center that best fits your itinerary. 💬 If you could only visit one place, which would you choose: the famous Chengdu base or the more peaceful Wolong reserve? 🇨🇳

Feeling burned out and exhausted from work, wanting a short escape from the city? Here are 7 niche small towns directly accessible by high-speed rail, covering mountains, rivers, seas of clouds, hot springs, and ancient villages. No long journeys needed, just 3 days of slow wandering and unwinding. For around a thousand yuan per person, you can unlock a relaxed vacation. Routes, food, and accommodation are all organized – just save and go! · *Lishui, Zhejiang | Jiangnan Ink Painting Secret Realm** High-speed rail direct to Lishui Station. Experience the full healing power of Yunhe Terraces' morning mist, Songyang's rammed earth ancient villages, and Xiandu's fairy-tale landscapes. A 3-day itinerary includes visiting the terraces, boating in Guyan Huaxiang, and hiking in Xiandu. Must-try foods are Jinyun Shaobing and Qiaorou Geng. Stay in a terrace B&B to watch the sea of clouds in the morning. Budget: 1000-2200 yuan. · *Ningde, Fujian | Mountain, Sea, and Mudflat Scenery** Witness the stunning sunrise over Xiapu's mudflats, the unique granite peaks of Taimu Mountain, and the vibrant life of Huotong Ancient Town. Chase the light and shadows on the mudflats in the morning, enjoy fresh seafood at noon, and explore the ancient town in the evening. Recommended foods: Fuding Rou Pian and Oyster Omelet. Stay in a B&B in Dongbi Village, Xiapu, with sea views from your window. Cost: 1200-2600 yuan. · *Baoshan, Yunnan | Hot Spring, Caravan, Slow City** Hike and breathe in the fresh air of Gaoligong Mountain, bask in the sun in Heshun Ancient Town, and soak away fatigue in Rehai hot springs. Signature dishes include Huopiao Beef and Xidoufen. The itinerary combines ancient town exploration with wetland grass raft experiences. Heshun B&Bs offer a strong ambiance. Budget: 1300-2600 yuan. · *Ya'an, Sichuan | Tea-Scented Panda Town** Pick tea on Mengding Mountain, the birthplace of tea, see giant pandas at Bifengxia, and soothe your fatigue in Zhougong Mountain hot springs. Handmade Tata Noodles and Ya Fish Soup are not to be missed. Stay in a tea garden or ancient town B&B for a gentle and healing journey. Cost: 1300-2300 yuan. · *Chizhou, Anhui | Poetic Landscape and Buddhist Realm** Experience the sea of clouds on Jiuhua Mountain, the poetic wine culture of Xinghua Village, and cycling around Pingtian Lake. The Qiuhe River and Guniujiang streams are serene. Savor Jiuhua Vegetarian Dishes and Shitai Yipin Pot. B&Bs at the foot of the mountain are quiet and secluded. Per person: 1200-2600 yuan. · *Shangrao, Jiangxi | Huizhou Ancient Village Painting** Marvel at the unique peaks of Sanqing Mountain, the Huizhou-style villages of Wuyuan, and the excellent photo opportunities of Huangling's "sun-drying autumn" spectacle. Authentic specialties include Qigao and Yanshan Tangfen. You can stay in a Wuyuan ancient village B&B, explore the mountains during the day, and enjoy snacks at night. Budget: 1000-1800 yuan. · *Chenzhou, Hunan | Misty Danxia Wonderland** Witness the morning mist and fishing boats on Xiaodong River, the water-eroded Danxia landforms of Gaoyiling, and the alpine grasslands of Yangtian Lake. For breakfast, slurp a bowl of Qifengdu Fish Noodles, and soak in hot springs in the evening. Dongjiang Lake B&Bs offer superb views. Cost: 1300-2800 yuan. · *Practical Travel Tips** 1. **Travel Pace:** Maintain a slow pace throughout the trip, no need to rush or check off every sight. Focus on unwinding, strolling, soaking in hot springs, and breathing fresh air – perfect for low-energy individuals. 2. **Accommodation Choices:** For scenic spots, prioritize B&Bs near the attractions to save on travel time. City hotels offer better value for money. 3. **Packing Essentials:** Mountainous areas have large temperature differences between day and night, so bring a light jacket. For coastal or rainy regions, pack sunscreen and rain gear. 4. **Saving Money:** Local old streets and market snacks are affordable and authentic. Avoid tourist trap restaurants to significantly reduce your per-person meal expenses. No need to travel far; a short high-speed rail trip can lead you to a tranquil escape. Let the mountains and evening breeze carry away your work anxiety and life's exhaustion, giving yourself a healing solo journey.

Nature is the best energy field; step into the mountains and wilderness to quietly absorb the spirit of heaven and earth. 1. Yunnan - Puzhehei Yunnan’s top karst landscape, just 1.5 hours by high-speed train from Kunming. At dusk, climb Qinglong Mountain to see endless karst hills stretching into the distance, with winding waterways passing through smoke-rising villages. Occasionally, a small boat glides out from dense lotus leaves. In July and August, thousands of acres of lotus ponds bloom; boating into the wetlands, lotus flowers are within reach. Yi ethnic villages are very quiet at night; gaze at the starry sky and listen to the chorus of frogs. 2. Hunan - Chenzhou - Mangshan The southern Hunan mountains hide many unknown beauties. Enter Mangshan National Forest Park, where peaks, valleys, streams, forests, wind, and morning and evening sea of clouds await. Take the elevator up Tiantai Mountain—perfect for the lazy. After the elevator, the path is mostly flat boardwalk with breathtaking panoramic views. The majestic waterfall at General’s Village cascades through the forest, clear streams wind along the trail, surrounded by lush greenery and moist fresh breeze. The Monkey King Village’s pristine waterfall boardwalk is hidden deep in the forest, stepping in feels like entering a natural oxygen bar. 3. Guizhou - Xingyi From June to August, the Wanfenglin’s continuous peaks are covered in fresh green, full of vitality. Rice fields grow vigorously, creating a refreshing scene. Strolling along the paths between fields, the breeze carries the scent of earth, refreshing the mind. The earth splits open a deep fissure—the Maling River Gorge. Here, there is no excessive decoration, only the raw and wild traces left by mountain-building movements. During the rainy season, hundreds of waterfalls pour down simultaneously, like a stampede, with mist filling the air. 4. Sichuan - Ya’an - Labaha River Three hours from Chengdu to Ya’an’s Erlang Mountain Labaha River. Walk the forest boardwalk, listen to babbling streams, watch waterfalls cascade—cool and healing all the way. The east route is almost entirely shaded by trees, following the stream on mostly flat boardwalks. The west route takes a cable car to the summit, with Jiao Mountain viewing platform offering sea of clouds views. On the way down, visit the hidden Deer Pool deep in the valley, emerald and mirror-like, surrounded by dense forest. 5. Hubei - Shennongjia A primitive forest oxygen bar at 31°N latitude, with an average summer temperature of 22°C. Drive into the forest area, endless greenery, cool and pleasant. Cross Shennong Peak, with a high coverage of primeval forest and abundant negative oxygen ions; walking along forest paths is filled with the fragrance of plants. Photograph the sea of clouds in Shennong Valley, overlook the panorama from the watchtower—every shot is a masterpiece. Cold-water fish in Pingqian Ancient Town is tender and less bony. The Dajiuhu Wetland is shrouded in mist, like a fairyland. 6. Lugu Lake Lugu Lake, like a sapphire set among mountains, at 2600 meters altitude, half in Yunnan and half in Sichuan. From June to October, you can see seaweed flowers. The lake’s circumference is about 70 kilometers; stopping at several spots takes 4-5 hours. Stay lakeside for two or three days to fully enjoy Lugu Lake’s leisure. From Lige Peninsula, overlook the heart-shaped bay; morning mist creates a fairyland. The Grass Sea’s Marriage Bridge is flanked by wetland meadows. At Guandi Flower Sea Pier and Puluo Pier, take a pig trough boat into Lugu Lake, where seaweed flowers are more abundant. Goddess Bay still floats some empty pig trough boats; Gemu Goddess Mountain has a cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the entire lake. 7. Fujian - Zhangzhou - Dongshan Island Colorful fishing village at Nanmen Bay, mirror-like sand beach at Jinluan Bay, Su Feng Mountain island ring road; take the high-speed train to Yunxiao Station and transfer to a minibus to reach the island. Watch the mirror-like sunrise at Jinluan Bay, and capture the sky’s reflection at low tide. Stroll among colorful houses at Nanmen Bay, watch the sunset from Left Ear Terrace. Cycle the Su Feng Mountain island ring road; the Blue Bridge sea view is super healing. At Nanyu Lighthouse, catch the tide and walk the sea path according to tidal schedules. Play in the waves at Maluan Bay—off the beaten path and very comfortable.

On this self-driving trip through Western Sichuan, the biggest surprise for me was Niubei Mountain, known as "China's largest viewing platform." Located in Yingjing County, Ya'an, Sichuan, at an altitude of 3,666 meters, you don’t need to exert much effort to take in the vastness of Western Sichuan. 🌄 I specifically chose to climb the mountain early in the morning, and just reaching the mid-mountain, I encountered a sea of clouds. Vast clouds rolled through the valleys like a cotton blanket covering the mountains. In the distance, the peaks of Gongga Snow Mountain and Siguniang Mountain peeked out, shining silver-white in the morning light, as if stepping out of a painting. ☀️ At sunrise, the sunlight gradually dyed the sea of clouds golden, warming the entire world. Standing at the summit looking down, the mountains rolled like waves, and even the wind carried a sense of freedom. No tall buildings, no crowds—just the sky, mountains, and me. The awe I felt is something photos simply can’t capture. The sunset in the evening was equally breathtaking. The sky was set ablaze in orange-red hues, and the sea of clouds was dyed in a gradient of pink and orange, like a spilled palette. Many say Niubei Mountain is a "360-degree no dead angle viewing platform," and after coming here, I know that’s no exaggeration. No need to squeeze into popular photo spots or hunt for the perfect angle—just stand anywhere on the summit and you’ll be surrounded by stunning views. Here, all fatigue is blown away by the mountain breeze, leaving only reverence and healing from nature. Niubei Mountain

📍Location: Mingshan, Ya'an · Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains Scenic Area ⏰ One-Day Golden Route (Relaxed and Unhurried) · 07:30 Arrive at Earth Fingerprint Viewing Platform Morning light spreads over ten thousand acres of tea fields, spiral tea ridges like earth fingerprints, mist winding around the mountains, the green hues perfectly recreating the atmosphere of Song Dynasty paintings. · 09:00 Changgangshan Viewing Platform 360° unobstructed view, layered tea mountains stretching to the horizon, pavilion reflections in the mountains like a painting, every snapshot a masterpiece of traditional Chinese style. · 10:30 Snake Check-in Spot The road winds through tea fields, occasionally a train passes by, unlocking the fun "train swallowing" photo spot, full of atmosphere. · 12:00 Qilong Village Viewing Platform Hike to the ancient pavilion on the mountaintop, enjoy free tea and rest, gaze at the endless mountain ranges, the air filled with tea fragrance, an overwhelming sense of healing. · 14:00 Moon Lake Leisure Stroll along the lakeside path, lake water reflecting green mountains, tea gardens accompanied by blooming flowers, avoid crowds and slowly enjoy nature, perfect for relaxing. · 17:00 Return / Wait for Sunset The sunset dyes the tea mountains red, light and shadow flowing, evening lanterns light up, the tea garden night scene is quiet and romantic, the atmosphere is amazing. ✨ Travel Tips · Transportation: About 1.5 hours self-drive from Chengdu, free shuttle buses within the scenic area connecting all spots. · Dress Code: Light-colored long dresses or Hanfu, paired with oil-paper umbrellas, 100% photo-worthy. · Best Time: Morning mist 6:00-8:00, sunset 17:00-19:00, sea of clouds often appears after rain. Step into a green painting, everything in sight is gentle—this is truly the pinnacle of healing scenery~

" My friends on social media went crazy asking about it! I captured this route all the way from Chengdu to Lizhuang Ancient Town, a full 9 days, ✅ The "Edge of the Earth" stamped by National Geographic — Longtoushan Grand Cliff ✅ Jin Kou Grand Canyon, 860 meters deeper than the Colorado Grand Canyon ✅ Climb 556 steel steps up the cliff — Atulieer Village ✅ China's most beautiful table mountain — Wawu Mountain Eyes in heaven, body in heaven 😆 9-day itinerary | Handcrafted Day 1 Xi'an → Chengdu → Ya'an 🚄 High-speed train direct to Chengdu East, 1-hour bus to Ya'an 🌃 Evening check-in at Ya'an Covered Bridge + Western Sichuan Sky Ladder 🏠 Stay in Ya'an standard room Day 2 Wawu Mountain ⛰️ China's most beautiful table mountain! The legendary place where Nüwa mended the sky, enjoy sea of clouds and azaleas (end of July) 🎫 Free admission + round-trip sightseeing bus 68 RMB 📸 Recommended to go in the morning for higher chance of sea of clouds 🏠 Stay in Ya'an Day 3 Jin Kou Grand Canyon 🌊 World-class canyon, 860 meters deeper than the Colorado Grand Canyon 🚗 Drive to mid-mountain viewing platform 🏠 Stay in Jin Kou River area Day 4 Dawa Mountain National Wetland Park + Gulu Village 🌲 Five major natural highland pools, the Eastern Noah's Ark 🏘️ Gulu Village: cliffside village, Yi ethnic sky ladder village, climb 2000 steel steps, overlook Dadu River Canyon ⚠️ The path to Gulu Village is really steep, bring trekking poles! 🚗 Need to switch to local small vehicles, road conditions are average 🏠 Stay in Jin Kou River Day 5 Heizhugou Marileng Old Area 🌿 Alpine wetland lung cleansing sanctuary, natural oxygen bar 🍃 Perfect for photos 🏠 Stay in Meigu County or Leibo County Day 6 Longtoushan Grand Cliff ⭐ Must visit 🌫️ The "Edge of the Earth" as described by National Geographic, over 1000 meters drop, sea of clouds rolling ⚠️ Need to switch to small vehicles, possible traffic jams in peak season ⚠️ If heavy rain or policy restrictions prevent entry, replace with Meigu Dafengding 🚗 Normally can drive to the viewing platform 🏠 Stay in Meigu County or Leibo County Day 7 Cliff Village + Mahu Lake 🧗 Climb 2556 steel steps up to Atulieer Village 🌊 Mahu Lake, Sichuan's third largest freshwater lake 🔥 Yi ethnic bonfire party at night 🔥 🏠 Stay by Mahu Lake Day 8 Mahu Lake → Lizhuang Ancient Town 🏘️ The first ancient town along the Yangtze River 📜 Anti-Japanese War cultural site 🍖 Lizhuang's "Three Whites": white pork, white liquor, white cake 🏠 Stay in Lizhuang Ancient Town Day 9 Lizhuang → Yibin → Xi'an 🚄 Morning leisurely stroll in the ancient town, Sichuan opera + boating 🍜 Lunch recommendation: Lizhuang white pork 🚄 High-speed train back around 3 PM Honest tips 💡 ⚠️ On days 5-6, you need to switch to local small vehicles; road conditions are average but worth it ⚠️ Bring trekking poles! The path to Gulu Village is really steep ⚠️ Sunscreen! Dawa Mountain is over 3000 meters high ⚠️ Those over 70 years old should be accompanied 🌟 Budget (per person) Group fee: 3680 RMB (includes high-speed train + bus + 8 nights standard room + 8 breakfasts + 1 lunch + insurance + bonfire party) Self-paid expenses: tickets + scenic area transport about 900 RMB; meals about 800 RMB; Schedules for May-June are out, If you want to join a group of interesting people, no need to drive yourself, no need to plan, no worries about accommodation, tickets, insurance... Then come with me~

Hidden deep in the mountains of Danba, this earthly paradise is free from crowds and over-commercialization. Snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes, pristine colorful forests, and wild hot springs coexist here, earning it the title of the last outdoor utopia in Western Sichuan by countless outdoor enthusiasts. Step into Dangling, and you’ll understand what an isolated secret realm truly means. The continuous snow mountains stand quietly, alpine meadows stretch endlessly, golden larch trees blanket the hills, and the emerald Huluhai Lake reflects the sky, clouds, and snowy mountain outlines. Morning mist wraps the valleys, afternoon sunlight filters through the forest sea, and the evening starry sky fills the entire night. Trekking on soft fallen leaves, breathing the pure mountain air, resting on alpine meadows to daydream in the breeze, and soaking in a thousand-year-old natural wild hot spring at dusk. No noise, only the tranquility of the mountains and fields, healing all fatigue and anxiety. This is the unique romance of Western Sichuan—off-the-beaten-path, pristine, and untouched by worldly distractions. 📍 Location Dangling Village, Danba, Ganzi, Sichuan Altitude: Village 3300m, Huluhai Lake 4150m ✨ Best Travel Time Oct 15 - Nov 5: Peak season for colorful forests, the pinnacle of beauty May - June: Alpine rhododendrons bloom everywhere July - August: Cool green summer retreat, but rainy and muddy, not recommended 🚗 Transportation Self-driving from Chengdu: Chengdu - Ya’an - Danba - Dangling, about 8 hours Mountain roads with many curves, SUV recommended; sedans can go slowly Carpooling available from Danba town to the village, no direct buses 🏡 Accommodation Dangling Tibetan family guesthouses, simple and clean, great value Book early during the busy autumn foliage season Village altitude is moderate, suitable for gradual acclimatization 🗓 3 Days 2 Nights Easy Itinerary Day 1: Depart Chengdu → Arrive Danba → Check in Dangling Village Acclimate to altitude, stroll the village, soak in the starry sky wild hot spring at night Day 2: Full-day highlight hike | Dangling Village → Airstrip → Huluhai Lake Trek through primeval forest, enjoy alpine meadow views, encounter snowy mountain lakes Moderate fitness? Ride a horse or take a motorcycle, no pressure for beginners Day 3: Leisurely wandering → Light hike at Jiayila Lake → Return to Chengdu Must-visit Attractions 1. Huluhai Lake, the soul of Dangling’s beauty, a mirror-like snowy mountain lake, stunning sunrise 2. Airstrip, vast alpine grassland with herds of cattle and sheep, wide open views 3. Natural wild hot springs, a highland soul healer, soaking under the starry sky for full ambiance 4. Zhuoyong Lake, a less crowded secret lake, perfect for unique photos without tourist crowds 🎒 Essential Clothing & Gear Windbreaker, warm base layers, non-slip hiking shoes, trekking poles Sunglasses, hat, power bank, some cash Large temperature differences on the plateau, very cold mornings and evenings, bring a thick jacket Prepare oxygen bottles, walk slowly, avoid running and strenuous exercise ⚠️ Important Reminders 1. Most mountain areas have no cell signal, download offline maps in advance 2. No entrance fees, only a small environmental management fee 3. Practice Leave No Trace hiking, carry out all trash to protect the pristine secret realm 4. Avoid showering immediately upon arrival at high altitude to reduce the risk of altitude sickness

Dear friends, if you want to see "The King of Sichuan Mountains," Gongga Snow Mountain, you really don't need to go to the crowded Niubei Mountain! Wanggangping, a stunning viewing platform only 30 kilometers in a straight line from Gongga, offers you a package of snowy mountains, sea of clouds, primeval forest, and alpine pastures all at once. The best part is fewer people and beautiful scenery, making it an excellent value! 😛 Experience: When the first golden rays of dawn shine on the main peak of Gongga, the entire snowy mountain instantly lights up. The shock hits your soul, making all the travel worthwhile. 🚌 Transportation Guide: How to get there: Driving is the most convenient. From Chengdu, navigate to "Wanggangping Tourist Scenic Area," take the Jingkun Expressway to Yaxi Expressway, exit at Shimian, about 3.5 hours in total. If you don’t have a car, take the high-speed train to Yaan Station or Hanyuan Station, then carpool or take a direct shuttle to the scenic area (about 1.5 hours); or take a bus from Chengdu Shiyangchang Bus Station to Shimian County, then taxi to the destination (about 30 minutes). Internal transportation: Private cars can only reach the visitor center; you must transfer to scenic area transportation. First, take Sichuan’s longest sightseeing cable car (about 20 minutes, with a drop of over 1200 meters, super thrilling!) up the mountain, then transfer to alpine sightseeing buses or forest trains to various attractions. 🗺️ Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive at noon, take the cable car up the mountain, check in, then hike the Strange Tree Forest to experience the magic of ancient trees. In the afternoon, head to Yaoxuetai or White Fox Viewing Platform to wait for the magnificent moment of the golden sunlight on the mountain. At night, enjoy the dazzling starry sky at your accommodation. Day 2: Wake up early to watch the sunrise and sea of clouds from the viewing platform. Then stroll through Eden Pasture and Gongga Haizi, taking photos by alpine meadows and lakes. In the afternoon, take the forest train through the woods to admire the snowy mountains from different angles, then take the cable car down the mountain to return. Compact one-day tour: If time is tight, start early, take the cable car up, quickly visit the Strange Tree Forest and Yaoxuetai, see the snowy mountain, then experience the forest train, and return in the afternoon, but you will miss the sunrise and starry sky. 🍜 Food Recommendations: Shimian Barbecue: A must-eat after descending! Especially the teppanyaki style, sizzling pork belly and garlic ribs on the iron plate, spicy and flavorful, about 60 yuan per person. Yak Meat Hotpot: Available at mountaintop restaurants or town, made with highland yak meat, fresh broth and tender meat, a warm meal on the cool mountaintop. Alpine Potatoes/Corn: Sold at small stalls in the scenic area, simply roasted with natural sweetness, a great energy boost during hiking. Matsutake Mushroom Stewed Chicken: If in season (summer and autumn), be sure to try the local fresh matsutake mushroom stewed native chicken soup, incredibly delicious. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations: Snow Mountain Viewing Cabins/Tents: Located inside the scenic area, with windows or doors facing the snowy mountains, ideal for watching sunrise and starry sky, but limited availability requires early booking. Prices range from 400-800 yuan per night. Mid-mountain Comfortable Hotels: Well-equipped, usually with floor heating, good views, suitable for families. Prices range from 500-800 yuan per night. Budget Inns/Campsites: Near the scenic area entrance or Shimian County, cost-effective but require early morning ascent. County inns about 150-300 yuan per night, campsite tents (including sleeping bags) about 200-400 yuan per night. Wanggangping directly fills your eyes with the majesty of snowy mountains and the gentleness of the sea of clouds at the same time. Coming here is a top-level treat for your eyes. 📝 Tips: 1. Weather is key: Be sure to check the weather forecast for Shimian County before traveling. Only clear days allow full views of the snowy mountains and golden sunlight. Mountain weather is changeable, bring rain gear. 2. Clothing and gear: The mountaintop is windy with big temperature differences. Even in summer, bring a windbreaker or light down jacket. Wear non-slip, comfortable hiking shoes. Sunscreen (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and high-altitude moisturizing skincare are essential.

Pandas are one of China's most iconic symbols. But seeing them in person isn't as easy as it seems: spotting them in the wild is nearly impossible. The good news is that there are places where you're guaranteed to see them, and in excellent conditions. ⸻ 🐼 1️⃣ Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — the best place in China 📍 Chengdu 👉 Why visit: · one of the largest panda breeding centers · you can see the cubs · get incredibly close to the pandas 👉 When to go: in the morning (when they're active and eating) How to get there: · taxi/Didi ~20–30 mins from downtown Chengdu · subway + bus This is the most reliable and popular option. ⸻ 🐼 2️⃣ Dujiangyan Panda Base — closer to nature 📍 ~1.5 hours from Chengdu 👉 Highlights: · a more peaceful atmosphere · fewer crowds · opportunities to join a volunteer program Here, the pandas look like they are in a more "natural habitat." ⸻ 🐼 3️⃣ Bifengxia Panda Base — mountains and pandas 📍 Ya'an area 👉 Why it's interesting: · mountainous landscape · lush greenery · feels like a true nature reserve Perfect if you want to combine nature and pandas. ⸻ 🐼 4️⃣ Chongqing Zoo — the budget-friendly option 📍 Chongqing 👉 Pros: · cheap admission · easy to get to 👉 Cons: · standard zoo setup · less of a "wow" factor compared to Chengdu ⸻ 🐼 5️⃣ Beijing Zoo Panda House — if you're only visiting Beijing 📍 Beijing A good alternative if you don't have time to fly to Chengdu. However, there's less space and way more people. ⸻ 🐾 Can you see pandas in the wild? Theoretically — yes. Practically — almost impossible. Pandas live in hard-to-reach mountains and are incredibly elusive. Plus, there aren't that many of them left. ⸻ 💡 Essential tips · go in the morning (8–10 AM) — the pandas are active · they sleep during the heat of the day · don't expect much "action" in the afternoon ⸻ 🤔 Where to go: a quick summary · first-timers → Chengdu · fewer crowds → Dujiangyan · nature lovers → Bifengxia · short on time → Beijing / Chongqing ⸻ Seeing pandas isn't just about checking a box. They are some of the most adorable animals, a true symbol of China, and getting this close is a rare opportunity. If you have the chance, it's highly recommended to go to Chengdu. You'll definitely feel the difference compared to a regular zoo.

Dear friends, listen up! Please don’t squeeze into the popular scenic spots this May Day 👋 The overcrowding is super overwhelming! 🤯 Today, I’m recommending this magical self-driving route around Chengdu. Fewer people, beautiful scenery, and super healing—fun for the whole family, young and old alike~😍 📍Day 1 Chengdu → Niba Mountain Hiking → Stay at Yunfeng Temple 🚗 Depart from Chengdu, 3.5 hours straight to Mao Mao Station 👉 Hiking tips: ✓ Free trail, super friendly! 8 km round trip ✓ No stress with kids, 500m elevation gain to the viewing platform ✓ Forest oxygen bar for a lung-cleansing journey 🌲 ✓ At 2999 meters, the viewing platform offers views of Gongga Snow Mountain 🏔️ 🏨 Recommended to stay at the hotel opposite Yunfeng Temple Open your window to a thousand-year-old ancient temple, full of Zen vibes 💯 📍Day 2 Leisurely stroll at Yunfeng Temple → Mengding Mountain 🌅 Morning walk around Yunfeng Temple: ✓ 1700-year-old Phoebe zhennan tree, truly impressive 🌳 ✓ Red walls and ancient trees make every photo a masterpiece 📸 ✓ So quiet you can hear your own heartbeat 💓 🚗 1-hour drive in the afternoon to Mengding Mountain 🍵 Stay at a tea garden homestay with an amazing vibe! Open the window and smell the tea fragrance~ 📍Day 3 Tea picking at Mengding Mountain → Return to Chengdu 🌱 Must-do at Mengding Mountain: ✓ Tea picking experience is super fun (kids love it!) ✓ Free hiking medal for kids (they’ll be over the moon~) ✓ Tea ceremony performance + Gong tea tasting, very artistic 🚗 1.5 hours comfortable drive back to Chengdu 🍽️ Food recommendations: ✔️ Xingjing Bangbang Chicken – spicy, fresh, and fragrant ✔️ Claypot Ya Fish – fresh soup and tender meat ✔️ Old cured meat – smoky flavor, forever classic Food lovers, just go for it! 😋 ⚠️ Tips: ☑️ Big temperature difference between morning and night in the mountains, bring a light jacket + sneakers ☑️ Keep quiet at Yunfeng Temple, be a respectful visitor ☑️ May Day accommodations are tight! Remember to book in advance! ☑️ Mountain roads have many curves, drive carefully This route is truly amazing! No early wake-ups, no rushing, fun for the whole family~ If you want to avoid the crowds this May Day, quickly save this! ✨

A hidden gem near Chengdu for family outings, Ya'an Erlang Mountain Trumpet River is just a 3-hour drive away. No need to squeeze with crowds, the road conditions are good, and electric cars have no trouble. The area is full of greenery, with babbling streams and chances to spot various wild animals—an excellent place to bring kids close to nature. 🗓️ Easy 2-Day Itinerary Day 1: Take the East Route, starting from Hetao Ping. Visit Kaimen Stone Waterfall, Bishui Bay, Tree of Life, and finally the Blue Crystal Waterfall. The entire route is a gentle wooden boardwalk, making it easy for kids to walk. Along the way, the streams, ancient trees, and suspension bridges are stunning—perfect for walking, playing, and taking photos. You can take the small train back to save energy. In the evening, stroll near the hotel; if you're lucky, you might see wild water deer coming down to lick salt. Kids can observe the deer up close, which is especially delightful. Day 2: Take the West Route, visiting Heart-shaped Lake, Red Stone Beach, Rhododendron Trail, and Deer Pond. Along the way, you can see alpine rhododendrons and enjoy distant views of snow-capped mountains. After the hike, kids can receive a commemorative medal, making it very meaningful. 💡 Practical Tips 1. There are monkeys in the mountains; do not feed them and avoid holding plastic bags to prevent being snatched by monkeys. 2. There are few restaurants in the scenic area, and prices are relatively high. It is recommended to bring some snacks and water. 3. There is a big temperature difference between morning and evening. Bring a thick jacket for the kids and take sun protection and mosquito prevention measures. Accommodation 🏨River Luming Hotel Located in the core area of the scenic spot, with mountain views from the window. You can see wild water deer in the evening. Family rooms available. 🏨River Blue Crystal Hotel Close to the Blue Crystal Waterfall, quiet environment surrounded by forest, ideal for family vacations. 🏨Shimian Menghuo City Yunxi Valley Resort Hotel Nearby high-end resort with grassland and snow mountain views, equipped with family-friendly facilities. 🏨Erlang Mountain No.1 Inn Cost-effective homestay near the scenic area, clean and comfortable, with a friendly owner and dining services.

🌲 Forest Escape Guide Who says you have to go to Western Sichuan to escape the heat?! The closest pristine secret spot to Chengdu is right here! 👆 📍 Location: Longcanggou Forest Park, Yingjing County, Ya'an City ✨ Three must-go reasons: ✔️ 97% forest coverage 🌳 Breathe oxygen and refresh your eyes at the same time ✔️ Natural air conditioner with an average temperature of 12.4℃ ❄️ ✔️ Over 100,000 negative oxygen ions/cm³, every deep breath is a gain 💨 📦 Pre-trip packing list ▫️ Gear: Waterproof hiking shoes + windbreaker (It rains whenever it wants in the mountains 🌧️) ▫️ Supplies: Self-heating hot pot + energy bars (Convenience stores are rare in the scenic area 😭) ▫️ Outfit: Cargo pants + bright-colored windbreaker = outdoor photo formula 📸 🚗 Complete transportation guide 【For self-driving】 Chengdu South Gate → Jingkun Expressway → 2.5 hours direct 💡 Hidden tip: Drive carefully on the last 5 km of winding mountain road 【For public transport】 🚄 High-speed rail option: Chengdu West → Ya'an Station → transfer to scenic area shuttle 🚌 Bus option: Shuttle from Xin Nanmen Bus Station 💰 Money-saving tip: Buying round-trip tickets in advance is more cost-effective! 🌟 Must-check-in route reviews 1️⃣ Newbie’s blessing · Diecui Creek Line 👶 Best for kids! Entire route is wooden plank road, very friendly 💦 Highlights: Yuhua Waterfall + popular glass house ⏰ Duration: 2.5 hours (including photo and chill time) 2️⃣ King of photo ops · Tiansheng Bridge Line 📸 Photo hotspot: 30-meter waterfall + moss kingdom ✨ Outfit suggestion: Light colors for a fairy-like vibe 🌞 Best time: 10:00-12:00 for perfect lighting 3️⃣ Hardcore challenge · Qilin Line 🏆 Reward: Limited edition medal for completing the whole route ⚠️ Note: Closed in winter / advance registration required 🏕️ Two-day one-night itinerary Day 1⃣️: 9:00 Depart Chengdu → 11:30 Arrive 14:00 Light hike at Diecui Creek 18:00 Must-try claypot Ya fish (so fresh it’ll blow your mind!) Day 2⃣️: 8:00 Own the deserted Tiansheng Bridge 12:00 Feast on spicy Bangbang chicken 15:00 Return loaded with photos 🍜 Longcanggou on the palate 🔥 Food highlights: ▪️ Claypot Ya fish (fresh soup and tender meat 🐟) ▪️ Yingjing Bangbang chicken (spicy and satisfying 🌶️) ▪️ Tata noodles (handmade and super chewy) 🏨 Accommodation picks Kuanshan Yinlu Resort Hotel ✔️ Cliffside hot spring bath ✔️ Forest view from the window 💤 Surprise bonus: Stargazing at night! ⚠️ Important notices 🕒 Latest entry: 16:30 (Don’t miss out!) 📅 Best seasons: April when the Paulownia flowers bloom like snow ❄️ October when colorful forests cover the mountains 🍁 ❄️ Some areas closed in winter

Want to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the city? Then come here—thousands of acres of tea gardens layered like a painting in vibrant green. Walking through the tea mountains, the breeze carries a faint tea fragrance, calming your whole being. This is the "spiritual massage spot" for hardworking people 🧘 📍 Location: Niunianping, Mingshan, Ya'an ✅ Must-visit spots: ▪️ Tea Terrace Fields: Walk along the plank road, every snapshot is fresh and forest-like ▪️ Cliffside Road: Winding along the mountain edge, perfect for driving or strolling, offering panoramic views of the tea sea ▪️ Forest Cabins: Hidden in the tea gardens, open the window at night to see the stars—quiet and romantic ▪️ Water Buffalo Sculpture: A subtle but very photogenic little corner, full of atmosphere 💫 How to enjoy your visit: ✔️ Pick tea leaves yourself and make tea to experience the life of tea farmers ✔️ Stay in a tea garden cabin, fall asleep with the scent of tea—truly relaxing ✔️ Take a slow walk on the cliffside road, watch the mountains, clouds, and feel the breeze 🚗 About 2 hours drive from Chengdu, perfect for a two-day trip ▫️ Morning: Explore the tea gardens, take photos, immerse yourself in green ▫️ Afternoon: Experience tea picking and making, listen to stories about Mengding Mountain tea ▫️ Evening: Stay in a cabin, stargaze and relax 💡 Tips: 1. Wear light-colored clothes—they match the green tea gardens best and look great in photos 2. Mountain roads have many curves, drive slowly and prioritize safety 3. UV rays are strong, remember sunscreen and bring mosquito repellent This place is not only scenic but also rich in history. In ancient times, water buffaloes were used to grind grain here, hence the name "Niunianping." It is also the core production area of Mengding Mountain tea and one of the starting points of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, with a tea culture history of over 2,000 years. Few people, slow pace—perfect for those who want a quiet weekend~

Recently, I was deeply moved by the "A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains" reposted by People's Daily, so I decided to visit Ya'an. It wasn't until I stood on the Lingyun Platform of Mengding Mountain that I realized—Chinese landscape painting has never been about freehand brushwork, but realism. The endless tea mountains and flowing clouds before me are exactly the world depicted by Wang Ximeng. 📍 Key Information · Address: Mengding Mountain Scenic Area, Mingshan District, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province · Transportation: · Self-driving: About 1.5-2 hours from Chengdu, navigate to "Mengding Mountain Scenic Area." · High-speed rail: From Chengdu East/South to Ya'an Station (about 1 hour), then about 30 minutes by taxi from the station. · Tickets: About 52 RMB per person (discounts possible in off-season), cable car ticket extra. · Recommended visit time: 4-6 hours (easy hiking + photography) 🗺️ Essential Route (No detours) World's First Teapot (photo stop) → Cable car/walk up the mountain → Tiangai Temple (tea break) → Royal Tea Garden → Tianti Ancient Trail (photo spot) → Lingyun Platform (main viewpoint) → Descend · Easy version: Take the cable car up to save time and energy, reserving strength for the beautiful scenery and photos at the top. · Hiking version: Walk up via the "Tianti Ancient Trail," all stone steps, about 1-2 hours, suitable for hiking enthusiasts. 📸 Five Must-Photograph Spots (with photo tips) 1. Lingyun Platform - The Original "A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains" Painting · Location: Core viewing platform at the summit. · Highlights: This is the panoramic essence. On clear days, you can overlook the city and tea mountains; on rainy or foggy days, clouds swirl like a fairyland. Be sure to use a telephoto lens to compress space and capture the layered tea mountains and the depth of the scroll. · Best time: Early morning (to see the sea of clouds) or just after rain clears. 2. Tianti Ancient Trail - The Soul of Depth · Location: Hiking trail. · Shooting tip: Have the subject stand mid-staircase, photographer shoots from a low angle looking up, using the extending steps to create the feeling of "leading to the clouds." The moss and weathered look of the trail act as a natural filter. 3. Tiangai Temple - Ancient Zen Atmosphere · Location: Millennium-old temple near the summit. · Shooting tip: The temple’s red walls, arches, and ancient trees make perfect frames. You can photograph people under the eaves or leaning against the red walls for a strong atmosphere. You can also sit here and enjoy authentic Mengding Mountain tea. 4. Tea Poem Stele Forest Entrance - Forest Frame · Location: Near the Royal Tea Garden. · Shooting tip: Use the dense branches and leaves above the entrance to form a natural "green frame." Have the subject stand in the center of the frame, and the photographer shoot from a distance with a medium focal length for a sophisticated composition. 5. World's First Teapot - Landmark Check-in · Location: Scenic area entrance at the foot of the mountain. · Shooting tip: The giant blue-and-white porcelain teapot is iconic. Use a medium to long shot to include both the person and the teapot, and try symmetrical composition. 💡 Practical Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid 1. Weather is key: The beauty of Mengding Mountain depends 70% on the weather. Check the weather in Ya'an (Mingshan District) before your trip. After rain or on cloudy days, it’s easier to see the misty fairyland; bright sunny days tend to lack charm. 2. Dress advice: Mountain weather is changeable, bring a windbreaker. Shoes must be non-slip as the ancient trail is damp and slippery. For ancient-style photos, bring your own Hanfu or plain long skirts. 3. Cable car choice: The cable car’s upper station is near Tiangai Temple. For descent, you can walk down the Tianti Ancient Trail to experience different scenery and avoid retracing your steps. 4. Food: Be sure to have a cup of Mengding Ganlu tea on the mountain. After descending, try local specialties like Gongjiao Fish and Tata Noodles in Ya'an city. 5. Avoid peak times: Try to avoid weekend afternoons when tour groups are many. Mornings have fewer people and softer light. Summary: Mengding Mountain is not a mountain to "conquer," but a painting to "step into." It unfolds a real "A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains" for you with its fragrant tea hills, ancient trails, and flowing clouds. Choose a non-weekend morning and become a part of the painting for a day. Mengding Mountain

🌿 A hidden green fairyland around Chengdu! Niunianping in Mingshan, Ya'an, features a 15,000-mu terraced tea sea like a green ocean, cliffside roads, forest cabins, and tea fragrance filling the mountains. It’s a weekend healing paradise for workers, off the beaten path and perfect for photos~ ✅ Key Highlights (Must-Visit) · Ten-Thousand-Mu Terraced Tea Sea: Layer upon layer of terraced tea gardens stretch endlessly, every snapshot is wallpaper-worthy. · Cliffside Scenic Road: Winding through tea mountains, hike to overlook the tea sea with magnificent views and a full immersive atmosphere. · Forest Cabin Homestays: Circular wooden cabins hidden in the tea sea, open the window to greenery, and stargazing at night is super romantic. · Water Buffalo Sculpture Check-in Spot: Iconic sculpture of the scenic area, reflecting the origin of the name “Niunianping,” a must-visit for photos. · Tea Culture Heritage: Core production area of Mengding Mountain tea, one of the starting points of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, with over 2,000 years of tea culture, named after water buffalo grinding grain in ancient times. 🍵 Special Experiences (Immersive Activities) · Tea Picking Experience: 30-40 RMB/person, includes tea basket, bamboo hat, and instruction; pick “one bud and one leaf,” best from 9-11 AM, fresh leaves can be taken home. · Handmade Tea Making: 50-100 RMB/pot, fully participate in fixing, rolling, and drying processes; finished tea can be taken home. · Tea Sea Hiking/Cycling: 4 km gentle trail or rent a bike to ride through tea mountains, accompanied by fresh breeze and tea fragrance. · Stargazing Cabin Overnight: Stay in forest cabins or tent hotels, low light pollution at night, clear view of the Milky Way, fall asleep with tea aroma. 📅 Suggested Itinerary (Departing from Chengdu) 1-Day Easy Tour · 08:30 Drive from Chengdu, about 1.5h direct (Chengya Expressway → Mingshan/Ya'an North Exit). · 10:00 Explore the ten-thousand-mu tea garden, walk the plank road, check in at the water buffalo sculpture. · 12:00 Have a tea fragrance feast at the scenic area restaurant (tea leaf scrambled eggs, cured meat stir-fried bamboo shoots). · 14:00 Tea picking experience → watch tea frying process. · 16:00 Hike the cliffside road, overlook the panoramic tea sea. · 17:30 Buy Mengding Mountain tea souvenirs → return to Chengdu. 2-Day Deep Healing Tour · Day 1: Same as 1-day itinerary → 18:30 Check in forest cabin → 19:00 Homestay dinner → 20:30 Stargazing over the tea sea. · Day 2: 08:00 Homestay breakfast → 09:00 Walk the Acacia Ancient Trail → 12:00 Return. 🚌 Transportation Guide Self-driving (Recommended) · Chengdu → Niunianping: About 1.5h, navigate to “Niunianping Ten-Thousand-Mu Sightseeing Tea Garden,” highway toll about 50 RMB. · Parking: Parking lot at the scenic area entrance, 10 RMB/day. Public Transport · Chengdu West Station → High-speed train to Ya'an/Mingshan Station → Ride-hailing/carpool to tea garden (about 30 minutes). ⚠️ Practical Tips · Tickets: Free entry, tea picking/making experiences charge separately. · Dress: Light-colored clothes + straw hat, very photogenic; many mosquitoes in tea gardens, bring insect repellent. · Season: Tea picking season from March to May (best), autumn scenery from September to November, summer cool retreat (average 24°C). · Safety: Mountain roads have many curves, drive slowly; sun protection is a must. · Accommodation: Forest cabins/tent hotels about 500 RMB/night, tea garden homestays 200+ RMB, book in advance recommended. Summary Niunianping is a low-cost, highly healing hidden gem near Chengdu, with free ten-thousand-mu tea sea, immersive tea culture experiences, and stargazing cabins. Avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in nature and tea fragrance. Perfect for a weekend city escape plan—just go for it!

If you’ve been melted by the cuteness of giant pandas and want to see these adorable creatures in person, welcome to China for a visual feast! If you want to see giant pandas, besides Chengdu, there are many other Chinese cities you can visit, each with pandas of different personalities to choose from. Let’s take a look together👇 【Sichuan】 🐼 Hehua (Huahua) 📍 Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Born in 2020, the "short and chubby fluffy" little sister at the Chengdu base, never gets angry even when her bamboo shoots are taken. In 2023, she went viral with her "triangle rice ball" look, boosting ticket sales at the base by 9 times, with over 800,000 fans on social media, widely recognized as the "current top female star." 🐼 Fubao 📍 Wolong China Giant Panda Sanctuary Shenshuping Base Born in 2020 at Korea’s Everland, her keepers made her a guitar, flower crown, and glasses. Before returning to China, there was a "10,000-signature petition" on Korean social media. In April 2024, she returned to Sichuan, with Korean and Chinese journalists covering her like a celebrity airport arrival. 🐼 Xiangxiang 📍 Ya’an Bifengxia Base Born in 2017 at Tokyo Ueno Zoo, named by 320,000 Japanese voters. She contributes billions of yen annually to Japan’s economy. When she returned to China in February 2023, Japanese media broadcasted a 12-hour live farewell with tears. 【Beijing】 🐼 Menglan 📍 Beijing Zoo Born in 2015, known as the "escape artist" of Beijing Zoo, she climbs over walls on red balls, twists door handles, and taunts visitors from afar. A single TikTok video of hers has over 300 million views. Netizens jokingly call her "Beijing’s 985 high-IQ fugitive panda." 【Shanghai】 🐼 Qianran & Qianyi 📍 Shanghai Wild Animal Park Born in 2025, this panda twin pair just started public appearances in February this year and are the newest panda superstars, at their absolute cutest! 【Jiangsu】 🐼 Mengxun & Aobao 📍 Suzhou Taihu National Wetland Park Born in 2022, this brother and sister duo are full of foodie spirit. You can watch them play and frolic here, super lively and adorable! 🐼 Jiujiu 📍 Nanjing Hongshan Forest Zoo Known as "East China’s most beautiful panda," she’s not only pretty but also very talented. You might even see Jiujiu dancing here~ 【Chongqing】 🐼 Shuangshuang, Chongchong, Xixi & Qingqing (The Four Joy Meatballs) 📍 Chongqing Zoo Home to 23 pandas! There’s always one that will steal your heart! The internet-famous four little pandas called "Four Joy Meatballs" come from here. If you’re lucky, you might even see them "playing mahjong." 【Liaoning】 🐼 Feiyun 📍 Dalian Forest Zoo Dalian Forest Zoo’s "first-generation female internet celebrity," round-headed and all white, nicknamed "Feiyun Piggy" by fans. Along with Jinhu and Miaoyin, she’s known as one of the "Three Treasures of Dalian," with live streams regularly attracting over 100,000 viewers. 【Shaanxi】 🐼 Qizai 📍 Qinling Four Treasures Science Park The world’s only captive brown giant panda, discovered in 2009 in Shaanxi’s Foping. With chocolate-colored fur, playfully called the "Labrador of the panda world." 【Shandong】 🐼 Yaji 📍 Jinan Zoo A treasure little panda who’s great at "business"! Because when she stands on all fours she looks like a small stool, she’s affectionately called "Little Stool." Which panda has captured your heart? Besides the pandas mentioned above, many other provinces across the country have adorable giant pandas waiting to meet you! Start planning your panda trip now and witness the charm of China’s national treasure in person!

Who can resist the sunrise and sea of clouds on a snowy mountain? Especially at Niubei Mountain, rated by China National Geographic as "China's Largest 360° Viewing Platform." After reopening six years later, tickets are now completely free. Once jokingly called "Expensive Niubei Mountain" due to high fees, it is now the king of cost performance. You’ll truly regret not going! 📍 Location: Niubei Mountain is located at Piaogou, Niubei Mountain Town, on the border of Yingjing County and Luding County in Ya'an City, Sichuan Province. It is a branch of Erlang Mountain and serves as the watershed between the Qingyi River and the Dadu River. The summit stands at 3,666 meters above sea level. Its unique terrain, surrounded by mountains on all four sides with a central peak, offers an unobstructed ultimate view, allowing a 360° panoramic view of snowy mountains and seas of clouds, truly experiencing the awe of "mountains paying homage." 🌅 The Six Wonders of Niubei Mountain make it a fairyland on earth: First, the sea of clouds, where dense and even clouds sometimes lie flat like a mirror and sometimes surge like a waterfall, with cloud cascades flowing down the ridges creating a visual shock; Second, the sunrise, from 6:00 to 6:30 AM, golden rays dye the sea of clouds red, and Mount Gongga is edged in gold, the breathtaking "Sunlight on the Golden Mountain" scene leaves one speechless; Third, the sunset, from 7:00 to 7:40 PM, the horizon is dyed a brilliant orange-red, and the sea of clouds gently surges, showing tenderness; Fourth, Mount Gongga, the king of Sichuan mountains, whose majestic outline is clearly visible, with snowy peaks and seas of clouds complementing each other; Fifth, the Buddha’s light, a magical phenomenon where a colorful halo surrounds your shadow when luck is on your side; Sixth, the star trails, from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM, the Milky Way stretches across the sky, stars sparkle like diamonds scattered everywhere, every shot is a masterpiece. 📸 Creative photo spots perfect for taking pictures: the 3,666-meter viewing platform, popular signposts, sky ladders, swings, photo frames, and more. Every corner can produce atmospheric photos that easily flood your social media. Plus, almost the entire route is accessible by vehicle, making it easy for everyone to reach the summit without strenuous hiking and still enjoy the stunning scenery. 🚗 Highlights of the trip: Passing by Maobiliang, you can enjoy a full view of the Four Girls Mountain; the larch trees on both sides of the Yala Snow Mountain Scenic Area look stunning under the sunlight; and the beautiful highland sacred lake, Stignco, offers views of the Gongga mountain range. Along the way, you’ll see cattle and sheep dotting the landscape, making every photo wallpaper-worthy. Currently, the ticket + sightseeing bus package is free, originally priced at 240 RMB per person. The sightseeing bus runs uphill from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and downhill from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Plan your time well to fully enjoy the cloudscape. Standing at the 3,666-meter summit, watching the sea of clouds surge, the silent snowy mountains, and the sunset dye the horizon red, all worries are healed by this ultimate beauty. This is probably the true meaning of travel.

Ya'an Longcanggou Diecui Creek, praised by "China National Geography" as the "Best Red Leaf Viewing Spot in Southwest China," is the perfect hidden paradise to visit in December! 📍Location: Jinshan Group, Fazhan Village, Longcanggou Town, Yingjing County, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province 🚗Transportation: 1. Self-driving: Navigate to "Longcanggou Diecui Creek Scenic Area," about 2 hours drive with good road conditions 2. Public Transport: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu North Station to Yingjing Station, then taxi/bus to the destination (40 minutes) 🎫Tickets: Adult ticket 25 RMB (cheaper if purchased online) 🏠Accommodation: It is recommended to stay in Yingjing County town or guesthouses near the scenic area for easy early morning red leaf viewing 🍲Food Recommendations: Yingjing mutton soup, Yingjing dried tofu, Yingjing clay pot dishes ✅Must-visit Attractions: 1. Wanxiang Mountain Red Leaf Valley: A 10-minute hike to see the "Golden Sea," which looks like an oil painting from afar! 2. Bitan Valley: Take the aerial cableway to overlook the red leaves and stroll in the forest oxygen bar 3. Qianyu Pool: Take photos from the viewing platform and feel like you are in a fairyland! 4. Zishi River Stream: You can wear rain boots to step in the water and take natural beautiful photos 5. Wild Rhododendron Forest: In summer, the rhododendrons bloom into a sea of pink flowers! ⏰Visiting Tips: · Best viewing period: Late October to mid-December each year (subject to actual weather) · Book tickets in advance: Especially on weekends and holidays when tickets sell out quickly, plan ahead · Gear preparation: Hiking shoes/sneakers, sun hat, insect repellent, rain gear, etc. · Suggested duration: Half a day to a full day (taking the cableway can save effort) 🌟Highlights: The magical scenery of red leaves combined with rime frost! The evening light is the most dreamy!

✨I rarely use the word "stunning" to describe a place… Until I stumbled upon Bifengxia just 2 hours around Chengdu! Who would have thought!! A waterfall thunders down from a hundred-meter cliff💦 Mist hits your face, and greenery stretches to the horizon🌿 Standing at the bottom of the valley looking up—the Qingyun Ladder pierces the sky☁️ It feels like entering a secret world beneath the earth, or stepping into a Hayao Miyazaki animation🎬 · 📍Bifengxia Scenic Area 🚗 2 hours self-drive from Chengdu 🚄 Take the high-speed train to Ya'an Station, then take a tourist shuttle (8 RMB) from the station exit directly to Bifengxia Visitor Center (shuttle runs 9:00–17:00, every 30 minutes) · ☑️ Check-in Guide 📝 ❶ Qingyun Ladder Three panda-themed glass elevators with 180° aerial views, capturing sea of clouds, forest, and waterfalls in full sight. Cross a hundred meters in 30 seconds, easily going up and down the canyon. ❷ Canyon Suspended Transparent Bridge The bridge connects the Wildlife World Sea Lion Pavilion and the Panda Base. After visiting the zoo, it takes only 10 minutes to reach the Panda Base. ❸ Giant Panda Base About 40 pandas live here, most with their cubs. Feeding times are usually at 9:00, 11:00, 13:45, and 15:45, when pandas come out to eat🍽️ You can take close photos with pandas at these spots👇 📍Kindergarten: Yunduo family, Yaya family 📍Leopard Hill: Xiangxiang, Fairy, Huabaobei 📍Returnee Garden: Zhenzhen family, Feihong ❹ Wildlife ① Predator Feeding: Ride the predator feeding vehicle to feed lions🦁, brown bears🐻, and high-five tigers🙌🏻 up close. ② Harmony Home: Get close to gentle animals like alpacas, deer, and lambs. ③ Bird Paradise: Various free-range birds including pelicans, red-bellied tragopans, peacocks, etc. Pelicans often glide down from trees into the water, peacocks spread their tails blocking the way, and photos with parrots are very photogenic🤳 ❺ Ecological Canyon Feels like a primeval jungle, perfect for light hiking and photo check-ins🤳 ✔️ Left Canyon (7.5km): Starts at the right side of the drop-off point from Visitor Center to Panda Base, ends at Qingyun Ladder ✔️ Right Canyon (2.5km): Take a bus and get off at Yanu Garden, ends at Qingyun Ladder

Still squeezing into crowded popular spots? This weekend, take your little one to this beautiful, less crowded place to enjoy the autumn scenery 🍂 Waterfalls, boat rides, water play, hiking Check out the following guide 🫶🏻 📍 Itinerary Day 1️⃣ Chengdu → Yanv Lake → Fuxing Village 🔘 Yanv Lake is free to enter, with clear water reflecting green mountains—it's hard to tell if it's a scene or a painting. Take your baby on a boat ride across the lake; this kind of joy can last all day. 🔘 Fuxing Village, recommended by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful villages, feels like a hidden garden paradise. Misty mountains + unique ancient village + riverside grasslands + forest hiking—every angle feels like a time-traveling dream. ✅ Tips for the trip 🔘 Plenty of time, so get a good rest before heading out. 🔘 Bring an umbrella or raincoat; Ya'an’s famous rain is well-deserved. 🔘 Stay overnight by the lake; open the window and enjoy the full scenic experience! Day 2️⃣ Yanv Lake → Yanyuan Village Waterfall → Chengdu Weekends are for sleeping in naturally. From Yanv Lake, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Yanyuan Village Waterfall 💦. The waterfall cascades down thousands of feet, like the Milky Way falling from the sky (not quite that dramatic). The multi-layered mountain waterfall sprays water droplets everywhere, making you marvel at nature’s craftsmanship ⛰️. Capture your baby’s happiness with your camera 📸—this is the scenery parents love most. Hike along the small river; the light and joyful mood flows through your heart like the river water 🥰. ✅ Tips for the trip 🔘 The mountain road is winding but in good condition; drive safely. 🔘 The spray under the waterfall is heavy, so waterproof jackets, umbrellas, and non-slip shoes are important. 🔘 The return trip from Yanyuan Village Waterfall to Chengdu takes about three hours. The downhill road is twisty, so drive slowly to avoid motion sickness. 🔘 Yanyuan Village Waterfall is completely free 🆓, and parking is free too. This place is less crowded and beautiful, with no entrance fees throughout 🆓. Every frame captured by your camera is a scenic view. Perfect for a family or friends’ weekend getaway.

Real shot on 2026.3.23 🤟 This place really looks like a painting. It’s only an hour’s drive away, a real tea garden paradise! When the morning mist rises, the high-speed train passes through the tea mountains. At that moment, I was stunned, speechless from the beauty... Route 🚏 🚗 Drive directly and navigate to "Qilong Village Farmer Service Center, Mingshan District, Ya'an City." Parking is free, about 1 hour from Chengdu. You can also take the 🚄 high-speed train to "Mingshan Station," then a 20-minute taxi ride to get there. 🪀 How to enjoy it: 1️⃣ The best spots are Changgang Mountain and Qilong Village, with a super wide view where you can capture stunning shots of tea gardens and the high-speed train in the same frame. 2️⃣ You must get up early! 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM is the golden time to shoot the morning mist. The early morning after rain is the best chance to see the sea of clouds~ 3️⃣ Want to shoot the high-speed train passing through the tea mountains? Check the Chengdu-Ya'an train schedule on 12306 in advance, find your spot, and wait... 📍 About nearby plans: 📷 After taking photos, you can visit Mount Mengding, the birthplace of world ☕️ tea culture. Have a cup of Mengding Ganlu tea and watch the "Dragon’s Eighteen Styles" tea art performance—so relaxing. If you’re hungry, try Hongxing Zhazha Beef and Mingshan Lamb Soup, both local old brands. If you have time, stay overnight at a tea garden guesthouse. Open the window to a sea of tea and start shooting right in the morning. ✨ Some tips: To see the morning mist, check the weather forecast in advance; the best chance is after rain when it clears. Wear white or light-colored clothes—they stand out beautifully against the vast green tea gardens. Remember to bring a jacket; it’s a bit chilly in the mountains in the morning. There are no shops on the mountain, so bring some snacks and water. Honestly, this is a great weekend getaway for everyone! This place is so healing, and I’ve already added it to my list of places to revisit again and again.

Just 1 hour from Chengdu! Take the kids to step into a real-life version of "A Thousand Li of Rivers and Mountains"! Right in Qilong Village, Mingshan, Ya'an, this is not a painting but a real tea garden paradise! When the morning mist rises, the high-speed train passes through the tea hills, stunningly beautiful and speechless—an excellent weekend destination for family hiking and getting close to nature! 🌿 Family Travel Transportation Guide ✔️ Drive directly and navigate to "Qilong Village Agricultural Service Center, Mingshan District, Ya'an City." Free parking available, about 1 hour from Chengdu. ✔️ You can also take the high-speed train to "Mingshan Station," then a 20-minute taxi ride to reach the destination. 🌿 Complete Family Travel Guide ❶ The best photo spots are at Changgang Mountain and Qilong Village, with an ultra-wide view where you can capture the stunning scene of tea gardens and high-speed trains in one frame—perfect for taking great family photos with kids. ❷ Be sure to get up early! The golden time to shoot the morning mist is from 6:30 to 10:00 AM. The early morning after rain is the best chance to see the sea of clouds, unlocking a fairyland-like tea garden view with your kids. ❸ Want to capture the high-speed train passing through the tea hills? Check the Chengdu-Ya'an train schedule on 12306 in advance, find your spot, and wait. Kids will be super excited to see the train running through the tea garden. 🌿 Nearby Family Activities ▪️ After taking photos, visit Mount Mengding, the birthplace of world tea culture. Let the kids taste Mengding sweet dew tea and watch the "Dragon's Eighteen Styles" tea-making performance for an immersive tea culture experience. ▪️ When hungry, try local old brands like Hongxing Zhazha Beef and Mingshan Lamb Soup, which kids also love. ▪️ If you have enough time, consider staying one night at a tea garden homestay. Open the window to a sea of tea, and you can start shooting early in the morning without rushing. 🌿 Family Travel Tips ✔️ To see the morning mist, check the weather forecast in advance; the best chance is after rain when the sky clears. ✔️ Wear white or light-colored clothes—they stand out beautifully against the green tea garden. Remember to bring a jacket as it can be a bit chilly in the mountains in the morning. ✔️ There are no shops on the mountain, so bring snacks and drinking water to keep the kids energized anytime. Accommodation 🏨Mengding Mountain Huajiantang·Chama Si A high-end resort hotel adjacent to the tea hills with a tea horse culture theme, featuring a family play area and tea culture experience projects—perfect for both fun and learning with kids. 🏨Chayu Yuanshe Wild Luxury Homestay A wild luxury homestay in the Qilong Village tea garden, with windows opening to a vast sea of tea. Kids can experience tea picking and tea frying for an immersive tea garden life. 🏨Yujian Fanghua Homestay A boutique family homestay hidden in the tea hills, with a courtyard water play pool and children's play facilities—ideal for family trips. 🏨Mingshan Beyond Time Homestay A light luxury homestay surrounded by vast tea gardens with wide views. Experience tea picking and making, and watch the tea sea sunrise right from your window—perfect for a family vacation atmosphere. ---

Spring really is when the world is at its greenest. And this place is a “tea mountain with endless green as far as the eye can see.” This is the “Ten-Thousand-Mu Tea Garden,” a vast tea plantation where tea bushes are planted in neat layers, like green waves flowing across the mountains. From above, it looks just like an ancient Chinese painting. What you do here is simple: walk through the seemingly endless tea fields, enjoy the cool breeze + breathe in the tea fragrance + soak up 100% pure nature. · Watch the opening ceremony of the tea-picking season → Cultural performances → Long-spout tea pouring (tea art performance), incredibly cool · Try “picking tea leaves yourself” → Pluck the tender new buds from the plants → Super immersive experience · Taste the “new spring tea” → Fresh, fragrant, and smooth → One sip and you’ll understand why the tea here is so famous The vibe here · Quiet, peaceful, and not crowded · Green mountains everywhere · Perfect for slow-life lovers Highlights · Panoramic views of the tea sea · Little walking paths through the tea fields · Layered mountain views like a “Chinese painting” Perfect for anyone who wants to relax, loves nature, or wants beautiful photos 📍 Location Ya’an (雅安) → About 1–2 hours from Chengdu Best time to visit March–April (tea-picking season + the freshest, greenest scenery)