7 Days Chengdu Leshan & Chongqing Cultural & Natural Tour

Arrival in Chengdu--Free Time

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Upon arrival in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey. Chengdu is known as the "Land of Abundance" and is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, spicy cuisine, and giant pandas.

You may take a leisurely walk around your hotel area to get a first impression of this charming city. The air is filled with the aroma of Sichuan spices, and local teahouses are scattered throughout the neighborhoods, offering a perfect place to sit and observe the slow pace of local life.

Evening Option:
In the evening, we recommend trying an authentic Sichuan hotpot dinner. Known for its bold and spicy flavors, this is a great way to experience Chengdu's culinary culture. Many local restaurants, such as Shu DaXia or Huangcheng Laoma, offer theatrical service and traditional decor to enhance your dining experience.

Recommended Activities:

Wanxiang Lane, Chunxi Road, Fuqin Night Market, watching face-changing and fire-spitting performances.

Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding--People's Park--Old streets of Jinli

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Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, we will head to the Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see China’s most beloved animal in a protected, natural environment. Watch them munch on bamboo, tumble in the playground, and rest in their shaded enclosures.

Then we’ll visit People’s Park, a local favorite where Chengdu residents practice tai chi, dance, and sing in open areas. Take a seat in one of the old teahouses by the lake and enjoy a slow-paced moment with a cup of flower tea.

In the afternoon, we will visit the historic Jinli Ancient Street, filled with traditional wooden facades, red lanterns, local snacks, and handicraft shops. It’s a great place to try Sichuan street food and shop for unique souvenirs.

Evening Option:
Experience the art of Sichuan Opera, including the dazzling face-changing performance at Shufeng Yayun Teahouse. The show is both humorous and mysterious—an excellent introduction to Chengdu's cultural soul.

Chengdu-Leshan--Leshan Giant Buddha--Emei Mount Baoguo Temple

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Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, we will drive to Leshan to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world, towering at 71 meters. Built over 1,200 years ago at the meeting point of three rivers, the Buddha sits peacefully with hands on knees, guarding the waterway. You can either walk down the cliff trail alongside the statue or take a boat ride for a panoramic view.

Next, we continue our journey to Mount Emei, one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. Upon arrival, we will visit Baoguo Temple, a tranquil and historic site nestled at the base of the mountain. Surrounded by ancient trees, this temple offers a serene atmosphere and insight into Buddhist culture.

Evening Option:
Take a peaceful evening walk around Baoguo Temple area, where you can enjoy the mountain breeze, visit local shops, and try vegetarian meals offered by nearby eateries.

Climb Emei mount--Leidongping--the Golden Summit--Turn back to Chengdu

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Breakfast & Lunch

After an early breakfast, we will ascend Mount Emei. First, we take a sightseeing bus up to Leidongping, followed by a short hike or cable car ride to the breathtaking Golden Summit (Jinding), standing at over 3,000 meters above sea level. On clear days, you’ll witness a sea of clouds, golden statues glistening in sunlight, and panoramic views stretching across distant peaks.

You will also see the majestic 48-meter tall golden statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and several ancient temples that add spiritual ambiance to the summit.

In the afternoon, we descend the mountain and drive back to Chengdu.

Evening Option:
After your mountain adventure, pamper yourself with a traditional Chinese foot massage in one of Chengdu’s wellness spas, a great way to relax after a long day.

High-speed Train to Chongqing--Shancheng Lane--White Elephant Street--White Elephant House--Dongshuimen City Wall Ruins--Yangtze River Cableway--Hongyadong

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Breakfast & Lunch

Early in the morning, when the first rays of sunshine pour over the staggered buildings of Shancheng, we will depart from the historical Shancheng Lane, where the ancient houses and stores on both sides of the stone-paneled road intertwine to create a vivid picture of the old street. Afterwards, lightly turn to White Elephant Street, which was once a prosperous place where merchants gathered, and every piece of green stone board seems to be whispering about the past splendor. 

Continuing on to the White Elephant House, this residential complex surrounded by the spectacle of the light rail running through the building is a perfect example of the fusion of modernity and antiquity, which makes people stop and look up, marveling at the unique magical charm of the mountain city. 

Stroll to the Dongshuimen City Wall Ruins, the mottled walls witnessed the vicissitudes of Chongqing City, as if you can travel through time and feel the resilience and unyielding. Then go to experience the different scenery brought by the Yangtze River Cableway.

Finally, at nightfall, arrived at Hongyadong, the lights, hanging footstools built on the mountain, layers upon layers, like a bright night pearl set in the Jialing River, this is not only the sea of food, but also a perfect place to experience the culture of Bayu.

Eighteen Stairs--Jiefangbei--Liziba (light rail through the building)--Ciqikou

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Breakfast & Lunch

In the early morning light,  you will step into the Eighteen Stairs, which is full of historical flavor. The stone paths here have gone through vicissitudes of life, and each piece of green stone plate records the stories of the past. The old houses on both sides of the street are mottled, but you can still see the prosperity of the past. The small stores along the street are bustling with all kinds of handicrafts and local snacks, and the air is filled with tantalizing aromas.

After the Eighteen Stairs, We will then take you to Jiefangbei, the commercial center of Chongqing and a symbol of the city. The towering monument gleams in the sunlight, and the surrounding skyscrapers showcase the city's modernity and prosperity. You can stroll through the busy streets, admire the various stores and billboards, and feel the fashion and vitality of the city.

In the late afternoon, we will bring you to the scene of the spectacle of the Liziba Light Railway passing through the buildings. This incredible sight is breathtaking as the LRT train slowly passes through the residential buildings. You can stand on the observation deck to get a close-up view of this mind-blowing scene and feel the harmonious coexistence between modern transportation and ancient architecture.

Finally, as night falls, we will take you to the old town of Ciqikou. The town is full of lights and people, and is filled with a rich historical and cultural atmosphere. You can stroll along the green stone road and admire the ancient buildings and the wide range of handicraft stores. Taste the authentic Chongqing snacks in front of the food stalls in the ancient town and feel the unique spicy and fresh aroma. In the teahouse to listen to a Sichuan opera face-changing performance is to appreciate the unique charm of the Bayu culture.

As the sun sets, we will arrange a special car to take you to the airport or station, the end of this unforgettable two-day tour of Chongqing. We hope this trip will become a wonderful memory in your heart, and look forward to meeting you again in the mountain city.

Eling Park--Three Gorges Museum--Transfer to Airport

Breakfast & Lunch

After breakfast, depending on your departure schedule, you may enjoy some free time to explore more of Chongqing before your transfer to the airport or train station.

One great option is to visit Eling Park, located on a hilltop that offers sweeping views of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. This tranquil park features traditional pavilions, bonsai gardens, and quiet walking paths—an ideal spot for reflection and one last photo of the city skyline.

Another excellent morning stop is the Three Gorges Museum, a modern exhibition space showcasing the history, culture, and ecological impact of the Yangtze River and the monumental Three Gorges Dam project. It's an enriching way to end your journey with deeper insight into the region.

What to Buy in Chongqing:

Before you leave, take the opportunity to pick up some local specialties and souvenirs:

Spicy Hotpot Base – A must-have for recreating Chongqing’s iconic hotpot experience at home.

Green Sichuan Peppercorn (Qinghuajiao) – Known for its numbing citrusy aroma, perfect for cooking authentic dishes.

Chili Sauces – Local brands offer spicy condiments that are bold, rich, and addictive.

Traditional Snacks – Try crispy twists, sesame candies, or spicy peanuts, which come in decorative packaging for easy gifting.

Cultural Souvenirs – Look for fridge magnets, art prints, or miniature models of Chongqing's famous monorail and cableway.

Recommended Activities:

If time permits before your departure, enjoy a relaxing walk through Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street to do some last-minute shopping or grab a bowl of Chongqing noodles for lunch—spicy, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, they’re a perfect culinary send-off.

Afterward, your driver will escort you to the airport or train station. We hope you had a memorable adventure and look forward to welcoming you back to China again soon.