Fed up with the endless concrete jungle and the hustle of crowded subways? Escape the urban chaos and head to the serene surroundings of Chengdu. Here, the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, shaped by the flow of the long river, stands as a testament to history, while the lush green hills of Mount Qingcheng embrace peaceful teahouses. Let our guide lead you on a relaxed journey through these scenic wonders at a gentle pace, offering a refreshing break from the city's bustle.
Day Trip Overview: Dujiangyan & Qingcheng Mountain
Recommended Itinerary:
A Beautiful Qingcheng Mountain Adventure
If you're interested, feel free to contact us for a customized itinerary tailored to your preferences.
Morning: Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Start your day with a visit to the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation Project. Begin at the Qinyan Building, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire water system. Descend to the Erwang Temple, which honors Li Bing and his son, the creators of this world-renowned project. Continue across the Anlan Suo Bridge, also known as the Husband and Wife Bridge, and stroll through the Lidui Park, exiting through the main gate.
This top-down route not only avoids the crowds but also saves time and energy, offering a relaxed exploration of the area. Along the way, you'll find opportunities for photography and enjoy some local snacks.
Lunch: Chengdu's Hidden Culinary Gems
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delicious local meal at one of Chengdu’s hidden gems, known only to locals. Let us guide you to these lesser-known restaurants where you can savor authentic Chengdu flavors.
Afternoon: Hiking the Back Mountain of Qingcheng
In the afternoon, head to Qingcheng Mountain, known for its tranquility and natural beauty. While the front mountain is often crowded with pilgrims, the back mountain offers a peaceful escape. Here, you can relax at landscape tea lodges, visit old tea rooms beside streams, and engage in leisurely activities like Mahjong or casual chats.
To make the most of your time, we recommend taking the cable car up to the top of the mountain and descending on foot, where you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Exploring Dujiangyan
When thinking of Chengdu, Dujiangyan is a must-visit. This ancient irrigation system, designed by Li Bing and his son over 2,000 years ago, is still operational today and has been crucial for flood control, drought relief, and irrigation. The system has supported generations of Chengdu’s population and continues to be a marvel of engineering.
By entering from the Qinyan Building, you’ll have the chance to admire this extraordinary water conservancy project from above. It may seem simple at first glance, but it is the oldest damless water management system still in use today.
Transportation:
Self-driving: Take the Chengdu-China Highway
Public transport: A direct train from Chengdu Ripu Station to Dujiangyan
Ticket Information:
Full ticket: 90 RMB
Half-price tickets are available for students under 1.2 meters tall and seniors over 60 but under 70 years old
Operating Hours:
High season (March 2 to November 30): 08:00-17:00
Low season (December 1 to March 1): 08:00-18:00
Visit to Erwang Temple & Anlan Bridge:
After leaving the Qinyan Building, visit the Erwang Temple, dedicated to Li Bing and his son. The temple was once featured in the famous 1986 TV adaptation of Journey to the West. From there, continue your walk to the Anlan Suo Bridge (also known as the Husband and Wife Bridge). Be sure to hold onto the railings as the bridge can be quite shaky, and children might prefer to be carried.
Tips:
While snacks inside the scenic area can be pricier, they are definitely worth trying. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local treats along the way.
West Street of Nanqiao:
After passing the Anlan Bridge, you’ll come across Nanqiao Bridge, a great spot for retro-style photos. From here, head to the lively West Street, an ancient street rich with history. West Street is not only an important starting point for the Southern Silk Road into Tibet but also a hub for local vendors and food stalls.
Chengdu’s Local Delicacies:
After your morning exploration, stop by a few of Chengdu’s beloved local eateries for an authentic taste of the city:
West Street Wangshi: A cozy courtyard serving home-cooked dishes. No menu – the chef decides the specials based on the day’s ingredients. Price: Around 50 RMB per person.
Luoji Sweet Water: A small restaurant offering handmade noodles with rich, flavorful sauces. Price: Around 15 RMB per person.
Tuqiao Chicken: Known for its hearty, flavorful dishes like potato and eggplant casserole and shrimp with egg. Price: Around 55 RMB per person.
Old-fashioned Li Douhua: Located near Qingcheng Mountain, this spot serves classic Sichuan dishes at affordable prices. Price: Around 35 RMB per person.
Zhang Mash: For dessert, try this place near Li Douhua for sticky rice noodles in brown sugar syrup. Price: Around 10 RMB per person.
Mount Qingcheng:
Qingcheng Mountain offers a tranquil retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Known for its Taoist culture, the mountain is a peaceful haven for Chengdu locals. The front mountain is home to temples and religious sites, while the back mountain is quieter and more suited for nature lovers.
Front Mountain Ticket: 90 RMB
Cableway Ticket (Yuecheng Lake to Siwangguan): One-way 35 RMB, Round trip 60 RMB
Back Mountain:
The back mountain is a part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Habitat and provides a natural retreat with fresh air and fewer crowds. The area is ideal for hiking, tea-drinking, and escaping the summer heat. The Valley Tea House is a popular spot for relaxation. We recommend taking the cable car up and hiking down, either along the Wulonggou or Cuiying Lake route.
Tips:
Wear comfortable sports shoes for hiking.
Back Mountain Admission: 20 RMB
Cable Car Prices: One-way 30 RMB, Round trip 55 RMB
With the right balance of culture, nature, and local flavors, this itinerary offers a perfect escape from the city and an unforgettable day trip around Chengdu.