Shunan Bamboo Sea

Historical Overview

The Bamboo Sea’s history spans millennia, with bamboo cultivation documented since the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644). Local communities have utilized bamboo for crafts, paper-making, and architecture for centuries. The area gained prominence in the 1980s as eco-tourism emerged, with infrastructure like boardwalks and cable cars added to showcase its beauty. Today, it symbolizes sustainable tourism, blending conservation with cultural preservation.

Structural Layout

The scenic area is divided into three zones:

1. Bamboo Forest Zone: Dense bamboo groves, including rare species like Phyllostachys nigra (black bamboo).
2. Lake & Waterfall Zone: Features the serene Haiwang Lake and the 30-meter-high Seven-Color Waterfall.
3. Cultural Zone: Home to the 1,400-year-old Longdian Temple and the Bamboo Art Museum.
   Key infrastructure includes a 10km aerial cable car, 30km wooden boardwalk, and 15 viewing decks.

Major Attractions

1. Seven-Color Waterfall: A cascading waterfall reflecting rainbow hues in sunlight.
2. Haiwang Lake: A glassy lake surrounded by bamboo, offering boat tours and fishing.
3. Longdian Temple: A Tang Dynasty Buddhist temple with bamboo-themed murals.
4. Bamboo Art Museum: Showcases bamboo crafts, from furniture to musical instruments.
5. Skywalk Bridge: A 500-meter-long Glass Bridge suspended 150 meters above the forest.
6. Jade Screen Peak: The highest point, offering panoramic views of the “bamboo ocean.”

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Express Route:
   Visitor Center → Cable Car → Jade Screen Peak → Seven-Color Waterfall → Return.
   Highlights: Waterfall views and peak panoramas in 3 hours.

2. Full-Day Exploration Route:
   Visitor Center → Bamboo Art Museum → Longdian Temple → Haiwang Lake → Skywalk Bridge.
   Highlights: Cultural sites, lake cruises, and adrenaline-pumping walks.

3. Multi-Day Trek (2 Days):
   Day 1: Bamboo Forest Trail (12km) with stops at waterfalls and temples.
   Day 2: Trek to Jade Screen Peak Base Camp (1,200m) for sunrise photography.
   Highlights: Immersive bamboo studies and high-altitude vistas.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Shunan Bamboo Sea WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets available at the Visitor Center; arrive early to avoid queues.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (April–October): ¥100 (adults), ¥50 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (November–March): ¥60 (adults), ¥30 (students/seniors).
  • Cable Car: ¥80 one-way, ¥120 round-trip.
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station → Yibin (3 hours) → Local shuttle to Shunan (1.5 hours).
• By Car:
  • 3-hour drive from Chengdu via Chengya’an Expressway.
• By Tour:
  • Group tours from Chengdu include bamboo forest tours and tea ceremonies.
• Departure: Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes from the scenic area entrance to Yibin/Chengdu.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: March–May (bamboo shoots), September–November (autumn colors).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
• Weather: Pack rain gear (rainy season: June–August) and layers (15–25°C).
• Essentials:
  • Wear hiking boots (muddy trails post-rain).
  • Carry insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Respect local customs (quiet trails, no bamboo picking).
• Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and smoking to prevent forest fires.