Ancient Qiang Town, Jiuzhaigou & Panda Valley

• Chengdu – Ancient Qiang City – Chuanzhu Temple 

• 4+ stars Hotel

• None

In the morning, depart from Chengdu and head to the Ancient Qiang City, a 4-hour drive. Located in Taoping Town, Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province, the Ancient Qiang City is a typical cultural hub for the Qiang people. Famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture, folk customs, and rituals, the city is a rich blend of history and culture. The buildings here feature distinctive Qiang style, with wooden and stone structures, roofs covered with straw or wooden planks, and narrow winding streets that create an old-world, historic atmosphere.

The cultural heritage of the Ancient Qiang City is abundant. As the birthplace of the Qiang people, the local customs, handicrafts, and traditional religious ceremonies are well-preserved. Every morning at 9 AM, a local performance team, dressed in traditional Qiang attire and holding sheep skin drums, performs a grand city-opening ceremony. The lively dance and song, filled with passion and cultural significance, offer a deep dive into Qiang culture and history.

During your visit, you can also explore the Qiang Ethnological Museum to learn about the history, culture, and craftsmanship of the Qiang people, or visit local handicraft shops to taste Qiang cuisine and experience the local lifestyle.

In the afternoon, continue to Chuanzhu Temple, a 1-hour drive. Located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters, this quiet and clean town has a strong Tibetan cultural atmosphere. Chuanzhusi is not a temple but a town full of Tibetan culture. The town’s buildings retain traditional Tibetan architectural styles, with prayer flags, Tibetan prayers, and Buddhist statues adorning every corner, creating a profound religious atmosphere.

Standing at the entrance of the town, you can see distant snow-capped mountains and enjoy the stunning natural scenery. The town still retains traditional Tibetan wedding and funeral customs, and its residents live simple lives, offering a glimpse into the unique Tibetan cultural charm. Here, you can interact with the local Tibetan people and learn about their lifestyle and beliefs. After dinner, check into a local hotel for rest.

• Chuanzhu Temple – Huanglong 

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, depart from Chuanzhu Temple and head to Huanglong, a 2-hour drive. Known as a "fairyland on earth," Huanglong is one of the most beautiful scenic spots in China. The Huanglong National Park, known for its unique calcified pools, colorful ponds, snow-capped mountains, and pristine forests, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Upon arrival at Huanglong, you will take a cable car to the high points of the park, offering a panoramic view of the stunning scenery. The Five-Color Pool is particularly captivating, with the water reflecting different colors under the sunlight, creating a rainbow-like spectacle. Huanglong's snow mountains, forests, and crystal-clear streams intertwine, creating a majestic natural landscape.

After lunch, continue exploring Huanglong, where you will pass through alpine meadows, waterfalls, and more scenic spots. In the afternoon, return to Chuanzhusi for rest and prepare for the next day’s trip to Jiuzhaigou.

• Jiuzhaigou 

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, depart from Chuanzhu Temple and head to Jiuzhaigou, a 2-hour drive. Jiuzhaigou is one of China’s most famous natural scenic areas, often referred to as "Heaven on Earth." Jiuzhaigou attracts visitors with its crystal-clear lakes, rich forests, and beautiful snow-capped mountains. Today, you will explore the main scenic spots of Jiuzhaigou.

Accompanied by a guide, you will visit the three major valleys: Shuzheng Valley, Rize Valley, and Zechawa Valley. First, you will explore Shuzheng Valley, known for its lakes and waterfalls, including the beautiful Shuzheng Waterfall and Tiger Lake. Next, you will visit Rize Valley, the largest valley in Jiuzhaigou, where you can admire colorful lakes and magnificent waterfalls, with reflections creating picturesque views. Finally, you will explore Zechawa Valley, famous for its deep forests and crystal-clear lakes, resembling an earthly paradise.

Throughout the day, you will have the opportunity to visit Jiuzhaigou's iconic spots such as Mirror Lake and Nuorilang Waterfall. These natural wonders will captivate you with their beauty. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel for rest, soaking in the stunning scenery of Jiuzhaigou.

• Jiuzhaigou – Panda Valley

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, leave Jiuzhaigou and head to Panda Valley, a 3-hour drive. Panda Valley is part of the Sichuan Giant Panda Habitat, offering a beautiful natural environment ideal for observing giant pandas.

Upon arrival at Panda Valley, you will visit the panda habitat, learn about the pandas' behavior and conservation efforts, and observe these treasured national animals in their natural environment. You will have the chance to watch the pandas' daily activities and gain insight into their ecological environment and the conservation work being done to protect them. The natural scenery of Panda Valley is also stunning, with lush greenery and flowing streams, providing a peaceful retreat in nature.

After lunch, you may choose to continue exploring Panda Valley or take a leisurely stroll in the surrounding forest, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful mountain scenery. In the evening, return to Chengdu to conclude the day’s activities.

• Dujiangyan Irrigation System – South Bridge – Chengdu

• Breakfast

In the morning, depart from Chengdu and head to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, about a 1-hour drive. Dujiangyan is one of the oldest and still-operating water management projects in the world and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. It is not only a masterpiece of ancient Chinese engineering but also a symbol of ancient Chinese technology.

During your visit to Dujiangyan, you will learn about how ancient Chinese engineers altered the direction of water flow and managed water resources. The South Bridge, one of the iconic sites of Dujiangyan, connects the two banks of the river, and you can enjoy beautiful views while walking across the bridge.

After lunch, return to Chengdu, where you have the afternoon free to explore. You can enjoy Chengdu’s local delicacies such as hotpot, snacks, and more, or enjoy free time to explore this vibrant city. This marks the end of your wonderful Sichuan tour.