2025 Ya'an Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

This forest B&B has healed me deeply! Absolutely love their treehouse private hot spring! The staff will light candles and start the fireplace for you, creating a perfect atmosphere 💯, and it's great for photos! We stayed in the 'Rainbow Forest Pool Luxury Suite' A large room over 100 square meters, a super large bathtub, and a super large independent pool on the balcony! Enjoying a floating afternoon tea here is absolutely amazing 👍👍 The hotel has a huge lawn where various themed parties are often held, and you can also have a camping-style barbecue with friends! Friends brought their kids, and the hotel’s horse farm has professional coaches and protective gear. The two kids experienced feeding and riding horses and had a blast! The food options include Chinese, Western, and barbecue, and the breakfast is also very rich and delicious 👍 Nearby attractions: Shangli Ancient Town (a few minutes away), Bifeng Gorge, Gaojia Courtyard Quickly invite your family and friends to come here to breathe in the forest 🌿 and enjoy a 23-degree summer weekend! It’s only a 2-hour drive from Chengdu~ 🏡 Yuepeng Forest Resort Hotel Hui Shangli Ancient Town, Yucheng District, Ya'an City

Because it's addictive. I discovered a newly opened hotel with an exotic decoration style around Chengdu, so I went there. Address: Next to Shangli Ancient Town, Yucheng District, Ya'an City Hotel Name: Yuepeng Forest Resort Hotel The hotel has five types of rooms, each with its own characteristics. I recommend everyone to try the pool suite. The room is very spacious, and the simple and stylish design style is something you'll fall in love with at first sight. The large floor-to-ceiling windows and a projector allow you to lie in bed and see the tropical-style swimming pool outside the window, making you feel delighted, as if you are on vacation in Southeast Asia. The hotel's treehouse private hot spring is a must-try, and you need to book in advance. It's very photogenic, and there are also lawn afternoon tea, horse riding, an ins-style constant temperature swimming pool, barbecue parties, etc., all of which are the hotel's signature experiences worth checking in for. The hotel service is excellent. Upon arrival at the hotel, the staff will warmly offer you snacks and fruits, help with luggage, and the hotel breakfast is an a la carte system. You order in advance, and the next morning the staff will carefully prepare it for you, so you just sit and eat. A very satisfying hotel experience

Finally, I found a good place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy life. I spent a pleasant weekend in Wild Rose Village in Ya'an, near Zhugong Mountain. The geothermal hot springs here are famous. Wild Rose Village Hot Spring The hot spring pool outlet of Wild Rose Village is the famous 'First Soup of West Sichuan', Zhugong Mountain Hot Spring. The well is 3475 meters deep and the outlet water temperature reaches over 80°C, which is high-quality medical hot mineral water. Zhugong Mountain Hot Spring was formed 30,000 years ago and is a high-quality medical hot mineral spring with a daily output of 5000 tons. Experts call it the 'First Soup of West Sichuan'! Room The standalone small house has a large and very private space. The room has floor heating. The housekeeper turned on the floor heating before we arrived, which was super considerate. There is also a 'bed opening ceremony' at night, which is very ceremonial. I slept especially well that night. Each room has a unique view. I chose the mountain view parent-child room with a natural sulfur hot spring pool. After soaking in it, I knew it was not heated water. It was private and comfortable. It's been a long time since I've encountered such a pure hot spring. Food Private dishes from the Flower Field Kitchen are arranged according to the guests' tastes and time. The dishes are very rustic but not lacking in taste. The main theme is green, healthy and fresh. Here, I experienced exotic afternoon tea, Turkish stove hot sand tea, handmade desserts and dried fruits. The coffee or black tea is simmered in a sand stove, which makes it particularly fragrant. Facilities In addition to the hot springs, the village also has a mountain tea room, Fangfei Archery Hall, Manshu Zen Room, Jinshi Workshop, Fangliao SPA, Huazhi Pavilion, Huaxin Fengye Garden, etc. In the Fangfei Secret Realm full of love and beauty, enjoy a refined life and winter tourism. Experience Living here, the sense of ceremony is absolutely full. Children's favorite handcraft classes, making candles and soaps, the lamp lighting ceremony before dark, outdoor movies before the moonlit bonfire. The morning awakening ceremony, please be sure to experience it. Other activities need to be discovered and experienced by yourself. In short, being a villager here for a day, there are always surprises.

Next to Zhongong Mountain Forest Park|Chaji Wind Villa is going to Ya'an recently. Don't miss this treasure homestay. This homestay has always been a small popular net red shop. Many guests can't help but take a few beautiful photos because the design of the homestay is really too out of the picture. Whether in the room, soup pool, or the corner of the stairs, the pure color matching with the scenery can always make a big picture. ◆ Zhongong Resting Moon Homestay 1 Located next to Ya'an Zhongong Mountain National Forest Park, 30 minutes drive from Bifeng Gorge and Shangli Ancient Town, not only has a beautiful scenery, fresh oxygen, superior environment, ins holiday style swimming pool, sunken design area for afternoon tea, Chaji wind room, easy to check in various attractions in Ya'an. 2 The interior is an art space dominated by Chaji wind design. The front desk is pure white and only awakens the level with different lights. At night, the crescent moon rises by the pool, with the round moon light in the pool, dreamy and mysterious, and instantly feels like stepping into a fairy tale world. Each room is equipped with Evian mineral water, Dyson hair dryer, smart toilet, bubble pool... The cost performance is quite high, the whole house is micro-cement Chaji wind design, every detail in the guest room is full of style! Lying on the bed, you can see the sea of clouds and sunset, forest wild.

⛰️Mengding Mountain in Ya'an, Sichuan, is known as 'Yugong Mengshan' because of the footprints of Xia Yu, and is known as the 'hometown of fairy tea' for its tribute 'royal tea'; it is also known as a 'tourist attraction' for its beautiful scenery. Searching for the fragrance of Mengding tea and seeing the ten thousand mu tea garden make Mengding Mountain a place where many tourists linger, and some people even choose to stay here for a month or so, to cleanse their lungs and taste tea carefully. 🌸And at the foot of Mengding Mountain is Huajiantang·Chamasi, which is the best place to relax and vacation. It seems to be a continuous hidden mountain village built by the mountains in Jin Yong's martial arts world. On the half-slope of the mountain, there are all scattered and orderly independent courtyards, with black tiles and white walls, wooden beams and stone bricks. 🚪Through the long wooden plank road of the gate, the wooden boards under your feet creak and creak, making an ancient sound. Walking into the lobby, the unique courtyard skylight design fills up the first impression. Because it is an independent courtyard distributed on the mountainside🏘️, there will be shuttle buses to pick up and drop off. 🏡Pushing the door into the room, there is even more a 'wow' sound. This exclamation is an exclamation of the space layout, an admiration for the elegant design, and a joy for the elegant style. Everything is too in place, simple, exquisite, elegant, such an independent courtyard room, is like a poetic dwelling place for the hidden world of knights. Bathtub, tatami, balcony, indoor skylight, everything is so perfect. 🍂In autumn, the green flower beds, red maple leaves, and yellow ginkgo trees dye the entire hotel into a colorful painting🖼️, plus the scattered distribution of houses with white walls and black tiles, walking among them, it is like walking in the mountain villa where Wang Yuyan of Gusu Mountain lives. 🍛The breakfast is rich in variety, the noodles are really fragrant, comparable to the variety of star hotels. ♨️The most important thing is that here, you can basically not leave the hotel, all your activities are included. Get up in the morning to pick vegetables in the tea mountain, wake up in the afternoon to go to the front hall to participate in the handmade sachet, tea ceremony incense course. After a night walk, listen to a live concert in the courtyard at the door, all the fun, all in one, this is the meaning of the house hotel. 【tips】 🅿️The hotel has its own parking lot, just register your license plate number 🐶The hotel is pet-friendly, feel free to bring your pet to stay, but safety first! 📌Ya'an City, Mingshan District, Huajiantang·Chamasi

Time flies, winter is coming Come and feel the breath of the mountains and enjoy a poetic life This is a secluded place near Wawushan Town, at the foot of Haizi Mountain. The moment you arrive, you will have: The B&B is surrounded by green trees and mountains, with a quiet environment and fresh air. In the cold winter, it is surrounded by green trees. The hustle and bustle of the city is all behind me, leaving only the feeling of relaxation in the mountains. But each room is fully equipped with modern facilities. In addition to the front desk and guest rooms, there is a "specialty restaurant" and a chess and card room, a swimming pool, a barbecue bonfire, etc. Most of the ingredients used in the restaurant are locally sourced. When dining, the entire mountain view is used as the background, as if you are dining in the embrace of nature.

Ya'an is really my treasure back garden🌹 The thousand-year-old charm of Mengding's fragrance is natural and refreshing The feeling always makes me linger The Caoyanshushe where we stayed this time is a room hidden in the tea mountain. If my friend hadn't recommended this B&B to me, I would have really missed it! Highly recommend the room we stayed in: Mengyu The loft design has a great sense of space. The large flat windows on the second floor Looking at the green mountains and rivers, my mood is also relaxed Take a dip in the private hot spring at night in the flickering candlelight This is the feeling of relaxation in the mountains without being disturbed Facing the tea mountains with thousands of acres of land 🍃 accompanied by mountain fog and bird sounds There is also an independent courtyard here 🏠 It can be used for group building or travel with friends and relatives If you are tired of escaping from the city, come and live in the mountains for a few days!

It takes two hours from Chengdu to Ya'an to get out of the bustling city and come to the peaceful Shangguli Town. Take advantage of the tail end of October and relax your mood~ From the entrance of the ancient town, you can see a Southeast Asian-style resort hotel surrounded by forests. The fresh air makes people feel very happy. The reason why I chose this place is because the environment is good. Walking forward from the stone road is a large lawn where you can camp or barbecue. Not only that, there are also private swimming pools and horse farms available for use. It feels like you are in a tourist destination in Thailand in the next second~ If you don't want to go to the swimming pool, there is an even more surprising private hot spring. Make an appointment in advance and the staff will arrange everything for you. Light a bonfire in the evening and soak in the private hot spring. The atmosphere is full and you will feel that all the fatigue in your body has dissipated with the warm spring water. The hotel has 5 types of room types. This time we stayed in the Moriye Family Suite. The two-bedroom and one-living room suite is perfect for us with children. The room includes two bathrooms and a living room, but what I am most satisfied with is the terrace. There is a large bathtub there. It is pleasant and healing to enjoy the night sky while taking a bath. We don't need to worry about the food. Not only will there be snacks delivered after check-in, but also breakfast for the next day. You can order it in advance and eat it early in the morning. The breakfast is exquisite and delicious, and the service is also great. The sun shines through the mountains and forests, embraces the wind from the mountains and water, gives life to time, and encounters another small happiness. Address: Shangli Ancient Town Yuepeng Forest Resort Hotel

💜 Wild Rose Village is a village that has formed a unique lifestyle around "hot spring bathing"💝, the hot springs in the village come from the famous "First Soup in Western Sichuan" Zhougong Mountain Hot Spring, "three baths a day" is a unique lifestyle here🛀🏻, it is also the spiritual pursuit of comfort, regeneration, and meditation for the villagers of Rose Village. 💚 In the village, you can see various "hot spring healing" experience points everywhere, such as Huanhua Soup Spring, Spring Eye Park, Canyon Hot Spring, Hot Spring Meditation House, Foot Bath Corridor, etc., which can let the hot spring flow under your feet at any time👣", at the same time, there are specially built two-color soup houses, soup gardens, Fangfei Mountain View Hot Spring Courtyard and other private soup accommodation spaces🛁 Things related to hot spring healing📝 ✨ After a certain time of a single bath, even if you soak for a longer time, the healing effect will not change, so it is recommended that the single bath time should not exceed 30 minutes; ✨ In hot spring healing, soaking three to four times a day is the best🛀🏻, taking a nap and resting for an hour after the bath has the best healing effect✔, but avoid soaking in the hot spring immediately after getting up; ✨ Please do not soak in the hot spring on an empty stomach or just after eating⚠️, because sweating when soaking in the hot spring, loss of salt in the body, and reduced gastric juice can easily cause indigestion, so it is best to leave an hour before and after meals; ✨ The bath pool can promote metabolism and consume energy. Soaking in the bath for 5 minutes consumes about 15 or 12 kilocalories, which is the same as the calories consumed by skipping rope for five minutes, and more than twice that consumed by walking.

After staying in the city for a long time, you always want to escape the hustle and bustle, Looking for a secret place to relax, taking advantage of the weekend, and experiencing the slow life that people yearn for with the children. We accidentally found a healing homestay in the tea garden to avoid the crowd, Hidden in the tea garden, the birds and flowers are like a paradise. Enjoy a pleasant afternoon tea with the children ☕️, read some books in the book bar, sit on the swing and listen to the birds and smell the flowers, this is not only the poetry and distance that city people yearn for, but also a good place for children to experience childhood fun. Drink a warm stomach soup pot at night, and then take a bath 🛀, It's really the slow life in yearning! 🍃: Cao Yan Su She 🍃: Group 6, Qilong Village, Hongxing Town, Mingshan District, Ya'an City

The beautiful mountain ranges of Sichuan always awe me. The Huanglong Mountains (also known as the Yellow Dragon Mountains) range from 1000m to 5000m in altitude and are known for their diverse mountain scenery and relatively undisturbed forest and karst ecosystems surrounding it. It is home to many endangered species including the giant panda and the Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey. However, because of the high altitude, there is a major lack of oxygen up on the mountains. Visitors are advised to bring oxygen bottles to prevent altitude sickness. Regardless, if you are looking for a fun hike with a jaw dropping view, definitely visit Huanglong! You will not be disappointed. 📍Huanglong, Aba, Sichuan

#中国大陆景点 There are less than 60 giant pandas in captivity at the Bifengxia Giant Panda Breeding Base in Ya'an. Usually, tourists can see more than 20 pandas, including those that have been loaned to foreign zoos. The world's first giant panda was discovered in the Jiajin Mountain area of ​​Baoxing County under the jurisdiction of Ya'an. This was also the first snow-capped mountain crossed by the Red Army during the Long March. I went there when the breeding base was first built. I remember there were more than 60 of them at that time. Maybe the number started to decrease after the Wenchuan earthquake in 2008. #Sichuan #Wildlife #Panda #Giant Panda Pavilion #Breakfast #Tree #Panda Climbing the Tree #Bamboo #Leisure #Ecology

While most people think of Chengdu when planning a trip to Sichuan province, there is a hidden gem just one hour South of the city! Ya'an is a small city packed with cultural sites, natural treasures, and historic importance. Head to Chengdu West station to catch a high speed train to Ya'an and arrive at the train station. From there you'll want to go to the Bifengxia Panda Center! It is a joint project with the Chengdu Panda Base but is far less busy than the one in Chengdu. It is located high in the mountains near a raging river that is beautiful by its own right. The drive up is magical and you can enjoy views of the unique foliage here. There is a small village near the Panda center where you can enjoy a meal at one of their homesteads which use only fresh produce grown and raised on the properties. In Ya'an you can also visit Shangli Ancient Village which shows what Sichuan would have looked like in dynasties past. #travelinspiration#deliciousfood#naturalwonders#hiking#culturalattraction#zoo

I have come to Ya'an for so many times, and I have come to Qinglan Lake for the first time. Many people may not know it here. After all, it is a late development, and it is a small attraction. Lake is as famous as it is, calm as a mirror, the reflection is clearly visible, the breeze is sloppy, it is blowing, it is very comfortable. However, it is not a natural lake, but a reservoir and aquaculture base. It is also a new provincial wetland park, so it has abundant animal and plant resources and the air is very good. Many people are fishing on the side, and there are egrets flying in the distance. It is indeed a good place to go around, and dont want tickets!

Mengding Mountain is a scenic spot with a very high degree of experience. In addition to the Buddha worship and the fresh air, you can also walk in the canopy to go through the jungle. However, since Mengding Mountain is a sacred mountain of tea culture, it is natural to have a tea-related experience. Here you can watch kung fu tea techniques and tea performances. Baiwen is worse than seeing it. Its better to have a try. How can you enjoy it? Its interesting to learn how to make straw shoes and experience tea in the Song Dynasty. It is said that Japanese matcha is also learned from this time, so we have to know more about it.

#postandearn Standed against the precipitous eastern slopes of the mighty Tibetan Plateau, at the very transition zone where the vast Sichuan Basin meets the soaring Hengduan Mountains, Ya'an (雅安 - Elegant Tranquility) possesses a beauty that is profound, multifaceted, and deeply intertwined with water, life, and ancient culture. Far removed from grandiose landmarks or manicured perfection, Ya'an's allure lies in its dramatic geography, its vital ecological significance, the gentle persistence of its rain, its role as the cradle of tea, and the tangible sense of a place perched between worlds. It’s a beauty that unfolds in mists, in tea terraces cascading down hillsides, in roaring rivers carving deep gorges, and in the dense, vibrant green that seems to permeate everything. The Veil of Mist: China's Rain City (雨城 Yǔchéng) Ya'an’s identity is inextricably linked to water, particularly in its airborne form. Officially recognized as "Rain City," Ya'an receives over 200 days of measurable precipitation annually, often manifested as a persistent, soft drizzle or a thick, ethereal mist. This isn't a hostile, storm-laden rain, but a gentle, enveloping embrace. The moisture clings to everything, beading on leaves, glistening on the cobblestones of ancient teahouses in Mengdingshan, and creating ever-shifting veils that obscure and reveal the surrounding peaks. This constant mist bathes the city and its hinterlands in a diffused, soft light, muting harsh colours and lending an air of profound tranquility and gentle melancholy. Walking through Ya'an’s older quarters or along the Qingyi River on a misty morning feels like stepping into an ancient Chinese watercolour painting. The damp air carries the scent of wet earth, moss, bamboo, and tea leaves, creating a uniquely atmospheric sensory signature. The Pulse of Rivers: Gateway to the Plateau's Torrents Ya'an sits at a critical hydrological crossroads. Here, the furious Qingyi River and Dadu River, born in the melting glaciers and high-altitude lakes of the Tibetan Plateau, converge before plunging into the Sichuan Basin. Their waters are powerful, swift, and often jade-green or turbulent brown depending on the season and sediment load. These rivers aren't just scenic; they are the vital arteries that carved the dramatic landscape and historically served as the treacherous gateway for trade and pilgrimage routes into Tibet via the legendary Southwest Silk Road (Tea Horse Road - Chama Gudao). The roaring power of these rivers, rushing through deep gorges flanked by near-vertical mountains clothed in dense forest, provides a constant, grounding counterpoint to the softness of the mist. Bridges span the torrents, and pathways cling precariously to canyon walls, constant reminders of the immense natural forces shaping the land. The Roots of Tea Culture: Mengding Mountain's Verdant Heart The beauty of Ya'an transcends the natural and seeps into the cultivated. Just northeast of the city, rising from the mist, lies Mengding Mountain (蒙顶山), the revered birthplace of cultivated tea in China. According to legend, tea cultivation began here over 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty. The lush slopes of Mengding are sculpted with exquisite, terraced tea gardens, patterns of green tracing the contours of the hillsides. Visiting these plantations is a journey into living history and sensory delight. Women wicker baskets move gracefully through the rows, plucking delicate buds often shrouded in swirling fog. Traditional Han Dynasty era tea houses, seemingly perched in the clouds, offer tastings of the mountain's prized teas – notably the yellow tea variety "Mengding Ganlu" (Sweet Dew) and "Mengding Huangya". Sipping these subtly complex brews, surrounded by the emerald sea of tea bushes under a misty sky, connects one intimately to millennia of Chinese tea culture and the art of refinement. This combination of breathtaking landscape, deep historical resonance, and cultivated beauty is unparalleled. Ya'an's designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy hinges significantly on this rich tea heritage. Emerald Biodiversity: From Bamboo Seas to Panda Sanctuaries The constant rain and complex topography create ideal conditions for astonishing biodiversity. Ya'an lies at the edge of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries UNESCO World Heritage Site. While giant pandas are elusive, their very presence underscores the richness of the habitat. Surrounding Ya'an, particularly to the south and west, mountains are cloaked in incredibly dense, verdant temperate rainforests. Towering ancient trees, draped in mosses and ferns, stand amidst a profusion of rhododendrons, magnolias, and countless other understorey plants, creating an almost overwhelming sense of lush, vibrant green life. Bamboo forests, swaying and rustling in the mountain breezes, add another layer of texture and sound. Areas like the Bifeng Gorge Scenic Area showcase this dramatic gorge ecology, with waterfalls plunging from lush cliffs and diverse plant communities thriving in microclimates. The air here is exceptionally fresh and oxygen-rich. Cultural Texture and Tangible History Ya'an's history as a vital hub on the Tea Horse Road infuses its character. Remnants of this era can be found in Shangli Ancient Town, located nearby. While smaller and less polished than some tourist-centric ancient towns, Shangli retains authenticity. Its architecture, particularly its distinctive stone bridges like the Dual Dragons Pass Bridge (Erxian Qiao), built during the Qing Dynasty, offers glimpses into the past. Traditional wooden houses, weathered by time and rain, line waterways often shrouded in mist. It’s a place where time feels slower, more deliberate, echoing Ya'an's historical role as a place of rest and trade before the arduous climb onto the Tibetan Plateau. Sustenance of Beauty: Ya'an's "Three Elegances" (三雅 Sān Yǎ) Local lore celebrates Ya'an's unique spirit through its "Three Elegances": 雅雨 (Yǎ Yǔ): Elegant Rain - The life-giving, atmospheric mist. 雅女 (Yǎ Nǚ): Elegant Women - Said to possess beauty nurtured by the gentle climate and pure water. 雅鱼 (Yǎ Yú): Elegant Fish - A specific fish (Schizothorax prenanti) found only in the pristine cold waters of the Qingyi River system, considered a local delicacy symbolizing abundance. Tasting Ya Yu in a local restaurant adds a culinary dimension to appreciating the region's unique aquatic ecology. The Essence of Ya'an's Beauty Ya'an’s beauty is not loud or boastful; it is deeply atmospheric, ecologically rich, historically resonant, and culturally grounded. It lies: In the quiet magic of constant, gentle rain softening the world. In the power and presence of its converging rivers, gateways to the high plateau. In the verdant, meticulously terraced slopes of Mengding Mountain, birthplace of tea and sanctuary of serenity. In the dense, mist-shrouded forests teeming with life, including the iconic giant panda. In the whispers of the Tea Horse Road echoing in ancient stones and bridges. In the gentle rhythm of local life, shaped by water and tradition. To experience Ya'an is to experience one of China's most vital ecological transition zones and cultural crossroads, swathed in emerald green and bathed in the soft, timeless glow of the rain. It’s a beauty that seeps into the soul, a reminder of nature's fertile power and the deep, quiet elegance nurtured by water and time.

Just returned from Ya'an! My soul is still lingering in the misty green mountains... Who understands this lingering feeling? 😭✨ --- **🚗 Day 1: Arrival in the Rain City · First Encounter with the "Three Elegances"** ⏰ **Afternoon:** Head straight to **📍Ya'an City Center**! Drop off your luggage and take a stroll along **📍Qingyi Riverside**, soaking in the moist air of the "Rain City"—the riverside breeze is incredibly soothing~ 🍽️ **Dinner: Must-try!** **🐟Ya Fish!** Recommended spot: **📍Zengji Gongjiao Fish**, with its fresh soup, tender meat, and secret dipping sauce—absolutely divine! 🌶️ 🌃 **Stay:** Choose a riverside homestay and fall asleep to the sound of rain 🌧️💤 **🌿 Day 2: Adorable Pandas · Oxygen Boost in the Canyon** 🐼 **Morning:** Rush to **📍Bifengxia Scenic Area**! 👉 **Highlight: Panda Base!** Watch these national treasures munch on bamboo, climb trees, and act cute—your heart will melt~ ❤️ (Go early to avoid crowds!) 🌳 **Afternoon:** Explore **📍Bifengxia Canyon**! ✨ Walk along the suspended plank roads, admire the **Thousand-Layer Rock Waterfall** and **Nuwa Pool**, and breathe in the negative-ion-rich air—a true lung-cleansing paradise! 💚 🚌 **Transport:** Tourist shuttle buses are available from the city center—super convenient. **🏮 Day 3: Slow Time in the Ancient Town · Culinary Memories** ⛩️ **Morning:** Discover **📍Shangli Ancient Town**! 👉 With its ink-painting-like Ming and Qing architecture, small bridges over flowing water, and cobblestone paths… It’s perfect for sketching and photography! 📸 Try **📍Clay Pot Ya Fish** and **Dada Noodles**—authentic local flavors! 🛍️ **Souvenirs:** **📍Mengding Mountain Tea** (Ganlu, Shihua varieties) and **📍Hanyuan Peppercorns** (numbing and fragrant—addictive!) 🌶️🍵 🚄 **Afternoon:** Return home with cherished memories & the lingering aroma of tea and peppercorns~ --- **💡 Key Notes & Sources of the Lingering Aftertaste:** ✅ **"Elegant Rain" Vibe:** Light drizzles can happen anytime—bring an umbrella! ☔️ But the misty rain is the true essence of Ya'an! ✅ **"Elegant Fish" Delicacy:** Look for the "Bingxue Fish" feature (a sword-shaped bone in the head). Try it in clear soup, braised, or clay pot style! ✅ **"Elegant Women"?:** Graceful and gentle, they’re a scenic sight everywhere in town~ 👩 ✅ **Bifengxia Depth:** If time allows, visit the wildlife park or stay at a scenic hotel. ✅ **Shangli Charm:** Avoid noon—the best light is at dawn or dusk. Sipping tea by the river is pure bliss 🍵. ✅ **The Aftertaste is Real:** It’s the pandas’ cuteness, the canyon’s greenery, the ancient town’s leisure, the Ya fish’s freshness… all mixed with raindrops, replaying in your memory! 🎬 --- Ya'an is an absolutely underrated gem! 3 days aren’t enough! Here’s the ultimate guide—save it now! 📌 Want detailed itineraries? Drop a comment below! 👇

As the weather gets hotter... of course, it's time to head to the mountains to beat the heat! Here, you can soak in genuine mystic hot spring water sourced from 3,000 meters underground. You can also live as a little mountain prince for a day 🫅 and embrace the wild. Step into the "Moroccan Sichuan Branch"... every corner makes you want to grab your phone or camera and snap away 📸—it’s truly a picturesque scene at every turn‼️ Here, you can quietly settle your mind with scripture copying 🖌 to cleanse your soul. Or gather friends for an iced tea session by the stove 🥃... soaking in the mystic springs while chatting about life 🍻. You can also feed animals 🦌🦚, do crafts 🪅, hike along streams 🏕, and enjoy endless fun 🎊—cherishing precious family moments in the wild ⛰️. With so many activities to choose from, even Xi couldn’t bear to go home 🥳🥳. 📌 Ya'an Shili Fangfei · Wild Rose Hot Spring Village 🚗 2-hour drive from Chengdu—just navigate directly to the hotel name.

In Ya'an, Sichuan, a land embraced by the fragrance of tea, lies not only breathtaking natural scenery but also a hidden retreat that captivates the soul—Ya'an Yellow Tea Village Homestay. Here, you'll find the perfect escape from urban chaos, immersing yourself in nature's tranquility. 🍃🚗 🏡 Slow Living in a Rustic Courtyard 🍵 Stepping into the homestay feels like traveling back to a simpler, slower era. The courtyard's timeless design, with every brick and tile whispering stories of the past, sets the scene. The air is filled with the aroma of tea. Holding a warm cup, sitting quietly in the courtyard, feeling the gentle breeze and occasional birdsong—moments like these make you wish time would stand still. 🍵🐦 🛏️ A Cozy Family Retreat 🏡 We chose a family room, where the spacious and comfortable layout lifted our spirits. The decor was simple yet elegant, with every piece of furniture thoughtfully selected, making us feel right at home. The private bathroom was especially well-designed, adding both convenience and comfort to our stay. 🚽💖 🏞️ Scenic Views Outside the Window, Poetry in the Heart 🏞️ The most delightful surprise was the picturesque view outside our window. Waking up in the morning and drawing the curtains revealed misty mountains in the distance and lush tea gardens nearby. It felt like nature’s gentlest greeting, instantly melting away worries as if carried off by the wind. 🌄🌿 👣 Exploring the Surroundings, Discovering More Beauty 🚶‍♀️ The homestay is surrounded by gems worth exploring. Visit Mingshan Station to soak in history, or head to Chaoyang Lake Station for serene lakeside views. Don’t miss the Chengjia Tea Leisure Tourism Area, where you can admire stunning tea fields and even try your hand at tea picking. For fishing enthusiasts, Baizhang Lake is a paradise—sit quietly by the shore and savor the rare peace. 🎣✨ Here, every moment is beautiful, and every breath is filled with nature’s freshness. If you long to escape the daily grind and find a sanctuary for the soul, Ya'an Yellow Tea Village Homestay is a destination you won’t want to miss. 🌈🌟

Last time I came in winter but missed the snow in Ya'an. I’ve been dreaming about the Turkish afternoon tea in the glass house ever since~ This time, I invited a good friend’s family and booked a three-bedroom standalone villa, aiming to maximize the vacation vibe~ Turns out there were so many activities that we barely had time to laze around in the room, hahaha. Special shoutout to the service—despite it being a fully booked holiday, the staff helped with our luggage, and every activity ran smoothly without a hitch! 666 At noon, we stopped by Yu Family BBQ in Ya'an before heading to the hotel—highly recommended! The best part? We ate until stuffed for just 30 RMB per person... The hotel is perfect for afternoon tea, especially by the open-air shallow pool, but we chose the restaurant terrace instead~ Then we went to feed ostriches and sika deer! The deer named Guaiguai was so sweet—it practically begged for pets! You could tell the caretaker put heart into understanding each animal’s personality. And ladies, let’s be real—Ya'an’s weather is often rainy and gloomy, but Shili Fangfei is so stunning you won’t even care! The raw photos are already "bursting with blooms" and "uniquely beautiful"! No filter fraud here! After feeding the animals, we soaked our feet just as the band started setting up! We were secretly thrilled—oh yeah, party time tonight! Hahahaha. Around 7:00 PM, while we were devouring dinner—BAM! Fireworks! (Ahem, first, the food! Delicious! We’re not super picky—fresh ingredients + 80/100 for flavor is enough for us!) Back to the fireworks—wow, over 10 minutes nonstop! Nonstop! We joked it put Disney to shame—all those gorgeous big bursts! How awesome is that? Couples, kids, elders—everyone was grinning ear to ear! So much joy!!! After dinner, we returned to our room for a hot spring dip. Zhougong Mountain’s therapeutic springs are legendary! Remember to bring dark swimsuits~ Though white swimsuits photograph better—even if they stain, it’s worth it~ Hahahaha. The staff had already prepared our night turndown, with drinks and towels neatly arranged for the soak. Our villa had two private pools—one on the first floor, one on the rooftop—both set up perfectly! After a refreshing soak and shower, we slept soundly till morning! Plus, our room was by the stream—the babbling water was so soothing~ We could’ve booked a wake-up breakfast, but we slept in and went straight to the restaurant. Lotus root paste! Must-try!!! Post-breakfast, we soaked again but got restless and hit the public outdoor pool—total photo op! Cliffside hot spring vibes were unmatched, and with few people in the morning, it was ultra-relaxing! Then we packed up, freshened up, and headed out for a hike...#HiddenGemHotel #OffTheBeatenPathGetaway #RelaxationRetreat #HotSpringResort #HealingEscape

Preparation - Clothing: The average summer temperature in Ya'an is around 23°C, cooler in the morning and evening. Pack long-sleeved jackets, pants, as well as breathable short-sleeved shirts and shorts, along with rain gear. - Essentials: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and other sun protection items, as well as common medications. Attractions - Bifengxia: Lush forests, numerous waterfalls, and fresh air make this a perfect summer retreat. As a national 5A-level scenic area, it's also home to the Bifengxia Panda Base, where you can interact closely with giant pandas. - Shangli Ancient Town: Preserving many Ming and Qing dynasty buildings, the town features ancient bridges, trees, and streets in perfect harmony. Stroll through the town to enjoy a leisurely atmosphere or cool off by playing in the streams. - Mengding Mountain: A sacred mountain of global tea culture, visit attractions like the Imperial Tea Garden and Mengquan Well to learn about its millennia-old tea heritage. Thrill-seekers can also try canopy walks. - Niubei Mountain: One of China's rare 360° panoramic snow mountain viewing platforms, offering views of Mount Niba, Mount Wawu, Mount Emei, Mount Jiajin, Mount Siguniang, and Mount Erlang. From June to July, you might witness spectacular sea of clouds, sunrises, and starry skies. Food Recommendations - Ya Fish: A local specialty with tender, nutritious meat. Try Ya Fish hotpot or steamed Ya Fish. - Ya'an Clay Pot Ya Fish: Slow-cooked in a clay pot with ham, mushrooms, bamboo shoots, and other ingredients for a rich, flavorful broth. - Dada Noodles: Thick, chewy noodles served with various toppings like beef, pork, or mixed sauce. - Shimian Barbecue: Features grilled pork belly, beef, and pork throat, paired with a unique dipping sauce for a spicy, aromatic taste. Accommodation - Luxury: Options like the Crowne Plaza Ya'an offer views of the Qingyi River and tranquility in the city center. Alternatively, Zuo Wang · Yuan Suo · Yunfeng Zhenli Hotel lets you enjoy ancient temple bells and valley scenery. - Budget: Choose chain hotels or guesthouses near downtown or attractions, such as Hanting Hotel or 7 Days Inn, for convenience and affordability. Transportation Guide - External Travel: First reach Chengdu, then take a high-speed train (about 1 hour) or bus (about 2 hours) to Ya'an. - Local Transport: Buses in Ya'an city reach some attractions. For remote spots, opt for taxis or ride-sharing. Group travelers may consider chartering a car for flexible itinerary planning.

Another heatwave alert has been issued recently! If you're looking for a cool escape near Chengdu, I highly recommend Ya'an - this hidden gem of a city rivals Yunnan and Guizhou with its average summer temperature of around 23°C, offering incredibly comfortable weather. Here are 3 cool and lesser-known summer retreats in Ya'an to bookmark for your next getaway! ‼ 📍 **Mengding Mountain** This is where tea was first introduced to southwest China and the starting point of the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Stroll through lush greenery for oxygen-rich air, lung-cleansing walks, and light hiking. Don't miss the ancient moss-covered stone steps that lead you through towering vegetation, like entering a primeval forest. The shaded trails keep you cool throughout. Refuel at Tiangai Temple midway, then head to Lingyun Platform for panoramic views of tea fields and the city. Easy route perfect for a day trip. 📍 **Labahua (Trumpet River)** Find your fairy-tale wonderland here with ancient trees, Tiffany-blue streams, forest trails, and wooden suspension bridges. The large scenic area deserves a 2-day itinerary: **Day 1**: Drive through the park to see Five-Color Lake and Tiansi Waterfall. Park at Hetaoping or Luming Hotel to start your 4.5km hike to Blue Crystal Waterfall, passing wildflowers, forests, bridges, and streams - perfect for camping. **Day 2**: Take the sightseeing bus + cableway to Jiaoshan Viewing Area for spectacular sea of clouds (weather permitting), then visit Red Stone Beach and Deer Pond on your descent. 📍 **Bifengxia** Skip the queues! Enjoy pandas up close! Feed lions, tigers & black bears! Hike through cool canyons with waterfalls and dense forests - one of Chengdu's most entertaining summer escapes. Recommended 2-day plan: **Day 1**: Visit the Wildlife World first. Board a feeding vehicle to get close to lions, tigers, bears, and other animals - thrilling and fun! Also interact with various smaller creatures. **Day 2**: Arrive by 9:30am for the Panda Base. Head straight to Panda Kindergarten to see adorable cubs, then visit Leopard Mountain for Xiangxiang Princess. No rushing or crowds here - watch pandas munch bamboo and play at leisure. After pandas, turn left for the 7.5km Left Canyon route (mostly downhill) with shaded trails and photogenic waterfalls. Take Qingyun Elevator back or continue to the 2.5km Right Canyon with streams and a temple. Escape the heatwave in these 23°C mountain paradises! #UnderratedGems #SummerEscapes #NoFilterTravel #TravelSnaps #EscapeTheRoutine #TravelMemories #HiddenDestinations #ChengduGetaways #WeekendVibes #BeatTheHeat

Chengdu Trip ❤️ Many beautiful places, suitable for those who love nature, there are many mountains to walk and only beautiful places, the food is also delicious Favorite food: Mala! Go try it, it's very delicious

✅ Beihai • Attractions: Must-visit Weizhou Island, Beihai Silver Beach Scenic Area, Beihai Underwater World. For family trips, visit Beihai Silver Beach Scenic Area, Beihai Underwater World, and Mangrove Tidal Flat Exploration. Free attractions include Beihai Old Street, Qiaogang Style Street, and Beibu Gulf Square. • Accommodation: Luxury options include Beihai Silver Beach Biyuan Kaiyuan Mingdu Resort; family-friendly hotels include Beihai Silver Beach Crowne Plaza Hotel; scenic hotels include Weizhou Island Whale Sky Pool Seaview Hotel. • Food: Local flavors include Yuexiang Xiaochu; specialty snacks include Shiluoji Guiliu Luosifen. ✅ Kaili • Attractions: Family-friendly and free attractions include Xiashi Ancient Town, as well as Qiandongnan Ethnic Museum and Nanhua Miao Village. • Accommodation: Luxury hotels include Longdu Jingyi International Health Resort Hotel; boutique homestays include Leli Villa Designer Resort Hotel; upscale options include Guizhou Cultural Tourism Jiatu Hotel. • Food: Kaili is the birthplace of sour soup, featuring beef milk sour soup, red oil sour soup, shrimp sour soup, and unique desserts like cucumber ice jelly. ✅ Tengchong • Attractions: Must-visit Tengchong Hot Sea Scenic Area, Heshun Ancient Town, Beihai Wetland. Family trips can go to Volcano Geothermal National Geopark and Tengchong Angsana Hot Spring Village. Free attractions include National Martyrs Cemetery, Tengchong Columnar Jointing, and Western Yunnan Anti-Japanese War Memorial Hall. • Accommodation: Luxury options include Tengchong Stone Chronicle Hotel; local style homestays include Heartbeat Place Homestay; design-focused hotels include Tengchong Moon Bay Banshan Hot Spring Resort Hotel. • Food: Local flavors include Yuquan Garden and Qiaoxiangzhai. ✅ Ya'an • Attractions: Must-visit Bifeng Gorge, Niubei Mountain, Mengding Mountain. Family trips can visit Bifeng Gorge, Erlangshan Labah River Scenic Area, Bifeng Gorge Wildlife World. Free attractions include Niunianping Ten-Thousand-Mu Sightseeing Tea Garden, Shangli Ancient Town, Yazhou Covered Bridge. • Accommodation: Luxury hotels include Zuwang·Yuansuo·Yunfeng Zhenli Hotel; scenic hotels include Ya'an｜Over the Qingyi River｜Impression Rain City Hotel; local style hotels include Ya'an Xikang Past Hotel. • Food: Features Ya'an tofu pudding, spicy hot pot, Mengding tea, and more.

When the city is surrounded by a 38℃ heatwave, I found the perfect weekend escape at 800 meters altitude in Ya'an —— 20℃ tea mountain secret + tea picking and making experience + tea field concert under the starry sky, unlock a 2-day 1-night "Wizard of Oz" style summer retreat! 🔥 Weekend exclusive activities 📍 Core experiences: Land Fingerprint Tea Field Exploration: Walk through ten thousand acres of tea sea: 🔸 Arrive at the viewing platform at 6-7 AM, the tea ridges in the morning mist look like land fingerprints, drone shots of the "tea field waves" are stunning 🔸 Walk among the tea ridges in a white cotton-linen dress, use a telephoto lens to compress space and capture the artistic conception of "people wandering in a painting" Full Tea Picking and Making Experience: ✅ The scenic area provides bamboo baskets and straw hats (30 RMB/person), professional tea farmers guide you to pick one bud and one leaf, enjoy the fun of "tea picking at your fingertips" ✅ Participate in tea frying at the Intangible Cultural Heritage Yellow Tea Workshop (50 RMB/person), make your own tea by hand and take it home as a souvenir Tea Field Concert: 🔸 Every Saturday at 7 PM, an open-air concert is held in the center of the tea field, featuring guzheng and folk ballads, paired with tea snacks (80 RMB per person) 🔸 It is recommended to wear light-colored ethnic-style clothing to shoot atmospheric photos under the lights and tea fragrance 20℃ Summer Cool Secret: Tea Horse Ancient Road Hiking: 🔸 Stone slab road extending from the tea fields to the mountains, along the way you can see century-old tea trees and streams, with a rustic tea pavilion at the end for rest 🔸 From 3 to 5 PM when the sunlight slants, the tea field’s light and shadow layers are distinct, perfect for shooting "backlit tea picking" close-ups Tea Field Starry Sky Camping: ✅ Book the "Tea Field Starry Sky Tent" 3 days in advance, including moisture-proof mat + sleeping bag + tea stove (198 RMB per person) ✅ The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye at night, a professional guide leads stargazing, and a blessing Kongming lantern is given Tea Sea Viewing Platform: 🔸 At 1000 meters altitude, a commanding point with 360° panoramic views of tea fields and distant mountains, recommended to use a wide-angle lens for panoramic shots 📸 Photo tips: Light and shadow magic: Shoot "Tyndall light + tea pickers" among the tea ridges when the morning mist hasn't dispersed yet (7:30-8:30), use a telephoto lens to compress the sense of space After 4 PM, shoot backlit silhouettes on the Tea Horse Ancient Road, using tea tree branches as foreground composition Props bonus: Bring a transparent umbrella (turns into a prop on rainy days), woven bamboo basket (enhances pastoral feel) Recommended light-colored cotton-linen outfits for parent-child matching, contrasting with the green tea Hidden spots: The drying area of the old tea factory, shoot from above to capture the life scene of "tea farmers working + bamboo trays of tea leaves" The wooden boardwalk at the edge of the tea field, shoot from a low angle to capture the visual extension of "tea ridges stretching to the horizon" 🚗 Itinerary planning: Day 1: Chengdu → Ya'an Land Fingerprint Transport: Self-drive navigation to "Ya'an Land Fingerprint" (1.5 hours), or choose Trip.com's "Weekend Special Direct Bus" (68 RMB/person, including transportation + tea picking experience ticket) Morning: Head straight to the viewing platform upon arrival, shoot "tea fields in the mist," pick up tea picking tools to start the experience Lunch: Eat pepper chicken and claypot Ya fish at "Tea Field Family" in the tea garden (50 RMB per person), paired with freshly stir-fried new tea Afternoon: Participate in tea frying class to make your exclusive tea; hike the Tea Horse Ancient Road to explore century-old tea trees Evening: Tea field concert + starry sky camping, brew tea by the fire while listening to folk songs Accommodation: Yellow Tea Village Homestay (Dragon Boat Festival special 480 RMB/night, including double breakfast + tea picking experience), with tea fields and watchtowers visible from the window Day 2: Return bonus Early morning: Get up at 5 AM to hike to the viewing platform, wait for the "sunrise golden mountain" and tea fields in the same frame Morning: Lightly tour the Tea Field Museum, buy tea snacks, tea ware, and souvenirs Lunch: Taste intangible cultural heritage noodles at "Tata Noodle Street" in Mingshan District, look for the "old brand" sign to avoid pitfalls Afternoon: Take photos at the "Tea Field Art Installation" before heading back, ending the healing journey 💡 Tips to avoid pitfalls: There are many mosquitoes in the tea fields, it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent and long-sleeve jackets Tea picking experience requires advance booking, weekends are crowded so stagger your visit Large temperature difference in high-altitude areas, thin down vest + sun hat are essential Starry sky camping requires bringing your own toiletries, hot water is provided at the campsite ✨ Trip.com exclusive benefits: Click the "Product Card" at the bottom left to purchase the "Land Fingerprint Dragon Boat Festival Package," including tea picking experience + homestay accommodation (120 RMB off) Post notes with #IspenttheweekendattheLandFingerprint for a chance to win a thousand-yuan travel fund This weekend, let's escape the city heatwave and become "mountain tea people" in the cool tea fields of Ya'an for two days — wandering through ten thousand tea ridges and talking with the tea fragrance by day, strolling ancient roads to catch the sunset by evening, and gathering around the fire to listen to the zither and gaze at the Milky Way by night. When your fingertips touch the tender tea buds and the tea fragrance lingers on your tongue, you will understand: the meaning of travel is to meet the truest form of life.

Hey guys! I struck gold! Just a 2-hour drive from Chengdu to the mountaintop of Ya'an Bifengxia, where you’ll discover a hidden paradise deep in the scenic area—even breathing feels blissfully lazy here. 💙 Must-Try Heavenly Experiences ✔️ Infinity Pool Terrace in the Clouds The mountaintop terrace is unreal! Dive into the pool and feel like you’re floating among the peaks. Every shot is Insta-worthy 📸 At dusk, the golden sunset drapes over the mountains, creating the ultimate vibe~ ✔️ Forest Adventure Trail Behind the homestay lies a fairytale-like secluded path 🌳 With forest cabins and fun climbing structures, it instantly brings back childhood memories! Wild lilies bloom along the way, surrounded by rare plants—every breath is a gift from nature 🌷 ✔️ Private Hot Spring with a Rustic Charm Highlight alert: the stunning in-room private hot spring! Light your own firewood and watch the flames dance 🔥 Soak in the steamy pool while gazing at the mountain views—this is raw, unfiltered romance! 🛏️ Sleep in a Forest Oxygen Bar The rooms feature ultra-soothing wabi-sabi style, with floor-to-ceiling windows that just *get* me. Open the curtains to lush greenery 🌿 or layered mountain vistas—embrace nature right from your bed! The plush mattress and lull of crickets will melt all your stress away 💤 Here, time slows down. Explore the mountains by day, float in the pool at sunset, and stargaze from your private hot spring at night ✨ Pack your bags, folks—this is the perfect weekend recharge spot! 📍 Address: Inside Ya'an Bifengxia Scenic Area 🚗 Transport: 2-hour drive from Chengdu straight to the homestay

Yuanzhiyao Hotel generally refers to Yuanzhiyao Xinshe Hot Spring Hotel. Here is an introduction to it: - Basic information: Located at No. 111, Group 6, Kongping Village, Zhougongshan Town, Yucheng District, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province, in Zhougongshan Provincial Tourist Resort, adjacent to Zhougongshan, only 30 minutes away from Ya'an City, about 20.9 kilometers away from Ya'an Station by car, about 38 minutes. - Hotel Features - Design style: Inspired by the dome-style design of seaweed thatched houses, the hotel adopts the spatial concept of a "round pavilion" to create a physical space dialogue with the surrounding shallow hills and tea mountains. The entire hotel park is perfectly integrated with the green mountains and waters of Zhougong Mountain. - Hot spring resources: Located at the spring of Zhougongshan Hot Spring Resort, the "Thousand-year-old Water", the hot spring water originates from the Triassic strata about 200 million years ago, with a depth of more than 4,000 meters. The water temperature at the wellhead is as high as 85 degrees Celsius. It is rich in 16 kinds of minerals and trace elements required by the human body, of which 9 trace elements have concentrations reaching medical grade. - Supporting facilities - Accommodation: The hotel has a total of 5 single buildings, with 12 private hot spring suites, which are wooden warehouse-style buildings, accompanied by bamboo streams and integrated into nature. They are equipped with a living room, independent balcony, small refrigerator, mini bar, etc. The toiletries and care sets are all top luxury brands. There are also 5 prefabricated treatment rooms. - Dining: Yaoshanfang takes the 24 solar terms as its guideline, integrates Chinese medicine diet therapy into every dish, and uses the "five elements and five flavors" cooking method. Yuanchun Cafe offers unlimited coffee and self-service afternoon tea. - Others: There is a large hot spring pool that can accommodate 300 people and 7 small hot spring pools, as well as a variety of functional areas such as the special healing space Chixiang SPA, salt healing room, light healing room, sweat steaming room, etc. - Surrounding tourist resources: Nearby are Sichuan Ya'an Xikang Museum, Zhangjiashan Park, Qingyi River, Zhougongshan Hot Spring Park, Longdong Temple, Caoyutan Scenic Area-Thousand Pagodas Buddhist Kingdom, etc.

1. Trip highlights - Wild deer interaction: Asia’s largest wild water deer habitat, feed carrots along the road (10 CNY each), 90% chance to see deer from 6:00 to 8:00 am - Alpine water sliding spectacle: Asia’s highest-altitude alpine water slide (200m drop), kayak downstream for an adrenaline rush, open through October in summer - Starry sky camping at its best: Ye Zhou Island campsite offers a night view of the Milky Way spanning snowy mountains, with professional telescopes available for rent - Seasonal wild charm: May’s Paulownia flower sea, September’s red leaves covering the hills, December’s frost and ice formations, each season offers unique scenery --- 2. Route plan (2 days 1 night highlights) Day 1: Easy hike + alpine water slide - Morning: - Self-drive/shuttle: Depart Chengdu via Chengya Expressway → Yakang Expressway → National Highway 318 (3 hrs), navigate to “Laba River Scenic Area East Gate” - Longyin Trail hike: Walk along wooden boardwalk through primeval forest, spot wild monkeys (do not feed), pass the 30m Kaimen Stone Waterfall - Afternoon: - Explore Red Stone Beach: Photograph red sandstone and turquoise reflections, wear non-slip shoes (slippery in rainy season) - Alpine water slide experience: Slide from 2,000m to 1,500m altitude, about 15 min (ticket + gear 198 CNY), bring waterproof phone case - Night: - Ye Zhou Island starry sky camp: Stay in a tent (300 CNY per tent including breakfast), Milky Way clearly visible after 8:00 pm, professional photography guidance provided Day 2: Jiao Mountain sunrise + return exploration - Early morning: - Jiao Mountain viewing platform: 3,700m altitude, watch sunrise with rolling sea of clouds and snowy mountain silhouettes (arrive before 5:30 am, bring oxygen tank) - Morning: - Deer Pool stroll: Visit wild deer drinking spot, autumn lake reflects stunning red leaves (best light 9:00–11:00 am) - Return and rest: After descending, visit Tianquan Cilangyi Homestay (30 min drive from scenic area), experience Tibetan Tea Horse Road culture --- 3. Accommodation recommendations (pitfall guide) 1. Ye Zhou Island starry sky camp - Features: Transparent dome tents, star-gazing equipment rental (50 CNY/hr), includes bonfire party - Pitfalls: Be cautious of “private guide night hikes” with hidden costs; bring electric blanket in winter 2. Blue Crystal Grand Hotel - Highlights: Lake view rooms facing Deer Pool, outdoor hot spring included (600 CNY/night), restaurant serves wild mushroom hot pot - Pitfall warning: “Tibetan family visits” at scenic entrance are often shopping stops, participate carefully --- 4. Food guide (must-try list) - Mountain delicacies: - Mushroom hot pot: At scenic restaurant “Luming Shifu” (80 CNY per person), combination of matsutake, boletus, and bamboo fungus - Cured meat bamboo rice: Freshly baked at Hetaoping Homestay (30 CNY per serving), cured meat with balanced fat, rich bamboo aroma - Snacks to try: - Mom’s meat pie: Mobile food cart inside scenic area (10 CNY each), crispy crust, best with wild mushroom soup - Spicy pepper chicken: Tianquan county “Old Brand Spicy Pepper Chicken” (40 CNY per person), fragrant pepper oil without harshness --- 5. Photography guide (95% success rate) - Recommended shots: - Red Stone Beach aerial: DJI Mavic 3 Pro + 200mm telephoto, top-down shots of red rocks and turquoise water, side lighting enhances texture - Deer interaction: Macro lens to capture antler details, use telephoto over 200mm to avoid disturbing animals - Starry sky time-lapse: Tripod + wide aperture (f/2.8), ISO 1600–3200, capture Milky Way movement trails - Outfit tips: Wear a windbreaker + bright scarf (contrast with Red Stone Beach background), non-slip hiking shoes for slippery sections --- 6. Practical tips (safety first) 1. Transportation: - Self-drive: Chengdu → Yakang Expressway → National Highway 318 (3 hrs), winding mountain roads require cautious driving - Shuttle: Daily 7:30 am departure from Xinnanmen Bus Station to Laba River (50 CNY ticket), last return bus at 3:00 pm 2. Gear checklist: - Essentials: Non-slip hiking shoes, trekking poles, 1.5L water + energy bars, sunscreen (SPF 50+) - Recommended: Knee pads (protect knees on long steps), raincoat (rainy season landslide prevention), offline maps (no signal in some areas) 3. Safety notes: - Wildlife: Keep over 5m distance, no feeding meat, gently scare monkeys by tapping tree trunks with sticks - Weather alerts: Frequent summer showers, bring waterproof shoe covers; winter snow on some roads requires traction chains - Environmental rules: Carry out all trash, no open flames (strict forest fire control period) --- 7. Trip options (flexible choices) - Half-day quick tour: East line hike (Longyin Trail → Kaimen Stone Waterfall) + Red Stone Beach (4 hrs) - In-depth experience: Day 1 Jiao Mountain sunrise + starry camping; Day 2 Deer Pool exploration + alpine water slide --- 8. Best travel times - May–June: Paulownia flower sea in full bloom, 15–25℃, occasional sea of clouds spectacle - September–October: Hills covered in red leaves, perfect for aerial photography, golden photography season - December–January: Frost and ice wonders, but watch for road closures - Avoid: July–August heavy rains, after November vegetation yellows and scenery dulls --- Summary: Laba River is the “last ecological secret of Western Sichuan.” Spend 2 days crossing snowy mountains, seas of clouds, and primeval forests, feeling the symbiosis of nature and life with the rhythm of dawn and dusk. Avoid tourist traps and measure this underdeveloped Western Sichuan gem on foot.