Summer Escape Gem: Oxygen-Rich Hiking in the "Swiss Alps of China" - Dafeishui Scenic Area

✅Attention, ladies! With Chengdu's scorching 40°C heatwave approaching 🥵🔥, I've discovered the perfect cool retreat! 🍃 Here's a super detailed guide—tested and foolproof! 🚙 Transportation - **Self-drive**: From Chengdu, take Chengdu-Wenjiang-Qionglai Expressway to Dayi, then follow Dashuang Road directly to the scenic area (~2 hours). - **Bus**: - Direct buses to Xiling Snow Mountain depart from Chadianzi/Riverside Bus Stations (~¥45, ~2.5 hours). - Alternative: High-speed rail to Dayi + transfer to scenic shuttle. - **Scenic shuttle**: "Snowland Bus" (departs from Jinsha Site Metro Station at 7:30 AM, returns at 4:30 PM). 🎫 Tickets & Discounts - **Entrance**: ¥120 (varies by season). - **Cable cars**: - Yuanyang Pool Cable (round-trip ¥120) → Mid-mountain Yingxue Plaza. - Sightseeing Cable (round-trip ¥120) → Summit Riyueping. - **Discounts**: - Free: Children under 6, seniors over 65, military personnel, disabled visitors. - Half-price: Students, teens under 18, seniors aged 60-65 (non-holidays). - 2025 Exam-takers: Free entrance + transport cable with exam ID. ⭐️ Itinerary Recommendations **1-2 Day Classic Route** - **Day 1 (Skiing/Snowplay)**: Visitor Center → Yuanyang Pool Cable → Yingxue Plaza (skiing, snowmobiles, hot air balloons) → Overnight at Yingxue Plaza/Huashuiwan. - **Day 2 (Sightseeing)**: Yingxue Plaza → Sightseeing Cable → Riyueping (sunrise, sea of clouds) → Yinyangjie (weather wonder) → Return. 🚶🏻‍♂️ **Hiking Route (Summer/Fall)**: Dafeishui Scenic Area → Chadipping → Liangxikou → Colorful Waterfall → Yinyangjie → Riyueping. 🏨 Accommodations - **Inside Scenic Area**: - Near Yingxue Plaza: Maple Leaf Hotel, Sunshine Holiday Hotel (ski-friendly, pricier in peak season). - Scandic Resort: Nordic-style cabins, photogenic, book early. - **Outside (Huashuiwan)**: - Hot spring B&Bs like Banshe Xiaozhu, budget-friendly for relaxation. 🍜 Food Picks - **In-scenic**: Shouchailu Roast Duck, Pizza Hut (Yingxue Plaza). - **Local specialties**: Xiling stewed pork knuckle, rainbow trout, Dayi savory tofu pudding. ❗️ **Important Notes** - **Clothing**: Winter—thermal wear + anti-slip shoes; Summer—sun/wind protection. - **Altitude**: Summit at 3,250m; mild altitude sickness possible—ascend slowly. - **Ski gear**: Rent on-site (~¥50-100/2hr for skis + boots). - **Book ahead**: Cable tickets may sell out in peak season. ⏰ **Best Times to Visit** - **Ski season**: Dec–Mar (snow park open). - **Summer retreat**: Jun–Sep (grass skiing, hiking). ✅ Perfect for families, couples, and outdoor lovers—whether skiing, sightseeing, or hot springs! Plan ahead and avoid holidays for the best experience.