Discover Hongya Caoyutan, the "Angkor Wat of Sichuan"

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination to unwind? Embark on a spontaneous trip to the "Kingdom of a Thousand Pagodas"—Hongya Caoyutan! Located in Hongya County, Meishan City, Sichuan Province, Caoyutan is known as the "Angkor Wat of Sichuan." Here, you'll find the ruins of 108 pagodas, exuding an aura of mystery under the passage of time, transporting you to Cambodia in an instant. Besides the pagodas, Caoyutan also boasts a Jurassic Alsophila spinulosa forest. Stroll through it, touch plants from the age of dinosaurs, and marvel at the wonders of nature. Itinerary • Morning: Depart from Chengdu and drive for approximately 2.5 hours to reach Caoyutan. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent ruins of the 108 pagodas. Wander among the pagodas, immerse yourself in the echoes of history, and capture stunning photos with ease. • Noon: Savor Hongya's local specialties at restaurants near the scenic area. We highly recommend the Zanthoxylum duck, made with locally raised free-range ducks, resulting in firm and flavorful meat. Prepared using a unique braising technique, the duck meat fully absorbs the numbing aroma of Zanthoxylum and rich spices. The first bite delivers an intense numbing sensation that tantalizes the taste buds, followed by the savory essence of the duck meat, creating a multi-layered culinary experience. Pair it with the refreshing and palate-cleansing spring water bean curd, made with mountain spring water. The bean curd is rich in aroma, delicate, and smooth. Scoop a spoonful, drizzle it with spicy dipping sauce, and enjoy the tender, spicy, and utterly satisfying flavors. • Afternoon: Step into the Jurassic Alsophila spinulosa forest and embark on a journey through ancient plants, unraveling the mysteries of nature. If you have the energy, take a boat trip along the Qingyi River and admire the picturesque scenery on both banks. Travel Guide • Transportation: Driving is recommended. Navigate directly to "Hongya Caoyutan Scenic Area." Parking is available at the entrance. Alternatively, take a bus from Chengdu to Hongya Bus Station and transfer to a bus bound for Caoyutan. • Tickets: Free admission. Separate fees apply for boat tours and other activities. • Duration: A full day is recommended to fully appreciate the charm of the scenic area. • Photography Tips: When photographing the pagodas, utilize light, shadow, and angles to capture their ancient charm. In the Alsophila spinulosa forest, use the Alsophila trees as a backdrop for atmospheric shots. Visit Hongya Caoyutan for a journey through time and nature, and experience the harmonious beauty of history and the natural world!