Must-Read! Complete Guide to Avoiding Tourist Traps in Dujiangyan
Super Practical Dujiangyan Travel Guide (2025 Edition)
Over 2,300 years ago, Li Bing and his son built the Dujiangyan irrigation system. This "cradle of world water conservancy culture" still nourishes the Chengdu Plain today and is a must-visit destination near Chengdu.
I. Transportation Guide
- High-speed rail: From Xipu Station to Dujiangyan Lidui Park Station, 30-minute direct trip, starting from CNY 10; the scenic area is right at the exit
- Self-driving: Take the Chengdu-Guan Expressway, about 1 hour, parking costs CNY 10-20/day
- Bus: From Chadianzhi Station to Dujiangyan Bus Terminal, 1.5 hours, fare CNY 20-30
Sightseeing bus within the scenic area costs CNY 10 one-way (from Beiting to Fish Mouth), walking tour takes about 3 hours, guide service recommended
II. Tickets and Opening Hours
- Admission: Peak season (April-October) CNY 80, off-season (November-March) CNY 60
- Discounts: Half-price for students and seniors, free for seniors over 60 and children under 6
- Opening hours: 8:00-18:00 (extended to 18:30 in summer)
- Guide services: Electronic guide CNY 20, tour guide CNY 100-200/group
III. Must-Visit Attractions
- Water conservancy projects: Fish Mouth water diversion, Flying Sand Weir flood discharge, Bottle Neck water control, Anlan Suspension Bridge spanning the Min River (great for photos)
- Cultural landmarks: Erwang Temple commemorating Li Bing and his son, Fulong Temple overlooking Bottle Neck, Yulei Pavilion (separate ticket) for panoramic views
- Nearby attractions: Mount Qingcheng (Front Mountain CNY 80), Panda Valley (CNY 55), free tour of Guanxian Ancient Town, beautiful night views at Nanqiao Bridge
IV. Classic Routes
- One-day tour: Visit water conservancy projects in the morning, explore the ancient town and enjoy Nanqiao Bridge night views in the afternoon
- Two-day tour: Day 1 - tour Dujiangyan and the ancient town; Day 2 - climb Mount Qingcheng or see pandas, experience Hongkou rafting in summer
V. Food Map
- Snacks: Zhang's fermented rice noodles on Taiping Street, You's rabbit head on Jiang'an Road, Wenge scallion rolls
- Main meals: Lao Hao Luoji cold pot fish, Junshoufu Min River fish
- Nightlife: Barbecue skewers at Nanqiao night market, enjoy bowl tea at Heming Tea House in Mount Qingcheng
VI. Accommodation Recommendations
- High-end: Six Senses Hotel at Mount Qingcheng, Yulei Mountain Residence
- Value for money: Holiday Inn Express Dujiangyan Downtown, Xianzai·Houshe ancient town guesthouse
- Hostels: Dengba International Hostel (near Nanqiao Bridge), advance booking recommended during peak season
VII. Travel Tips
- Best seasons: March-May for flowers, September-November for cool weather
- Clothing: Wear sneakers, sun protection in summer and warm clothes in winter
- Items: Prices are high in scenic areas, bring your own water and snacks
- Tickets: The CNY 150 combined ticket for Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng is more economical
- Etiquette: Keep quiet in religious sites, don't touch ancient relics