15-Day Sichuan Travel Guide: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture

Sichuan, often referred to as the “Land of Abundance,” is a province in China that captivates travelers with its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and mouth-watering spicy cuisine. If you have 15 days to explore the essence of Sichuan, this travel guide will take you from the bustling streets of Chengdu to the snow-capped peaks of Western Sichuan, from the fairy-tale waters of Jiuzhaigou to the Tibetan culture of Seda, and finally to the Buddhist sanctuaries of Leshan and Mount Emei. Here’s a detailed itinerary and practical tips for your journey.

Itinerary Overview

• Days 1-3: Chengdu (Food and Cultural Experience)
• Days 4-6: Western Sichuan (Daocheng Yading or Siguniang Mountain)
• Days 7-9: Aba Prefecture (Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong)
• Days 10-12: Ganzi Prefecture (Seda, Danba Tibetan Villages)
• Days 13-15: Leshan – Mount Emei (Buddhist Culture and Natural Scenery)

This 15-day journey connects Sichuan’s natural wonders, ethnic cultures, and historical sites, making it ideal for travelers who love in-depth exploration, photography, and cultural discovery.

First Stop: Chengdu (Days 1-3) – The Capital of Food and Culture

Day 1: Exploring the City

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan, is a city that makes you never want to leave. Start your journey by exploring its iconic landmarks.

• Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alleys): This historic area is divided into three sections: Wide Alley, Narrow Alley, and Well Alley. Stroll through Qing Dynasty-style courtyards, browse handicraft shops, and sip tea at local teahouses. Don’t miss trying local snacks like Dan Dan Noodles or Three Big Cannons.
• Jinli Ancient Street: Adjacent to the Wuhou Shrine, this street is a microcosm of Chengdu’s nightlife. With lanterns hanging overhead and food stalls offering delicacies like sugar-oil fruits, skewers, and rabbit heads, it’s a feast for the senses. Street performances add to the lively atmosphere.
• Wuhou Shrine: A must-visit for fans of the Three Kingdoms period, this shrine honors historical figures like Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang. The museum houses rich artifacts, and the tranquil gardens are perfect for reflection.
• People’s Park: Experience the local lifestyle here. Order a bowl of tea, try ear cleaning, or watch locals play mahjong. It’s a great way to soak in Chengdu’s laid-back vibe.

Accommodation Tip: Stay near Kuanzhai Alley or Jinli Street for easy access to attractions and nightlife.

Day 2: Pandas and History

Dive deeper into Chengdu’s natural and cultural highlights.

• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Arrive early (around 8 AM) to see pandas at their most active. Watch them munch on bamboo, climb trees, or even spot baby pandas. Consider renting an audio guide to learn about panda conservation.
• Du Fu Thatched Cottage: This was the home of the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu during his exile in Chengdu. The lush gardens and exhibits offer a glimpse into the life of the “Sage of Poetry.”
• Qingyang Palace: One of Chengdu’s oldest Taoist temples, it features ancient architecture and a serene atmosphere. Don’t miss the Sanqing Hall and the Bagua Pavilion.
• Evening Activity: Head back to Kuanzhai Alley for a Sichuan Opera performance, where the famous face-changing act will leave you in awe.

Food Recommendation: Try Long Chao Shou for lunch and enjoy a spicy hotpot dinner near Chunxi Road.

Day 3: Day Trips (Dujiangyan/Mount Qingcheng)

Venture outside Chengdu to explore UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Dujiangyan Irrigation System: Built over 2,000 years ago, this engineering marvel still functions today. Visit key spots like Fish Mouth, Bottle-Neck Channel, and Anlan Suspension Bridge to appreciate ancient ingenuity.
• Mount Qingcheng: A birthplace of Taoism, this mountain is divided into Front Mountain (cultural sites) and Back Mountain (natural scenery). Opt for Front Mountain, where you can hike or take a cable car to visit Tianshi Cave and Shangqing Palace.

Transport Tip: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan (about 30 minutes). Both sites are close and can be visited in one day.

Second Stop: Western Sichuan (Days 4-6) – Snow Mountains and Highland Paradise

Days 4-6: Daocheng Yading or Siguniang Mountain (Choose One)

Western Sichuan is renowned for its breathtaking highland scenery. You have two options: the dreamy Daocheng Yading or the lesser-known Siguniang Mountain.

Option 1: Daocheng Yading (Fairyland Adventure)

• Day 4: Chengdu to Xinduqiao
  Drive or take a bus along the 318 National Highway to Xinduqiao (about 7-8 hours). Stop at Luding Bridge and Kangding en route. Xinduqiao, known as the “Photographer’s Paradise,” is especially stunning in autumn.
• Day 5: Xinduqiao to Daocheng Yading
  Continue to Daocheng Yading (about 6 hours). Stay in Yading Village and visit Chonggu Monastery and Pearl Lake, where you can see the reflection of Mount Chenrezig.
• Day 6: Milk Lake/Five-Color Lake – Return
  Start early and hike to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake (round trip takes 5-6 hours). These high-altitude lakes are the highlights of Yading. Return to Daocheng or Xinduqiao in the afternoon.

Altitude Sickness Tip: Prepare with Rhodiola or oxygen canisters, as the altitude exceeds 4,000 meters.

Option 2: Siguniang Mountain (Hidden Gem)

• Day 4: Chengdu to Siguniang Mountain
  Drive to Rilong Town (about 4-5 hours), the base for exploring Siguniang Mountain.
• Day 5: Changping Valley/Shuangqiao Valley
  Changping Valley is ideal for hiking (about 6 hours), while Shuangqiao Valley offers a scenic bus ride. Choose based on your energy levels.
• Day 6: Maobiliang – Return to Chengdu
  Visit Maobiliang Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Siguniang Mountain before heading back to Chengdu.

Recommendation: Daocheng Yading offers more dramatic scenery but requires more travel time, while Siguniang Mountain is closer and more accessible.

Third Stop: Aba Prefecture (Days 7-9) – Jiuzhaigou’s Fairyland

Day 7: Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou

Fly (1 hour) or drive (8 hours) to Jiuzhaigou. Stay near the park entrance and explore local Tibetan markets in the evening.

Day 8: Jiuzhaigou Day Tour

Explore the park’s three main valleys: Shuzheng, Rize, and Zechawa. Highlights include:

• Five-Flower Lake: A kaleidoscope of colors.
• Long Lake: The park’s deepest and most serene lake.
• Nuorilang Waterfall: A majestic cascade.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear.

Day 9: Huanglong – Return to Chengdu

Visit Huanglong’s travertine pools, such as the Multi-Colored Ponds. Fly back to Chengdu in the afternoon.

Ticket Tip: Book Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong tickets online in advance.

Fourth Stop: Ganzi Prefecture (Days 10-12) – Tibetan Culture

Day 10: Chengdu to Seda

Drive or take a bus (about 10 hours) to Seda. Visit Larung Gar Buddhist Academy, where thousands of red monastic houses create a stunning vista. Watch the sunset from the hilltop.

Day 11: Seda to Danba Tibetan Villages

Head to Danba (about 5 hours) and explore Jiaju Tibetan Village, known as the “Most Beautiful Village in China.” Visit Zhonglu Village if time permits.

Day 12: Danba to Chengdu

Return to Chengdu (about 6 hours), with a possible stop in Xiaojin County.

Altitude Tip: Seda is at high altitude, so stay warm and watch for altitude sickness.

Fifth Stop: Leshan – Mount Emei (Days 13-15) – Buddhism and Nature

Day 13: Chengdu to Leshan

Take a high-speed train (1 hour) to Leshan. Visit the Giant Buddha, either by walking down the cliffside path or taking a boat for a distant view. Try local dishes like Leshan Beef Hotpot before heading to Mount Emei.

Day 14: Mount Emei

Catch the sunrise at Golden Summit (weather permitting). Visit Golden Temple, Ten Directions Puxian Statue, and Wannian Temple. End the day at the Monkey Zone.

Day 15: Mount Emei to Chengdu

Relax in a hot spring before returning to Chengdu.

Practical Tips

• Transportation: Use flights (Jiuzhaigou), high-speed trains (Leshan), or rent a car for Western Sichuan and Ganzi.
• Packing: Bring warm clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses for high-altitude areas; rain gear and hiking shoes for Jiuzhaigou and Mount Emei.
• Altitude Sickness: Prepare with Rhodiola or oxygen canisters for high-altitude destinations.
• Tickets: Book popular attractions like Jiuzhaigou and Mount Emei online in advance.
• Insurance: Consider travel insurance for emergencies.

This 15-day Sichuan travel guide offers a comprehensive exploration of the province’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture seeker, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through one of China’s most diverse regions. Pack your curiosity and embark on an immersive adventure in Sichuan!