Sichuan Province is a captivating blend of spicy flavors, jaw-dropping landscapes, and centuries-old culture. Whether you’re a foodie, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Sichuan travel offers something extraordinary. This Sichuan travel guide highlights the top 10 must-see Sichuan attractions, with insider tips to help you plan an epic adventure. Let’s dive in!
1. Chengdu: Where Relaxation Meets Spicy Eats
Why Go?
Chengdu, the heart of Sichuan, is famous for its laid-back lifestyle, irresistible cuisine, and cuddly pandas—a must-visit for any traveler.
Highlights:
- Kuanzhai Alley: Wander through historic lanes, sip tea, and try spicy skewers or dan dan noodles.
- Jinli Street: A vibrant night spot for street food and souvenirs under glowing lanterns.
- Panda Research Base: Meet the world’s cutest residents up close.
Eat This: Fiery hotpot, mapo tofu, kung pao chicken.
Stay For: 2-3 days.
How to Get There: Fly into Shuangliu Airport or take a high-speed train.
Pro Tip: Visit in spring or fall for perfect weather; avoid holidays to skip the crowds.
2. Jiuzhaigou: Nature’s Colorful Masterpiece
Why Go?
With its rainbow-hued lakes and roaring waterfalls, Jiuzhaigou feels like a scene from a fantasy novel—nature lovers won’t want to miss it.
Highlights:
- Five Flower Lake: A shimmering pool of turquoise and gold.
- Nuorilang Waterfall: A wide, powerful cascade begging for photos.
Eat This: Yak meat stew, barley wine.
Stay For: 2 days.
How to Get There: Fly from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (1 hour) or bus it (8-10 hours).
Pro Tip: October’s autumn leaves are stunning—book tickets online ahead of time.
3. Dujiangyan: Ancient Ingenuity in Action
Why Go?
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Dujiangyan reveals the brilliance of ancient Chinese engineering, with the bonus of gorgeous Qingcheng Mountain nearby.
Highlights:
- Dujiangyan Irrigation System: See how this 2,000-year-old marvel still works today.
- Qingcheng Mountain: A Taoist retreat perfect for hiking and chilling out.
Eat This: Farm-to-table dishes, smoked Qingcheng bacon.
Stay For: 1-2 days.
How to Get There: 30-minute high-speed train from Chengdu.
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for Qingcheng’s trails.
4. Leshan: Big Buddha, Bigger Flavors
Why Go?
Home to the world’s largest stone Buddha and some seriously tasty eats, Leshan is a feast for the eyes and stomach.
Highlights:
- Leshan Giant Buddha: Admire it from a boat or on foot—it’s massive either way.
- Mount Emei: A sacred peak with sunrise views and misty trails.
Eat This: Boboji (spicy chicken broth), sweet sticky duck.
Stay For: 1-2 days (3 with Mount Emei).
How to Get There: High-speed train from Chengdu (~1 hour).
Pro Tip: Visit the Buddha early to avoid the rush.
5. Daocheng Yading: The Ultimate Shangri-La
Why Go?
Snowy peaks, pristine lakes, and wide-open grasslands make this a paradise for adventurers and photographers.
Highlights:
- Three Holy Mountains: Awe-inspiring and majestic.
- Pearl Lake: A mirror-like beauty reflecting the mountains.
Eat This: Tibetan butter tea, yak meat.
Stay For: 3-4 days.
How to Get There: Fly from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading Airport (1 hour), then drive.
Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen and altitude meds—fall is the best season.
6. Mount Emei: Spirituality Meets Scenic Views
Why Go?
One of China’s four holy Buddhist mountains, Mount Emei combines sacred sites with epic nature.
Highlights:
- Golden Summit: Watch the sunrise over clouds and a towering Buddha.
- Wannian Temple: A tranquil spot for reflection.
Eat This: Buddhist veggie meals, wild mountain greens.
Stay For: 2 days.
How to Get There: Train from Chengdu or Leshan, then shuttle bus.
Pro Tip: Pack warm layers—winter snow adds magic.
7. Langzhong: A Living History Lesson
Why Go?
This ancient town, one of China’s best-preserved, takes you back to the Tang and Song dynasties.
Highlights:
- Langzhong Old Town: Stroll stone streets and visit Zhang Fei Temple.
- Jinping Mountain: Great views and spring flower hikes.
Eat This: Beef noodles, vinegar-infused snacks.
Stay For: 1-2 days.
How to Get There: Bus from Chengdu (3-4 hours).
Pro Tip: Stay in a local guesthouse for nighttime charm.
8. Kangding: Your Doorway to Tibetan Culture
Why Go?
Kangding blends Sichuan’s lowlands with Tibetan highlands, offering grasslands and a taste of Tibet.
Highlights:
- Love Song Scenic Area: Rolling meadows with a romantic twist.
- Mugecuo Lake: A crystal-clear alpine gem.
Eat This: Tibetan tsampa, butter tea.
Stay For: 2 days.
How to Get There: Bus from Chengdu (~6 hours).
Pro Tip: Pack for cooler weather—altitude kicks in here.
9. Hailuogou: Glaciers and Hot Springs Combo
Why Go?
Ice, forests, and steaming hot springs—this spot is perfect for thrill-seekers and relaxation junkies alike.
Highlights:
- Glacier Park: Get close to a massive ice wall.
- Hot Springs: Soak in natural pools after a day of exploring.
Eat This: Wild mushroom soup.
Stay For: 2 days.
How to Get There: Bus from Chengdu (~6 hours).
Pro Tip: Winter makes the glaciers pop—wear nonslip shoes.
10. Maerkang: A Taste of Tibetan Life
Why Go?
A key Tibetian town, Maerkang serves up vast plains and stunning traditional architecture.
Highlights:
- Hongyuan Grassland: Endless beauty for your camera.
- Zhuokeji Village: Classic Tibetan buildings worth exploring.
Eat This: Hand-torn lamb, milky tea.
Stay For: 2 days.
How to Get There: Bus from Chengdu (5-6 hours).
Pro Tip: High altitude means sunblock and warm clothes are a must.
Plan Your Sichuan Adventure
- Quick Trip (5 Days): Chengdu + Dujiangyan + Leshan + Mount Emei—urban and outdoor highlights.
- Mid-Range (7-10 Days): Chengdu + Jiuzhaigou + Leshan + Mount Emei + Langzhong—a fuller taste of Sichuan attractions.
- Big Journey (10+ Days): Chengdu + Jiuzhaigou + Daocheng Yading + Kangding + Hailuogou—high-altitude heaven.
Wrap-Up: Why Sichuan Travel Rocks
From Chengdu’s spicy streets to Daocheng Yading’s remote wilderness, Sichuan has it all—cities, mountains, history, and more. This Sichuan travel guide is your ticket to exploring one of China’s most diverse provinces. Ready to pack your bags? Sichuan’s waiting!
Article edited from Sichuantrip.com. published by damin, please cite the source for retransmission：https://sichuantrip.com/top-10-must-visit-destinations-in-sichuan/