Dujiangyan is a part of Chengdu, Sichuan province (China) and is home to a variety of attractions. Its unique landscape supports agriculture and tourism, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Understand
[edit]
History
[edit]The Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰) was constructed around 256 BC by Li Bing and his son, who served as administrators of Shu Commandery during the Qin Dynasty. Unlike conventional dams, the system uses natural topography to divert water from the Min River (岷江) into irrigation canals, allowing flood control and agricultural irrigation without blocking the river’s flow. Before the completion of the irrigation system, the plains around the Min River were prone to flash flooding, due to the fast moving river flowing down from the mountains and meeting level ground.
The project is considered the world’s oldest functioning water diversion system and remains in operation today, providing water to the Chengdu Plain, one of China’s most fertile regions. Dujiangyan’s design includes three key components — the Fish Mouth Levee (鱼嘴), Flying Sand Weir (飞沙堰), and Bottle-Neck Channel (宝瓶口) — which work together to distribute and regulate water flow.
The system not only improved agriculture but also transformed the Chengdu Basin into the “Land of Abundance” (天府之国). Furthermore, it might not be a coincidence that a few decades later, the State of Qin (which ruled this area) succeeded in conquering the other Chinese states and unifying China for the first time. Li Bing and his son are honored as “Lords of the River” (川主), and every year on June 24th and 26th, locals hold a traditional “Lords of the River Festival” to commemorate their achievements. The site was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, along with nearby Mount Qingcheng, for its historical, scientific, and cultural significance.
Geography
[edit]Dujiangyan City is about 60 km northwest of Chengdu. It sits along the upper reaches of the Min River, at the point where the Chengdu Plain transitions into the foothills of the Qionglai Mountains. This unique location gives the area a varied landscape that includes river valleys, rolling hills and steep mountain ridges. Elevation increases sharply from about 600 m near the urban district to more than 4,500 m in the surrounding highlands, creating dramatic changes in climate and vegetation within a short distance.
The city is best known for the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient water-control project that has shaped the region’s agricultural prosperity for over two millennia. The mix of fertile plains and nearby mountain environments also supports diverse wildlife, including parts of the giant panda habitat in the Longmen Mountains. As a gateway to Mount Qingcheng and several nature reserves, Dujiangyan serves both as a historical destination and a starting point for excursions into western Sichuan’s mountain landscapes.
Climate
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Dujiangyan City has a subtropical humid monsoon climate with four clearly defined seasons. Summers are hot, rainy and very humid, while winters are mild, damp and generally frost-free. The average annual temperature is around 16 °C, with summer highs often exceeding 30 °C and winter lows rarely dropping below 0 °C.
Annual precipitation is approximately 1,200 mm, most of which falls during the monsoon season. Rain is heaviest from May to August, with July typically being the wettest month. During this period, humidity can feel intense, and sudden downpours or thunderstorms are common, especially in the mountainous areas surrounding the city.
Autumn (September to November) is considered the most pleasant time of year, with cooler temperatures and relatively stable weather. Winter (December to February) is the driest season, though the air can feel chilly due to persistent humidity and overcast skies. Because of Dujiangyan's proximity to the Qionglai Mountains, visitors should also expect rapid weather changes when traveling to higher elevations such as Mount Qingcheng or the Longmen Mountains.
Get in
[edit]By train
[edit]Dujiangyan is well connected to Chengdu by frequent high-speed trains running on the Chengdu–Dujiangyan intercity railway. The journey takes about 30–40 minutes depending on the service. Trains may sell out on weekends and holidays, so booking in advance is recommended. Most travellers reach Dujiangyan from Chengdu West or Xipu stations, with a smaller number of services departing from Chengdu East.
Dujiangyan has two railway stations:
- 1 Dujiangyan Railway Station (Dujiangyan Station), Eastern outskirts of Dujiangyan (Accessible by local bus line 4 or taxi). Located outside the city centre, this station serves many of the intercity trains arriving from Chengdu. Reaching the main attractions—including the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and the old town—requires a short bus or taxi ride. It is also the better station if you are heading onward to areas on the eastern side of the city.

- 2 Liduigongyuan Railway Station (Lidui Park Station), Near Lidui Park, central Dujiangyan (A short walk to the old town and major tourist sites). The most convenient station for visitors. It is only a few minutes’ walk from the entrance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, the old city area, and buses toward Mount Qingcheng. Travellers staying near the historic district should choose this station whenever possible.

Connections
[edit]From Dujiangyan, additional train options allow easy travel around western Sichuan:
- Services to Chengdu run frequently throughout the day, with the fastest trains reaching the city in about 35 minutes.
- Many trains continue to Qingchengshan Railway Station, the gateway to Mount Qingcheng. From Liduigongyuan, the trip takes only 5–7 minutes.
- Regional services to towns west of Chengdu, such as Pengzhou or Chongzhou, operate on select schedules.
Tips
[edit]- Ticket checks in Dujiangyan stations are efficient, but queues may form during peak season. Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure.
- If your accommodation is in the old town or near the irrigation system, always choose Liduigongyuan Station when booking tickets.
- Bus line 4 connects Dujiangyan Station with the central area and is the cheapest way to enter the city.
By bus
[edit]Dujiangyan is easily reached from Chengdu by frequent long-distance buses. The ride usually takes around 60–80 minutes depending on traffic. Buses depart mainly from Chadianzi Bus Station and, less frequently, from Xipu Bus Station. Tickets should be purchased at the station counter before joining the boarding line. English is generally not used in bus terminals, but staff and passengers are usually willing to help.
The bus system is a convenient choice for travellers who prefer a direct drop-off in the city centre, as buses arrive closer to downtown than most trains.
- 3 Dujiangyan Passenger Transportation Center (Dujiangyan Bus Station), Near Bajiaomiao Rd, central Dujiangyan (About a 15-minute walk from the old town; local buses and taxis connect to major tourist sites). The main intercity bus station in Dujiangyan, receiving most services from Chengdu. From here, it is easy to reach the old town, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and accommodation areas. Buses to nearby counties and smaller towns also depart from this station.

From Chengdu to Dujiangyan
[edit]- Chadianzi Bus Station(Metro Line 2, Chadianzi Bus Terminal) offers the most frequent services, often departing every 10–20 minutes. This is the most reliable option for travellers.
- Xipu Bus Station provides additional departures but on a less frequent schedule.
- Travel time varies between 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic conditions.
Tips
[edit]- Buy tickets at the counter before queuing; buses do not have numbers and boarding can be confusing for first-timers.
- During weekends and holidays, lines may be long—arrive early.
- If you want to be dropped closer to the old town or your hotel, the bus is often more convenient than the train.
By taxi or rideshare
[edit]Taxis and app-based rides (such as Didi Chuxing) operate between Chengdu and Dujiangyan. The trip takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, costing approximately ¥150–200 one way, depending on pickup location and traffic. This option offers the most flexibility if traveling with luggage or in a group.
Get around
[edit]There is an extensive local bus system that connects most parts of Dujiangyan, including the old city, Mount Qingcheng, and the high-speed rail stations. Fares typically range from ¥1–2, and many routes operate from 06:30 to 22:00. Route maps are usually displayed at bus stops, though only a few have English information. (See map).
Taxis within the city are plentiful and inexpensive, with a starting fare of ¥4. Short trips within the downtown area usually cost less than ¥10. Didi Chuxing and other rideshare apps are also available and useful for reaching more remote spots such as Mount Qingcheng’s back entrance.
Bicycles and e-scooters can be rented through Meituan or Hello Bike apps. They are a convenient way to explore the riverside areas or travel between the old city and Lidui Park station.
Walking is pleasant in the old city area, where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance.
See
[edit]- 1 Dujiangyan old city (都江堰古城). While little in the old city is original, it has been beautifully reconstructed as a tourist site. The old city is absolutely worth strolling through for its architecture, and there are interesting descriptions of the place's history. But the stores are of no particular interest and you'll probably choose to avoid them. Be sure to see the east city gate (very impressive, but rebuilt only in 2010!) and the street inside it.

- 2 Dujiangyan irrigation system (next to the old city). Built in 256 BC, this is the world's oldest irrigation system that is still in use. By diverting most of the annual flood away from the agricultural region, this system minimized the impact of both droughts and floods, making Sichuan the most productive agricultural place in China. The site includes beautiful hillside walking trails and historic temples. ¥90.

- 3 Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park (at the mouth of the Min River in the west of the Chengdu Plain, in the west of Dujiangyan City). Dujiangyan Scenic Area is a world-famous ancient Chinese water conservancy project, known for its Taoist temples.

- 4 Dujiangyan Phoenix Stadium (都江堰体育场), No. 699 Caihong Avenue, ☏ +86 028-86623307. 09:00-21:30. A multi-purpose stadium that is used mostly for association football matches. The stadium holds 12,700 people. The venue broke ground in February 2008 with original name Dujiangyan Sports Centre Stadium. It opened in May 2010 with a new name "Phoenix", which was in memory of the city rebirth from 2008 Sichuan earthquake.

- 5 Yulei Mountain Park (玉垒山公园), South side of the Dujiangyan Scenic Area (Walking distance from the Dujiangyan Irrigation System). 07:00–19:00. A forested hill overlooking the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, featuring temples, pavilions and panoramic viewpoints of the Min River. A peaceful place for short walks and photography, especially at sunset. Free.

- 6 Erwang Temple (二王庙), Inside the Dujiangyan Scenic Area (Within walking distance from the old city). 08:00–18:00. A historic temple honoring Li Bing and his son, the engineers who designed the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, the halls contain cultural relics, river-god statues and inscriptions related to ancient water management. Included with scenic area ticket.

- 7 Fulong Temple (伏龙观), Near the Min River upstream from the main scenic area (Walk or take a short taxi from the Dujiangyan Scenic Area entrance). 08:00–17:30. An ancient Taoist shrine located on a quiet stretch of the Min River. According to local legend, this is where Li Bing subdued the river dragon. The temple offers river views and a calm atmosphere away from tourist crowds. Free.

- 8 Anlan Bridge (安澜桥), Crossing the Min River in the Dujiangyan Scenic Area (Inside the main scenic area). 08:00–18:00. A historic-style suspension bridge offering impressive views of the Min River and the irrigation structures. Once made entirely of bamboo and vines, the modern reconstruction preserves the traditional appearance and remains one of the most iconic sights in Dujiangyan. Included with scenic area ticket.

- 9 Nanqiao Riverside Night View (南桥夜景), Near the central riverside promenade (Walkable from the old town). Nighttime. A beautifully illuminated pedestrian bridge and riverside area popular with locals in the evening. The colorful lights, reflections on the water and lively street atmosphere make it an excellent spot for night photography. Free.

- 10 Dujiangyan Museum (都江堰博物馆), Jianshe Road, central Dujiangyan (10-minute walk from Nanguan Tower). 09:00–17:00. A small but informative museum covering the history of Dujiangyan, ancient hydraulic engineering, local culture and archaeological findings. Exhibits provide useful background before visiting the irrigation system. Free.

Do
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1 Dujiangyan Panda Base (on the side of the road, about 4 km south of the Qingcheng Mountain train station), [email protected]. A panda zoo, which is (as of 2016) the only place in the world where you can get your picture taken while holding a giant panda. This is extremely expensive (¥1800 per person) but the money is supposed to go to conservation. Some people remember this experience for the rest of their lives, while others are surprised that it ends so quickly (~15 seconds per person). The pandas are generally 1-2 years old, so they have lost the cuteness of the baby pandas you'll see in some older pictures from other places in China. If you don't want to pay for this, for free you can walk into the panda zoo and see dozens of pandas at a normal zoo distance. They are normally let out of their dens at around 09:30 and proceed to eat breakfast. To arrive, take the 102 bus from just outside the Dujiangyan bus station (or from the Qingcheng Mountain train station, which the 102 passes along its route). This bus runs frequently during the day. Reserve your visit ahead of time by email.
Outdoor and nature activities
[edit]- 2 Qingcheng Mountain hiking (Front Mountain), Qingchengshan Town, Dujiangyan. The Front Mountain is known for its shaded forest paths and Taoist temples. Hiking to the summit takes 2.5–4 hours. A cable car is available for easier access. Very suitable for beginners.

- 3 Qingcheng Mountain Back Mountain trekking, Tai’an Ancient Town, Dujiangyan. A quieter and more rugged area for experienced hikers. Features waterfalls, wooden plank trails, and dense forest. A full-day hike (5–7 hours). Weather changes quickly, so proper shoes and rain gear are essential.

- 4 Qingcheng Adventure Park (Zipline & ropes course), Near Qingchengshan Front Mountain Parking Area. Offers ziplining, rope bridges, and light climbing activities. Popular among families and groups. Safety equipment provided.

Water and river activities
[edit]- 5 Min River rafting (seasonal), Yuzui area, near Dujiangyan Scenic Zone. Beginner-friendly rafting trips on the Min River, available June–September. Operators provide helmets and life jackets. Scenic mountain-and-river views along the way.

- 6 Lingyan Ancient Town riverside walk, Lingyan Town, Dujiangyan. A peaceful riverside village with teahouses, stone paths, and traditional architecture. Travellers can enjoy a quiet riverside walk or rent a small wooden boat.

Cultural experiences
[edit]- 7 Taoist ritual experience (Qingcheng Mountain), Shangqing Palace, Qingcheng Mountain Front Area. Some temples allow visitors to observe morning incense ceremonies or simple Taoist rituals. English interpretation is limited but the cultural atmosphere is rich.

- 8 Tea picking & tasting experience, Jiezi or Qingcheng Tea Plantations, Dujiangyan. Local tea farms offer tea-picking activities, small DIY processing sessions, and tastings of Qingcheng green tea. Booking in advance recommended.

- 9 Cultural craft workshops (mask painting / bamboo weaving), Dujiangyan Old Town Art Street. Short beginner-friendly workshops on Sichuan opera mask painting, bamboo weaving, or incense making. Sessions last 1–2 hours.

Night activities
[edit]- 10 Dujiangyan night walk & riverside lights, South Bridge to Guanxian Tower area. The old city and riverside paths are beautifully illuminated at night. Perfect for relaxed evening strolls, photography, and street snacks.

- 11 Qingcheng Hot Spring Resort, Tai’an Ancient Town hot spring area. Natural hot-spring resorts offering outdoor pools and private baths. Popular at night, especially in winter.

Buy
[edit]- 1 Sunac Mall (Dujiangyan Branch), No. 1 Zhizhen Road, toll-free: +86 182-6967-2160. 10:00-21:00。. Sunac Mall (Dujiangyan) is a large modern shopping and entertainment complex located in Dujiangyan City, part of Chengdu in Sichuan Province, China. The mall features a wide selection of retail stores, restaurants, cafés, a cinema, and family-friendly entertainment options, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
One of its most iconic highlights is Zhongshuge Bookstore, a visually striking bookstore known for its creative interior design and photogenic architecture. Visitors often enjoy exploring the stylish reading spaces and taking memorable photos here.
Sunac Mall is conveniently located within a short distance of major attractions such as the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Qingcheng Mountain, making it an ideal spot to relax, dine, and shop before or after sightseeing.
- 2 Dujiangyan Bailun Plaza (都江堰百伦广场), 211 Dujiangyan Avenue, ☏ +86 173-1622-0318. 10:00-22:00. Dujiangyan Bailun Plaza is one of the major shopping and entertainment complexes in downtown Dujiangyan. The plaza combines modern shopping, dining, and leisure facilities, offering visitors a comfortable and convenient place to spend their time. It features a wide range of fashion brands, restaurants, cafés, and entertainment options, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
Located along Dujiangyan Avenue, the plaza is easily accessible by public transportation and is only a short drive from major attractions such as the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng. Its clean, modern design and diverse retail offerings make it a favorite spot for weekend shopping and casual outings.
Eat
[edit]Dujiangyan offers authentic Sichuan cuisine, famous for its bold, spicy, and numbing flavors, as well as unique local specialties. The city’s food is influenced by Chengdu culinary traditions, but several dishes and snacks are distinctive to the Dujiangyan area.
Local specialties
[edit]- Bean jelly (凉粉) – A refreshing snack made from mung bean starch, usually served cold with chili oil, garlic, and vinegar. Common at street food stalls and night markets.
- Tofu pudding (豆花) – Silky soft tofu served with spicy sauce or mild broth; popular as breakfast or light meal.
- Grilled fish (烤鱼) – Freshwater fish from the Min River, grilled with chili, garlic, and herbs. Often served whole and shared among diners.
- Rabbit dishes (兔头, 兔丁) – A signature Sichuan delicacy; spicy rabbit heads and diced rabbit meat are widely available in small local restaurants.
- Hotpot (火锅) – Dujiangyan has numerous hotpot restaurants offering both classic spicy broths and milder herbal options. A social meal often enjoyed with friends or family.
- Street snacks – Including spicy skewers, dumplings, rice cakes, and sesame pancakes, widely found around Dujiangyan Old Town and Nanqiao (South Bridge).
Restaurants
[edit]- 1 南桥夜市Nanqiao Night Market, South Bridge (near the South Bridge Scenic Area), ☏ 028-87283890. 17:00 to 23:00. Lively evening market near the South Bridge with dozens of stalls serving bean jelly, dumplings, skewers, and other snacks.

- 2 岳记兴隆·青城腊排铜火锅Yueji Xinglong · Qingcheng Cured Rib Copper Hot Pot., Shop 16, 1st Floor, Minjiang Huating, No. 483-16 GuanJing Road, ☏ 61429749. 10:00-21:00 throughout the year. Yueji Xinglong · Qingcheng Cured Rib Copper Hot Pot is a characteristic hot - pot restaurant in Dujiangyan. Its biggest feature is the combination of Qingcheng Mountain cured ribs and Tibetan - style copper pot. The cured ribs in the pot are well - stewed, and the meat can be easily removed from the bone with a gentle bite. The cured pig's trotters are soft, glutinous and full of collagen. In addition to cured ribs and pig's trotters, the pot also contains ginkgo nuts, fried pork skin, cured chicken and other ingredients, with a rich taste. The restaurant also offers a variety of fresh wild vegetables, which can be blanched in the pot for a few seconds. The fresh and crispy taste can instantly relieve the greasiness of the cured meat, and it is a perfect match with the cured meat. There are also some local special dishes, such as stir - fried bacon with garlic sprouts, soybean milk buns, Qingcheng spicy tofu, etc., which are all worth trying. The restaurant has a good environment and thoughtful service, with a per - capita consumption of about 85 yuan, which is very cost - effective. The average cost per person is about 85 ¥.There are group-buying packages, such as a 2-person package priced at 38 ¥ (originally 261¥), which includes cured pig's trotters, farm-cured chicken, cured ribs, fried pork skin, ginkgo nuts, corn and other ingredients, as well as wild vegetables, seasonal vegetables, 3 portions of dipping sauce, steamed rice and appetizers.

- 3 Dujiangyan Irrigation Project Youhutou Beer Hotel (都江堰老号尤兔头总店(幸福大道店)), No.12, Fuzhou 14, Shangduan of Xingfu Avenue (opposite China Telecom), ☏ 028 - 61726666. Dujiangyan Lao Hao You Rabbit Head (Xingfu Avenue Store) is famed for its rabbit heads, the signature dish. They come in spicy and five-spice flavors—spicy ones are fragrant and numbing, five-spice ones rich with sesame. It also serves tender rabbit legs and refreshing frozen tofu pudding, all with authentic Sichuan tastes, loved by locals and visitors. 66¥.

Drink
[edit]- 1 Grain Stack (谷垛), No.31 - 33 Shenjia Lane, toll-free: +86 18982018973. 10:00-20:00. Grain Stack, a beloved spot in Dujiangyan, shines with its unique drinks that blend flavor and texture. In its Coconut Latte, creamy coconut milk merges with aromatic brewed coffee, offering a sweet yet not cloying taste, ideal for pairing with the shop’s pastries. The Americano stands out too, with a smooth, well-balanced profile, boasting subtle nutty undertones that cut through the richness of desserts perfectly. For tea lovers, the Freshly Brewed Oolong Tea is a great pick; light, fragrant, and with a clean aftertaste, it refreshes instantly. If you prefer something fruity, the Peach Iced Tea (seasonal) is delightful—fresh peach notes infuse the crisp tea, making it a top choice for hot days. Each drink complements the shop’s cozy garden vibe, enhancing your experience. Average consumption ¥23.

- 2 Qi Yue Tea (Dujiangyan Darongcheng Branch) (沏悦茶(都江堰大融城店)), No. 23, 4th Floor, Darongcheng Shopping Mall, Dujiangyan Avenue, ☏ +86 153 0808‑6148. 10:00‑21:30. Qi Yue Tea is a specialty tea shop located in the heart of Dujiangyan’s Darongcheng Shopping Mall. The shop offers a wide variety of premium teas, including green, oolong, and scented teas sourced from Sichuan’s renowned tea-growing regions.
Visitors can enjoy freshly brewed tea in a cozy and serene environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation or casual meetings. The shop emphasizes traditional tea culture while providing a modern and comfortable tea-drinking experience. The average spending per person is about 50¥, with a minimum consumption of around 30¥. Private rooms have a minimum charge of approximately 268 ¥.
- 3 Xianyue Teahouse (弦月茶舍), 342 Wai Bei Street, Dujiangyan City, ☏ +86 180 1151 1809. 10:00 – 22:00. Xianyue Teahouse is a serene teahouse tucked into a renovated traditional house in Dujiangyan. With a minimalist, Zen-inspired design using natural wood tones, it creates a tranquil atmosphere for guests to unwind. The space includes a small courtyard, indoor rooms, and private tea rooms, allowing visitors to relax in solitude or with friends. Their tea menu is broad, offering white tea, pu-er, rock tea, cold-brew teas, and more, making it ideal for both casual tea drinkers and connoisseurs. Whether you're brewing tea over a stove or simply sipping slowly, it’s a peaceful retreat away from the hustle of the city, perfect for reflection, quiet talk, or watching clouds drift by. According to local guides, tea per person is moderate — many teas are around ¥50–100 for a tasting or a pot, depending on the variety.

Sleep
[edit]1 Crowne Plaza Dujiangyan, an IHG Hotel (都江堰皇冠假日酒店), No. 388, Dujiangyan Avenue, ☏ +862887266666, [email protected]. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. The hotel is 65 km away from Shuangliu International Airport, and nearby scenic spots such as Dujiangyan Scenic Area, Qingcheng Mountain, and Guanxian Ancient City. Close to the hotel, Rongchang Expressway, train station or taxis on time are convenient to go to other parts of the city.
2 West Sichuan Yunsu · Shanjing Private Soup Hot Spring Hotel (都江堰隐世云舍私汤别院), No. 249, Middle Section of West Zouma River, ☏ +862860960606. Dujiangyan Inshi Yunshe Private Tangyuan is located in Dujiangyan, with an outdoor swimming pool, garden, terrace and restaurant. This accommodation is about 2.9 kilometers away from Lidui Park Station, 4 kilometers away from Nanqiao, and 14 kilometers away from Qingcheng Mountain.
3 Atour Hotel Chengdu Dujiangyan Irrigation Project Scenic Area Imixpark (成都都江堰景区大融城亚朵酒店), 106 Du Jiang Yan Da Dao, ☏ +862881155888. Check-in: 2pm, check-out: 12pm. This hotel is 50 km from the Liulin Campus of Southwest University of Finance and Economics. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is 59 kilometers away from the accommodation.
- 4 Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain (青城山六善酒店), No. 2 Dong Ruan Road, Qingcheng Mountain Town, Dujiangyan,, ☏ +86 28 8712 6666, toll-free: +86 177 0815 0605, [email protected]. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain is a luxury spa resort located at the entrance of Qingcheng Mountain near the UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan. The architecture blends regional styles with eco-friendly design, creating a calm, culturally rich retreat. It features courtyard villas, suites (some with private pools), an award-winning Six Senses Spa offering Taoist healing, an organic garden, and wellness programs rooted in nature and local tradition. One of their long-stay offers ("Carefree Premium Journey") starts at ¥7,688 for two nights.

Stay safe
[edit]Dujiangyan is generally a very safe city for travellers, but some basic precautions will help ensure a smooth trip.
Emergency numbers
- Police: 110
- Ambulance: 120
- Fire: 119
These numbers work nationwide and operators may not speak English, so consider asking a local for help if needed.
Mountain and hiking safety
[edit]The Qingcheng Mountain and nearby nature areas have steep trails, humid weather, and rapidly changing conditions.
- Check the weather forecast before hiking; fog and sudden rainstorms are common.
- Wear proper footwear with good grip, as paths can be wet and mossy.
- Carry water and snacks, especially if hiking the Back Mountain routes, which are longer and less commercialized.
- Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing railings for photos.
- Watch your step on old stone stairs, especially after rain.
- In summer, be mindful of heat and high humidity, and rest when needed.
Traffic and transportation safety
[edit]- Traffic in busy tourist areas can be crowded. Use designated pedestrian crossings.
- Taxis are generally reliable, but ensure the driver uses the meter.(Apps like DiDi can be helpful but may require basic Chinese.)
- When taking buses to Qingcheng Mountain or rural areas, confirm the final stop with the driver, as English signage is limited.
- Avoid unlicensed private cars offering “cheap rides”.
Language and communication
[edit]- English is not widely spoken, especially in smaller shops or bus stations.
- Keep your hotel’s address written in Chinese to show taxi drivers.
- Download an offline translation app for communication in emergencies or when asking for directions.
Health and environment
[edit]- Summers are hot and humid; use sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- In peak tourist seasons, attractions can be extremely crowded—keep an eye on your belongings.
- Avoid feeding wildlife inside natural parks and panda bases.
Go next
[edit]- Longmen Mountains(龙门山) — to the northwest; the natural boundary between the Sichuan Basin and the Tibetan Plateau, popular for hiking.
- Anren Ancient Town(安仁古镇)— roughly 75 km away; known as “China’s Museum Town” with well-preserved Republic-era mansions.
- Jianchuan Museum Cluster(建川博物馆群) — near Anren; one of China’s largest private museum complexes with war and folk culture exhibits.
- Xiling Snow Mountain — about 90 km away; a major alpine area for winter skiing and summer hiking.
- Tiantai Mountain — around 130 km from Dujiangyan; a national scenic area and panda habitat.
- Sanxingdui Ruins — around 80 km away; an archaeological site with unique ancient Shu bronzes.
- Bifengxia — about 120 km from Dujiangyan; a scenic gorge with waterfalls and a panda conservation center.
- Shixiang Lake Scenic Area — a peaceful forested lake known for clean air and calm scenery.
- Leshan Giant Buddha — a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved into a cliff overlooking the river.
- Mount Emei — to the southeast; one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains with temples and trekking routes.
- Jiuzhaigou National Park — a world-renowned reserve known for multi-colored lakes and waterfalls.
- Huanglong Scenic Area — famous for its terraced calcium pools and alpine landscapes.
- Mount Siguniang —Popular hiking places. It is about 150 kilometers away from Dujiangyan, and it takes about 3–4 hours by car.
