After delving into the myriad things to do in Chengdu, from savoring the spicy delights of Sichuan cuisine to visiting the adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, you might be tempted to explore further. Day trips from Chengdu offer an exciting extension to your journey, leading you to breathtaking landscapes and ancient cultural sites within the reach of this vibrant city.
Venturing beyond Chengdu’s bustling streets, the vast landscape of China unfolds with an array of things to do, from the awe-inspiring beauty of Jiuzhaigou National Park to the towering Buddha at Leshan. These day trips immerse you in the rich tapestry of China’s natural wonders and millennia-old traditions, enriching your travel experience with unforgettable memories.
Choosing where to stay in Chengdu becomes a pivotal decision in planning your trip, ensuring that you’re well-positioned to enjoy the city’s highlights and the surrounding areas’ treasures. The right accommodation offers convenience, comfort, and a touch of Sichuan hospitality, making it the perfect base for both urban excursions and rural adventures.
Discover Best Day Trips from Chengdu, China
1. Leshan Giant Buddha, China
The Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff face, is the largest stone Buddha in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can marvel at this 71-meter tall statue and explore the surrounding temples and park.
Distance: Approximately 130 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours by bus or car
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Leshan Giant Buddha, surrounding temples, park
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Leshan Giant Buddha: $10
- Boat Trip: $7
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Leshan Buddha Park, Lingyun Hill, Mahao Cave Tombs
Travel Tip: Take a boat trip along the river for a spectacular view of the Buddha from the water.
2. Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan Irrigation System, China
Mount Qingcheng, a sacred Taoist mountain, offers peaceful hiking trails amidst lush greenery. Nearby, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient feat of engineering still in use today.
Distance: Approximately 70 km
Travel Time: About 1.5 hours by car or high-speed train
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Mount Qingcheng: $10
- Dujiangyan Irrigation System: $8
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace, Anlan Suspension Bridge
Travel Tip: Visit the irrigation system in the morning and the mountain in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
3. Jiuzhaigou Valley, China
Jiuzhaigou Valley, known for its colorful lakes, multi-level waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, is a nature lover’s paradise. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases some of the most breathtaking landscapes in China.
Distance: Approximately 400 km
Travel Time: 40-minute flight to Jiuzhaigou, followed by a short bus ride to the valley
Transportation: Flight and Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Colorful lakes, multi-level waterfalls, diverse wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Jiuzhaigou Valley: $40
- Eco Bus: $10
Budget: Approximately $100-$200 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Five Flower Lake, Nuorilang Waterfall, Primeval Forest
Travel Tip: Stay overnight in the valley area to fully experience its natural beauty at different times of the day.
4. Huanglong Scenic Area, China
Huanglong Scenic Area is famous for its stunning calcite pools, diverse forest ecosystems, and snow-capped peaks. It’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the same region as Jiuzhaigou.
Distance: Approximately 380 km
Travel Time: 40-minute flight to Jiuzhaigou Airport, followed by a 2-hour bus ride to Huanglong
Transportation: Flight and Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Calcite pools, diverse forest ecosystems, snow-capped peaks
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Huanglong Scenic Area: $30
Budget: Approximately $80-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Five-Color Pond, Huanglong Temple, Xishen Cave
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking, and visit the area outside of national holidays to avoid large crowds.
5. Emei Mountain, China
Emei Mountain, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, offers ancient temples, lush scenery, and the chance to see wild monkeys. The Golden Summit provides breathtaking views and is home to the impressive Samantabhadra statue.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: Around 2 hours by high-speed train or bus
Transportation: Train, Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Ancient temples, lush scenery, wild monkeys, Golden Summit
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Emei Mountain: $15
- Cable Car: $10 (one way)
Budget: Approximately $40-$80 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Golden Summit, Wannian Temple, Qingyin Pavilion
Travel Tip: Take the cable car to save time and energy when climbing to the Golden Summit.
6. Luodai Ancient Town, China
Luodai Ancient Town, a well-preserved Hakka community, is known for its unique architecture and cultural heritage. The town’s streets are lined with traditional teahouses, shops, and Hakka museums.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by bus or car
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Traditional Hakka architecture, cultural heritage, teahouses, museums
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Hakka Museum: $2
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Guangdong Guild Hall, Hakka Folk Culture Village, Ancient Town Streets
Travel Tip: Try local Hakka dishes in one of the traditional restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
7. Bifengxia Panda Base, China
Bifengxia Panda Base is a giant panda breeding facility set in a beautiful natural gorge. It offers a more serene and natural environment for seeing pandas compared to the more crowded Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Distance: Approximately 150 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Giant panda breeding facility, natural gorge, serene environment
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Bifengxia Panda Base: $8
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Panda Enclosures, Bifeng Gorge, Waterfalls
Travel Tip: Plan your visit in the morning when pandas are most active and feeding.
8. Shunan Bamboo Forest, China
Shunan Bamboo Forest, the largest bamboo forest in China, inspired scenes in the movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” It’s a tranquil place with lush greenery, waterfalls, and ancient temples.
Distance: Approximately 240 km
Travel Time: About 2.5 hours by bus or car
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Largest bamboo forest in China, lush greenery, waterfalls, ancient temples
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Shunan Bamboo Forest: $10
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Wangyou Valley, Xianyu Cave, Emerald Corridor
Travel Tip: Explore the forest on foot via the extensive network of trails and bridges to fully appreciate its natural beauty.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Chengdu, China
What are some must-visit places on a day trip from Chengdu?
Key day trips from Chengdu include the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and Jiuzhaigou Valley for its stunning landscapes and clear lakes.
Is the Leshan Giant Buddha worth visiting?
Yes, the Leshan Giant Buddha is an awe-inspiring sight. Carved into the side of Mount Lingyun, it is the largest stone Buddha in the world and offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Can I visit the Panda Base on a day trip from Chengdu?
Absolutely! The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a short drive from the city center and provides a unique opportunity to see giant pandas and learn about conservation efforts.
Are there guided tours to Mount Qingcheng?
Yes, there are many guided tours available to Mount Qingcheng, a significant Taoist site. These tours often combine a visit to the nearby Dujiangyan Irrigation System, showcasing ancient Chinese engineering.
What cultural experiences can I have on a day trip from Chengdu?
Day trips from Chengdu can include Sichuan opera performances, tea house visits, and exploring ancient towns like Luodai and Huanglongxi, offering insights into local traditions and Sichuan cuisine.
Is Jiuzhaigou Valley accessible for a day trip?
While Jiuzhaigou Valley is further away, it’s possible to visit on a long day trip or overnight stay. Its breathtaking natural beauty, with colorful lakes and waterfalls, makes it a must-visit destination.
Can I explore traditional Sichuan villages on a day trip?
Yes, surrounding Chengdu, traditional Sichuan villages offer a glimpse into rural life, with preserved ancient architecture, traditional crafts, and local food specialties.
Are there any tea plantation tours near Chengdu?
Chengdu is near some of China’s most important tea-growing areas. Tours to tea plantations, such as those in Mengdingshan, provide an insight into tea production and the chance to sample fresh tea.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/chengdu-l1697?activity_type=dayTrip
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