Sichuan Travel Guide

Get ready to explore the best of China's Southwest beauty with this comprehensive travel guide to Sichuan, featuring the best places to visit, top hikes and biking routes, must-try local dishes and drinks, cultural attractions, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Sichuan

Sichuan is a southwestern province of China that is known for its natural beauty, spicy and flavorful cuisine, and vibrant culture that can be traced back to over 4,000 years ago. The province is situated amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, which provide some of Sichuan’s most breathtaking scenery. As one of the country’s most populous regions, Sichuan offers visitors a range of modern entertainment and conveniences that coexist alongside centuries-old cultural traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Sichuan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For those interested in history and culture, Sichuan has a wealth of museums, temples, and historical sites. Some of the top places to visit include:

  • Jinsha Site Museum: This archaeological museum is dedicated to the discovery and preservation of the Jinsha Ruins, which date back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties.

  • Sanxingdui Museum: This museum is home to some of the most important artefacts of the Bronze Age, and visitors can see relics that date back over 3,000 years.

  • Leshan Giant Buddha: This stunning structure is located on the eastern side of Leshan City and stands 71 meters tall in a cliff overlooking the confluence of three rivers.

Natural Attractions of Sichuan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sichuan is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in China. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Jiuzhaigou National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the north of Sichuan and boasts stunning waterfalls, lakes, and forests. It’s a popular destination for hiking and camping.

  • Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area: This area is known for its terraced pools and colorful limestone formations. Visitors can hike through the area or ride a cable car for panoramic views.

  • Mount Emei: This mountain is a sacred Buddhist site and has over 30 temples. It’s also home to the Golden Summit, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sichuan

Sichuan’s varied terrain, which includes mountains, forests, and rivers, makes it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Four Sisters Mountain Trek: This is a challenging trek that takes you through the Four Sisters Mountains, which are known for their varying shapes and colors.

  • Mount Siguniang Trek: This trek goes through the Mount Siguniang National Park, which has over 130 peaks.

  • Miyaluo to Taoping Qiang Village Bike Tour: This is a moderate bike tour that takes you through the picturesque countryside of Sichuan, with stops at local villages.

Best Things to Do in Sichuan: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and sightseeing, there are many other activities and tours visitors can enjoy in Sichuan.

  • Sichuan Opera: Sichuan Opera is a traditional form of theatre that includes face-changing, spitting fire, and stunts. It’s an exciting and mesmerizing experience.

  • Panda Breeding and Research Center: This center is home to more than 150 giant pandas and is dedicated to their breeding and research. Visitors can see the pandas up close and even participate in certain activities.

  • Tea Ceremony and Tasting: Sichuan is known for its tea, and visitors can participate in traditional tea ceremonies and tastings at many locations throughout the province.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sichuan

To make the most of your trip to Sichuan, we recommend a week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Chengdu and visit the Leshan Buddha.
  • Day 3: Visit the panda breeding and research center in Chengdu.
  • Day 4-5: Hike the Four Sisters Mountain Trek or the Mount Siguniang Trek.
  • Day 6: Take a tea ceremony and tasting class in Chengdu.
  • Day 7: Visit Jiuzhaigou National Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Sichuan

One of the most famous aspects of Sichuan is its cuisine, which is known for its spiciness and rich flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot Pot: This is a traditional Sichuan dish that consists of a boiling pot of spicy broth, where you cook raw meat and vegetables at your table.

  • Mapo Tofu: This is a spicy tofu dish that is cooked with minced meat and chili paste.

  • Kung Pao Chicken: This dish is made with diced chicken, peanuts, and vegetables and is coated in a spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Baijiu: This is a traditional Chinese liquor that is made from fermented grains and has a high alcohol content.

  • Tea: Sichuan produces many different types of tea, including jasmine tea, black tea, and green tea.

Where to Stay in Sichuan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sichuan has a range of accommodations options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Niccolo Chengdu: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Chengdu and offers stunning views of the city.

  • Stamford Bridge Guest House: This guesthouse is located in Jiuzhaigou National Park, and is a great option for those looking for a rustic, natural setting.

What to Buy in Sichuan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tea: Sichuan is known for its tea, and visitors can buy high-quality tea leaves to bring home.

  • Sichuan Peppercorns: These are a spicy and fragrant addition to many dishes and are a popular souvenir for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Sichuan

Sichuan has a rich cultural history that is steeped in tradition. Here are some important customs to keep in mind:

  • Respect elders: In Sichuan, elders are highly respected, and it’s important to greet them first in social situations.

  • Remove shoes before entering homes: It’s customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home in Sichuan.

Best Time to Visit Sichuan

The best time to visit Sichuan is from April to October, when the weather is mild and there’s little rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sichuan

Do:

  • Try the spicy food: Sichuan is known for its spicy cuisine, and it’s a must-try for foodies.

  • Practice basic Chinese phrases: Although many locals in Sichuan speak basic English, it’s helpful to learn some basic Chinese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful of local customs: Sichuan has a rich cultural tradition, and it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sichuan

Sichuan is generally a safe place to travel, but it’s important to take precautions:

  • Watch out for scams: As with any tourist destination, there may be scams targeting tourists.

  • Be cautious when hiking or biking: The terrain in Sichuan can be challenging, and it’s important to take proper precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

Health in Sichuan

Sichuan is a relatively healthy part of China, but it’s important to take precautions:

  • Drink bottled water: It’s safest to drink bottled water in Sichuan, as the tap water may contain bacteria and other contaminants.

  • Watch out for spicy food: Sichuan cuisine is notorious for its spiciness, and it’s important to be careful not to overdo it.

Getting to Sichuan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sichuan

The main airport in Sichuan is the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which is served by both domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Sichuan

Sichuan has several bus stations, including the Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station and the Chengdu East Bus Station.

Other Options

Sichuan is also accessible by train, with several daily high-speed trains to Chengdu.

How to Get Around in Sichuan

Sichuan has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trains. Taxis and ride-shares are also available in major cities like Chengdu.

Where to Go Next from Sichuan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the top destinations near Sichuan include:

  • Yangshuo: This scenic town is known for its karst mountains and rivers, and is a popular destination for outdoor activities.

  • Yunnan: Yunnan province is known for its diverse landscape, from snow-capped peaks to tropical rainforests.

Conclusion

With its natural beauty, rich cultural traditions, and spicy cuisine, Sichuan offers visitors a taste of authentic China. Whether you’re interested in hiking, sightseeing, or simply relaxing, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant, dynamic province. Book your trip today and discover the beauty of Sichuan for yourself!

Panda bears Panda bears


    Aba (prefecture)
    East Sichuan
    Ganzi (prefecture)
    South Sichuan