Songpan Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat in Songpan. Learn about its culture and customs, safety concerns, and transportation options in this complete travel guide.


Introduction to Songpan

Nestled in the southwestern part of China, Songpan is a picturesque town that provides a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about the country’s history and traditions. From hiking to historical museums to delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Songpan. This comprehensive travel guide provides everything you need to know before visiting this charming little town.

List of Places to Visit in Songpan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Songzhou Ancient City Wall: Built in the Tang Dynasty and restored in the Ming and Qing dynasties, Songzhou Ancient City Wall once served as the town’s defensive rampart. Today you can walk along the wall and get an excellent view of the town.

  2. Huanglong National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1992, Huanglong National Park lies in the northwestern part of Songpan County. The park’s spectacular scenery includes snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, and pristine lakes, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities.

  3. Langmusi: A village divided between two provinces, Gansu and Sichuan, Langmusi is famous for its unique blend of traditional Tibetan and Chinese cultures. The village is also home to several ancient monasteries that date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Natural Attractions of Songpan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Jiuzhaigou Valley: Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Jiuzhaigou Valley is a breathtakingly beautiful nature reserve that attracts visitors from around the world. You can see spectacular waterfalls, colorful lakes, and verdant forests throughout the park.

  2. Mount Siguniang: Known as the “queen of Sichuan mountains,” Mount Siguniang boasts four peaks that rise over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level. The mountain range is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and skiing.

  3. Munigou Valley: Located in the northwestern part of Songpan County, Munigou Valley is a hidden gem that few tourists have discovered. The valley boasts stunning natural beauty, including tranquil lakes and serene forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Songpan

  1. Haizi Mountain Trail: A challenging hike that takes you up to the summit of Haizi Mountain, offering panoramic views of Songpan and the surrounding mountains.

  2. Huanglong Valley Trek: This two-day hiking adventure takes you through some of the most stunning scenery in Huanglong National Park, including natural hot springs and colorful lakes.

  3. Biking in Jiuzhaigou Valley: Rent a bike and cruise along the bike trail that winds through Jiuzhaigou Valley. This is an excellent way to see the park’s highlights without having to walk too much.

Best Things to Do in Songpan: Activities and Tours

  1. Horseback Riding: Take a leisurely horseback tour around the town and surrounding areas. Some tours include stops at traditional villages and scenic viewpoints.

  2. Rafting: Head out to the fierce currents of the Tuo River for a thrilling white water rafting experience.

  3. Tibetan Tea Ceremony: Visit a local Tibetan family home and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony while learning about Tibetan culture and customs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Songpan

Day Activity
1 Explore Songzhou Ancient City Wall
2 Hike to Haizi Mountain
3 Visit Huanglong National Park
4 Tour Langmusi
5 Bike through Jiuzhaigou Valley
6 Horseback riding around Songpan
7 White water rafting on the Tuo River

Food and Drink Scene of Songpan

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Spicy Street Food: Songpan is known for its street food, especially spicy tofu, stinky tofu, and BBQ skewers.

  2. Pao Cai: A traditional pickled vegetable dish that’s a staple in Sichuan cuisine. Pao Cai is usually made with various vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, and chili peppers.

  3. Yak Meat: A local delicacy in the Tibetan parts of Songpan, yak meat is typically grilled or fried and served with local vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Butter Tea: A traditional Tibetan drink made from black tea, yak butter, and salt.

  2. Maotai: A famous Chinese liquor that’s often served at formal occasions. It has a strong flavor and is considered a luxury item in China.

  3. Sichuan Hot Pot: A popular meal in Sichuan cuisine, Sichuan hot pot is a communal dish that’s served with spicy broth, meat, and vegetables.

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

  1. Jiuzhaigou Xining Apartment Hotel: A modern hotel located in the heart of Songpan, providing guests with comfortable accommodation and plenty of amenities.

  2. Songpan Ke Feng Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that’s perfect for backpackers and young travelers. Located close to many of Songpan’s top attractions.

  3. Huan Xi Gong Hotel: A traditional guesthouse with spacious rooms and a charming courtyard. Famous for its delicious home-cooked meals.

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

  1. Tibetan Style Clothing: Songpan is famous for its hand-woven Tibetan-style clothing, including colorful dresses, hats, and boots.

  2. Yak Wool Products: You can find everything from hats to scarves to blankets made from soft and warm yak wool. These make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

  3. Sichuan Spices: Sichuan is famous for its spicy cuisine, so why not bring some of those flavors home with you? Look for packaged spice blends or dried chili peppers at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Songpan

Tibetan culture heavily influences Songpan, so visitors should take time to learn about traditions and customs. One custom is greeting each other with “Tashi Delek,” which means good luck. Also, locals respect their religious beliefs and practices, so please do not disturb any religious ceremonies that you may come across.

Best Time to Visit Songpan

The best time to visit Songpan is from May to October when the weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. The summer months can get crowded, so try to go in May or September if possible. If you’re interested in seeing fall foliage, then October is the perfect time to visit as the colors are stunning.

Do’s and Don’ts of Songpan

Do:

  • Try traditional dishes like Sichuan hot pot and yak meat.

  • Learn some basic Mandarin or Tibetan phrases to interact with locals.

  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Disrupt any religious ceremonies.

  • Take pictures of locals without their permission.

  • Leave your trash behind when visiting natural attractions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Songpan

Songpan is a safe town for travelers, but you should still take precautions to ensure your safety. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying too much cash or valuables with you. Also, make sure to lock your hotel room door when you leave.

Health in Songpan

Tap water in Songpan is not safe to drink, so make sure to only drink bottled water. The high altitude can also cause altitude sickness, so make sure to stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days of your trip to acclimatize to the altitude.

Getting to Songpan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Songpan

The closest airport to Songpan is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU). From there, you can take a bus or hire a private car to reach Songpan.

Bus Stations Near Songpan

Songpan bus station is the main transportation hub in the town. Buses leave from here to many destinations in and around Sichuan and Gansu provinces.

Other Options

If you want to avoid a long bus ride, you can also consider taking a private car or hiring a driver. This option will be more expensive but will allow for a more comfortable and convenient ride.

How to Get Around in Songpan

Walking or biking is the best way to get around Songpan since the town is relatively small. You can also take a taxi or hire a scooter if you prefer.

Where to Go Next from Songpan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Jiuzhaigou Valley, Chengdu, and Lanzhou are all popular destinations that are easily accessible from Songpan. If you have extra time, you can also consider visiting nearby Tibetan villages or exploring more of Sichuan’s vast countryside.

Conclusion

Songpan is a hidden gem of China that’s waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be ready to plan your perfect trip to Songpan.