East Sichuan Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see and do in East Sichuan, including culture, natural attractions, hiking routes, food, and where to stay. Find out how to get there and around, and the best time to visit.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to East Sichuan, China

Located in the southwestern region of China, East Sichuan is a hidden gem with a rich history and cultural heritage, natural wonders, and stunning landscapes. This comprehensive travel guide will highlight everything you need to know about East Sichuan, including where to go, what to see and do, where to stay, and how to get there.

Introduction to East Sichuan

East Sichuan is one of the four regions in Sichuan province, China, covering an area of 38,382 square kilometers. It is known for its stunning scenery, rich culture, and diverse ethnic groups. East Sichuan is home to many national parks, historic sites, and local delicacies, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience.

List of Places to Visit in East Sichuan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors can explore the rich cultural heritage of East Sichuan by visiting its museums and historical sites. Some of the most popular attractions include:

  • Jinsha Site Museum: An archaeological site that displays the ruins of the ancient Shu state from 3,000 years ago.
  • Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum: A museum dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu.
  • Baoguang Temple: One of the oldest Buddhist temples in China, located in the Yibin region.

Natural Attractions of East Sichuan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Sichuan is home to many national parks, scenic routes, and natural wonders. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Jiuzhaigou National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its crystal-clear lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests.
  • Mount Emei: One of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area: A natural reserve known for its colorful lakes, snow-capped mountains, and hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Sichuan

For outdoor enthusiasts, East Sichuan offers many hiking and biking trails. Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Siguniang Mountain Hiking: A challenging but rewarding hike through the stunning scenery of the Four Girls Mountains.
  • Dujiangyan Irrigation System Trekking: A scenic hike along the ancient irrigation system, which dates back to the third century BC.
  • Cycling Along the Min River: A relaxing bike ride along the Min River, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in East Sichuan: Activities and Tours

Besides hiking and biking, East Sichuan offers many other activities and tours. Some of the best things to do include:

  • Visiting a Panda Reserve: East Sichuan is home to many panda reserves, where visitors can observe these furry creatures in their natural habitats.
  • Exploring Local Villages: East Sichuan is home to many ethnic minority groups, each with their own unique traditions and customs. Visitors can explore their unique lifestyles by visiting local villages.
  • Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class: Visitors can learn how to cook authentic Sichuan cuisine from local chefs, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Sichuan

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to East Sichuan:

  • Day 1-2: Chengdu, visiting the Panda Base, Jinli Old Street, and Wenshu Temple
  • Day 3-4: Jiuzhaigou National Park, exploring the stunning lakes and waterfalls
  • Day 5-6: Mount Emei, hiking to the Golden Summit for stunning views
  • Day 7: Leshan Giant Buddha, admiring the world’s largest stone Buddha statue

Food and Drink Scene of East Sichuan

East Sichuan boasts a rich culinary tradition, with a focus on spicy and bold flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mapo Tofu: A spicy Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced meat, and fermented black beans.
  • Sichuan Hot Pot: A popular dish consisting of a simmering pot of broth, with various meats and vegetables cooked at the table.
  • Dan Dan Noodles: A popular street food dish made with spicy chili oil, sesame paste, and minced pork.

Local Beverages

  • Baijiu: A traditional Chinese liquor made from fermented grain, often served as a toast during meals.
  • Tea: Sichuan is famous for its tea culture, with many tea houses offering a variety of teas, including jasmine, chrysanthemum, and oolong.

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

East Sichuan offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some suggestions:

  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, a 5-star hotel with modern amenities and stunning views of the city.
  • Mid-Range: Minshan Lhasa Grand Hotel, a modern hotel with spacious rooms and a central location in Kangding.
  • Budget: Mix Hostel, a cozy and affordable hostel with a communal kitchen, bar, and friendly staff.

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

East Sichuan offers many unique and authentic souvenirs and local products. Here are some suggestions:

  • Giant Panda souvenirs: Visitors can bring home cute and cuddly panda-themed souvenirs from the many panda reserves in East Sichuan.
  • Tea: Sichuan is famous for its tea culture, and visitors can bring home a variety of teas, as well as teapots and other tea accessories.
  • Tibetan Handicrafts: East Sichuan is home to many Tibetan communities, where visitors can buy colorful traditional handicrafts, such as prayer flags, masks, and incense burners.

Local Culture and Customs of East Sichuan

East Sichuan is a diverse region, with many ethnic minority groups each with their own unique cultures and customs. Visitors are encouraged to respect these traditions, including dress codes and etiquette.

Best Time to Visit East Sichuan

The best time to visit East Sichuan is from April to October when the weather is mild, and the scenery is in full bloom. Visitors should avoid traveling during the rainy season, which typically runs from July to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Sichuan

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including spicy Sichuan dishes and Tibetan cuisine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take plenty of photos of the stunning scenery.

Don’t:

  • Touch or feed the pandas at the reserves.
  • Wear revealing clothing or inappropriate attire at religious sites.
  • Venture off hiking trails without a guide.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Sichuan

East Sichuan is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, visitors should be cautious when hiking or trekking in remote areas, as there may be limited cellphone coverage and access to medical facilities.

Health in East Sichuan

Visitors to East Sichuan should ensure they are up to date with routine vaccinations and consult a healthcare professional before traveling. Visitors should also be mindful of altitude sickness when traveling to higher elevations, such as Mount Emei.

Getting to East Sichuan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can access East Sichuan by air, bus, or train. Here are some options:

Airports Near East Sichuan

  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU)
  • Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport (JZH)

Bus Stations Near East Sichuan

  • Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station: serves destinations throughout Sichuan and neighboring provinces.
  • Chadianzi Bus Station: serves destinations in northern Sichuan.

Other Options

  • Train: Visitors can take a train from Chengdu to Kangding or Emeishan.
  • Private Car: Visitors can also hire a private car or taxi to travel to East Sichuan.

How to Get Around in East Sichuan

Visitors can get around East Sichuan by bus, taxi, or private car. Some attractions may require hiking or walking to access. Visitors are recommended to hire a licensed guide or take a tour for more remote areas.

Where to Go Next from East Sichuan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After visiting East Sichuan, visitors may want to explore nearby destinations, such as:

  • West Sichuan: known for its mountain ranges, stunning glaciers, and Tibetan culture.
  • Yunnan: a neighboring province known for its unique customs, stunning scenery, and ethnic minority communities.

Conclusion

East Sichuan is a destination that should not be missed by travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience. With its stunning scenery, rich history and culture, and diverse ethnic groups, East Sichuan has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in hiking and outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just relaxing in natural hot springs, East Sichuan will not disappoint.

Old stone arch bridge in Leshan Old stone arch bridge in Leshan


    Beichuan
    Dujiangyan
    Emeishan
    Emeishan National Park
    Guangyuan
    Jianmen Shudao National Park
    Langzhong
    Leshan
    Qianwei
    Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park
    Shawan
    Shunan Zhuhai National Park
    Ya'an
    Yibin