Dujiangyan Travel Guide

This guide provides all the information you need to plan your trip to Dujiangyan, China, including places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to buy, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan is a small city located in East Sichuan, in Sichuan province, in Southwest China. It is an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is best known for the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest water conservation projects in the world. The irrigation system is still used today to irrigate the fertile land in the Dujiangyan area.

List of Places to Visit in Dujiangyan

There are many places to see and things to do in Dujiangyan. Here is a list of some of the most popular places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dujiangyan Irrigation System
  • Erwang Temple
  • South Bridge Ancient Town
  • Anlan Bridge
  • Fulong Temple

Natural Attractions of Dujiangyan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Qingcheng
  • Taohua River Rafting
  • Jiezi Ancient Town
  • Taoist Temples
  • Qingcheng Canyon

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Qingcheng Mountain Scenic Area Hiking Trail
  • Erwang Temple – Yulei Mountain Hiking Trail
  • Qingcheng Mountain to Dujiangyan Biking Trail

Best Things to Do in Dujiangyan: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours available to visitors in Dujiangyan. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Experience the local tea culture at Panda Tea Garden
  • Take a bamboo raft ride on the Taohua River
  • Visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base
  • Go on a food tour of Dujiangyan’s best restaurants
  • Experience local village life with a homestay

Week-Long Itinerary for Dujiangyan

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long visit to Dujiangyan:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and rest
2 Visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Fulong Temple
3 Hike in the Mount Qingcheng Scenic Area
4 Experience the local tea culture at Panda Tea Garden
5 Take a bamboo raft ride on the Taohua River and visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base
6 Go on a food tour of Dujiangyan’s best restaurants
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Dujiangyan

The food scene in Dujiangyan is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mapo Tofu (spicy tofu)
  • Gongbao Chicken (spicy chicken with peanuts)
  • Sichuan Hot Pot
  • Dan Dan Noodles (spicy noodles with minced pork)

Local Beverages

  • Sichuan Tea
  • Chang (rice wine)
  • Baijiu (Chinese spirit)

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

Dujiangyan has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets. Here are some recommended places to stay in Dujiangyan:

  • Dujiangyan Yinxiang Hotel
  • Yuanyang Tianmu Hot Spring Resort
  • Tushe Shangwu Hotel
  • Yuting Hotel

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

Here are some souvenirs and local products to buy in Dujiangyan:

  • Dujiangyan Green Kiwi Fruit
  • Qingcheng Tea
  • Anren Wood Carvings
  • Sichuan Embroidery

Local Culture and Customs of Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should show respect for local customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple.
  • Use both hands when giving or receiving items, such as when accepting a gift or paying for merchandise.

Best Time to Visit Dujiangyan

The best time to visit Dujiangyan is from March to November. The weather is mild and pleasant during this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dujiangyan

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Dujiangyan:

Do:

  • Try the local food, including spicy Sichuan cuisine.
  • Show respect for local customs and traditions.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city’s natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of other people without their consent.
  • Hike or bike alone in remote areas, as it can be dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan is a safe city for visitors, with the usual precautions taken in any large city. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas, such as markets and train stations.
  • Be careful when walking or driving on narrow roads in the mountainous areas.

Health in Dujiangyan

The water quality in Dujiangyan is generally good, but visitors should still take precautions to stay healthy. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink bottled water, as tap water can be unsafe.
  • Be careful with street food in order to avoid foodborne illness.
  • Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.

Getting to Dujiangyan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Dujiangyan is well-connected to major cities in China by air, rail, and road. Here are some options:

Airports Near Dujiangyan

  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport
  • Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

Bus Stations Near Dujiangyan

  • Dujiangyan Bus Station
  • Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station

Other Options

  • Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan.
  • Hire a private car or taxi from Chengdu.

How to Get Around in Dujiangyan

Dujiangyan is a small city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. Taxis are also available for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Dujiangyan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursion options to consider after visiting Dujiangyan:

  • Chengdu
  • Leshan Giant Buddha
  • Emeishan Mountain

Conclusion

Dujiangyan is a unique and fascinating city that is well worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in cultural attractions, natural scenery, outdoor adventures, or local cuisine, this vibrant city has something to offer. With this guide, you’re equipped with all the information you need to plan your trip to Dujiangyan, including places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, safety tips, and transportation options. Happy travels!