Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park Travel Guide

Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park with this comprehensive guide, featuring recommendations on places to visit, activities to try and where to stay.


Introduction to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is a picturesque park located in East Sichuan, in Southwest China. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, due to its stunning natural scenery, culturally significant attractions, and wealth of outdoor activities. The park is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites — the ancient irrigation system of Dujiangyan and the sacred Mt. Qingcheng, making it one of the most historically and culturally significant areas in China.

List of Places to Visit in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is divided into three main areas of interest – Qingcheng Mountain, Dujiangyan, and the Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan Scenic Area. Here are some of the must-visit places within these areas.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dujiangyan Irrigation System – The Dujiangyan Irrigation System is a marvel of ancient engineering and is still in use today. The irrigation system was built over 2,000 years ago to prevent floods and help irrigate crops in the region.

Erwang Temple – The Erwang Temple is a Tang Dynasty-era temple dedicated to the famous Chinese scholars, Li Bing and his son Li Xiang.

Natural Attractions of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mt. Qingcheng – Mt. Qingcheng, also known as Green City Mountain, is the birthplace of Daoism and is an important pilgrimage site for Daoists. The mountain is famous for its stunning landscapes and is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.

Shangqing Palace – Shangqing Palace is a Taoist temple located halfway up Mt. Qingcheng. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a testament to the cultural and religious significance of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park offers many scenic hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the most popular ones.

Mt. Qingcheng Hiking Trail – The Mt. Qingcheng hiking trail is a two-day hike that takes you to the summit of the mountain. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the park.

Biking Trail – There is a 20-kilometer biking trail that runs through the park. The trail is suitable for all levels and offers stunning scenery.

Best Things to Do in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Activities and Tours

Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park offers a variety of activities and tours. Here are some of the best ones to try.

Cable Car Ride – The cable car ride to the summit of Mt. Qingcheng offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is an easy way to get to the top of the mountain.

Taoism Experience Tour – This tour takes you on a journey through the history of Taoism and includes a visit to the Shangqing Palace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

If you’re planning to spend a week in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park, here’s a sample itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu – the nearest major city to the park Day 2: Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Erwang Temple Day 3: Hike Mt. Qingcheng Day 4: Explore the Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan Scenic Area Day 5: Take a cable car ride and visit Shangqing Palace Day 6: Try outdoor activities such as rock climbing and biking Day 7: Depart from Chengdu

Food and Drink Scene of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Must-Try Dishes

Yuxiang Rousi – Yuxiang Rousi is a spicy shredded pork dish that is unique to the Sichuan province.

Dandan Noodles – Dandan Noodles are a popular Sichuan dish made with spicy pork sauce and thin noodles.

Local Beverages

Sichuan Tea – Sichuan Tea is famous for its strong aroma and is a popular drink in the region.

Maotai – Maotai is a famous Chinese liquor that is made in the Guizhou province. It is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike.

Where to Stay in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park. Here are some of the best ones to choose from.

Qingchengshan Hotel – The Qingchengshan Hotel is located at the foot of Mt. Qingcheng and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

1558 Hostel – 1558 Hostel is located in the Qingcheng Mountain-Dujiangyan Scenic Area and offers cozy accommodations for travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bamboo Flute – Bamboo Flutes are a traditional Chinese instrument that are handmade in the Sichuan province.

Sichuan Pepper – Sichuan Pepper is a famous spice that is widely used in Sichuan cuisine.

Local Culture and Customs of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

The local culture in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is heavily influenced by Taoism. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering temples and showing respect to religious figures.

Best Time to Visit Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

The best time to visit Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is between March and November, when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Stay on designated hiking trails
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and outdoor activities

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the park’s natural environment
  • Feed or disturb wildlife
  • Take home any plant or animal souvenirs

Safety and Health

Safety in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Visitors should be aware of the potential risks of hiking and outdoor activities in the park. It is recommended to stay on designated hiking trails and wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

Health in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Visitors should be aware of the potential health risks of visiting a foreign country. It is recommended to bring any necessary medications and to seek medical attention if needed.

Getting to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

The nearest airport to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which is approximately 62 kilometers from the park.

Bus Stations Near Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Buses run regularly from the Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station and the Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a taxi or hire a car to get to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park.

How to Get Around in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park

Visitors can rent a bike or take a cable car to get around the park. It is also possible to hire a private driver to take you to different locations within the park.

Where to Go Next from Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Chengdu – Chengdu is the nearest major city to Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park and is famous for its food, culture, and pandas.

Jiuzhaigou Valley – Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the north of Sichuan province. The valley is home to stunning natural scenery and is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting China. With its stunning natural scenery, culturally significant attractions, and wealth of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in this beautiful park. Follow this comprehensive guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park.

The front gate of Mount Qingcheng The front gate of Mount Qingcheng