Shawan Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Shawan in Sichuan, China with our complete travel guide featuring must-see attractions, hiking routes, cultural practices, and safety tips.


Introduction to Shawan

Shawan is located in the East Sichuan region of Southwest China, surrounded by lush green mountains, meandering rivers, and picturesque landscapes. The region is known for its unique cultural heritage, ancient architecture, and natural beauty. Shawan provides an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in China.

List of Places to Visit in Shawan

Shawan boasts several culturally important attractions, museums, historical places, and natural wonders that will make your trip unforgettable. You can start exploring the region by visiting these top places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Shawan Ancient Town - This ancient town has several well-preserved buildings that reflect traditional Chinese architecture, culture, and history.

  2. Shawan Temple - The temple, located in the center of Shawan village, is dedicated to Guan Yu, the god of war.

  3. Anren Ancient Town - Anren ancient town, located near Shawan, has several historical museums that display stone, pottery, and bronze artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Shawan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Emei - This mountain is one of the most important Buddhist sites in China, with several temples and scenic views at the summit.

  2. Qingyi River - This river is known for its crystal-clear turquoise water and lush surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

  3. Leshan Giant Buddha - The statue, carved into a cliff, is the largest stone Buddha in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Shawan

Shawan offers several hiking trails and off-road bike routes for adventure lovers. The most popular ones include:

  1. Mount Emei Hiking Trail - This trail leads to the top of Mount Emei, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  2. Qingyi River Biking Trail - This trail is perfect for cycling enthusiasts, following the Qingyi River and offering views of lush green forests and waterfalls.

  3. Anren Ancient Town Hiking Trail - This trail offers a glimpse into Sichuan’s ancient past, passing through several historical sites and scenic countryside.

Best Things to Do in Shawan: Activities and Tours

  1. Tea Tasting - Sichuan is known for its delicious tea, so be sure to head to a tea plantation for a tasting session.

  2. Cooking Classes - Learn how to cook traditional Sichuanese dishes by taking a cooking course.

  3. Photography Tours - Capture the stunning scenery of Shawan by joining a photography tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Shawan

Here is a sample itinerary for a one-week trip to Shawan:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Shawan Ancient Town and Shawan Temple
Day 2 Hike the Mount Emei trail
Day 3 Visit Leshan Giant Buddha and Qingyi River
Day 4 Attend a tea tasting session and take a cooking class
Day 5 Take a photography tour of the region
Day 6 Explore Anren Ancient Town and its museums
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Shawan

Food and Drink Scene of Shawan

Sichuan cuisine is world-famous and contains several delicious dishes that you must try during your trip to Shawan. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Hotpot - A spiced hot pot of broth with vegetables, meat, and seafood.

  2. Mapo Tofu - Soft tofu served with a spicy, flavorful meat sauce.

  3. Kung Pao Chicken - Stir-fried chicken with peanuts and vegetables in a spicy sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Sichuan Green Tea - The region is known for its green tea, which has a bold and earthy flavor.

  2. Moutai - A local liquor made from fermented sorghum that’s been distilled multiple times. It has a strong aroma and can be quite potent.

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

Shawan has several lodging options for travelers, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some highly-rated options include:

  1. Jianguo Hotel - A luxury hotel located in the heart of Shawan.

  2. Shawan Hengjia Inn - A guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and is located close to several attractions.

  3. Anren Yiyuan Hotel - A hotel in nearby Anren ancient town that offers beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.

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

You can purchase several souvenirs and local products during your trip to Shawan, including:

  1. Tea - Buy some locally grown tea to take home with you.

  2. Handcrafted Pottery - Several local artisans create beautiful pottery using traditional techniques.

  3. Spices - Sichuan is known for its spicy cuisine, so consider buying some locally produced spices to add some heat to your meals.

Local Culture and Customs of Shawan

Sichuanese culture is vibrant and unique. Some local customs and traditions to keep in mind during your visit include:

  1. Tea Culture - Tea is an essential part of Sichuan’s heritage and culture.

  2. Lion Dances - Lion dances are common during Chinese festivals and are believed to bring good luck.

  3. Opera and Sichuan Folk Arts - Sichuanese opera, folk arts, and shadow puppetry are integral to the region’s cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit Shawan

The best time to visit Shawan is during the spring and fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Shawan

Do:

  1. Do try the local cuisine and tea.

  2. Do respect local customs and traditions.

  3. Do carry cash as many places do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t disrespect religious and cultural traditions.

  2. Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

  3. Don’t take photographs without permission, especially of locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Shawan

Shawan is generally a safe place for travelers. However, it’s always essential to take regular precautions, such as:

  1. Be aware of your surroundings and belongings.

  2. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and valuables.

  3. Be cautious when traveling alone or at night.

Health in Shawan

It’s essential to be extra cautious regarding your health when travelling in China. Make sure to:

  1. Drink boiled or bottled water.

  2. Avoid uncooked food, street vendors, and tap water.

  3. Carry necessary medications and health insurance.

Getting to Shawan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Shawan is easily accessible by several options:

Airports Near Shawan

  1. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport - The closest airport, located approximately 2.5 hours from Shawan.

Bus Stations Near Shawan

  1. Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station - A major bus station in Chengdu that offers regular buses to Shawan.

Other Options

  1. Train - Several trains operate between Chengdu and nearby towns.

  2. Taxi - Taxis are available from Chengdu to Shawan, but it’s essential to negotiate and agree on a fare before getting into the cab.

How to Get Around in Shawan

The best way to explore Shawan is on foot, as most attractions are located close to each other. However, you can also hire a bike, car, or motorbike from local vendors.

Where to Go Next from Shawan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

You can consider visiting these nearby destinations after your trip to Shawan:

  1. Chengdu - The capital of Sichuan province, famous for its spicy cuisine, pandas, and historical heritage.

  2. Lhasa - This high-altitude city, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, offers stunning Buddhist monasteries and mountain landscapes.

Conclusion

Shawan is a hidden gem in Southwest China, known for its historical heritage, natural beauty, and spicy cuisine. With this comprehensive guide in hand, you’re all set to plan and have an unforgettable trip.