6-Day Chengdu Panda Adventure & Jiuzhaigou Valley Exploration

Summary

Day 1 Chengdu: Arrival in Chengdu
Day 2 Leshan: Leshan Giant Buddha, Jinli Old Street
Day 3 Chengdu: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Jinsha Site Museum, Wide and Narrow Alley
Day 4 Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou: train station transfer, Huanglong National Park
Day 5 Jiuzhaigou: Jiuzhaigou National Park
Day 6 Chengdu: Chengdu Departure

Day 1 Chengdu Arrival

Welcome to Chengdu, the enchanting hometown of the Giant Pandas! Upon arrival at Chengdu International Airport or Train Station, your personal guide and private driver will greet you with a "Your Way Holiday" sign, ensuring a seamless start to your adventure. After being escorted to your private, comfortable vehicle, enjoy a scenic, stress-free transfer to your hotel. Once there, you'll have the rest of the day to unwind or begin exploring Chengdu at your own pace. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll through the city or sampling local cuisine, Chengdu offers a vibrant atmosphere. Discover charming alleys, relax in a traditional teahouse, or indulge in the city’s famous hotpot. Your guide can recommend additional activities, from visiting parks to exploring nearby attractions. Chengdu combines tradition with modernity, and today is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in its charm and get ready for the adventures ahead. Enjoy the warm hospitality as you dive into this vibrant city!

After arriving in Chengdu, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city, where you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your own pace. Chengdu is known for its harmonious blend of old and new, offering an eclectic mix of modernity and tradition. For a delightful stroll, head over to Kuanzhai Alley, an area that perfectly encapsulates the charm of Chengdu. The narrow lanes are lined with quaint shops, traditional teahouses, and street food vendors offering local delights. The area is a great spot to soak in the local culture while shopping for unique souvenirs. If you prefer a tranquil experience, visit Renmin Park, where you can relax in the serene surroundings, sip tea at a local teahouse, or even try your hand at mahjong with the locals. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Chengdu’s laid-back yet vibrant culture. Your guide can also recommend other activities, depending on your preferences.

Day 2 Chengdu-Leshan

Start your day with an early meet-up in the hotel lobby, where your guide will greet you to begin your exciting journey. First, you’ll head to the Leshan Giant Buddha, one of China’s most awe-inspiring landmarks. Located 130 km from Chengdu, this colossal statue carved into Mount Lingyun’s cliffs stands at 71 meters tall, making it the largest stone Buddha in the world. Built during the Tang Dynasty to calm the turbulent waters of the Dadu River, the monument is a testament to ancient engineering and spiritual devotion. As you explore the area, your guide will share fascinating stories about its construction, the artisans' challenges, and its significance in Buddhist tradition. The tranquil surroundings, paired with the grandeur of the statue, will give you a deep appreciation for this ancient marvel, as it continues to serve as a place of pilgrimage and reverence for thousands of years.

After your visit to Leshan Giant Buddha, enjoy a traditional Sichuan lunch at a nearby local restaurant, where you can taste the bold, spicy flavors that define Chengdu's renowned cuisine. Start with Mapo Tofu, a dish famous for its numbing spiciness, featuring soft tofu in a savory sauce made with chili bean paste, minced pork, and Sichuan peppercorns. Another favorite is Dan Dan Noodles, served with a savory sesame-chili sauce, minced meat, and vegetables, offering a deliciously spicy kick. Your guide will explain the key ingredients, cooking methods, and the cultural significance of these dishes, allowing you to fully appreciate the region’s culinary traditions. Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, so be prepared for a flavorful feast. After this satisfying meal, your driver will ensure you’re comfortably transferred to your next destination, allowing you to relax and enjoy the remainder of your day.

After lunch, You will return to Chengdu, head to Jinli Street, a vibrant, lively area full of history and culture. Known as the “Chengdu Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival Scroll,” Jinli is one of Chengdu’s most famous streets, with roots dating back to the Three Kingdoms Period. This charming street is lined with traditional architecture from the Qing Dynasty, offering a glimpse into ancient Chengdu. As you wander through the narrow alleyways, you'll be enveloped by the rich aromas of local street food, such as Dan Dan Noodles, Egg Pancakes, Bon Bon Chicken, and Sweet Potato Noodles with Pork Intestines. Alongside the food stalls, you'll find shops selling exquisite Shu embroidery, lacquerware, and intricate folk handicrafts, making it a perfect place for souvenir shopping. As night falls, the street comes alive with colorful lanterns, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness local performances, including traditional Sugar Painting, Shadow Puppetry, and Sichuan Opera. Jinli Street is a captivating destination, offering both cultural insights and delightful experiences.

After a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion, your guide and driver will ensure a smooth transfer back to your hotel. Reflect on the amazing sights and experiences from the day, from the grandeur of the Leshan Giant Buddha to the peaceful tranquility of Wenshu Monastery and the lively, vibrant atmosphere of Jinli Street. Once you arrive at your hotel, take a moment to unwind and relax. You can enjoy a peaceful evening, savoring some local snacks or perhaps planning your next day’s adventures. Your guide and driver will ensure that your return journey is seamless, providing you with a stress-free and comfortable end to your day.

Day 3 Chengdu

The first stop of your day is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, located just 17 kilometers from the city center. Known as one of the most well-established panda conservation centers in China, this site offers a rare opportunity to observe the world-famous giant pandas up close in their natural-like habitat. The morning visit is ideal as pandas are more active during the cooler hours, and you’ll be able to watch them engage in playful activities or calmly munch on bamboo. This research base is dedicated to breeding and conserving the giant panda population, and as you explore the well-maintained enclosures, your guide will explain the significance of these efforts, sharing insights into the scientific work behind the breeding programs. Additionally, you’ll have a chance to learn about the adorable red pandas that also call the base home, an equally captivating species. As you walk through the lush park, surrounded by bamboo forests, you’ll feel a deep connection to these gentle giants, who are treasured not just by Chengdu but by the world. The experience will leave you with a greater appreciation for the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these unique creatures and preserving their natural habitats for future generations.

After your heartwarming visit to the Panda Base, it’s time to enjoy lunch at a local Chinese restaurant where you’ll experience the bold, aromatic flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Famous for its bold spices, rich flavors, and perfect balance of heat and tang, Sichuan cuisine is a true highlight of the region. The meal will feature classic dishes such as mapo tofu, a signature Sichuan dish made with soft tofu, minced pork, and a spicy, savory sauce infused with the unique numbing heat of Sichuan peppercorns. Another popular choice is kung pao chicken, stir-fried with peanuts, chili peppers, and a savory sauce that’s both sweet and spicy. Your guide will walk you through the various ingredients that define Sichuan flavors, such as the distinctive Sichuan peppercorn, which creates a numbing sensation on the tongue, enhancing the overall spiciness of the dish. The meal is a deep dive into the local food culture, giving you a chance to taste the diverse layers of flavor and texture that make Sichuan food so beloved across China and beyond. This lunch not only satisfies your hunger but also offers an authentic experience of Chengdu's culinary heritage, setting the tone for your continued exploration of the city.

After a satisfying lunch, your afternoon exploration begins with a visit to the Jinsha Site Museum, one of the most significant archaeological sites in China. The museum is dedicated to the discovery of the Jinsha ruins, a remarkable site that dates back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties, offering a fascinating glimpse into ancient Chinese civilization. Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to the site's rich history, explaining how it was unearthed in 2001, revealing over 4,000 years of history. The museum is home to numerous artifacts, including exquisite gold masks, jade ornaments, and bronze items, all of which showcase the advanced craftsmanship of the ancient Shu civilization. As you stroll through the museum’s exhibits, your guide will share insights into the cultural significance of these findings, detailing their connection to ancient rituals, the social structure of the time, and the unique features of the Shu kingdom. The Jinsha Site Museum provides a deep dive into China’s early history, offering a rare chance to connect with the past and understand the roots of Sichuan’s rich cultural heritage.

Following your visit to the Jinsha Site Museum, head to the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi), one of Chengdu’s most vibrant historical districts. This area, with its blend of traditional Sichuan architecture and modern amenities, offers a perfect example of how the city balances its rich past with contemporary life. The alleys date back to the Qing Dynasty and were originally built to accommodate local government officials and their families. Today, they’re a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a delightful mix of shops, tea houses, and eateries. As you walk through the narrow, cobbled streets, your guide will explain the history of the area, pointing out key architectural features such as the classic courtyard houses and ornate wooden carvings that represent traditional Sichuan design. The alleys are filled with an array of local crafts, from embroidered textiles to handcrafted pottery, each reflecting the region’s artistic heritage. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore the many tea houses, where you can sip on Sichuan’s famous tea while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the alleyways. Whether you’re shopping for unique souvenirs, sampling local snacks, or simply soaking in the old-world charm, the Wide and Narrow Alleys offer a delightful cultural experience that highlights the fusion of Chengdu’s past and present.

Day 4 Chengdu-Jiuzhaigou

Start your day with a scenic high-speed train ride from Chengdu East Railway Station to Huanglong Jiuzhai Station, lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. As you relax in your comfortable seat, enjoy the picturesque views of the countryside rushing by, from rolling hills to quiet villages, giving you a peaceful and scenic start to your day. Upon your arrival, a local guide and driver will be waiting to greet you, ensuring a smooth transition from the train to the vehicle. As you drive to Huanglong National Park, a journey of about 30 to 40 minutes, your guide will provide insightful commentary about the region's natural beauty, culture, and history. With their expertise, you’ll learn about the local traditions, the area's significance, and what to expect from the park. The comfortable ride will offer you the chance to relax before immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Huanglong, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

Huanglong National Park is a stunning valley, renowned for its colorful limestone ponds that form terraces of vibrant blues, greens, yellows, oranges, and whites. The name "Huanglong" translates to "Yellow Dragon," inspired by the shape of the travertine formations, which resemble a golden dragon curling through the valley. From afar, the view of the dragon winding between snow-capped peaks is truly mesmerizing. This enchanting location is also home to snow-covered mountains, glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests that give the park its otherworldly charm. Huanglong is rich in biodiversity, home to rare species like the endangered Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey. The park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1992, and it’s easy to see why it is often described as a "Fairy Land on Earth." The vibrant landscapes, coupled with the tranquility of the environment, offer a magical and serene escape from the everyday.

Instead of undertaking a physically demanding 6-hour hike, opt for a quick and convenient cable car ride to the top of Huanglong National Park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once at the summit, you’ll have a leisurely walk down the valley, which usually takes 3 to 4 hours, offering plenty of time to take in the breathtaking sights. During your descent, you will pass by some of the park’s most captivating features, including the peaceful Honglong Monastery, which holds great spiritual significance and boasts beautiful architecture. Marvel at the stunning Five-Colored Ponds, where vibrant hues of green, blue, and yellow create an unforgettable visual experience. Along the way, you'll encounter Mirror Ponds, where the still waters perfectly reflect the natural beauty around them. As you stroll, you'll also see crystal-clear Welcoming Guest Ponds, cascading waterfalls, ancient caves, and serene temples, all adding to the park’s enchanting atmosphere.

At the summit of Huanglong National Park, standing at an elevation of 3,556 meters, you’ll find one of the park’s most mesmerizing features—the Five-Color Ponds. These nearly 700 pools, spread across the landscape, showcase stunning natural colors, ranging from deep blues to vibrant greens and bright oranges. The unique cobblestones on the pond floor create vivid prisms, further enhancing the clarity and brightness of the colors. As the water flows from one pond to another, the vibrant hues seem to shimmer, creating an effect that is nothing short of magical. The sight of the ponds, bathed in sunlight, creates an illusion of jade plates glistening across the landscape. From the summit, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire park, allowing you to take in the grandeur of nature’s artistry. This stunning spectacle is one of the park's highlights and a must-see during your visit.

After your memorable exploration of Huanglong National Park, you will depart the park and embark on a scenic 2-hour drive to Jiuzhaigou, about 104 km away. As you make your way to your next destination, your driver will ensure a smooth and comfortable ride along the winding roads, while your guide will continue sharing interesting facts about the region’s natural beauty, history, and local culture. This scenic drive offers an opportunity to relax and enjoy the picturesque landscapes, with valleys, rivers, and mountains framing the road. Your guide will provide useful insights about Jiuzhaigou, including tips on what to explore in the UNESCO World Heritage Site and any important details about the area. Once you arrive in Jiuzhaigou, your guide will assist with check-in at your hotel, ensuring a smooth transition. You’ll have time to relax and settle in, preparing for the incredible experiences awaiting you in Jiuzhaigou, with your guide's expert help to make your visit as enjoyable and enriching as possible.

Day 5 Jiuzhaigou

After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full-day adventure in Jiuzhaigou National Park. Your knowledgeable guide will accompany you as you board a sightseeing bus, ensuring you are prepared for a fantastic day of exploration. As you enter the park, your guide will share fascinating insights into Jiuzhaigou’s unique geological features and rich biodiversity, which make it a true fairyland. Throughout your journey, they will highlight key attractions, including the breathtaking lakes, waterfalls, and the diverse wildlife that call Jiuzhaigou home. Your guide’s expert commentary will allow you to connect with the stunning landscapes, enhancing your understanding of the region’s natural beauty. You’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the captivating scenery, learning about the area's geological formation, cultural significance, and the historical importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Jiuzhaigou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of China’s most enchanting attractions, offering some of the most beautiful and inspiring scenery on Earth. The park’s name, "Nine Settlement Valley," comes from the nine Tibetan settlements that dot its length. Famous for its breathtaking blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant forests, and deep woodlands, Jiuzhaigou is set against a backdrop of majestic snow-capped mountain ranges. The park features a Y-shaped valley with three primary sections: the Zechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng valleys. The most relaxing way to explore Jiuzhaigou is by utilizing the sightseeing buses, which run between each valley. You can hop off the bus at different spots, stroll along the wooden plank roads, and take in the stunning views, then board another bus to your next destination. Your guide will tailor the route to match your energy and the crowd levels, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The classic route through Jiuzhaigou begins with a leisurely ride on the sightseeing bus to the majestic Nuorilang Waterfall, the park’s most iconic feature. From there, you’ll take a short hike to the breathtaking Five-Flower Lake and the serene Pearl Beach in Zechawa Valley, both renowned for their dazzling colors and peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, proceed to Rize Valley, home to Panda Lake, the vibrant Five-Flower Lake, the picturesque Pearl Shoal, and the reflective Mirror Lake. Each location provides unique photo opportunities and moments of awe as you immerse yourself in the park's natural wonders. Your guide will explain the significance of these spots and provide insights into the local Tibetan culture. After fully experiencing these highlights, you’ll return to Nuorilang for a brief break at the Nuorilang Tourist Center, a convenient resting point before continuing to Shuzheng Valley. This thoughtful route ensures you experience the full spectrum of Jiuzhaigou’s beauty at a comfortable pace.

During your visit to Jiuzhaigou, a buffet lunch will be provided at Nuorilang Restaurant, the only dining option within the park. While the restaurant offers a variety of dishes, it’s important to note that the food can be somewhat limited and relatively expensive. To enhance your experience and avoid crowds, your guide can recommend the best times to visit the restaurant or suggest picturesque picnic spots within the park where you can enjoy your own packed lunch. If you prefer a more relaxed meal experience, bringing your own food will allow you to enjoy a peaceful break in scenic locations away from the busier areas. Your guide will ensure a smooth transition to lunch, making sure that the experience remains stress-free and enjoyable, giving you time to recharge while surrounded by Jiuzhaigou's stunning natural beauty.

After a full day of exploring Jiuzhaigou, your guide and driver will ensure a seamless return to your hotel. With their help, you’ll be able to relax and reflect on the day’s incredible experiences. Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant colors of the Five-Flower Lake, soaking in the beauty of the waterfalls, or strolling through the peaceful valleys, this will be a day to remember. Your driver will take care of all the logistics, ensuring that you return to your hotel comfortably and efficiently. On the way back, your guide will be available to answer any remaining questions, share insights about tomorrow's activities, and ensure that your experience in Jiuzhaigou is as enriching and memorable as possible.

Day 6 Chengdu

After a delicious breakfast, your dedicated tour guide will meet you at your hotel, ready to assist with the next leg of your journey. Whether you're heading to the train station or the airport, your guide will ensure a smooth departure from the moment you leave the hotel. They will accompany you, providing helpful insights about your upcoming destination and answering any questions you may have along the way. With a keen eye for detail, your guide will help manage your luggage, ensuring that the transition from one location to another is hassle-free and seamless. Upon arriving at the station or airport, your guide will assist with check-in procedures, ensuring all necessary documents are in order. They will guide you to the correct platform or gate, making sure you're well-prepared for your departure. This thoughtful and personalized service not only adds convenience but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to continue your travels with confidence and comfort.

Price Per Person in US Dollars