Day 1:
Begin with a pickup from your hotel in Chengdu and travel to the Sichuan Cuisine Museum. During the drive, learn about the key characteristics of Sichuan cuisine, including its signature numbing and spicy flavors.
Explore the museum’s collection halls to learn about the evolution of Sichuan cooking utensils and the fermentation process of Pixian douban paste. Watch a traditional knife-skills performance and take part in a hands-on cooking session led by a bilingual chef. Sample classic local snacks available in the tasting area.
After lunch near the museum (at your own expense), travel to Dujiangyan. The guide provides an introduction to the historical significance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System during the journey.
Enter the scenic area from Qinyan Tower and follow a downhill walking route. Visit Erwang Temple, Anlan Suspension Bridge, Yuzui Levee, Feishayan, and Baopingkou to understand how this ancient system manages flood control and irrigation. Conclude the visit at Yangtianwo Square to see the famous panda sculpture.
Explore Guanxian Ancient Town, known for its traditional architecture and local atmosphere. Dinner is at your own expense. Overnight accommodation is arranged near Dujiangyan or Guanxian Ancient Town.
Day 2:
Travel from Dujiangyan to Mount Qingcheng by vehicle. Explore Mount Qingcheng, a major center of Taoism in China. Hike through forested paths and visit landmarks such as Tianshi Cave, or use the cable car to access higher viewpoints including Shangqing Palace and Laojun Pavilion. The itinerary accommodates different fitness levels.
After lunch near Mount Qingcheng (at your own expense), return to downtown Chengdu. Visit People’s Park to see the Xinhai Revolution memorial and experience local leisure culture around traditional teahouses.
Stroll through historic Qing-dynasty alleyways and admire traditional western Sichuan architecture. Attend an evening Sichuan opera performance featuring face-changing, fire-spitting, and traditional folk arts at Shufeng Yayun Theater. Tickets are pre-arranged, and seating is organized in advance.
