3days tour Huanglong&jiuzhaigou by bullet train from Chengdu

Traveling through China’s mountainous southwest can be daunting, but this 3-day tour offers an accessible way to see some of the most stunning scenery and cultural sites. Designed for those who want to maximize their time and minimize hassle, the journey takes you from Chengdu to the enchanting landscapes of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, complemented by visits to historic towns and Tibetan temples.

What we love about this experience is its well-thought-out mix of nature and culture, along with the convenience of bullet train travel that cuts down travel time significantly. The inclusion of iconic sites like Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong Scenic Area guarantees you a truly picture-perfect experience. A possible downside? The tour’s pace can be quite busy, especially for those who prefer more relaxed exploration or detailed culture.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who crave breathtaking scenery but don’t want to spend days on slow travel. It’s also perfect for those seeking a guided yet flexible experience, with private transfers and some level of independence in exploring the sites. If you’re looking for a taste of China’s natural beauty combined with authentic cultural stops, this journey fits the bill.

Key Points

Efficient Travel: Bullet train transfers significantly reduce travel time, offering a quick yet scenic journey through southwestern China.

Stunning Scenery: Expect spectacular views of Jiuzhaigou’s colorful lakes and Huanglong’s famed pools, which are truly photogenic.

Cultural Highlights: Visits to Songpan Old Town and a Tibetan temple add depth and authenticity, showcasing local architecture and spiritual life.

All-Inclusive Convenience: Entrance fees, excursion buses, cable cars, and private transfers are included, simplifying logistics and costs.

Authentic Experiences: Walking through Tibetan prayer wheels and old town alleys makes these sites feel genuine, not just tourist stops.

Limited Hotel Options: Accommodation in Jiuzhaigou is not included, so travelers should plan ahead for their stay here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou via Songpan and Tibetan Temple

Our journey begins early in Chengdu, where you meet your driver in the hotel lobby and head to the Chengdu Dong train station. From there, you hop on a bullet train heading towards Songpan, a charming old town that feels like stepping back in time. The train ride, although not detailed here, is a fast and comfortable way to cover the distance, offering glimpses of the Sichuan countryside.

Upon arrival in Songpan, you spend about 30 minutes wandering through cobbled alleys and old bridges, soaking in the atmosphere of a town that has maintained its traditional character. We loved the way the streams weave under ancient bridges, giving the town a peaceful, nostalgic feel.

Next, you visit the Gami Tibetan temple, a quiet sanctuary that offers a window into Tibetan spirituality. The large scripture halls with glazed golden roofs sparkle in the morning light, and the prayer wheels invite visitors to walk and make wishes. Old Tangka paintings, butter lamps, and stupas lend this site an air of authenticity that makes it more than just a sightseeing stop.

After these cultural immersions, the journey continues onward to Jiuzhaigou, where you’ll stay overnight in a hotel of your own choosing. While the day is quite packed, we appreciated the opportunity to see both historic town life and Tibetan spirituality in one go.

Day 2: Exploring the Spectacle of Jiuzhaigou Valley

A highlight of this tour is the full day spent in Jiuzhaigou, renowned for its crystal-clear lakes, cascading waterfalls, and colorful forests. You’ll meet your driver at 8:30 am and set off on an excursion bus into the valley. This area truly looks like a fairy tale — the water’s transparency reveals the vibrant hues of the mineral-rich lakes, and the waterfalls are lively and plentiful.

Traveling through Jiuzhaigou, you might find yourself constantly reaching for your camera. The scenery is so picturesque that it’s hard not to be captivated. We loved the way the reflections in the water create mirror-like effects, and the small villages dotting the landscape add to the charm.

The tour includes an entrance fee, and you’ll enjoy a ride on the scenic bus that takes you to the main sights. Some attractions are accessible via cable car or battery car, making it easier to cover more ground without excessive walking. In the evening, you return to your hotel for a restful night after a full day of awe-inspiring views.

Day 3: Huanglong and Return to Chengdu

On the final day, you meet your driver at 8:00 am and transfer about three hours to Huanglong Scenic Area. Known as the “human jade pond,” Huanglong’s pools and terraces dazzle visitors with their shifting colors and intricate formations. The scenic area is a spectacle of nature, with pools changing hues depending on sunlight and water flow, creating an ever-changing landscape.

You are free to explore Huanglong at your own pace, perhaps taking the cable car or battery car to reach higher viewpoints. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking on the boardwalks, but the views are well worth it. The photo opportunities here are fantastic, especially if you enjoy capturing vibrant colors and natural formations.

In the late afternoon, you meet your driver again, who will take you back to the train station for your bullet train to Chengdu. Upon arrival, your transfer will bring you back to your hotel — completing a whirlwind but unforgettable trip.

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The Value of This Tour

When you consider the included services — entrance fees, excursion bus, cable cars, private transfers, and a well-planned itinerary — the $500 price tag offers a fairly good deal for such a comprehensive experience. The convenience of round-trip bullet train travel is a significant time-saver that allows you to see major sights without the hassle of self-driving or complicated logistics.

However, note that hotel stays in Jiuzhaigou are not included, so you’ll need to book accommodation separately. This gives you flexibility but also means extra planning. The tour’s pace is quick, which means you’ll enjoy a lot but with limited time at each site. For many travelers, especially those short on time, this approach offers a perfect balance.

One review pointed out: “It was amazing experience!! My tour planner Ms. Sunny, I really appreciate her for helping me before flying to China, and also after my tour started. In addition, the tour driver, he was so kind for 3 days,” highlighting the importance of good guides and drivers in creating a memorable journey.

What’s Not Included

While the tour covers most essentials, it’s worth noting that meals and hotel stays in Jiuzhaigou are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, train tickets from Chengdu to Songpan and from Huanglong back to Chengdu are not part of the package and need to be purchased separately.

Who Would Love This Tour

This trip is best suited for travelers eager to witness some of China’s most iconic natural landscapes and cultural sites without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided convenience but still want some independence in exploring. Nature lovers will be particularly enchanted by Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong’s vibrant pools and waterfalls.

It also appeals to culturally curious travelers, thanks to stops like Songpan Old Town and Tibetan temples that offer unique insights into local life. If you’re comfortable with a faster-paced itinerary and want to see as much as possible in a short time, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day journey offers an incredible snapshot of southwestern China’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It combines efficient train travel with visits to some of the most beautiful and meaningful sites in the region. The inclusion of cultural stops like Songpan and Tibetan temples adds depth that many nature-focused trips lack.

For travelers looking for a well-organized, value-driven experience with a mix of scenery and culture, this tour is a compelling option. It’s especially suited for those who want to avoid the logistical headaches of independent travel, but still prefer to explore on their own terms once at each site.

While the itinerary can feel fast-paced, the breathtaking views and authentic cultural moments make every moment worthwhile. If you’ve got a limited schedule but a big appetite for China’s stunning landscapes, this trip could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transfers are provided throughout the trip, including transportation from Chengdu to the train station, between sites, and back to Chengdu.

Do I need to book my train tickets separately?
Yes, the train tickets from Chengdu to Songpan and from Huanglong back to Chengdu are not included. You’ll need to purchase these separately, and payment is via PayPal for first or second class.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the main gate entrance fees to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong are included, along with excursions bus and cable cars.

Is hotel accommodation in Jiuzhaigou included?
No, you need to arrange your own hotel stay in Jiuzhaigou, giving you flexibility in choosing your preferred accommodation.

Can I explore Jiuzhaigou independently?
Yes, once inside Jiuzhaigou, you are free to explore with the provided excursion bus, and you can take advantage of optional cable cars or battery cars.

What is the tour pace like?
The tour is quite full, with early starts and visits to multiple sites in a short time. It’s perfect for those who want to see many highlights quickly.

Is this tour suitable for families or elderly travelers?
It can be, provided they are comfortable with some walking and a busy schedule. The private transfers and included transportation help reduce fatigue.

What should I prepare for?
Bring your passport for ticketing and identification, plan for separate hotel bookings in Jiuzhaigou, and pack comfortable shoes for walking and outdoor exploration.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The main structure is fixed, but you have some independence in Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong to explore on your own once inside the designated areas.

This 3-day tour offers a practical, enriching way to experience southwestern China’s most stunning sights in a short amount of time. With a focus on authentic cultural sites and breathtaking landscapes, it’s an adventure worth considering for your China itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: