Chengdu: Jiuzhaigou, Dujiangyan, and Emeishan 9-Day Tour

Traveling through China’s southwestern province of Sichuan is a journey into a land of striking natural beauty and ancient engineering marvels. This 9-day tour offers a comfortable yet comprehensive look at some of the region’s most iconic sights, from fairy-tale lakes to historic giants. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone eager to understand China’s cultural and environmental complexity, this trip promises a lot.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it balances visits to UNESCO-listed sites like Jiuzhaigou and Leshan with more intimate experiences such as a Sichuan cuisine cooking class. The inclusion of expert guides and small-group logistics makes it feel personal and well-managed. That said, the itinerary is quite packed, so travelers should be prepared for long days on the road. This adventure is best suited for those who enjoy immersive, culturally rich experiences without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

Balanced Itinerary: Offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural insights, and engineering marvels in one trip.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding and ensure smooth logistics.
Authentic Experiences: Activities like Sichuan cuisine cooking classes and visits to historic sites provide genuine connection with local culture.
Small Group Travel: Intimate groups make for more personalized attention and easier movement through crowded sites.
Value for Money: At $2,165, the trip covers many major attractions, transportation, tickets, and some amenities, making it a good investment for those wanting a comprehensive Sichuan experience.
Well-Organized Logistics: The tour handles all transportation and tickets, reducing stress and planning for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sichuan’s Majestic Landscapes and Cultural Treasures

This tour is crafted to showcase Sichuan’s diverse attractions in a manageable format over 9 days. We’ll take you through some of China’s most renowned natural and historical sights, with plenty of comfort and guidance along the way.

Day-by-Day Breakdown and Highlights

Day 1: Arrival and Night Tour of Nanqiao – The Blue Tears

After arriving at Chengdu’s airport, you’ll be transferred to Dujiangyan. The first night’s highlight is the Nanqiao Night Tour, where you’ll see the ‘Blue Tears’ phenomenon — a river illuminated at night, glowing like shimmering tears. Watching this ethereal sight feels like stepping into a painting, and it’s an excellent way to ease into Sichuan’s magic.

Tip: Bring your camera to capture the glow — this spectacle is best viewed after sunset when the lights are turned on. The hotel, Dujiangyan Bailun International Hotel, offers a comfortable base for the night.

Day 2: Pandas and Irrigation Marvels

The morning starts at Panda Valley, a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. The included tickets and guided tour make it straightforward to spot these gentle creatures in a naturalistic setting. Afterward, the group visits the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a 2,200-year-old feat of engineering that harmonized water management with farming. It’s a reminder that ancient Chinese ingenuity still influences life today.

In the evening, traveling to Mao County means you’ll sleep in a local hotel, experiencing a more rural side of Sichuan.

Review snippet: Travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see pandas up close without the crowds of larger zoos.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Travel to Jiuzhaigou

Highlights include the opening of Maotun Ancient Qiang City, offering a glimpse into the region’s ethnic history. Visiting Dixi Lake — formed by an earthquake — reminds us how natural forces shape the landscape. A stop in Songpan Ancient City provides a historical military vibe, with old walls and lantern-lit streets.

By late afternoon, you arrive at Jiuzhaigou and settle into the Indigo Jiuzhaigou Hotel. The scenic drive through mountain roads adds anticipation for what’s to come.

Day 4: Jiuzhaigou’s Fairy-Tale Lakes

This is the crown jewel of the trip. The Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its crystal-clear lakes, multi-level waterfalls, and vibrant forests. The included sightseeing bus makes it easy to explore multiple vistas like Mirror Lake, Changhai, Five Color Pool, and Nuorilang Waterfall.

Expect a day filled with breathtaking views that seem almost surreal — a true highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Insight: Many reviews mention the “tranquil beauty” and how Jiuzhaigou feels like walking through a fantasy landscape.

Day 5: Huanglong Scenic Area and Travel to Mao County

Morning departure from Jiuzhaigou takes you to Huanglong, acclaimed for its terraced pools and colorful calcified formations. The upward cableway offers panoramic views, and you’ll understand why this area is a UNESCO site as well. After lunch, a long drive back to Mao County completes the day.

Note: The drive is about 3.5 hours, so patience and comfy shoes are recommended.

Day 6: Wenchuan Earthquake Site and Sichuan Cuisine Museum

This day offers a sobering visit to the Wenchuan Earthquake Site, reflecting on Sichuan’s vulnerability and resilience. Later, at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, you’ll participate in a cooking class, learning how to craft authentic Sichuan dishes — a fun, flavorful, and interactive experience.

Review: Guests loved the guides’ explanations at the earthquake site and raved about the delicious food and tapas at the cooking class.

Day 7: Historic Huanglongxi and Leshan Giant Buddha

Start your day at Huanglongxi Ancient Town, with its preserved architecture and old-world charm. After lunch, you’ll head to Leshan to see the Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff over 1,200 years ago. At 71 meters tall, this stone figure is awe-inspiring and the largest of its kind in the world.

Tip: The mountain tour and full sightseeing bus make access easy, and the views from the top are well worth the walk.

Day 8: Emeishan’s Golden Summit and Mountain Highlights

A highlight for many is the Golden Summit at Emeishan, reached via cableway. The views from the summit are spectacular, and you’ll get a sense of the spiritual significance of this mountain. Descending via bus from Leidongping makes the trip more comfortable, returning you to Chengdu in the evening.

Traveler feedback: The combination of cableway convenience and scenic mountain landscapes makes this a memorable experience.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, the group is transferred back to Chengdu airport, concluding this immersive journey through some of Sichuan’s most stunning sites.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of natural wonders, cultural insights, and authentic experiences means you’ll not only see beautiful landscapes but also understand their significance. The inclusion of activities like the Sichuan cuisine cooking class offers a hands-on way to connect with local traditions.

The small group size (limited to 6 participants) is a real plus, making for a more intimate and flexible experience. The guides are described as knowledgeable and passionate, which enhances the overall value. Many reviews specifically praise the guides’ ability to explain complex history and local customs clearly.

The tour’s logistics are well-managed, with all tickets, transportation, and some amenities like water and medical supplies included. That level of planning reduces stress and allows you to focus on enjoying the scenery and culture.

From a cost perspective, at $2,165 per person, the price covers a broad spectrum of experiences, including entrance fees, transportation, and guided commentary. For travelers who value a comprehensive experience without the hassle of self-arranging logistics, this package offers excellent value.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While this tour is well-organized, expect some long days — especially when traveling between sites. The drive to Mao County and from Jiuzhaigou to Huanglong is several hours, so packing snacks and being prepared for bus journeys helps.

The tour is not suitable for travelers over 80 or those with high blood pressure, due to the physical demands and altitude changes. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your camera.

Meals are not included for dinners, so you’ll want to budget for those. The tour provides breakfast, and the guides are helpful in recommending local restaurants.

Participants should carry their passport or ID, as many sites require identification for tickets. Also, it’s wise to have some cash for tips, souvenirs, or additional expenses.

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Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 9-day journey is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of Sichuan’s most famous sights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts, culture buffs, and food lovers alike who appreciate a mix of scenic beauty and local flavor.

If you’re comfortable with a somewhat packed schedule and long travel days, you’ll find this tour an efficient way to see Sichuan’s highlights. The inclusion of small group travel and expert guides makes it easier to connect with both the places and fellow travelers.

However, those seeking complete independence or a more leisurely pace might prefer to customize their exploring beyond this itinerary. Still, for its scope and organization, this tour delivers good value and an authentic taste of Sichuan.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable joining a small group. The small group size fosters a friendly environment, and guides are experienced in handling solo travelers.

Are meals included?
Only breakfast is included in the hotel. Dinners are at your own expense, allowing flexibility to try local eateries.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, offering a more personalized experience compared to larger groups.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothes, and some cash for extras.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The tour might not be suitable for those over 80 or with high blood pressure due to some physical demands and altitude changes.

How is transportation arranged?
All transportation is via a 7-seater vehicle, with tickets for scenic spots included. Long drives are part of the experience but are managed comfortably.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Most reviews praise the guides for their expertise and ability to explain the sites clearly.

Can I participate in activities like the Sichuan cuisine cooking class?
Yes, the tour includes a hands-on Sichuan cuisine experience at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum.

What if my flight changes?
The tour includes airport pickup and transfer based on your flight schedule, but any changes should be communicated promptly.

Is this tour a good value?
Considering the inclusion of major attractions, tickets, expert guides, and accommodations, many find this a worthwhile investment for a rich Sichuan experience.

This 9-day tour offers an enriching introduction to Sichuan’s most stunning sites, blending natural beauty, cultural history, and local flavors. It’s a solid choice for those eager to see the highlights with the comfort of guided, small-group travel.

You can check availability for your dates here: