7 Days SichuanTour of Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Leshan and Eme

7 Days SichuanTour of Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Leshan and Emei

Hiking tour

In recent years, Sichuan has emerged as a top destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences, from cultural immersion to natural wonders and tantalizing cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to explore unique cultures, immerse yourself in nature, or indulge in spicy culinary delights, Sichuan has something for everyone. For first-time visitors, our carefully curated 7-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Sichuan’s most iconic attractions.

Highlights

Itinerary at a Glance

Tour map

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Chengdu

Nihao! Welcome to Chengdu, the charming hometown of Giant Pandas! Upon your arrival in Chengdu, your private driver and guide will be waiting to greet you and ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, the rest of the day is yours to unwind and explore the vibrant city of Chengdu at your leisure.

Day 2 Chengdu Classic Tour

After breakfast, embark on a delightful journey to fulfill your panda dreams with a short 17-kilometer drive to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, also known as Chengdu Panda Base. Home to over 100 giant pandas, it boasts the largest population of captive giant pandas globally. Witness pandas of various ages engaging in playful activities, munching on bamboo, climbing trees, and perhaps even catching a nap. If you’re fortunate to visit during autumn, you might catch a glimpse of adorable pink newborn giant panda cubs at the Sunshine Nursery House and the Moonlight Nursery House. Don’t miss the opportunity to encounter the charming red pandas as they roam about in the Red Panda Playgrounds. Dive deeper into the world of pandas with a visit to the Panda Museum, where you can uncover fascinating insights into these beloved creatures. (Note: Pandas are more active in the morning due to their preference for cooler weather, so arriving early is recommended for the best experience.)

Next, journey to the tranquil Wenshu Monastery, the best-preserved Buddhist monastery in Chengdu, and immerse yourself in its serene atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through Renmin Park, a beloved spot where you can observe the relaxed pace of life in Chengdu. Sit down at a traditional tea-house, savor a cup of fragrant green tea, and observe locals indulging in games of mahjong and lively conversation. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along Jinli Old Street, an ancient thoroughfare with a history spanning over 1,800 years. Explore the charming stone-paved street lined with an array of delectable local snacks, intricate handicrafts, and captivating folk performances. (Optional: Sample some of the region’s spicy delicacies such as chuanchuan, dandan noodles, or even venture out of your culinary comfort zone and try a rabbit’s head!)

For those seeking evening entertainment, consider these optional activities:

Attend a captivating Sichuan Opera performance featuring mesmerizing acts like face-changing, fire-spitting, hand shadows, puppetry, dance, song, and acrobatics (typically from 20:00 to 21:30).
Take a scenic boat ride (30 minutes) along the Jinjiang River to admire Chengdu’s enchanting nighttime skyline as it meanders through the heart of the city (operating hours: 18:00~23:30).

Day 3 Chengdu - Leshan - Mount Emei

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for a memorable excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Leshan Giant Buddha, a remarkable stone-carved statue of Buddha that stands as the largest and tallest of its kind in the world. The journey from Chengdu to Leshan takes approximately 2 hours.

Located at the confluence of two rivers, the Leshan Giant Buddha is a monumental 1200-year-old statue carved directly into the rock face. Towering at 71 meters (233 feet) tall and 28 meters (92 feet) wide, the statue is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. As you walk down and up the pathway, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the Buddha from a close distance, allowing you to appreciate its grandeur and intricacy. Along the way, you’ll encounter ancient Buddhist temples, sculptures, caves, and religious relics, adding to the richness of your experience. For those who prefer a different perspective, an optional cruise is available to provide a panoramic view of the Buddha from the river.

After exploring the Leshan Giant Buddha, you will be driven approximately 45 kilometers to Baoguo Temple, the largest temple at the foot of Mount Emei. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and rich Buddhist heritage of the temple before continuing your journey to your hotel on Mount Emei.

Upon arrival at your hotel, check-in and unwind, enjoying a well-deserved rest after a day of exploration.

Day 4 Mount Emei - Chengdu

Today, you will embark on a full-day exploration of Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its cultural and natural significance. As one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, Mount Emei boasts a wealth of Buddhist temples and monasteries, nestled amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Your journey begins with a leisurely exploration of Mount Emei, opting for a combination of sightseeing bus, hiking, and cable car to maximize your experience while conserving energy. From the Tourist Center, you will board a sightseeing bus bound for Leidongping, a picturesque journey that takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival, a 30-minute walk will lead you to Jieyin Hall, where you will then ascend to the Golden Summit via cable car, a brief 5-minute ride.

The Golden Summit is a magnificent convergence of natural wonders and Buddhist spirituality, offering breathtaking vistas and serene surroundings. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of Buddhist architecture and tradition, while marveling at panoramic views of Mount Emei and its surroundings. If weather conditions permit, you may even be treated to the mesmerizing spectacle of the Cloud Sea, adding an ethereal touch to your experience.

After exploring the Golden Summit to your heart’s content, your guide and driver will accompany you back to your hotel in Chengdu, concluding your memorable journey to Mount Emei.

Day 5 Chengdu Flight to Jiuzhaigou

Today marks the beginning of your journey to the enchanting Jiuzhaigou Valley, starting with a flight from Chengdu to Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport. Upon your arrival, our local guide and driver will warmly welcome you and facilitate your transfer to the breathtaking Huanglong Scenic Area.

Huanglong Scenic Area is a natural marvel renowned for its mesmerizing beauty, characterized by terraces of colored limestone ponds adorned in hues of blue, green, orange, yellow, and white. The name “Huanglong,” meaning “Yellow Dragon,” derives from the unique geological formations resembling a majestic golden dragon winding its way through the valley against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Huanglong captivates visitors with its ethereal landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, virgin forests, and diverse wildlife.

To optimize your exploration of Huanglong, we recommend taking a convenient cable car ride to the summit, followed by a leisurely descent on foot to immerse yourself in the surrounding scenery. As you descend, you will encounter the main attractions of the valley, including Honglong Monastery, Five-Colored Ponds, Mirror Ponds, Welcoming Guest Ponds, and picturesque waterfalls, temples, and caves.

One of the highlights of Huanglong is the stunning Five-Color Ponds, nestled at the valley’s summit and comprised of nearly 700 ponds exhibiting a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors. The unique geological formations and crystal-clear waters create a visual masterpiece reminiscent of azure green jade plates, offering an awe-inspiring spectacle for visitors.

After a captivating day of exploration at Huanglong, you will depart for Jiuzhaigou, approximately a 2-hour drive away, where you will check in at your hotel and unwind in anticipation of further adventures in this wondrous region.

Useful Tips:

Due to the higher altitude of Huanglong (ranging from 3,200 to 3,600 meters), some travelers may experience symptoms of high altitude sickness. It is advisable to refrain from strenuous activities and consider carrying oxygen supplies or utilizing oxygen stations available in the park.
Please note that the Huanglong cable car may be closed during winter months.

Day 6 Jiuzhaigou Valley Exploration

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, embark on a full-day exploration of the breathtaking Jiuzhaigou National Park. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you will delve into the fairyland landscape of Jiuzhaigou, renowned for its unparalleled natural beauty and serene ambiance.

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jiuzhaigou enchants visitors with its pristine blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. The name “Jiuzhaigou,” meaning “Nine Settlement Valley,” derives from the nine Tibetan settlements scattered throughout its length, adding to its cultural significance and allure.

The park is characterized by a Y-shaped valley with three main sections: Zechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng valleys. To optimize your exploration, you will board sightseeing buses that traverse the park, allowing you to hop on and off at various attractions. Your experienced guide will craft a smart itinerary tailored to your preferences, ensuring you make the most of your time while avoiding crowds.

A classic route begins with a sightseeing bus journey to Nuorilang Waterfall, a majestic cascade that serves as a captivating introduction to the park’s natural splendor. From there, you will proceed to Zechawa Valley, where highlights include Five-Flower Lake and Pearl Beach, renowned for their crystalline waters and vibrant hues. Next, explore Rize Valley, home to iconic sites such as Panda Lake, Five Flowers Lake, Pearl Shoal, and Mirror Lake, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.

After a leisurely lunch at Nuorilang Restaurant, continue your journey to Shuzheng Valley, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of traditional Tibetan villages and savor the idyllic scenery before descending to the park entrance.

Useful Tips:

Arrive at the park early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes to navigate the park’s wooden plank roads and trails.
Consider bringing your own food for a picnic to avoid dining at expensive restaurants inside the park.

Day 7: Jiuzhaigou Departure

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting beauty of Jiuzhaigou. Your tour guide will meet you at the hotel and assist you with the check-out process. Together, you will proceed to the airport for your departure flight to your next destination.

As you prepare to leave Jiuzhaigou behind, take a moment to reflect on the incredible natural wonders and cultural treasures you’ve experienced during your time here. From the breathtaking landscapes of Jiuzhaigou Valley to the rich cultural heritage of the region, Jiuzhaigou has surely left a lasting impression on you.

If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to China and wish to extend your journey, our team is here to help you plan the perfect extension trip. Whether you’re interested in exploring the ancient wonders of Xi’an, marveling at the towering skyscrapers of Shanghai, or discovering the serene beauty of Guilin, we can tailor an extension itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.

Feel free to share your ideas and preferences with us, and we’ll work with you to create an unforgettable journey that exceeds your expectations.

Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner for your Jiuzhaigou adventure. We hope you’ve had an incredible time exploring this remarkable destination, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures in China and beyond. Safe travels!

Price: What’s Included & What’s Excluded

The price mentioned above is for a private tour for two individuals. Prices may vary depending on the travel date, group size, hotel category, itinerary, and potential fluctuations in currency exchange rates.

What’s Included?

Skilled drivers and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles at your service.
English-speaking local professional tour guide.
Hotel accommodation with breakfast.
Domestic flights (economy class) or second class tickets on high speed train according to the itinerary.
Tickets, scheduled activities and meals included in the itinerary.
Comprehensive accident insurance.（Passport information required)
We will assist you throughout the trip from initial planning to the end of the trip.

What’s Excluded?

Overseas flight tickets
Visa application costs
Individual expenditures
Additional charge for single occupancy rooms
Suggested extra activities
Arrival and departure transportation on the initial and final days
Gratuities for tour guides and chauffeurs

Important Information for Booking a Private China Tour

How to Reserve a Private China Tour?

Booking a private China tour is a straightforward process. Simply choose the tour you’re interested in and click “Submit a Free Inquiry.” Share your preferences and requirements when filling out the form. You won’t need to make an immediate payment during this stage. Once you’ve submitted your details, one of our expert travel consultants will respond to you within 0.5 to 24 hours. After confirming all the details, you can proceed to make a deposit. If you have any questions before booking, feel free to contact the travel consultant directly.

Customize Your China Tour

The itinerary provided above is a sample that most travelers follow. However, we can tailor the tour to align with your preferences, interests, and budget. If you wish to extend the tour or have specific destinations and activities in mind, simply inform us. Our experienced travel experts will redesign the trip to meet your needs and offer you the best price. Share your ideas with us now >>

Transportation

During your private tour, you’ll be transported to various attractions within each city in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. Our selected vehicles are spacious and driven by experienced drivers. For travel between destinations, we utilize domestic flights (economy class) or high-speed trains (second class, typically less than 6 hours). Upon arrival at airports or train stations, your local guides and drivers will greet you and escort you to your hotel.

Dining

“B” denotes breakfast, which will be provided at your hotel in the morning.
“L” indicates lunch. The restaurants we select are approved by local tourism authorities and maintain high sanitary standards. Your guide will assist with ordering dishes.
“D” signifies dinner. Dinners are not included in the itinerary, giving you the opportunity to sample authentic Chinese cuisine and local snacks. If you have specific dietary preferences or requirements (such as vegetarian, halal, kosher, Indian, or gluten-free), please inform us before booking. We will do our utmost to accommodate your needs.

Accommodation & Hotel Condition for Your China Tour

Ensuring a restful night’s sleep is crucial throughout your China tour. With our private tours, you have the freedom to choose from a range of hotel classes, whether it’s luxurious 5-star accommodations, comfortable 4-star lodgings, or economical 3-star options.

All the hotels selected in each destination are conveniently situated near commercial districts or popular tourist attractions. Moreover, our longstanding partnerships with these hotels guarantee a consistent level of quality and service. Each hotel room is equipped with essential amenities such as windows, air conditioning, hot water, showers, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable sleep experience. The English-speaking staff members are dedicated to providing high-quality service and are readily available to assist with any requests or preferences you may have.

Price: Request

(Based on a private tour for two people. Price varies depending on program, travel date, number of people.)

Free Enquiry! You don’t need to pay for the reservation.