Overview
This 3-day itinerary is designed for the traveler who wants to look beneath the surface of Sichuan.
Beyond the iconic Giant Pandas, you will explore the “Ninth Wonder of the Ancient World” at Sanxingdui and step back 2,000 years at the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
We balance these heavy-hitting historical sites with the “Slow Life” of Chengdu’s teahouses and a hike through the lush, misty forests of Mount Qingcheng’s Back Mountain, the quieter, wilder side of the sacred peak.
Highlights
- Visit the Chengdu Panda Base during peak activity
- Explore the ancient Sanxingdui civilization
- Experience Chengdu’s traditional teahouse culture
- Discover the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (UNESCO)
- Walk through Mount Qingcheng’s peaceful back mountain trails
- Enjoy Sichuan Opera face-changing performance
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Panda Base → Shu Embroidery → Jinli Street → Sichuan Opera
The Experience:
We start early at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see the pandas while they are most active.
After lunch, we shift gears to the Shu Embroidery Museum, where you’ll watch artisans weave intricate silk art that seems to glow.
We then wander the red-lantern-lit alleys of Jinli Ancient Street for local snacks, before ending the night with a high-energy Sichuan Opera performance featuring the legendary “Face-Changing.”
Highlights:
- Morning panda sightings.
- Silk embroidery demonstrations.
- Jinli street food and Face-Changing opera.
Tips:
- Arrive at the Panda Base by 7:30 AM to beat the crowds; the bears usually nap after 10:00 AM.
- Overnight: Chengdu
Day 2: Sanxingdui → People’s Park Teahouse / Wenshu Monastery + Teahouse
The Experience:
We head north to the Sanxingdui Museum. This is one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century, showcasing massive bronze trees and golden masks from a lost civilization.
After returning to Chengdu, we slow the pace down at People’s Park or Wenshu Monastery. Sit on a bamboo chair, order a bowl of Gaiwan tea, and soak in the local “Slow Life” (you can even try a traditional ear-cleaning!).
Highlights:
- Sanxingdui’s golden masks and bronze “Spirit Tree.”
- Traditional teahouse atmosphere.
- Wenshu Monastery’s serene gardens.
Tips:
- Sanxingdui is popular in 2026; we pre-book your tickets to ensure entry to the new exhibition hall.
- Overnight: Chengdu
- Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Dujiangyan Irrigation System → Mount Qingcheng (Back Mountain) → Return to Chengdu
The Experience:
We drive to Dujiangyan to see the Irrigation System, a 2,200-year-old masterpiece that still prevents flooding today.
In the afternoon, we head to Mount Qingcheng Back Mountain (Hou Shan). Unlike the Front Mountain, the Back Mountain is more about nature. Think wooden boardwalks over crystal-clear streams and hidden waterfalls.
We’ll use the cable car to reach the mid-point, allowing you to enjoy the best views before returning to Chengdu.
Highlights:
- Dujiangyan’s ancient river-splitting engineering.
- Waterfalls and lush hiking paths of the Back Mountain.
- Serene cable car ride through the canopy.
Tips:
- Back Mountain is a local favorite for “Quiet Travel.” Wear sturdy shoes as the boardwalks can be damp from the mountain mist.
- Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 2 Nights
We prioritize your comfort with our standard selection of Comfort-tier hotels: modern, highly-rated retreats situated in the heart of Chengdu to keep you perfectly positioned for both city exploration and mountain escapes.
Looking for a more bespoke experience? We specialize in tailor-made stays that range from charming, hidden-gem boutiques to premier luxury estates. Just let us know your preferences, and we will hand-select a collection of properties that align with your taste and travel budget.
Cost
Included
- Private vehicle or transportation during the trip
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Hotel accommodation (2 nights)
- Breakfast at hotels
- Entrance tickets (Panda Base, Sanxingdui, Dujiangyan, Mount Qingcheng)
- Cable car fee for Mount Qingcheng Back Mountain
Excluded
- Flights or train tickets to Chengdu
- Personal expenses and tips
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Transportation
- Private Vehicle: Door-to-door air-conditioned transfers for the first two days.
- High-speed train: Chengdu ↔ Dujiangyan (fast and efficient)
- Mountain Logistics: Eco-shuttles and cable cars included for Mount Qingcheng.
Essential Tips
- Keep flexible timing for weather, especially for mountain visits
- Pack layers. The temperature at Mount Qingcheng is often 5–8°C cooler than downtown Chengdu.
Gallery
FAQ
Is 3 days enough to explore Chengdu and nearby attractions?
Yes, this itinerary covers key highlights including culture, history, and nature in a well-paced plan.
Should I choose People’s Park or Wenshu Monastery for tea?
People’s Park is lively and local, while Wenshu offers a quieter, more cultural atmosphere.
Is Mount Qingcheng back mountain worth visiting?
Yes, it’s less crowded and offers a more natural, peaceful hiking experience.
Can I do this itinerary without a guide?
Yes, but a guide enhances historical understanding and simplifies logistics.
Is Sanxingdui far from Chengdu?
It’s about a 1-hour drive or a 20-minute HSR ride. Our private vehicle makes this a seamless morning trip.
Which is better, Front Mountain or Back Mountain of Qingcheng?
Front Mountain is for Taoist history and temples. Back Mountain (this route) is for nature, waterfalls, and a “quieter” hiking experience.
Can we do the Panda Volunteer program on Day 1?
This specific itinerary is for viewing. The Volunteer program takes a full day at a different base (Dujiangyan); we can customize Day 1 to include this if you have an extra day!
