2026 Pingwu Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

👣👣 Depart from Xi'an, this is truly a fairyland on earth! Who says Wanglang is not beautiful in winter? I really regret not discovering this treasure earlier... Day 1 Xi'an ➡️ Jiangyou, take a high-speed train, depart at 9:48 and arrive in Jiangyou at around 12:30. After leaving the station, you will start the self-driving trip. It is very convenient to pick up a car at the high-speed railway station. Once everything is done, you can enjoy the local delicacies. Jiangyou Fatty Intestines, no recommendation, I really can't enjoy the fatty intestines. Jiangyou ➡️ Tibetan Baxijia Ancient Village (less than three hours' drive), you will pass a redwood road just after departure, with a surprise! Pass by Tianmu Lake (you can see the lake and snow-capped mountains) 🏨: Stay in Baxijia Ancient Village, there are few restaurants in the village, so you can choose to book a hotel with meals. There will also be a bonfire at night, and the atmosphere will be up. Day 2 Ancient Village ➡️ Wanglang Scenic Area, 15 minutes' drive, because you need to return on the same day, so enter the park at 8:40. It is recommended that you enter the park early. The reflection of Gan Haizi Snow Mountain is the best in the morning. The whole scenic area takes about 4-5 hours (depending on the person) ~ There are two routes in the scenic area: 1️⃣ Plank Road: The reflection of Gan Haizi is taken here 2️⃣ Hiking forest route: After returning to the starting point from Gan Haizi, go up and you can enjoy the feeling of crossing the forest. It is good to take photos along the way. After taking beautiful photos, return to Jiangyou, and take the high-speed train back to Xi'an at 6:30...

▶︎Tianmu Lake, a spectacular lake located at a high altitude, receives meltwater from many snow-capped peaks in the Baima Wanglang area ▶︎Wanglang and Jiuzhaigou are separated by only one mountain and belong to the same mountain range. Here, the snow water rushes northward to form the Jiuzhaigou lakes, and converges southward to form Tianmu Lake ▶︎Drifting along the Huoxi River into the blue Tianmu Lake, you can experience a wonderful experience similar to boating in Jiuzhaigou. The lakes here are colorful and are collectively called "Jiuzhai Blue" ▶︎Tianmu Lake, which covers an area of ​​10 square kilometers, has snow-capped mountains, colorful forests, canyons, meadows, cattle and horses, showing a beautiful scenery. : : : : : : : : : : : : : : : White wool felt hat and white feathers are the characteristics . 🚗National Highway 247, known as the Hundred Miles Red Leaf Corridor ▷At the end of October, the National Highway 247 from Pingwu County to Wanglang climbed along the Huoxi River in the colorful forest, which was really like walking through a gallery ▷With the opening of the Jiumian Expressway at the end of the year, the journey from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou and Pingwu will be shortened to 3+ hours next year .

Winter in Pingwu is like a fairy tale world, where ice waterfalls, snow accumulation, sea of clouds, and rime intertwine to create breathtaking scenes. In Wanglang during winter, valleys are covered with a thin layer of snow, the primeval forest shifts to a low saturation mode, mist swirls around, fir trees stand tall, and snowy peaks rise majestically—every snapshot captures an atmospheric masterpiece. The snow-covered forest trails are perfect spots for photography, blending people and nature beautifully in both vertical and horizontal views. Zooming out, distant mountains, sea of clouds, and snowy plains come together, fully embodying the poetic and faraway charm. Stepping into Pingwu, you can not only enjoy natural beauty but also deeply experience the unique culture of the Baima Tibetan people. The Baima Tibetan settlements, located at an average altitude above 2,000 meters, feature distinctive clothing and customs, worship nature and landscapes, and although lacking written records, their culture and history possess unique forms and meanings. The eighteen Baima villages are scattered along the edges of primeval forests and alpine lakes, with houses arranged harmoniously, like gems embedded in the green mountains and clear waters. Come to Pingwu to feel this winter tranquility and beauty, breathe with the mountains and forests, live alongside the animals, rediscover the relationship between humans and nature, and create unforgettable memories!

Not for those without a car or who can't drive! Lessons learned the hard way 😭 ▪️Transportation: High-speed rail + taxi (no car or driving experience) Day 1 Xi'an North → Jiangyou 11:46 Directly booked a ride to Hanting Hotel (Li Bai Memorial Hall Branch). Super convenient location in the city center. After dropping off luggage, headed straight to Chuanluo Fatty Intestines (Shengming International Branch), recommended by the driver. Important❗Opening hours: 8:30-14:30/16:30-20:30. Most restaurants in Jiangyou have these hours, so check before you go. Must-order dishes: ✅Braised Fatty Intestines ✅Braised Pork Belly ✅Spicy Vinegar ✅Braised Beef Brisket After eating, walked to the Li Bai Memorial Hall 🎫. Lots of plants, few people, so the experience was so-so. In the evening, went to Huopao Street Night Market. The cold noodles, roujiamo (Chinese hamburger), and shrimp balls were all just average and not recommended ❌. Nowhere to go shopping at night. Cycling back to the hotel was a nightmare – the roads were terrible! ⚠️ First major disappointment I read online that you could book a tour to Baima Wanglang, but after contacting numerous travel agencies, none offered a route, or they required a group to form a group and wait several days before the trip. I'd never even heard of this scenic area! 😱 I finally managed to book a ride-sharing service at a high price. Day 2: Jiangyou → Baima Wanglang - A day of disaster! 💥 I arrived at the scenic area around 10 am, and the mountain forests and misty clouds along the way were quite beautiful. However, once inside, I was completely shocked! Tickets were 138 RMB per person, but only one gate was open across four queues. The shuttle bus was even worse! There were only one or two minibuses running back and forth, and I waited over an hour to board. The 40-minute ride to the attraction took almost 1 pm, completely ruining the experience. ❌ The food inside the scenic area was mediocre; I recommend bringing your own snacks. 🍞 The scenery was completely different from the beautiful pictures online! The only worthwhile activity was hiking in the primeval forest 🚶‍♀️. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a nice atmosphere, but there were no toilets throughout the hike! You had to relieve yourself wherever you could. ⚠️ Second major pitfall Never touch trees or sit in the rest areas of the scenic area. I touched a tree or something and it triggered an allergic rash that was incredibly itchy. I saw a doctor several times and it took about a month to get better. The itching was so bad I couldn't sleep at night and my legs were raw from scratching 😩. The photo spots recommended by Li Ziqi were also a disaster! The piano was long gone, there were tons of people taking pictures, and it was just a small pond with very ordinary scenery. ⚠️ Third major pitfall There's no cell phone signal inside the scenic area! I couldn't book a ride at all. Even though there was internet at the ticket gate, I had to pay an extra 100+ yuan to get someone to accept my order. It was 8 PM and drizzling. I was cold, hungry, and had nowhere to rest. Luckily, the gatekeeper took me in and I waited a long time before finally getting a ride. 😭 📅 Day 3: Return Trip I originally planned to go to Doucui Mountain, but I got hives and completely lost interest. I went to the hospital, ate a mediocre hotpot at Liu Yishou, and took the high-speed train back, ending my terrible trip. 🚄 💣 Ultimate Warning Summary 1. Don't go to Baima Wanglang if you're not driving! Transportation is extremely inconvenient, tours are hard to find, and taxis are painfully expensive. 2. The scenic area is poorly managed, shuttle buses are scarce and long queues are long, and facilities are inadequate (no toilets). 3. The scenery is unremarkable, far from what you'd expect. It's really not worth coming if there's no snow. 4. If you want to experience Western Sichuan, you might as well spend more money and go to Jiuzhaigou! The only consolation for the breathtaking beauty of Jiuzhaigou in October was the delicious Jiangyou-style braised pork intestines! But don't go for the Bai Ma Wang Lang (a famous restaurant chain)! Take my advice!

🌊 Key Highlights - Ice Waterfall Wonder: In winter, the waterfall freezes into huge ice formations, with blue and white ice bodies crystal clear, like a fairy tale world of ice and snow - Pristine Secret Realm: Undeveloped, preserving the original ecological canyon scenery, with colorful forests, streams, and lakes scattered around - Hiking Experience: Easy hiking routes suitable for beginners, allowing close encounters with the ice waterfall along the way, perfect for photo opportunities 🚗 Transportation Guide - Self-driving: Depart from Chengdu via Jingkun Expressway → Mianyang → Pingwu County → Huya Township, about 4 hours in total; some sections may have ice and snow, so prepare anti-skid chains - Public Transport: Take a bus from Chengdu Zhaojue Temple Bus Station to Pingwu County, then transfer to a local van to Huya Grand Canyon (about 2 hours) 📍 Must-Visit Spots 1. Huya Grand Waterfall: A giant ice waterfall about 30 meters high, at its best viewing period during New Year's Day, you can walk to the bottom of the ice waterfall and look up 2. Huahaizi Lake: The lake surface freezes in winter, surrounded by snow-capped mountains reflecting on the water, ideal for atmospheric photos 3. Luhai Lake: The lake water is emerald green, forming a sharp contrast with the ice formations on the shore ⚠️ Practical Tips - Admission: Free entry (no commercial operations in the scenic area, no ticket or sightseeing bus fees) - Accommodation: No lodging inside the scenic area, recommended to stay in Pingwu County town (recommended "Pingwu Long'an Hotel" for good value) - Gear: Wear anti-slip hiking shoes, down jacket, gloves, and bring a thermos (no food or beverage sales in the scenic area) - Safety: The ground near the ice waterfall is slippery, do not climb the ice formations; travel in groups, avoid going alone into undeveloped areas

In the deep winter of the western Sichuan Plateau, Wanglang Nature Reserve in Mianyang, Sichuan is covered in white snow. Layers of pure white snow spread out, with vast pine forests standing among the mountains. The fluffy snow weighs down the treetops, outlining a vast and pristine winter landscape. Located in the Himalayan Hengduan Mountains, this area boasts a complete natural ecosystem with scenic views all year round: snow can be admired in spring and winter, summers are cool and pleasant for escaping the heat, and autumns are spectacular with mountains full of red leaves. Visitors can tour by sightseeing bus, passing lush trees, green mountains and waters, and blue skies with white clouds—every snapshot looks like a masterpiece. The reserve has a complex and ancient plant composition, with a wide variety of ornamental flowers and forest vegetables that are dazzling to see. Additionally, the unique Baima ethnic group lives nearby, with distinctive language, customs, and historical culture. Here, visitors can both feel the tranquility and grandeur of nature and deeply experience local customs, gaining abundant surprises and relaxation. Come to Wanglang Nature Reserve and start an unforgettable winter journey!

In Wanglang Nature Reserve, located in Pingwu County, Mianyang, Sichuan, deep winter snow has recently covered the area, presenting an SSS-level snow scene. Layers of pure white snow spread out, with vast pine forests standing among the mountains, fluffy snow weighing down the treetops, outlining a vast and pristine winter landscape. This area lies in the Hengduan Mountains of the Himalayas and boasts a complete natural ecosystem. It offers scenic views all year round: snow in spring and winter, cool escapes in summer, and mountains covered in red leaves in autumn. Visitors can tour by sightseeing bus, passing lush trees, green mountains and waters, blue skies, and white clouds—every snapshot is a masterpiece. The park has a complex plant composition with ancient origins, where various medicinal herbs, ornamental flowers, and forest vegetables can be found. The unique Baima ethnic group also lives nearby, with distinctive language, customs, and cultural history. Visitors can deeply experience the local customs and feel a unique charm. Come to Wanglang Nature Reserve to start an unforgettable winter journey and create beautiful memories!

Online reviews of Baima Wanglang are polarized: some love its pristine tranquility, while others complain about its inconvenience and monotony. As someone who has been there, I want to say: it’s not an all-purpose destination, but for the right people, it’s paradise. Before you set off, please ask yourself these questions: ⚠️ These types of people should choose Wanglang cautiously - If you are near Chengdu: within a 5-hour self-drive range, there are many free or well-developed snowy mountain lakes like Siguniang Mountain, Bipenggou, and Lenggacuo, so no need to make a special trip here. - If you seek a complete travel experience: if you want luxury accommodation, diverse dining, entertainment, and shopping convenience, this place cannot meet your needs. Wanglang offers only the purest nature. - If you plan to visit during holidays like May Day or National Day without planning: the park’s capacity is limited, reception is average, and you will likely have a poor experience due to queues, dining, and keeping warm. ✅ These types of people, Wanglang is your treasure - Located near Xi’an, Hanzhong, Guangyuan, Mianyang, etc.: take a high-speed train about 2 hours to Jiangyou, then self-drive 2.5 hours to reach. This is the best route to experience “Western Sichuan + Xinjiang” style landscapes in the shortest time with the least hassle, doable in one weekend. - Yearning for pure natural scenery: just want to see snowy mountains, forests, meadows, rivers, enjoy hiking and tranquility, with low facility requirements. - Want to bring elderly or children for an easy highland experience: the altitude here is only about 2000 meters, so altitude sickness is unlikely; the entire trail is gentle, and sightseeing vehicles are available, very friendly. 📋 9 must-know things before departure (pitfall avoidance guide) 1. Transportation hub is Jiangyou: the nearest high-speed rail station is Jiangyou Station. After exiting, you can rent or charter a car; it takes another 2.5 hours to the scenic area. 2. Tickets and timing: ticket price is 108 yuan (including sightseeing vehicle). The latest entry time is 2 PM, so plan your time carefully. 3. Duration of visit: about 5-6 hours in total, with sightseeing vehicle round trip taking over 1 hour. It’s recommended to allocate a full day. 4. Food supply: only simple foods like instant noodles and grilled sausages are available inside. Please bring your own snacks and hot water; self-heating rice is an excellent choice. 5. Clothing advice: in winter, prepare down jackets, hats, and gloves. Bring snow play gear and waterproof pants for kids. Sunscreen is needed all year round. 6. Sightseeing vehicle seat choice: sit on the left window side on the way in for better views; on the right side on the way back. 7. Accommodation key: it’s recommended to stay at Baxijia Ancient Village the night before (15 minutes by car from the scenic area). Be sure to choose a homestay with floor heating, or it will be very cold at night. 8. Golden rule: get to the park at 8:50 AM for the first sightseeing vehicle to perfectly avoid queues. The park has limited vehicles; late arrivals may wait 30-60 minutes. 9. Season choice: Wanglang is beautiful all year round. Winter has stable snow cover; summer is a perfect cool escape. No need to overthink, just choose according to your preference. 🗺️ A sample weekend itinerary - Day 1: Arrive at Jiangyou Station before noon → pick up car, taste Jiangyou spicy pork intestine rice noodles → drive to Baima Wanglang, stay at Baxijia Ancient Village. - Day 2: Get up early for the first sightseeing vehicle → visit Ganhaizi, Baishagou primeval forest, etc. → leave the park in the afternoon, drive back to Jiangyou Station → take the high-speed train home. Finally, please come with the right expectations. There are no bustling facilities here, only silent snowy mountains, tranquil forests, and free winds. If what you want is this untouched natural beauty, Baima Wanglang will not disappoint you.

DAY 1️⃣: 🚄 Xi'an North — Jiangyou (Take the 08:02-10:53 train); 👉 After arrival, pick up the car (rent in advance via Shenzhou app); 👉 Had lunch locally (🍜 small snacks, mainly eating pork intestines); 👉 After lunch, visited Li Bai's former residence; 👉 Around 1:00 PM, drove 🚗 to Baxijia Ancient Village, stopped briefly at "Pingwu County Muzuo Service Area" for a break, then continued; 👉 Arrived at the ancient village around 3:40 PM, checked in, dropped off luggage, and booked dinner with the owner for 6 PM; 👉 After check-in, drove 🚗 to Tianmu Lake (about 7-8 minutes), the scenery was stunning, great for photos; 👉 Returned to the guesthouse by 6 PM for dinner, then rested to prepare for the next day's itinerary. (Dinner was beef hotpot 🍲, a big pot with plenty of food, very delicious, the owner was very genuine.) DAY 2️⃣: After breakfast, drove 🚗 at 8:20 AM to Wanglang Scenic Area, about a 15-minute drive; 👉 Upon arrival, we bought tickets on-site at the scenic area ticket office. Due to cold weather, staff said it was 5 degrees colder inside the park than outside (outside was -13°C). After a short wait, at 9:10 AM we boarded the first shuttle bus in the park; 👉 On the way, we encountered animals twice in the middle of the road, the kids were very excited 🤩👉 Got off around 10 AM; the shuttle bus did not go all the way to Baishagou, we got off at the first station. Facing away from the station, straight ahead leads to Ganhaizi, to the right leads to Baishagou and the primitive forest; 👉 We first went to Baishagou, hiking 2.5 km. We took the road going up in a winding path, with beautiful scenery all along 📷; 👉 After touring Baishagou, from Baishagou station (facing away from the station, to the right) we entered the 🌲 primitive forest 🌲 and hiked about 3 km directly to Ganhaizi. We stayed longer in the forest, taking lots of photos 📷 so beautiful and photogenic; 👉 Upon reaching Ganhaizi, we mainly visited the spot where Li Ziqi played piano for photos 📷🤳 (the piano is no longer there); 👉 At 2:30 PM, took the scenic area shuttle bus down the mountain, then drove 🚗 back to Jiangyou around 3 PM; 👉 Returned to Jiangyou at 5:30 PM and ate at Li Tieshao (had Jiangyou’s specialty pork intestines one last time before leaving); 👉 At 7 PM, drove 🚗 to Jiangyou High-Speed Rail Station parking lot to return the car; 👉 19:46-22:42 🚄 back to Xi'an 🏠 ❤️ Final notes 🔍 Accommodation: Pingwu Diyirong Guesthouse Jiangyou Restaurants: Xiaoxiaochi, Li Tieshao ❤️ About costs 🔍 Two adults and one child 🧑‍🧑‍🧒 High-speed rail: 202+202+101=505 Guesthouse + dinner: 386 (discount coupon from Qunar) Scenic area tickets: 138+138+70=346 Car rental: 2️⃣ days 300 + 100 fuel = 400 City meals: 120

I canceled my flight to Norway because I found a real-life Norwegian winter forest right here in Mianyang. Snow-capped mountains 🏔️, forests 🌲, lakes 🌊, wooden cabins 🏡, little deer 🦌... Every scene here looks just like a movie set. Low altitude, not too high, beautiful and less crowded hidden gem. No need to travel all the way to Northern Europe to immerse yourself in the romance of ice and snow~ 📍 Address: Baima Wanglang Scenic Area, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province 🚗 Getting there: Self-driving (mountain roads require snow chains, the snowy scenery along the way is stunning) 🎫 Tickets: Adults 138 RMB/person | Seniors 70 RMB/person | Children 100 RMB/person ⏰ Winter park hours: 08:30-14:00 (No entry after 2 PM, don’t miss out!) DAY 1️⃣ Explore the ancient town, sleep with snow as your pillow ✅ Self-drive navigation to Pingwu County, visit "Bao'en Temple" in the afternoon Filming location for the game "Black Myth: Wukong," a Ming Dynasty ancient building hidden deep in the mountains, red walls reflecting the snow make for amazing shots ✅ Accommodation: Xingchenli Boutique Homestay (Doukou Qiang Ethnic Township, Pingwu County) A warm room to dispel the chill of the journey and recharge for the next day’s snow viewing DAY 2️⃣ Enter the icy secret realm, a winter date awaits 8:30 Depart from the homestay, 2-hour drive to Baima Wanglang Scenic Area 10:30 Buy tickets and enter, take the scenic shuttle bus for 40 minutes directly to "Ganhaizi" The same filming location where Li Ziqi plays piano in her videos! Frozen lake, endless snowy mountains, frost-covered forests—every shot is wallpaper-worthy, perfect for girls’ photos!!! 12:00 Check in at the primitive forest hiking trail 2-2.5 hours walking and photo-taking, snow weighs down the pine branches, the trail is covered with a thin layer of snow, only bird songs and wind rustling leaves can be heard, full of healing vibes 15:00 Descend and return, ending a perfect winter trip 💡 Travel Tips: 1. If you have enough time, plan for 3 days to slowly enjoy the tranquility of the snowy forest 2. The park only sells instant noodles and grilled sausages, remember to bring your own snacks and hot water 3. Riding tip: sit on the left window side going in, and on the right window side coming back, so you don’t miss any snowy views 4. The park’s ecology is excellent; keep an eye out the window during the ride—you might spot deer, squirrels, and other wildlife 5. Mountain weather changes quickly; dress in layers for easy warmth adjustment

Baima Wanglang, as charming as its name and scenery～Thanks to China's infrastructure speed, a weekend two-day trip from Chengdu can easily reach such a distant place. Day 1: Chengdu - Pingwu Depart from Chengdu, 3 hours to Pingwu, visit Bao'en Temple in the afternoon. This Ming Dynasty ancient building, known as the "Deep Mountain Forbidden City," is made entirely of nanmu wood with mortise and tenon joints, without a single nail, showcasing heavy history and architectural miracles everywhere. The temple is not large but very worth a close look and was also a filming location for Black Wukong. Free public guided tours are available on the hour. After visiting Bao'en Temple, you can walk along the river on the Ming city wall. The sunshine is great, the ginkgo trees are golden, and everything is shining✨ Recommended restaurants: Yipingxiang, Huixiangfang Day 2: Pingwu - Wanglang - Chengdu Depart at 8:30, 1.5 hours to Wanglang Scenic Area. Pre-book tickets + sightseeing bus (138 RMB/person, half price for seniors over 60). There are few people; the sightseeing bus takes 40-50 minutes to go up the mountain. The whole scenic area tour takes about 4-5 hours. Recommended route: Take the sightseeing bus to Ganhaizi, then hike the plank road loop, which takes about 40 minutes to complete. The small lake with snow mountain reflections is on the left side when entering the plank road, very photogenic; after Ganhaizi, head to the Baishagou primeval forest hiking trail. During the ice and snow season, the sightseeing bus cannot reach Baishagou, so the recommended route is to walk 2.5 km along the road to Baishagou Station, then hike 4 km on the forest trail back to Ganhaizi to take the bus down the mountain. The snow mountain faces you when going up, very magnificent, and hiking down through the primeval forest allows you to deeply explore the oldest and purest side of Wanglang. Compared to Ganhaizi, I personally prefer the Baishagou forest trail. Even on weekends, there are very few tourists, and often you can only hear the tinkling of spring water. The moment you enter the forest, it feels like the forest enters me; every inch of skin and every pore is soaked and relaxed, fully absorbing oxygen and sunlight. It feels as if roots could grow from my feet at any moment, tightly connected to the earth. The forest trail is equipped with popular science display stations along the way. Please be sure to stop and read carefully. Wanglang’s science stations are especially interesting, telling many stories: pine moss that grows only 2 cm per year, mycelium networks spreading through the forest like a nervous system transmitting information, and dynamic plant systems growing under fallen logs... It’s the first time I glimpsed the growth secrets of the primeval forest, ancient yet vibrant. Descend around 16:00, drive 4 hours back to Chengdu. You can have dinner in Mianyang or Jiangyou on the way. The timing is just right to get home, wash up, and sleep, ending a perfect weekend🏔️ One more tip: It’s very cold in the early morning and evening, be sure to wear a down jacket and preferably bring a scarf and gloves🧤 Baima Wanglang | Snow Mountain | Hiking | Autumn Viewing | Snow Scenery | Pingwu

Core Idea: Arrive on the first day and visit the main attraction, the "Deep Mountain Forbidden City" Bao'en Temple; on the second day, explore the Baima Tibetan ethnic area to experience local culture; on the third day, visit the national nature reserve; on the fourth day, leisurely enjoy the county town before returning. Day 1: Arrival in Pingwu · Visit the "Deep Mountain Forbidden City" · Morning: Arrive in Pingwu and check into a hotel in the county town. · Afternoon (Core): Visit Pingwu Bao'en Temple. It is an official-style architectural complex built during the Ming Dynasty, known as the "Deep Mountain Forbidden City" because it imitates the Beijing Forbidden City. It is recommended to spend 2-3 hours focusing on the "Six Wonders": the revolving scripture wheel, the Thousand-Hand Guanyin, nanmu wood architecture, dougong brackets, murals, and the dragon-shaped carvings throughout the temple. Don’t miss the "Long Live the Emperor" nine-dragon plaque in the Mahavira Hall. · Evening: Stroll along the county town riverbank night market or the Bao'enli commercial street in the west city and taste local delicacies. Day 2: Secret Exploration · Baima Tibetan Ethnic Style · All day: Head to Baima Tibetan Township. The drive takes about 1.5-2 hours. · Morning: Arrive at Baxijia Ancient Village, a Baima Tibetan ancient village located by Tianmu Lake. You can visit the distinctive wooden buildings and try on ethnic costumes for photos. · Afternoon: Tour Tianmu Lake and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery from the viewing platform. If time permits, take a light hike in the Sea Buckthorn Valley (about 7 km round trip) to see the calcified waterfall. · Evening: Stay overnight in the ancient village guesthouse, experience a bonfire party and the Yuanyuan dance, and taste honey barley wine and Tibetan-style hot pot. Day 3: Nature Exploration · Wanglang Nature Reserve · All day: Explore the Wanglang National Nature Reserve. This is a habitat for giant pandas, featuring primeval forests and alpine lakes. · Activities: The scenic area requires sightseeing bus tours. It is cool and pleasant in summer and colorful with autumn foliage in fall. You can take light hikes along the boardwalks, breathe pure air, and observe rare flora and fauna. Day 4: Leisurely Return · Slow Life in the County Town · Morning: Sleep in naturally, and if time allows, take a relaxed visit to Longchiping Forest Park or buy local specialties such as cured bacon and tea in the county town. · Afternoon: Pack up, end the trip, and return. 💰 4000 RMB Budget Allocation Plan Your total budget is quite sufficient for a comfortable trip. Here is a reference allocation: 1. Accommodation Costs (about 1050 RMB) · Standard: Estimated based on comfortable hotels in the county town and characteristic guesthouses in the village. · Details: · County town hotel: 2 nights × 200 RMB/night = 400 RMB · Baima Tibetan village guesthouse: 1 night × 250 RMB/night = 250 RMB · Total: About 650 RMB (estimate; actual prices vary by season and choice) 2. Food and Beverage Costs (about 800 RMB) · Standard: About 150-200 RMB per person per day to enjoy local specialties. · Details: 4 days × 200 RMB/day = 800 RMB 3. Tickets and Activities (about 390 RMB) · Details: · Bao'en Temple ticket: 40 RMB · Wanglang Nature Reserve: ticket + sightseeing bus about 200 RMB · Baima Tibetan village: possible maintenance or activity fee, about 50-100 RMB · Others: scripture copying, tea tasting, and other experiences · Total: About 390 RMB 4. Transportation Costs (about 1560 RMB) This is the biggest variable, depending on your departure location and mode of travel. · Long-distance transport (round trip to Pingwu): · Self-driving: highway tolls (some sections of the Jiumian Expressway may be free) + fuel, about 500-700 RMB round trip from Chengdu. · Public transport: bus from Chengdu/Mianyang to Pingwu, about 60-100 RMB one way. · Local travel: · County town to Baima Township and Wanglang: recommended to charter a car, about 800-1000 RMB for two days (can be shared). Or take local buses, which are cheaper but time-consuming and inconvenient. · Total: About 1560 RMB (estimated for chartered car) Total Budget: About 3400 RMB (reserve about 600 RMB as contingency for unexpected expenses) ⚠️ Travel Tips and Practical Advice 1. Best time to visit: Spring, summer, and autumn (May to October) are ideal. Summer is cool (average temperature around 20°C), and autumn features colorful forests. Some mountain roads may be icy in winter. 2. Bao'en Temple visit tips: Try to visit in the morning for better lighting for photos; strongly recommend a guided tour (hire a guide or check for free guided times) to avoid missing the essence of the "Six Wonders"; photography is prohibited inside the halls. 3. Respect Baima Tibetan customs: When visiting Baima Tibetan village, respect local customs and beliefs, and ask for permission before taking photos. 4. Plateau and mountain area reminders: Wanglang Reserve is at a high altitude (above 2000 meters), so move slowly and keep warm and protected from the sun. Mountain weather is changeable; bring rain gear and warm jackets. 5. Discounts: Follow official information; some guesthouses offer discounts for high school and college graduates, and the Jiumian Expressway may have temporary free toll policies. Overall, a 4000 RMB budget gives you ample room to comfortably experience the culture and nature of Pingwu.

Encounter the fairy-tale autumn of Jiuzhaigou and explore the ancient mountain temple of Pingwu; Who says you need 3 days to fully enjoy Jiuzhaigou? Pure play in 2 days is enough because no time is wasted on shopping; Departing from Mianyang, round-trip by highway, you can capture both the autumn scenery of Jiuzhaigou and the millennium-old temple in just 2 days. ✨ 🚗【About the Itinerary & Transportation】 Day 1: Mianyang → "Mountain Palace" Pingwu Bao'en Temple → Jiuzhaigou; Day 2: Full-day in-depth tour of Jiuzhaigou → Return to Mianyang; ▪️ Transportation: The highway from Mianyang to Pingwu is open, with excellent road conditions and scenic views along the way. 🌟【Core Highlights & Beyond Typical Photo Spots】 1️⃣ Pingwu Bao'en Temple — The real-life "Little Western Paradise," this is not CGI! It is a genuine Ming Dynasty ancient temple! • "Black Wukong" fans will be thrilled! Once inside the temple, you instantly feel like you’ve stepped into the "Little Western Paradise" from the game! Built entirely from golden Phoebe wood without a single iron nail—kudos to the ancient craftsmen! 🤯 • Must-see "Suspended Dragon Sculpture"! In the Great Compassion Hall, a clay dragon sculpture hangs in midair, baring its teeth and claws, lifelike to the point it feels like it could come alive and fly away any second! This visual impact will definitely be the cover star of your travel notes! 📸• Check in at the Thousand-Hand Guanyin: The 8-meter-tall gilded Thousand-Hand Guanyin, looking up from below, exudes solemnity and intricate detail, truly like encountering the ultimate boss from a game—speechlessly stunning! 📝Tips: The temple interior is quite dim, so wearing Hanfu or plain-colored clothes will create silhouettes and details full of story in your photos! 2️⃣ Jiuzhaigou — A Fairy Tale World in Autumn. Autumn in Jiuzhaigou is like God’s spilled palette! 🎨 Classic route: It’s recommended to take the sightseeing bus directly to [Chang Hai] and then explore downwards, which saves the most energy. Highlights of the lakes: Five Flower Lake: The absolute centerpiece! The lake’s colors are so vivid it’s unbelievable—make sure to take panoramic shots from the viewing platform. Mirror Lake: Visit early in the morning when there’s no wind; the water surface is like a mirror reflecting snow-capped mountains and colorful forests—breathtaking! Pearl Shoal Waterfall: Filming location for the classic "Journey to the West," still spectacular with abundant water flow in winter. 📝Tips: The park is large, so wear comfortable shoes! Self-heating rice and snacks are lifesavers! 💡【Some Super Practical Tips】 About altitude sickness: Jiuzhaigou’s elevation isn’t very high, most people are fine, but it’s still recommended to move slowly. About accommodation: Stay at the park entrance to enter early the next day and avoid crowds. About clothing: Jiuzhaigou is already cold in November! Thick coats or lightweight down jackets are a must; bright or white clothes stand out beautifully against the colorful forests in photos! About food: Try Tibetan hot pot, butter tea, barley cakes, and yak meat hot pot to experience local specialties. Summary: This itinerary is perfect for those short on time but wanting a great experience! One day to feel the depth and fantasy of history and culture, one day to immerse in the brilliance and purity of nature—excellent value for money!

Don't miss Bao'en Temple when you visit Pingwu! This place is super interesting. Although it's hidden in the mountains, it is an authentic Ming Dynasty ancient temple. The most amazing features inside are the "Three Wonders": First, the entire wooden structure of the temple has not a single nail, showcasing incredible mortise and tenon craftsmanship; second, the Thousand-Hand Guanyin statue, with hundreds of hands each holding different ritual objects, exquisitely detailed; third, the prayer wheel, made entirely of golden Phoebe wood, can still be turned by hand, but to protect the cultural relic, it is now preserved and not in use. Touring around, you can feel the texture of the ancient site and appreciate the craftsmanship of our ancestors—definitely worth it! 🚗 Transportation: Take a 1 yuan bus from Pingwu County to Long'an Town, then a 10-minute walk to the temple. ⏰ Opening Hours: Open year-round from 08:30 to 17:00 🎫 Tickets: 40.0 yuan (half price for students and seniors 65+)

🌲Pingwu Laohegou, a painterly world hidden deep in the mountains! Catch the last glimpse of the colorful forests, miss it and wait another year. ✨ Trip Highlights As one of China's 32 priority areas for terrestrial biodiversity conservation, it is home to nearly 30 rare animal species, including giant pandas, Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkeys, and takins. Strolling through the forest, you can often encounter these "wild spirits" unexpectedly. A tranquil place with few crowds and beautiful scenery: Compared to popular autumn foliage viewing spots, Laohegou retains its pristine and tranquil nature. There are no bustling crowds here, only pure nature. 🗓️ Best Time to Visit Late October to mid-to-late November is the prime viewing period for Laohegou's colorful forests, when the red leaf viewing areas below 2000 meters in the reserve are at their most vibrant. 📝 Pre-trip Preparation and Costs Entry Method: Laohegou Nature Reserve operates a visitor management system, requiring advance booking of an ecological guide for entry. The guide fee is 150 RMB/half-day, and one guide can lead a maximum of 9 people. Sightseeing Vehicle: 20 RMB/person for two round trips within the scenic area, or you can choose to hike. Dining: None within the scenic area. You can bring your own packed lunch or dine at a guesthouse in Gaocun village. Equipment Recommendations: · Wear non-slip hiking shoes and long-sleeved tops and pants; it will be 5 degrees colder on the mountain. · Bring a mobile phone, power bank; there's no signal on the mountain 📶 · Prepare drinking water, high-energy food, etc. 🗺️ Classic Hiking Route in the Laohegou Core Area · Morning: Enter the reserve with an ecological guide and hike upstream along the stream. This is the most classic route, where you will appreciate a variety of forest types. The end is near when you reach the location shown in the last picture. 📢 Interactive Topic: What is the most unforgettable scenery you've encountered during a hiking trip? Share your story in the comments section!

Winter retreat in Laohegou ✨ A cozy courtyard you won't want to leave! Visiting Laohegou in Pingwu during winter is like finding a hidden gem! 🌟 Stepping into this courtyard at dusk, you're enveloped in warm, cozy light, with the gentle murmur of a stream in your ears 💦. The persimmon trees in the yard are laden with fruit, and the vegetable garden is still lush and green—instantly washing away all the worries of city life! The rooms are so spacious you could practically dance in a square 💃, the bedding is so soft and cozy, you won't feel cold at all in winter, it's incredibly warm and comfortable! The food is absolutely amazing, so make sure to book lunch and dinner in advance 🍲! The beef soup hot pot is bubbling away, the portions are huge, the vegetables are freshly picked from the fields, and the owner raises his own pigs and chickens—every bite is bursting with fresh flavor! The whole courtyard is quiet and peaceful. Sitting there, just relaxing and listening to the water, you'll feel completely at ease 😌! The owner's attention to detail is evident in every aspect, and the price-performance ratio is amazing. Winter is the perfect time to snuggle up in a cozy courtyard like this!

Finding a comfortable, quiet, and affordable travel destination for your parents or elders indeed requires some thought. I have selected four lesser-known cities with distinct styles and relaxed paces. Each has its unique charm, and I believe they can offer you and your elders an unforgettable leisurely time. ✨ Trip Highlights - **Relaxed Pace**: Only 1-2 core attractions scheduled per day, with ample time for afternoon rest, saying goodbye to rushed tours - **Affordable**: Avoid first-tier tourist cities and enjoy better value in food, accommodation, and transportation - **Elder-friendly Facilities**: Focus on accessibility features such as barrier-free paths and sightseeing shuttle buses - **Cultural Depth**: Immerse in local life and experience authentic folk customs and street culture 🗺️ Four Peaceful Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities 1️⃣ Mangshi, Yunnan: The City of Dawn on the China-Myanmar Border Mangshi is the only city in China named with a single character. In the Dai language, it means "City of Dawn." It blends rich Dai ethnic customs with Southeast Asian characteristics, featuring a slow pace of life and low cost of living. - **Budget Reference**: 300-400 RMB per person per day (excluding major transportation) - **Transportation**: Fly to Dehong Mangshi Airport; within the city, taxi starting fare can reach main attractions; bicycles or electric scooters can also be rented for leisurely exploration - **Accommodation**: Recommended to stay in guesthouses within the Dai ancient town, priced around 120-200 RMB per night, with windows opening to green-tiled eaves and intricately carved Dai architecture - **Must-visit Attractions**: - **Menghuan Silver Pagoda**: The landmark of Mangshi, spectacular at sunset, perfect for photos - **Dai Ancient Town**: Most charming when lit up at night; stroll on the bluestone paths and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere - **Bodhi Temple**: An ancient temple in the city, peaceful and ideal for morning walks and worship - **Must-try Foods**: - **Paoluda**: A specialty drink mixing coconut milk with Burmese bread crisps, sweet and crispy - **Burmese Milk Tea**: Made with condensed milk and black tea, served in plastic bags with a straw, offering an authentic border flavor - **Guoshou Rice Noodles**: A unique Achang ethnic dish, rice noodles served with special meat sauce 2️⃣ Anyue, Sichuan: A Time Museum of Stone Carving Art Anyue is famous for over 100,000 existing cliff carvings and is known as "the last masterpiece of Chinese stone carving art." It has few tourists, making it perfect for middle-aged and elderly history and culture lovers to savor slowly. - **Budget Reference**: 200-300 RMB per person per day (excluding major transportation) - **Transportation**: Take high-speed train from Chengdu to Anyue, about 1.5 hours; shuttle buses or taxis available between attractions - **Accommodation**: Business hotels in the county town cost about 100-150 RMB per night, clean and comfortable - **Must-visit Attractions**: - **Sleeping Buddha Temple**: Houses China's largest left-lying Buddha, 23 meters long, solemn and magnificent - **Piludong Cave**: Famous for the exquisitely carved "Purple Bamboo Guanyin," known as the "Oriental Venus" - **Huayan Cave**: Well-preserved Song Dynasty grotto with exquisite carvings and a tranquil environment - **Must-try Foods**: - **Anyue Lemon Feast**: Local specialty featuring various lemon-based dishes, fresh and appetizing - **Zhou Li Shāngxīn Liangfen**: Sichuan snack with spicy and fragrant flavors, suitable for elders who enjoy spicy food - **Hand-torn Rabbit**: Traditional local delicacy with tender meat and unique flavor 3️⃣ Pingwu, Sichuan: Mountain Temples and Panda Habitat Pingwu is known as "the number one county for giant pandas in the world." It offers pristine natural scenery and precious ancient architecture, a perfect blend of eco-tourism and cultural exploration. - **Budget Reference**: 250-350 RMB per person per day (excluding major transportation) - **Transportation**: Take a bus from Chengdu, about 4 hours; car rental recommended for visiting attractions - **Accommodation**: Hotels in Pingwu county or homestays near Wanglang Nature Reserve, about 150-200 RMB per night - **Must-visit Attractions**: - **Bao'en Temple**: Known as a "living fossil of Ming Dynasty architecture," its nanmu wood bracket system is exceptional - **Wanglang Nature Reserve**: Pristine forest and habitat for wild giant pandas, an excellent choice for eco-tourism - **Baima Tibetan Township**: Experience unique Baima Tibetan culture and enjoy ethnic song and dance performances - **Must-try Foods**: - **Wild Mushroom Feast**: Various mushrooms from the mountains, fresh and delicious - **Old Cured Meat**: Locally homemade cured meat with rich flavor - **Buckwheat Cake**: Traditional Baima Tibetan food, healthy and tasty 4️⃣ Haikou, Hainan: A Leisurely Coastal Slow City Compared to the bustling Sanya, Haikou is quieter and more relaxed, with a slow pace of life and more affordable costs, making it an ideal choice for enjoying a seaside holiday. - **Budget Reference**: 350-450 RMB per person per day (excluding major transportation) - **Transportation**: Fly to Haikou Meilan Airport; city buses cover main attractions, or rent electric scooters for coastal roaming - **Accommodation**: Recommended guesthouses near Qilou Old Street or family inns on the west coast, about 150-250 RMB per night - **Must-visit Attractions**: - **Qilou Old Street**: Nearly 600 Nanyang-style arcade buildings; strolling here feels like stepping back in time - **Xixiu Beach**: Only 6 km from downtown, with gentle sandy shores, perfect for walks and watching sunsets - **Wanlv Park**: Nearly 10,000 lush coconut trees; walking through the park is a feast of varying shades of green - **Wugong Temple**: The oldest and largest classical temple garden complex in Hainan, peaceful surroundings - **Must-try Foods**: - **Old Dad Tea**: A symbol of Haikou’s slow life; a pot of tea with snacks for a leisurely afternoon - **Qingbuliang**: Coconut milk base with various grains and beans, cool and refreshing - **Seafood**: Choose fresh seafood at Banqiao Seafood Market and have it cooked on-site, affordable and fresh 💰 Budget Planning Tips 1. **Save on Transportation**: - Travel during off-peak times; airfares generally drop 20-30% compared to summer peak - Watch for airline promotions; tickets to some popular destinations can drop below 500 RMB 2. **Ticket Discounts**: - Bring senior ID cards; many attractions offer ticket discounts or waivers for those over 60 - Some scenic spots have cheaper afternoon tickets, suitable for elders who prefer a later start 3. **Accommodation Suggestions**: - Choose lodging with breakfast included to avoid the hassle of finding breakfast spots - Compare prices across platforms; sometimes contacting local homestays directly can get better deals 🎒 Elder-friendly Travel Tips 1. **Trip Pace**: - Schedule only one main attraction per day, reserving 2 hours for afternoon rest - Keep travel time under 1.5 hours to avoid fatigue from long rides 2. **Health Protection**: - Carry common medications such as blood pressure medicine, cold medicine, and stomach medicine - Purchase travel accident insurance before the trip for safety assurance 3. **Elder-friendly Gear**: - Prepare non-slip shoes, thermos cups, foldable cushions, etc. - Bring a magnifying glass for easier reading of menus and attraction information These off-the-beaten-path small cities each have their own charm and are suitable for middle-aged and elderly travelers to slow down and savor life. Whichever you choose, you will enjoy tranquility and freedom away from the hustle and bustle.

🏯 Light of the Pure Land! Red Walls and Golden Tiles Hidden for 600 Years A Ming Dynasty ancient architectural complex in northern Sichuan, known as the "Deep Mountain Forbidden City," with few people, beautiful scenery, and great photo opportunities! 🚗 Travel Tips 📍 Address: No. 63, North Street, Long'an Town, Pingwu County, Mianyang City 🚌 By Car: About 4 hours from Chengdu, passing through Mianyang - Jiangyou - Pingwu 🚌 Public Transport: Take a bus from Chengdu Zhaojue Temple Station to Pingwu (about 5 hours), then a 10-minute taxi ride from the county town 🎫 Tickets 40 RMB per person, half price with student ID 📿 Must-Visit Route 1️⃣ Shanmen Hall ➡️ Heavenly King Hall The original Ming Dynasty Shanmen is stunning! Look up at the golden plaque "Bao'en Temple" and instantly travel back 600 years 2️⃣ Mahavira Hall A rare nanmu wood hall in the country! Look up at the golden dragon on the caisson ceiling and count how many 🐉 there are 3️⃣ Ten Thousand Buddhas Pavilion The best viewpoint to overlook the entire temple! The vermilion corridor makes every photo a classic ancient-style shot 📸 Hidden Photo Spots 📍 Corner of the Great Compassion Pavilion’s red wall: beautiful light and shadow through ancient cypress trees 📍 Side door of the Wheel Treasury Hall: frame your shot to capture architectural details 🍵 Zen Experience • Feed the koi in front of the Guanyin Pavilion (fish food 3 RMB/pack) • Sutra copying experience at the Sutra Library (free, reservation required) • Taste Pingwu green tea in the tea room (20 RMB/person) ⚠️ Tips to Avoid Pitfalls • No photography inside the halls! Protect cultural relics starts with you and me • Bring an umbrella during the rainy season; some stone paths can be slippery • Accommodation in the county town is basic; same-day return is recommended

The magical camp inside Wanglang National Nature Reserve is absolutely amazing! 👏 🏡 Stay in a Forest Fairy Tale House: ▪️ Step outside the door and you’re in the forest ▪️ Floor heating in winter is so cozy❄️ ▪️ Each room is equipped with a smart toilet + 24-hour hot water 🐾 Enjoy Natural Fun: ▪️ Several climbing frames + swings, perfect for kids to burn energy ▪️ The fireplace café is so soothing☕️ ▪️ Guests get priority seating on the scenic area shuttle bus for a super VIP experience 📍 Camp Address: Shepherd’s Field, Wanglang Nature Reserve, Baima Tibetan Township ⏰ Nature Reserve Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM 📸 Photo Tips: ▪️ Kids adding firewood to the fireplace creates a great atmosphere ▪️ The cabins look stunning in the morning mist ▪️ Capture natural moments playing with kids on the climbing frames Perfect for family trips or couples’ getaways! Hurry before everyone finds out~

Rush to Pingwu for autumn viewing on the first weekend of November! Personally tested, it's breathtakingly beautiful 😭 🏞️ Tianmu Lake Viewing Platform 📍 Address: No.1 Tunnel, Shuiniu Family, Pingwu County, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province ✨ Recommendation Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The mountains are dyed with colorful autumn leaves, every shot looks like a masterpiece! The wind by the lake is strong 💨 so it's recommended to wear an extra jacket 🧥 On the way, you might even encounter three adorable cows 🐄 grazing by the river~ 🏡 Paxi Ancient Village 📍 Address: Inside Baima Wanglang National Nature Reserve, Pingwu County, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province ⏰ Opening Hours: Open all year round ✨ Recommendation Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A hidden village nestled among the colorful forests 👑 Friendly reminder: traffic jams are common 🚗 so it's best to visit during off-peak hours 📸 Photography Tips: - Distant shots of the colorful forest are spectacular - You can enjoy views of the colorful forest, lake, and snow-capped mountains all at once 💡 Friendly Tips: 1. November is the best time to enjoy the colorful forests 🍂 2. The mountain area has large temperature differences, remember to bring a jacket 🧣 3. If driving, avoid peak times to prevent traffic jams 🚗 Ladies, hurry up and go! This autumn scenery is truly amazing 🤩 Miss it and you'll have to wait a whole year!

During the autumn holiday, on a whim, we went to see the colorful forest. We left downtown Mianyang at 7 a.m., drove two hours straight on the highway to Baima Xia, and right at the highway toll station, you can see the breathtaking colorful forest. From Baima, we drove along the national road to Wanglang, with vibrant scenery on both sides. There are also some parking spots along the way, all free, no tickets required, very convenient.

Morning of November 15th (Saturday) ✍🏻 We departed from Chengdu, it took about three and a half to almost four hours. The road was very smooth with no traffic jams at all. We took the Jiu-Mian Expressway directly. After arriving, there was a little bit of congestion (but it didn’t affect much, maybe just eight or nine minutes). ✍🏻 We parked directly inside the scenic area (although it looked full to the naked eye, but because we have sharp eyes, we found a spot next to a random place, though it wasn’t very standard). ✍🏻 After entering, the facilities were not fully completed. The visitor center was still under construction. Also, the toilets smelled bad, and the women’s restroom had a long line (but this is a common problem for women’s restrooms). 👉🏻 Here’s the key point! You need to queue to take a shuttle bus inside the scenic area. If the bus arrives just as you get there, it’s fine—you can get on and leave immediately. But if you have to wait, the queue can be about half an hour (I heard on Saturday some buses were borrowed from other places, probably because there were many people recently). The bus ride up the mountain takes forty minutes (it really made me dizzy). ✅ Once you arrive, the first attraction is on the left side after getting off the bus (see photos 1️⃣2️⃣3️⃣4️⃣5️⃣6️⃣). You can take photos and explore for about forty minutes to an hour. ✅ After that, continue walking upward from the bus stop. The whole walk is about 2 kilometers (see photos 7️⃣8️⃣9️⃣🔟⏸️), and then you finally arrive. Afterward, you go back down the mountain. Summary: Honestly, I felt it was just average. The only thing that really bothered me was the shuttle bus ride (I’m not someone who gets car sick, but this bus almost made me throw up). There are only two places to visit in the whole area. If there are other places to visit nearby Mianyang, you can try those. But if it’s too far, I really don’t think it’s worth it! However, the colorful forest along the way was nice... 🫱 On the way back, we passed Tianmu Lake, which was actually pretty nice, but the sun was setting so we didn’t stop much to take photos. Still, the weather was good and everything was fine. All photos are real shots taken with a camera, no filters at all.

Hidden in Tianmu Lake, Pingwu County, Mianyang City! (The launch point guide is in the last picture, feel free to save it if needed) Autumn-exclusive colorful forest painting + emerald lake surface! 🌟【Scenic Highlights】 ▫️Colorful forest reflection fairyland mode Starting from late October, the mountains around the lake are dyed in layers Golden yellow and orange-red dot the dark green like a spilled palette When rowing, the entire colorful forest is reflected in the blue lake water Every shot looks like a "landscape painting." ▫️Jelly-like lake surface, crystal clear The lake water is Tiffany blue mixed with emerald green When sunlight shines, it sparkles, so clear you can see the aquatic plants The moment the oar breaks the water surface, the ripples are breathtakingly beautiful ▫️Snow mountain canyon backdrop Look up and you can see the distant snow-capped peaks When the boat reaches the narrow part, the cliffs on both sides are within arm’s reach An ultimate collision of ruggedness and softness 🚗【Traffic and Road Conditions Guide】 ✅Recommended to drive: About 5 hours from Chengdu (traffic at the destination is worrisome, it’s recommended to stay at a nearby guesthouse a day in advance!) 📍Route: Chengdu - Jiangyou - Pingwu - Tianmu Lake (Search "Pingwu Tianmu Lake Scenic Area" for navigation) 🛣️Road conditions: Adjacent to the highway + asphalt mountain roads Just traveled in October, no problem for sedans ✔️ ⚠️Note: Many bends in the mountain area, daytime driving is recommended 🎫Tickets: Currently free!! (Important: Tianmu Lake is still under development as a scenic area, in the future, if you want to enter the Bacuo Jiazhai area, you may need to buy tickets and take a shuttle sightseeing bus. Enjoy it while you can.) ✨Tips: • The drone shooting spot is at the viewing platform, where you can capture the whole crescent-shaped lake center • Bring a jacket! The lake surface is much colder than the shore • If you want to play, be sure to stay at a nearby guesthouse a day in advance. Currently, the scenic area has heavy traffic, and daytime traffic jams are extremely severe and immovable. Don’t ask me how I know, I don’t want to say. • For boating safety, beginners are advised to bring life jackets and follow the advice of the scenic area staff.

Its location is superb, nestled beside the river. From the guesthouse's own café, one can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and water. The guest rooms comprise two courtyards, two stories high, each with its own unique scenery, where artificial hills and flowing water quietly accompany each other. The rooms are clean and tidy, and surprisingly, each bed is equipped with a call button. The steamed buns for breakfast are homemade, with a rustic, handcrafted aroma; the local sweet potatoes are also exceptionally sweet and soft, providing a burst of energy for the morning. What touched me most was the kindness of the owner and staff. They have adopted several stray cats, each one well-behaved and gentle. The owner even specially built a long, winding walkway along the eaves, connecting to the cat houses in a corner of the courtyard—this fairytale-like detail fills the entire guesthouse with a heartwarming charm.

During the autumn holiday, we went to Tianmu Lake in Pingwu and hiked through Hujia Valley, located behind Baxijia Ancient Village. It is a lesser-known hiking secret spot around Tianmu Lake, with the best autumn colorful forest scenery. 1. Transportation and Entrance: From Chengdu, take the Jiumian Expressway to the Baima Expressway exit, then navigate to "Baxijia Ancient Village." The hiking entrance is at the back mountain inside the village. It takes about 4 hours to drive from Chengdu. The ancient village parking lot can accommodate 40 to 50 cars, but it gets very congested during holidays because cars often park disorderly on the road. We slowly maneuvered in; traveling on weekdays is smoother. 2. Hiking Route: Starting from the back mountain of Baxijia Ancient Village, the entire route is mostly stone and dirt paths. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach the core area. Along the way, there is a primitive forest covered with fallen leaves, scattered sweetgum and birch trees, and streams flowing through. At the end, you can see meadows where cattle and horses roam; if you have good stamina, you can go deeper into the dark coniferous forest area. For average fitness, a round trip of about 3 hours allows you to experience the core scenery without going to the deepest part. 3. Best Time: Late October to mid-November is the best period to enjoy the colorful forest, with mid-November having the most saturated colors. It is recommended to start on a sunny morning for soft light and great photos, and to leave the mountain before 4 PM to avoid poor visibility and possible sudden risks in the evening. 4. Gear and Supplies: It is 5°C cooler in the mountains than at the foot, so bring fleece or light cotton clothing for warmth; wear anti-slip hiking shoes to handle dirt and gravel paths. There are no shops, trash bins, or toilets along the way, so bring enough snacks and water, and prepare trash bags to carry all garbage out of the mountain. 5. Accommodation and Tips: You can stay in Tibetan-style guesthouses inside the village, with options for electric blanket rooms and floor heating rooms. We chose the electric blanket room at 180 RMB/night. Soundproofing is average since all houses are wooden. Solar-heated water cools down after 10 PM. There are dining options in the ancient village, including barbecue, but prices are indeed high, even more expensive than in Chengdu. During the hike, watch out for landslides and falling rocks. There is also horse manure and free-range cattle and horses on the path, so try to avoid them gently. Next to the ancient village, you can also ride horses, starting at 50 RMB per person per ride.

📍Mianyang Baima Wanglang Snow mountains, lakes, secret forests, cedar groves, wild giant pandas A weekend trip that satisfies the whole family🎉 The weather was perfect, all photos are original, no Photoshop tricks 🕐 Depart by high-speed train at 5:50 AM on Saturday, arrive at Mianyang Station at 8:15 AM 🚗 Rent a car at Mianyang Station, arrive at Baima Wanglang Scenic Area at 1:00 PM to start exploring 🌲 Take the scenic area shuttle bus for 40 minutes to Ganhaizi (in winter, you cannot go to Baishagou) ➡️ Tour around Ganhaizi Lake, spend half an hour to an hour there. ➡️ Walk from Ganhaizi to Baishagou, you can take the forest trail in between (it’s always a stone slab or gravel path, be careful not to get lost in the forest—see page 9 for details, we got lost because we were overconfident) ➡️ After visiting Baishagou, return to Ganhaizi by the main road (about a half-hour walk if you walk fast), then take the bus back. ⚠️ The last shuttle bus is at 6:00 PM, forest rangers will patrol and call out to make sure everyone boards👍 ⚠️ Baishagou is over 3000 meters in altitude, mild altitude sickness may occur ⚠️ The shuttle bus route is winding and can cause motion sickness, sit near the front if possible ⚠️ It’s not very cold when sunny, a windbreaker plus a thin sweater is enough, but it can drop below zero at night, so bring warm clothes 🏠 Accommodation: Yazhe Zaozu Village - Duobo Jukelai’s place (not Guang), clean, convenient parking, good heating, you can buy hotel + scenic area combo tickets for a discount 🍚 Dinner: Yazhe Zaozu Village - Qingfengyuan, the taste is okay, there aren’t many dining options in the village, so choices are limited 🌛 A perfect end to the day’s itinerary😀 Many say Baima Wanglang is boring and not fun; based on reviews, here are some points: 1️⃣ For those who like hiking and wild trekking, the forest trail is really nice 2️⃣ Weather is very important❗️ Baima Wanglang’s beauty depends on the distant snow mountains; on cloudy days, you can’t see anything, so it’s obviously boring 3️⃣ You must go to Baishagou; if you only visit Ganhaizi, after such a long bus ride and only spending an hour there, plus the crowds, it’s indeed boring😐

Hidden deep in the mountains of Sichuan is a Ming Dynasty "Forbidden City" forgotten by time — Baoen Temple in Pingwu. It has escaped the hustle and bustle of the world, preserving the official architectural style of the Ming Dynasty intact, and amazes the world with the "Six Wonders of Baoen Temple": 1️⃣ The Dougong brackets of the Thousand Buddha Pavilion: as dense as a honeycomb, standing firm for six hundred years without a single iron nail; 2️⃣ The murals in the Mahavira Hall, with colors that remain fresh over time, and figures with flowing robes; 3️⃣ The revolving sutra cabinet, exquisitely crafted in wood, producing heavenly sounds when turned; 4️⃣ The entire temple’s nanmu wood structure, free of insect damage and mold, with a lingering fragrance; 5️⃣ The colorful sculptures in the Huayan Hall, lifelike and expressing compassion; 6️⃣ The wooden dragon carvings inside the hall, vivid and extraordinarily lively. There is no over-commercialization here, only green tiles reflecting the forest sea and the gentle chime of wind bells at the eaves. Although this "Little Forbidden City" is not as famous as popular ancient towns, it holds the purest craftsmanship of ancient architecture and is a seriously underrated hidden treasure. 💡 The whole temple can be toured in about 1.5 hours (most importantly, it is very spiritual here, with many people coming every year to fulfill vows 🙏) 📍 Baoen Temple, Long’an Town, Pingwu County, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province Navigation: Pingwu County Baoen Temple, with parking available at the entrance 🅿️ ⏰ Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM 🎫 Admission: 40 RMB

The real "scenery is all on the road." From the Muzuo Expressway exit to Tianmu Lake, this 20-kilometer national highway feels like a "flowing colorful forest gallery," perfectly showcasing Pingwu's autumn colors. 🚗 Transportation: Route: Chengdu/Mianyang → Jiumian Expressway → Exit at "Muzuo" Toll Station → Turn onto National Highway 247 → Tianmu Lake Road conditions: Many expressway tunnels but excellent road conditions. After exiting the expressway, it’s a two-lane asphalt road, but the road to Baxijia Ancient Village is narrow and prone to weekend traffic jams; it’s recommended to arrive before 10 AM. Parking: There is a small free parking lot near the viewing platform; the parking lot at the ancient village entrance is small, so arriving early is advised. Starting from the Muzuo expressway exit, the colorful forest gradually becomes more beautiful, from sparse to dense, with colors becoming richer, offering a full immersive experience. 🌟 Photo Highlights: · Riverside Reflections: Several river bends along the way where the colorful forest reflects in the emerald green water, making the scene more lively than just the forest alone. · Highway Shots: The national highway is in good condition with layered curves, using the mountains covered in colorful forests as a backdrop, easily capturing travel magazine-style photos. · 🛞 Hidden Spot: About 3 kilometers near Tianmu Lake, there is a distinct S-curve, an excellent spot for aerial and telephoto shots. 【Tianmu Lake Viewing Platform: A Classic Must-Visit】 📍 Navigation point: Tianmu Lake Viewing Platform 🌟 Why is it still worth stopping? This is the location where the panoramic map cover photo was taken. The emerald lake, surrounding colorful forests, and distant snow-capped mountains all appear in one frame, making it the perfect proof photo of "I was here." A 15-minute stop is recommended, leaving more time for even more beautiful places. 【Baxijia Ancient Village: A Blend of Culture and Autumn Colors】 📍 Navigation point: Baxijia Ancient Village Parking Lot 🌟 Advanced Tip: Don’t just shoot from the main road! Walk up the trail behind the village, where you can see the wooden roofs of the ancient village peeking out from the colorful forest, with a corner of Tianmu Lake in the background, creating a story-rich scene. 🍖 【Itinerary and Food Pairing Suggestions】 · Day Trip: Recommended to have lunch at Baxijia Ancient Village or Baima Township, and try the authentic cured pork rib soup hotpot. · Overnight Stay: Consider staying in the village to experience a bonfire party and enjoy the colorful forest alone early the next morning. 💡 Helpful Tips · Some guesthouses and restaurants may close after this season, so be sure to call ahead before traveling! · Snowfall is possible in the mountains; it’s recommended to use a four-wheel-drive vehicle and bring snow chains. · The scenery remains, but service facilities are reduced, so bring extra snacks and hot water. Can’t make it this year? Save this🌟 Bookmark this guide and set off first thing in late October next year to unlock the most authentic colorful forest journey in Pingwu✨