Start with classic Chengdu wontons and soy milk at Long Chao Shou, a well-known local breakfast spot open from early morning; good energy for a busy day. Try the wonton soup and a cup of soy milk.
See giant pandas at their most active in the morning feeding times; the base is open typically 7:30am–6:00pm and morning visits (7:30–10:00am) give the best viewing. Plan 2–3 hours to walk exhibits and the nursery.
Visit Wuhou Shrine (historic Three Kingdoms site; typically open 8:00am–6:00pm) then stroll next door on Jinli Ancient Street (shops open into the evening) for snacks and souvenirs; cultural and convenient in the city center.
Wander Kuanzhai Xiangzi for tea houses, galleries, and people-watching; many shops and teahouses remain open into the evening, ideal for photography and light shopping.
Enjoy an authentic Sichuan hot pot — a must-do in Chengdu; restaurants generally open until late, and hot pot is perfect for a group. Reserve or expect a short wait at popular branches.
Take a high-speed train or private car to Leshan (~2 hours). Leave early to avoid crowds at the Giant Buddha and to maximize daylight for Emei mountain later.
See the world’s largest stone Buddha overlooking the confluence of three rivers; the scenic area is typically open 8:00am–6:30pm. Option to view from cliffs or take a short boat ride for the best perspective.
Short drive up to Emeishan city (about 1 hour). Check into hotel at the foot of Mount Emei and prepare for evening temple visits or an early start for tomorrow’s summit.
Visit Baoguo Temple at Mount Emei’s lower area (typically open 7:00am–6:00pm) to soak in Buddhist culture and temple architecture without the mountain hike yet.
Try local mountain vegetarian cuisine or Sichuan dishes in Emeishan; many temples and restaurants offer hearty meat-free options popular with pilgrims.
For sunrise on Golden Summit, many visitors start pre-dawn — hiking is possible for early starters; cable cars operate roughly 7:30am–5:00pm (times vary), so plan accordingly if you need a lift. Sunrise viewing is weather-dependent but spectacular when clear.
Spend time at the Golden Summit and nearby temples; enjoy panoramic views and Buddhist architecture. Facilities and viewing platforms are open during daylight hours.
Enjoy another Sichuan meal back in Chengdu; try Haidilao for service or wander snack streets like Jinli/Wu Hou for small plates. Most places open late.
Light breakfast at the hotel; pack warmly and check flight timing — flights to Jiuzhai Huanglong are early and weather-dependent. Hotels typically serve breakfast from 6–9am.
Flight time about 1 hour; schedules vary seasonally. Booking morning flights helps maximize time in Huanglong/Jiuzhaigou. Arrive with ID, pass security and baggage allowances.
Transfer from the airport to Huanglong (roughly 1–1.5 hours), then visit Huanglong (open typically 8:00am–5:00pm) to see colorful travertine pools and limestone terraces; plan ~3 hours for the main boardwalks and viewpoints.
Explore the park’s turquoise lakes, waterfalls and forested valleys by shuttle bus (park open typically 7:30am–6:00pm); popular sights include Zharu, Long Lake, and Nuorilang Falls. Full-day visit recommended (6–8 hours) to see major highlights.
Try fresh mountain trout or a Tibetan hot pot in town; many restaurants open into the evening and are used to serving tourists returning from the park.
Drive to nearby grasslands for dramatic open scenery and a short guided horseback ride (operators 9:00am–5:00pm); great cultural scenery and photography opportunities.
Evening cultural exchange with a local Tibetan household or a small performance in Songpan (timings vary but evenings often host shows); a great way to learn about local life.
Morning flight back to Chengdu (about 1 hour). Flight schedules can change with weather; allow buffer time for transfers and traffic on arrival in Chengdu.
Pick up a private car/driver or take a coach west to Rilong township (about 5–6 hours by road). Scenic mountain drive — expect winding roads and stops for photos.
Check into a guesthouse or small hotel in Rilong (gateway village to Mount Siguniang). Rest and acclimatize to the higher altitude and mountain climate.
Explore Shuangqiao/Changping valleys with short hikes to alpine lakes and waterfalls; park generally opens 8:00am–5:00pm. Options include easy valley walks, horseback segments or a cable car section (where available).
Many accommodations or local establishments offer hot spring baths or warm soaking tubs — perfect after a day of hiking (availability varies by property).
If time permits, revisit Kuanzhai Alleys for last-minute shopping or catch a Sichuan Opera show with face-changing at a teahouse (shows commonly at 3:00pm & 7:00pm). Check local showtimes and book ahead.