Chengdu Day Tour of Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng
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9h
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About this experience
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng on this 10-hour private guided day trip from Chengdu. See the eco-friendly irrigation system at Dujiangyan, a feat of engineering that dates back to the third century BC and is still in use today. Then explore beautiful Mount Qingcheng, the birthplace of Chinese Taoism.
Available options
Chengdu Day Tour of Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Bottled water
Entrance fee
Lunch
Private day tour
English-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your private guide and driver will collect you from your downtown Chengdu hotel at or before 8 am.
From here, it's about 90 minutes drive to the UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a wonder in the history of Chinese science that dates back to the third century BC. Engineered to exploit natural features to control the Minjiang River, and the flow of water from the mountains to the plains throughout the year, it consists of three main sections: Yuzui, Feishayan, and Baopingkou. Even today it plays a crucial role in draining floodwater, irrigating farms, and providing water to more than 50 cities in Sichuan.
2
Stop 2
After your guide has explained the site to you and you've toured the landscape, break for lunch. This is at your own expense, but your guide will be happy to recommend some local specialities to you.
Next, you'll drive 45 minutes or so to Mount Qingcheng, also listed by UNESCO. This is where the 2nd-century AD philosopher Zhang Ling founded Chinese Taoism. Many celebrated Taoist temples nestle among its verdant trees, some built in the classic Sichuan style. It takes a little under two hours to return to Chengdu: you should be back at your hotel at around 6 pm.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is renowned as the home of the giant panda and famous for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and vibrant culture. This ancient city offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern urban development, with lush tea houses, bustling markets, and stunning natural landscapes.
Top Attractions
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
This world-renowned research base is home to over 120 giant pandas. Visitors can observe these adorable creatures up close and learn about conservation efforts.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥55
Jinli Ancient Street
A well-preserved ancient street with traditional architecture, local snacks, and cultural performances. It's a great place to experience Sichuan's rich history and culture.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (shopping and food at additional cost)
Wenshu Monastery
One of the oldest and best-preserved Buddhist monasteries in China. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and vegetarian cuisine.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
An ancient irrigation system built over 2,000 years ago. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient Chinese engineering.
Historical
Half day
¥80
Chengdu Panda Base
A research and breeding center for giant pandas. Visitors can see pandas in a natural setting and learn about conservation efforts.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥55
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mapo Tofu
A spicy tofu dish with minced meat, typically pork or beef, and fermented black beans. It's known for its numbing spiciness.
Dinner
Vegetarian versions available.
Dan Dan Noodles
Noodles topped with a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan pepper, minced pork, and scallions. It's a popular street food.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian.
Hot Pot
A communal dining experience where diners cook raw ingredients in a shared pot of boiling broth. Sichuan hot pot is known for its spicy broth.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Sichuan Dumplings
Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with minced pork, shrimp, or vegetables. They're often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Tea house visits
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Museum visits
Temple tours
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less crowded during these periods compared to summer.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin
- Widely spoken: Sichuanese, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Renminbi (RMB) (CNY)
Time Zone
CST (UTC+8)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chengdu is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport • 16 km from city center
- Chengdu Tianfu International Airport • 45 km from city center
By train
Chengdu Railway Station, Chengdu East Railway Station
By bus
Chengdu Long-Distance Bus Station, Chengdu North Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jinli Ancient Street
Wuhou Shrine
Chunxi Road
Kuanzhai Alley
Day trips
Mount Qingcheng
60 km from Chengdu • Full day
A scenic mountain known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great escape from the city.
Leshan Giant Buddha
130 km from Chengdu • Full day
A massive stone statue of Buddha carved into a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable feat of ancient engineering.
Jiuzhaigou Valley
340 km from Chengdu • Overnight
A stunning national park known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for nature lovers.
Festivals
Sichuan Festival • Late August
Lantern Festival • February (Lunar calendar)
Chengdu International Non-violence Week • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Visit the Chengdu Panda Base early in the morning to see the pandas at their most active.
- Explore the city's tea houses and experience the rich tea culture of Sichuan.
- Take a day trip to Mount Qingcheng or Jiuzhaigou Valley for a stunning natural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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