If you’re planning a leisurely one-day trip to Dujiangyan (都江堰) without an early start and prefer a relaxed exploration, this “effort-saving” itinerary is perfect. It focuses on minimizing unnecessary walking while ensuring you experience the best of the city’s scenic and historical sites. Here’s the ideal route for a hassle-free and enjoyable day at Dujiangyan.
Route Highlights:
No backtracking: The route is designed to avoid retracing steps, making it more efficient.
Top-down exploration: Start from the higher points and work your way down without any strenuous climbing.
No sightseeing bus or elevators: You can explore the area without taking any sightseeing buses or elevators, saving both energy and money.
Getting There:
By Subway: Take Line 2 or Line 6 of Chengdu Metro and get off at Xi Pu Station (犀浦站).
By High-Speed Train: From Xi Pu Metro Station, follow the signs to the train station to catch a high-speed train to Li Dui Park (离堆公园). The train costs ¥10, takes about 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased on-site, though it’s recommended to buy them in advance. Make sure to leave at least 10 minutes for the transfer time between the subway and train.
Arrival at Li Dui Park: Once you arrive at Li Dui Park Station (离堆公园站), take a ride-hailing service (about ¥10) to Qin Yan Lou Entrance (秦堰楼出入口) at Gate 6 of the Dujiangyan Scenic Area.
Exploration Route:
- Qin Yan Lou (秦堰楼)
- Entry Point: Begin your tour at Qin Yan Lou (秦堰楼), which is located at a higher elevation and offers a panoramic view of the Yuzui (鱼嘴) area, a key feature of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. From here, you’ll explore the area from top to bottom.
- Ticket: You can purchase tickets online via the “Qingcheng Mountain Dujiangyan” WeChat account for ¥80 (use your ID for entry). The scenic area is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in summer and 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM in winter.
- Route from Qin Yan Lou
- Start from Qin Yan Lou, then head towards: Erwang Temple (二王庙), Anlan Suspension Bridge (安澜索桥), Yuzui (鱼嘴), Feisha Weir (飞沙堰), Baopingkou (宝瓶口), Fulong Guan (伏龙观), and Exit from Li Dui Park South Gate (离堆公园南门)
- After Scenic Area
- After exiting from the scenic area, head towards South Bridge (南桥) for a view of the Blue Tears phenomenon if you’re visiting in the evening. The lights will turn on at 7:00 PM, illuminating the water in a striking blue glow.
Returning to Chengdu:
After dinner, head back to Li Dui Park Station (离堆公园站) for the return trip to Xi Pu Station (犀浦站) by high-speed train.