Rowan Mountain

Introducing Rowan Mountain

Hualiu Mountain Scenic Area, a place of rustic homes, a serene paradise, and the emperor's unwavering grace. Four kilometers west of Pingle Ancient Town, a 20-minute drive along Huangjinyan to Huanghua Road, passing through over 10 miles of bamboo forest, arrives at Hualiu Mountain Scenic Area, known for its "rustic homes, serene paradise."

The scenic area is shrouded in verdant mountains, lush trees, and gurgling streams. It boasts the mountain-flowered tribute tea, designated "the best garden in the world" by Emperor Kangxi; winding paths lead to a vast bamboo sea; the captivating Ten-Mile Long Corridor; and the enigmatic Guantian Cave. The ancient Qing Dynasty residential complex, exemplified by the Li Family Courtyard, personally bestowed with the imperial plaque "Imperial Grace and Favor," retains its pristine appearance from a century ago. The scattered Western Sichuan dwellings nestled deep within the bamboo forests embody the rich local character of this region. The simple people, diligently cultivating the fields, lead a peaceful and comfortable rural life. It offers a haven for modern urbanites to reconnect with nature and appreciate the countryside, a tranquil haven for relaxation and well-being.

Climate and best time to travel

It has a subtropical humid climate with an average annual temperature of around 16°C and an annual precipitation of around 1,300 mm.

It has a shallow hilly landform, with hills and dams each accounting for one-third. The climate in the area is mild and the rainfall is abundant.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The scenic area is full of green mountains, lush trees and gurgling streams.

There is the mountain-flowered tribute tea that Emperor Kangxi bestowed as "the best garden in the world"; there is the vast bamboo sea with winding paths; there is the ten-mile long corridor that is both relaxing and captivating; and there is also the mysterious Guantian Cave.

The ancient residential complex of the Qing Dynasty, represented by the Li Family Courtyard, which was personally bestowed with the imperial plaque "Imperial Grace and Favor", still retains its original appearance from a hundred years ago.

The scattered houses in western Sichuan deep in the bamboo forest constitute the rich local characteristics here. The simple people work hard in the fields and lead a quiet and comfortable farm life. It is a rural home for modern urbanites to return to nature and appreciate the countryside. It is a paradise for relaxation and vacation.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Rowan Mountain

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Rowan Mountain is known for its natural beauty and spiritual significance in the region. It's a place where local Tibetan culture thrives, and the mountain is revered for its tranquil environment. It is also a destination for outdoor adventurers and those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Rowan Mountain is located in Sichuan Province, near Chengdu. To reach the mountain, you can take a bus or taxi from Chengdu. It’s about a 2-3 hour drive. For those who prefer more adventure, hiking and walking routes can also be accessed from nearby towns or villages.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Rowan Mountain is open year-round, but the best times to visit are in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant. Summer can be crowded, and winters can be cold, so plan accordingly for your outdoor activities.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no major entrance fee for Rowan Mountain itself. However, there might be fees for specific activities or guided tours, such as hiking or camping permits. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or from local tourism offices.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to Rowan Mountain. However, if you plan on taking a guided tour or staying in a camping area, it’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Rowan Mountain, allow about 4-6 hours for hiking and sightseeing. If you plan to camp or visit the nearby villages, you may want to spend 1-2 days to fully experience the area.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include:

• The panoramic views from various mountain peaks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
• The tranquil hiking trails that wind through lush forests and fields.
• Traditional Tibetan villages, which provide a cultural insight into local life.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available on request, but it's recommended to book these in advance. Audio guides are not commonly available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints on Rowan Mountain include:

• The summit of the mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
• Along the hiking trails, where you can capture stunning photos of the flora and the distant mountain ranges.
• The Tibetan villages at the base of the mountain, offering both natural beauty and cultural insights.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route starts with a hike up to the main summit for panoramic views. Follow this with a stroll through the nearby trails to explore the natural beauty. If time allows, visit a nearby Tibetan village to experience the local culture. End the day with a relaxing break at one of the scenic rest areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not commonly available at Rowan Mountain. However, some tours may offer evening events or cultural experiences, particularly in the nearby Tibetan villages during special festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays in the off-season, particularly in late autumn or early spring.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities include basic rest areas, toilets, and some small shops offering snacks and drinks. It is advisable to carry your own water and food, especially if you plan to hike or spend a lot of time outdoors.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

While the main areas are accessible to elderly and children, the hiking trails and certain mountain areas may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some parts of the area may not be suitable for disabled visitors due to rough terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in many places, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are commonly used in the area. It’s advisable to carry both cash and a mobile payment option for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small Tibetan-style restaurants near the base of Rowan Mountain offering traditional dishes. The nearest major city, Chengdu, has a wide variety of restaurants and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the Tibetan restaurants. Halal food may be limited but can be found in Chengdu or other larger cities nearby.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are basic guesthouses and small hotels near the mountain, mainly offering simple accommodations. For more luxurious options, Chengdu offers a variety of hotels from budget to high-end.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Mount Qingcheng, and the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary. These can be easily combined in a day trip from Rowan Mountain.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available near the base of the mountain, selling Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, traditional jewelry, and small trinkets. Local arts and crafts are also popular souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Rowan Mountain, you can return to Chengdu by taxi or bus. Chengdu has convenient transportation options like high-speed trains and flights to other destinations in China.