White Deer Town

Introducing Bailu Town

The magical and romantic Bailu Town is located in the northwest of the Chengdu Plain, 60 kilometers from downtown Chengdu and an 80-minute drive from downtown. It is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction. Bailu Town boasts a long history and rich religious and cultural heritage. Bailuchang Old Street, founded in the 19th year of Emperor Qianlong's reign during the Qing Dynasty, is one of Chengdu's ten ancient towns. In 1860, French missionary Hong Guanghua arrived in Bailu Town, bringing with him the Bible and his French romantic spirit. He chose a site near the mountains and rivers to build a monastery. Its Upper Academy, a high-level seminary for the training of advanced theologians and philosophers, is now a nationally protected cultural relic.

Bailu Town boasts abundant tourism resources, a pleasant climate, and a 90% forest coverage rate, earning it the reputation of a "natural oxygen bar." Its beautiful and unique landscape, particularly the "Glacier Drifting Gravel" geological wonders of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is renowned both domestically and internationally. Tangba Village, a core scenic area of ​​the National Longmenshan Geopark, boasts over a hundred unique and varied caves, featuring stalagmites, stalactites, stone curtains, stone pillars, and waterfalls.

"The white deer follows the fairies in the distance, and the cuckoo's cry in the ancient town has the faint sound of Sichuan. The red flowers are in full bloom and the guests are talking. There are poems sung in the church with a European style." This poem by the famous poet Liushahe depicts a fairyland-like ink painting.

After the devastating May 12 earthquake, Bailu has been transformed. Rows of French-style buildings, dotted among verdant hills and waters, create a vibrant scene. The French-style street, medieval castle, ruins park, Sino-French Bridge, Feilai Peak, and Bailu Country Inn all create a unique landscape.

Climate and best time to travel

humid subtropical climate

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

512 Earthquake Relics Park, Annunciation Monastery, French-style Street, National Geoforest Park

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for White Deer Town

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

White Deer Town has a long history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is named after a legend involving a white deer and a Taoist monk. The town is significant for its historical architecture and its role as a center for Taoist culture and philosophy.

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

White Deer Town is located in the northeastern part of Chengdu, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. You can reach it by taxi, bus, or private car. Public buses are available from various parts of Chengdu, and a taxi ride typically takes around 30 minutes from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

White Deer Town is open year-round. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, and the town is less crowded. Summer can be quite warm, and winter is generally quieter but colder.

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

The entrance fee for White Deer Town is generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site, and some local travel websites may offer the option to purchase tickets online.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it may be useful during peak travel seasons or holidays. You can buy tickets a few days in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It usually takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore White Deer Town, including a visit to the White Deer Temple, walking through the ancient streets, and stopping for local food and souvenirs.

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

The must-see highlights include:

• The White Deer Temple, which is a key cultural and spiritual site in the town.
• The ancient streets and alleys with traditional architecture, offering a glimpse of local life.
• The local craft shops where you can buy handmade goods.
• The tranquil parks and gardens that are perfect for a peaceful walk.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be booked through local tour operators. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but some guides may offer English explanations for foreign visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best photography spots include:

• The White Deer Temple, with its traditional architecture and surrounding natural beauty.
• The ancient streets, especially during sunset when the light creates a beautiful atmosphere.
• The surrounding hills and parks, offering panoramic views of the town and countryside.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended itinerary is to start by visiting the White Deer Temple, then stroll through the main streets to explore the town’s culture and architecture. Don’t miss the small local shops and eateries, and consider visiting a nearby park for a peaceful end to your trip.

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

There are no light shows or special night tours at White Deer Town. However, the town’s quiet and peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal place for evening walks, especially around the ancient streets and temples.

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

White Deer Town is relatively quiet during weekdays and off-peak seasons. Weekends and public holidays can see more tourists, so visiting on a weekday morning will allow you to enjoy a quieter experience.

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

The town has basic facilities, including public toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling souvenirs, local snacks, and water. Local eateries offer a range of traditional Sichuan dishes.

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

The main town area is accessible to elderly and children, although some of the older streets may have uneven surfaces. The White Deer Temple is located on a slight hill, which could be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted in most places, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used throughout the town. Credit cards are not commonly accepted in smaller shops or local eateries.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and tea houses in White Deer Town, serving traditional Sichuan cuisine and tea. Chengdu, which is about a 30-minute drive away, has more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in Sichuan-style dishes like mapo tofu. Halal food is not common in White Deer Town, but you can find such options in Chengdu.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are no large hotels near White Deer Town, but you can find guesthouses and small inns in the area. For more luxury accommodations, Chengdu is the best option, offering a wide range of hotels.

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

Nearby attractions include the Sichuan Museum and Wuhou Shrine in Chengdu, which can be easily visited on a day trip. Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System are also nearby and worth visiting.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local crafts, including handmade textiles, wooden carvings, and traditional Sichuan snacks. You can also find incense, religious items, and tea sets.

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

The best way to continue your trip after visiting White Deer Town is to take a taxi or bus back to Chengdu. From there, you can catch a train, bus, or taxi to nearby attractions like Mount Qingcheng or the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.