Luobozhai

Introducing Luobo Village

The towering Minshan Mountains, perfectly shaped by nature, cast a shadow over the precipitous, vicissitudes of life, and majestic Minjiang Grand Canyon. Amidst the emerald blue sky, drifting white clouds, and the soaring wings of eagles, a vast ancient castle, covering 100 hectares, stands like a celestial ornament, scattered among the towering mountains. This is Luobuzhai, the world's largest and oldest discovered yellow mud Qiang village, brimming with pristine charm.

The houses in Luobuzhai are all built with yellow mud and wood from the top of the mountain. The roofs are decorated with bluestone slabs, which is the decoration of Qiang village architecture. The windows are inlaid with Qiang totems, retaining the distinctive appearance of yellow mud, bluestone, red doors and yellow windows. The streets are paved with bluestone slabs. The whole village is almost integrated, with every house connected to each other, and the three layers of upper, middle and lower layers are interwoven, full of ethnic characteristics.

At 2:28 PM on May 12th, a magnitude 8.0 earthquake struck Wenchuan. Luobuzhai, just 5 kilometers from the epicenter, suffered severe damage and was virtually destroyed. After the quake, all villagers were relocated to a new village built with government assistance, while the old village remains as a landscape of earthquake ruins.

Climate and best time to travel

The warm temperate monsoon climate makes travel suitable all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Luobozhai

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

Luobozhai is a picturesque mountain in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, known for its Tibetan culture and beautiful scenery. It holds historical significance as a key area for Tibetan Buddhism and traditional Tibetan life, attracting visitors interested in both culture and nature.

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

Luobozhai is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan. The most convenient way to reach it is by taking a bus or private car from Chengdu, which is around a 5-hour drive away. Once in the area, walking or hiking is the best way to explore.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Luobozhai is an outdoor natural site and can be visited year-round. The best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is milder and ideal for hiking. The area is open during daylight hours, but specific attractions may have different hours.

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

The entrance fee for Luobozhai is generally around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There are currently no online ticket booking systems for individual visitors.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not required for individual visitors, but it is recommended for large groups or during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days in advance is typically sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Luobozhai, you will need around 3-5 hours. This includes hiking, photography, and visiting the local villages. If you plan to stay longer or participate in local cultural activities, it could take an entire day.

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

The main highlight is the panoramic view from the top of Luobozhai, where you can see the vast Tibetan plateau. Also, explore the traditional Tibetan architecture in the nearby villages and experience the serene atmosphere of the area.

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

Guided tours are available and typically offered in Mandarin, with some guides speaking English. Audio guides may not be available, but local guides are knowledgeable and can provide detailed cultural and historical context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are at the top of Luobozhai Mountain and from the traditional Tibetan villages below. These spots offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, perfect for capturing the beauty of the region.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by hiking up to the top for the panoramic views, then explore the nearby Tibetan villages. A leisurely walk through the traditional houses and the surrounding nature will give you insight into local life and offer great photo opportunities.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at Luobozhai. It is primarily a day-trip destination for nature hikes and cultural exploration.

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

Luobozhai can be crowded during Chinese public holidays and weekends. The best time to visit to avoid crowds is during weekdays in the early morning, especially in the shoulder months like April or September.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the base of the mountain. There are small local food stalls selling snacks and drinks, but there are no large shops or restaurants in the immediate area.

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

Luobozhai involves hiking and rugged terrain, so it may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with limited mobility. However, children and more agile visitors can enjoy the scenery with some preparation for the hike.

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, especially for small purchases. Credit cards are rarely accepted in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local restaurants near Luobozhai offering traditional Tibetan dishes like momos (dumplings) and barley bread. For more variety, you can find additional dining options in nearby towns like Aba.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants, including vegetable momos and barley-based dishes. Halal food options may also be found, particularly in larger towns like Aba.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near the base of Luobozhai. For more comfortable or luxury accommodations, visitors can stay in Aba town and travel to Luobozhai for a day trip.

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

Nearby attractions include the spectacular Haizi Mountain and the Tibetan villages of Aba, which offer additional cultural insights. Both can be visited easily in a single day from Luobozhai.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops in the nearby villages, selling handmade Tibetan crafts, jewelry, and clothing. Common items include prayer beads, Tibetan scarves, and woolen garments.

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

The best options are to continue by car or taxi, which are available for longer trips to Aba or other nearby towns. If traveling to Chengdu, buses or private cars are the most convenient modes of transportation.