Xinjin

Introducing Xinjin

Xinjin, a county under the jurisdiction of Chengdu City, lies in the western Sichuan Basin and south of Chengdu. With a history spanning over 1,450 years, Xinjin, named after it during the Northern Zhou Dynasty, boasts a history of over 1,450 years. It was once known as the "First Stop on the Southern Silk Road," "The Most Beautiful Scenery on the South Road of Chengdu," and "A Famous Scenic Spot on the Riverside in Western Sichuan." The area is primarily plain, punctuated by shallow hills and terraces. Geologically, the plain is part of the Chengdu Cenozoic Fault. To its southeast and southwest, Muma Mountain and Changqiu Mountain are shallow hills and terraces, part of the Longquan Mountain Fold Fault. Xinjin boasts abundant fish and rice, lush greenery, and numerous tourist attractions. Xinjin boasts the Longma Baodun Ruins and Guanyin Temple, both nationally protected cultural relics, Chunyang Temple, known as "the world's foremost Confucian scholar," and Laojun Mountain, the retreat of Laozi. Known as "The Most Beautiful Scenery on the South Road of Chengdu and a Famous Scenic Spot on the Riverside in Western Sichuan," Xinjin's riverside delicacies, particularly its yellow croaker, are renowned both within the province and beyond. Xinjin boasts a favorable ecological environment, protected by the natural ecological barriers of Changqiu Mountain and Muma Mountain. The county's forest coverage rate reaches 30.12%.

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Most Popular FAQs for Xinjin

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

Xinjin is an ancient town with a rich history that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It is known for its traditional Sichuan architecture, local cultural heritage, and proximity to Chengdu, making it a popular destination for day trips. It also has historical significance as a trading post due to its location along the Xinjin River.

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

Xinjin is located in the Chengdu Prefecture of Sichuan Province, about 25 kilometers southwest of Chengdu's city center. You can reach Xinjin by bus or taxi from Chengdu, with a typical journey time of around 30-45 minutes. There are no metro stations in Xinjin, so buses and taxis are the most convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The main attractions in Xinjin, such as the Zhenzhu Temple and the local markets, are open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months (March-May, September-November), when the weather is mild and pleasant for outdoor exploration.

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

The entrance fee for most of the historical temples and landmarks in Xinjin is around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of each site. Some sites may allow online bookings through local tourism platforms in China.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary unless you are visiting during peak tourist seasons or holidays. It's recommended to book 1-2 days in advance if you are traveling during busy times such as Chinese New Year or Golden Week.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Xinjin, including its temples, markets, and riverside areas, a half-day trip is usually sufficient. However, if you wish to explore the surrounding countryside or engage in more leisurely activities, a full day may be preferable.

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

• The Zhenzhu Temple, a beautiful and historic site with intricate architecture.
• The Xinjin River, which provides scenic walking routes and opportunities for photography.
• The local markets, where you can find a variety of Sichuan specialties, from food to crafts.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and you may also find some local guides offering English tours upon request. Audio guides are available in Mandarin, but foreign language options may be limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The riverside walk along the Xinjin River offers great views of the town and surrounding landscapes.
• The Zhenzhu Temple’s pagoda offers a fantastic perspective of the area, especially at sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit with a walk along the Xinjin River, followed by a visit to Zhenzhu Temple. Afterward, explore the local markets for souvenirs and enjoy a traditional Sichuan meal at one of the nearby restaurants.

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

Night visits are not common in Xinjin as the area is more focused on daytime activities. However, local festivals or cultural events may offer special performances in the evening, especially during the Lunar New Year or other major holidays.

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

Xinjin can get busy on weekends and during national holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, preferably in the early morning. Off-peak seasons such as winter (December to February) are generally less crowded.

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

• Public toilets are available at most tourist sites, including the Zhenzhu Temple.
• There are plenty of food options, including traditional Sichuan restaurants and street food vendors.
• Shops and rest areas are available, especially around the local markets and main attractions.

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

While Xinjin’s main attractions, including the Zhenzhu Temple, are generally accessible, some areas, particularly along the riverside, may have uneven paths that could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It's advisable to choose the more accessible areas for a comfortable visit.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in Xinjin, especially in tourist areas. Some smaller vendors may accept cash, but cards are not as commonly accepted in local shops and markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuan restaurants offer spicy hotpot, noodle dishes, and grilled meats. Some popular options are near the river and the markets.
• There are a few cafes along the river where you can relax and enjoy tea or coffee while taking in the views.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in Sichuan restaurants that offer tofu and vegetable-based dishes. Halal food is available at some specialized eateries in Chengdu, but may be less common in Xinjin itself.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in Xinjin, offering comfortable stays for visitors. For more luxurious options, staying in Chengdu is a good choice, with easy access to Xinjin by taxi or bus.

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

• Chengdu’s Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street are nearby and perfect for a cultural day trip.
• Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about an hour’s drive from Xinjin.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are abundant, especially around the market areas. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, Sichuan spices, and tea sets.

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

• Return to Chengdu by taxi or bus. Chengdu’s main train station and Shuangliu International Airport are both accessible from Xinjin.
• If you plan to visit other attractions in Sichuan, consider renting a car or taking a guided tour from Chengdu.