Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea

Introducing Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea

The world-renowned Shunan Bamboo Sea, located in Yibin City in southern Sichuan, boasts eight main scenic areas, two secondary scenic areas, and 134 scenic spots. The scenic area boasts 58 species of bamboo, covering over 70,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares). It is my country's largest pristine "Green Bamboo Park," integrating mountains, rivers, caves, lakes, waterfalls, and a rich cultural heritage.

The Shunan Bamboo Sea was originally named Wanlingqing. Legend has it that Huang Tingjian, a famous poet of the Northern Song Dynasty, visited the area and, upon seeing the vast expanse of bamboo, exclaimed, "How magnificent! The bamboo waves stretch for thousands of miles, like the sisters of Mount Emei!" He then used a broom as a pen and wrote the three characters "Wanlingqing" on a yellow umbrella stone, hence the name.

The Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea is famous for its grandeur, danger, seclusion, steepness and beauty. Among them, Tianhuang Temple, Dabaozhai, Xianyu Cave, Qinglong Lake, Seven-Colored Waterfall, Ancient Battlefield, Guanyun Pavilion, Emerald Corridor, Chahua Mountain, Huaxi Thirteen Bridges and other landscapes are known as the "Top Ten Bamboo Seas".

This is also the filming location of the movie "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon".

Climate and best time to travel

The climate in Zhuhai is mild, with the average temperature in August, the hottest month, being only 27.4 degrees Celsius, and the average temperature in January, the coldest month, being only 8 degrees Celsius. It is suitable for tourism in all seasons, with spring and autumn being the best.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: about 1 day

Tickets

January 1st - November 30th: 110 yuan/person

December 1st - December 31st: 60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea

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

The Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea, also known as Shunan Bamboo Sea, spans over 120 square kilometers and is renowned for its vast bamboo forests. It has been a source of inspiration for poets and artists throughout Chinese history and is considered a natural oxygen bar due to its rich biodiversity and clean air.

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

The Bamboo Sea is located in Changning County, Yibin City, Sichuan Province. Visitors can reach the area by:

• Private Car or Taxi: Approximately 5 hours' drive from Chengdu.
• Public Bus: Buses are available from Yibin City to the Bamboo Sea entrance.
• Local Transportation: Within the scenic area, mini-buses or walking are common modes of transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Early morning visits are recommended to enjoy the misty bamboo forests and avoid crowds.

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

The entrance fee is CNY 110 per person during the peak season (January to November) and CNY 60 during the off-season (December). Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel platforms.

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

While it's not mandatory to book tickets in advance, doing so can save time, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking a few days ahead is advisable.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full exploration of the Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea typically takes 1 to 2 days, depending on the number of attractions you wish to visit and your pace.

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

Key attractions include:

• Rainbow Waterfall: A stunning waterfall where rainbows often appear in the mist.
• Emerald Corridor: A picturesque path lined with vibrant green bamboo.
• Xianyu Cave: A natural rock cavity with historical significance.
• Guanyun Pavilion: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Qinglong Lake: A serene lake ideal for boat rides.

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

Guided tours are available and can be arranged at the entrance or through local tour operators. Audio guides may be available in Chinese; it's advisable to check in advance for availability in other languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Recommended spots for photography include:

• Guanyun Pavilion: Offers sweeping views of the bamboo sea.
• Rainbow Waterfall: Capture the waterfall with rainbows in the mist.
• Emerald Corridor: The contrast of green bamboo and red pathways makes for striking photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary is:

• Start at the west gate and visit the Emerald Gallery, Xianyu Cave, and Tianbao Stockaded Village.
• Take the ropeway over the grand canyon to Wangyou Valley.
• End at the Bamboo Sea Museum for a cultural insight.

Alternatively, entering from the east gate allows for visits to Colorful Waterfall, Wangyou Valley, and Xiannv Lake.

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

Night visits are generally not available; the park operates during daylight hours. Special tours can be arranged in advance through local tour operators.

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

The Bamboo Sea can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, plan visits on weekdays, especially in the off-season (December).

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

Facilities within the scenic area include:

• Rest areas and benches for relaxation.
• Shops selling local products and souvenirs.
• Restaurants offering local cuisine.
• Public restrooms at various points.

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

The Southern Sichuan Bamboo Sea has some paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, but certain areas may be challenging due to uneven terrain. It's advisable to check specific routes in advance if accessibility is a concern.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely used and recommended for convenience.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Within the scenic area, there are several restaurants offering local Sichuan cuisine, including dishes featuring bamboo shoots. Additionally, nearby towns like Lizhuang offer more dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially dishes made with bamboo shoots. Halal food options may be limited; it's advisable to check with local restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options near the Bamboo Sea include:

• Pinnacle Hills Hotel: Located within the park, offering convenient access.
• Local Guesthouses: Available in nearby towns like Lizhuang for a more authentic experience.

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

Nearby attractions include:

• Lizhuang Ancient Town: A historic town offering cultural insights and local cuisine.
• Shunan Bamboo Sea Museum: Located within the park, showcasing the history and significance of the bamboo forests.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops within the scenic area sell items such as bamboo crafts, local snacks, and traditional Sichuan products. Popular souvenirs include bamboo baskets, carvings, and tea.

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

After visiting the Bamboo Sea, visitors can:

• Return to Yibin City: Accessible by bus or taxi.
• Continue to Chengdu: Buses and trains are available from Yibin.
• Explore Nearby Attractions: Local tours can be arranged to visit nearby sites like Lizhuang Ancient Town.