Xiangcheng

Introducing Xiangcheng

Xiangcheng County is located in the southwestern part of Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. Xiangcheng means "Buddha beads" in Tibetan, hence the name "Buddha beads in hand." Xiangcheng County boasts a long history and rich Khampa culture, including ancient folk customs, a long-standing religious tradition, and unique Tibetan architecture.

The county boasts numerous temples belonging to the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects, namely the Red, Yellow, Flower, and White sects, in addition to the Black Sect. Among them, Sangpiling Temple, one of the largest Yellow Sect temples in eastern Tibet, is located here. The distinctive white Tibetan houses and the unique women's Tibetan clothing, a blend of Tibetan, Han, and Naxi ethnic styles, are unique in the entire Tibetan region and are known as the "Three Wonders of Xiangcheng." Xiangcheng boasts numerous tourist attractions, including Bamu Sacred Mountain, Ranwu Township Hot Springs, Bamu Seven Lakes, Sangpiling Temple, and the Saobuyou Scenic Area, all complementing each other to create a truly captivating scene.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 1-day tour

Ranwu Township

Located in a small town in the county, it has a perennially calm lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The scenery is very fresh and natural, and the Tibetan friends here are also very simple and friendly.

sangpiling temple

Ganden Sangpi Lobling, commonly known as Sangpi Ling Monastery, is named after the Ganden Monastery in Tibet, founded by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect. "Ganden" signifies the lineage of the temple, which was founded by Tsongkhapa, the founder of the Gelugpa sect. It also attests to the historical connection between Sangpi Monastery and Ganden Monastery in Lhasa. "Sangpi" means fulfillment and prosperity, "Lob" means treasure or sacred object, and "Ling" means temple, signifying "a treasured temple that fulfills one's wishes and prospers."

Maxionggou

The mountains on both sides of Maxiong Valley are majestic, with strange peaks and steep cliffs; "strange" means there are many strange mountains and rocks, rare trees and wild flowers in the valley, and it is known as a "natural botanical garden"; "dangerous" means the Lixiang Highway passes by the cliff, which is extremely dangerous; "beautiful" means there is water and springs in the valley, and the valley is shaded by trees, and its beauty is tangible.

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Most Popular FAQs for Xiangcheng

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

Xiangcheng is an ancient town with significant Tibetan heritage, located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. It is a cultural hub for Tibetan Buddhism and a gateway to exploring Tibetan traditions and the region’s rich history. The town is also famous for its beautiful mountainous landscapes and tranquil monasteries.

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

Xiangcheng is located in the western part of Sichuan, in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The town can be reached by bus or taxi from Kangding, which is approximately 3-4 hours away. There are no metro services, but taxis and buses are the main modes of transport within the region.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Xiangcheng is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the warmer months, from May to October, when the weather is more conducive for hiking and outdoor activities. Winters are cold, and some routes may be less accessible due to snow.

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

There is no specific entrance fee for visiting the town itself. However, some monasteries and natural parks may charge an entrance fee of around ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased directly at the sites, and some places may offer online booking options during peak tourist seasons.

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

Booking in advance is not usually required for general visits to Xiangcheng, but for specific tours or monastery visits, it is advisable to book at least a day or two in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and festivals).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Xiangcheng can typically take 1-2 days, depending on the number of attractions you wish to explore. This includes visiting monasteries, hiking in the nearby mountains, and experiencing the local culture.

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

Key highlights include the Tibetan monasteries, the scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and the traditional Tibetan architecture in the town. A visit to the local markets and interacting with Tibetan residents are also integral to the experience.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tours offering English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be available in some monasteries and cultural centers.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the hiking trails with views of the snow-capped mountains and the local Tibetan villages. The monasteries also offer great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light hits the buildings beautifully.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the town’s Tibetan monasteries, then hike through the surrounding hills to capture stunning views of the region’s natural beauty. Don’t miss the local market for a taste of traditional Tibetan culture and crafts.

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

There are no night visits or light shows in Xiangcheng. However, special tours can be arranged in advance for groups or during specific Tibetan festivals, which often include cultural performances and local rituals.

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

Xiangcheng tends to be less crowded than more famous Tibetan destinations, but it can still attract tourists during peak seasons like summer and Tibetan New Year. The least crowded times to visit are weekdays outside of festival periods, particularly in spring or late autumn.

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

Basic facilities like toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available in the town and surrounding areas. Small shops sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts and local goods. Larger restaurants and cafes can be found in the town center.

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

Xiangcheng is a relatively remote area with uneven terrain. While the town itself is accessible, hiking trails and some monasteries may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It is advisable to check with local operators for more accessible routes if needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Xiangcheng, especially in the markets and small local shops. However, mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted in most establishments, including restaurants and larger shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local Tibetan restaurants in Xiangcheng offering traditional food like yak meat, butter tea, and barley flour dishes. In nearby towns like Kangding, visitors will find a wider selection of restaurants and cafes offering both Tibetan and Chinese cuisines.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan cuisine, which includes dishes made from barley, potatoes, and dairy products. Halal food may also be available in larger towns like Kangding, catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Xiangcheng offering basic amenities. For more comfortable stays, you may want to stay in Kangding, which has a broader range of accommodations, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses.

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

Nearby attractions include the scenic mountain areas around Kangding, the Ganzi Tibetan Monastery, and the Tagong Grassland. These sites can be visited on a day trip, as they are within a few hours’ drive from Xiangcheng.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Xiangcheng sell traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer wheels, Tibetan rugs, and jewelry. Local yak wool products and Tibetan tea are also popular items for tourists to purchase.

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

The best options for continuing your trip are by bus or private car to nearby towns like Kangding, or by booking a flight from Kangding to Chengdu, the nearest major city with an airport.