Menghuo City

What are the most recommended things to do in Menghuo City?

Explore the reconstructed ancient architecture and streets, experiencing traditional Sichuan culture.
Visit the historical museums and cultural exhibits within the city.
Enjoy local performances and cultural shows depicting the era of Menghuo.
Take scenic walks around the city walls, gates, and main plazas.
Try local foods and snacks at the traditional markets and eateries inside the city.
Photography of historic architecture, streets, and cultural performances.

Introducing Menghuo City

Menghuo City, also known as the Shimian Menghuo City Scenic Area, is located in Menghuo New Village, Liziping Township, Shimian County, Ya'an City, Sichuan Province. It borders Ya'an Prefecture and Liangshan Prefecture and serves as the southern gateway to Ya'an City. Adjacent to the Liziping National Nature Reserve, the scenic area offers a common spot for rare flora and fauna. It also boasts a plateau-inspired meadow, the site of the world's first wild giant panda reintroduction; and Red Stone Beach, renowned for its distinctive, vibrant red rocks.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended 1-day tour

Big Meadow

The Menghuocheng Meadow is a plateau ecological meadow and the world's first wild giant panda relocation site. Plateau meadows, also known as alpine meadows, are primarily found in the northeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and northern, northwestern, and southwestern Sichuan. Alpine meadows have low grass cover and high-quality grasses, making them excellent summer pastures for cattle, sheep, and other livestock. Their vegetation is primarily composed of cold-tolerant perennial herbs, often accompanied by mesophilic perennial forbs.

Red Stone Beach

Red Stone Beach is famous for its unique and vibrant red stones. Scientists believe the red color comes from the Jolly Orange algae that clings to the rocks. This algae, rich in carotenoids, appears bright red in sunlight. Its cells are rich in astaxanthin, which helps it withstand the intense ultraviolet rays of high altitudes and the low temperatures and droughts of alpine regions. Native rock provides the necessary substrate for its growth, while a humid, foggy environment is essential for its large-scale growth.

Beacon Tower

During the Three Kingdoms period, Meng Huo and his men built this crucial pass to defend against the Shu army. Its mystery lies in its resemblance to a city, yet it's not. With only one gate and two beacon towers, the question of where exactly Meng Huo's "city" lies remains unresolved. A local saying goes, "Open Meng Huo City, and the world will be filled with countless people." Legend has it that beneath Meng Huo City lies a precious treasure, destined to bring immense wealth to whoever discovers it. No expedition has yet uncovered its secrets.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Menghuo City

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

Menghuo City is a cultural and historical reconstruction representing the Shu Kingdom era and ancient Chinese city life. It provides insight into traditional Sichuan architecture, local governance, and lifestyle during that historical period, making it significant for education and cultural preservation.

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

Menghuo City is located in Ya'an, Sichuan. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from Ya'an city center, or by regional buses connecting major towns in Ya'an. Walking is feasible inside the attraction once you arrive.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn for mild weather and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 60–80 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance or online via official tourism websites and authorized travel platforms.

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

Booking in advance is recommended during weekends or holidays to avoid long lines. Reservations can be made a few days to a week ahead through online platforms.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically need 3–5 hours to fully explore Menghuo City, including walking through historical streets, visiting exhibits, and watching performances.

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

The reconstructed city walls and gates.
Traditional market streets with authentic architecture.
Museums and cultural exhibition halls.
Main plaza areas hosting performances and festivals.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some private tours may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides may be limited and are mostly in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

City walls and gates for panoramic views of the entire city.
Main plazas during cultural performances.
Traditional streets and markets showcasing ancient architecture.
Evening shots near lantern-lit streets for atmospheric photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, walk along the city walls, visit the museums and cultural exhibits, explore the market streets, and end at the main plaza to watch performances or participate in activities.

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

Special evening events and cultural performances may occasionally be held, but the site generally closes by 5:30 PM, limiting night visits.

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

The site can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially mornings, are the least crowded times for a more relaxed visit.

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

Public restrooms are located throughout the city.
Food stalls and small restaurants serve local cuisine.
Designated rest areas with benches and shaded spots.
Souvenir shops offering local crafts and memorabilia.

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

Parts of the city are accessible to elderly and children. Wheelchair access may be limited in certain areas with stairs or uneven paths, so checking in advance is advised.