Introducing Emutang
The Emutang Grassland Flower Sea in Rangkou Township, Hongyuan County, Sichuan Province, lies deep within Provincial Highway 209. From June to August each year, the 30,000-acre grasslands are a sea of flowers. The sheer scale and density of these blooms are rare in highland grasslands, earning them the nickname "the most beautiful grassland flower sea" by tourists.
Here, the azure sky, towering snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, and vast seas of flowers blend harmoniously into one. In late June, Emutang in Rangkou Township, Hongyuan County, is already a sea of flowers, a beloved "holy land" for road trip enthusiasts. Spending the Dragon Boat Festival here, pitching a tent and enjoying Tibetan delicacies purchased from local "Tibetan Homestays" while enjoying rice dumplings and salted eggs, is a truly unique experience.
Climate and best time to travel
Continental plateau cold temperate monsoon climate;
June to August every year is the best time to view the sea of flowers.
Tickets
Free, sightseeing bus 70 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
All day
Most Popular FAQs for Emutang
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Emutang is a culturally rich village in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It reflects the heritage of the Qiang and Tibetan communities, featuring traditional architecture, local crafts, and historical religious sites. The area is significant for preserving indigenous culture and scenic landscapes in Sichuan.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China.
- Accessible by private car or taxi from nearby towns such as Barkam (Maerkang).
- Local buses may connect some villages, but access often requires hiking or walking.
- Guided tours from larger towns can arrange transportation and local guides.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though times may vary with local conditions.
- Best visiting months are from May to October when weather is mild and roads are accessible.
- Spring and autumn offer optimal conditions for hiking and photography.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fees are generally around 50–70 RMB. Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the village entrance; online options are limited and may require local travel agencies.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking is not mandatory but recommended during peak travel seasons or festivals. Booking 1–3 days in advance is sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Half a day to a full day (4–6 hours) depending on walking trails, village exploration, and photography stops.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Traditional Tibetan and Qiang village architecture.
- Local temples and cultural landmarks.
- Mountain viewpoints and scenic trails.
- Rivers, terraces, and natural landscapes surrounding the village.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available, usually in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be arranged through local travel agencies. Audio guides are generally not available.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Village rooftops and central squares for cultural shots.
- Nearby hills and terraces for panoramic views of the valley.
- Riverbanks and forest trails for natural landscapes.
- Early morning or late afternoon light for photography.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the village entrance and explore the main streets and squares.
- Visit temples, artisan workshops, and local homes.
- Take short hikes to nearby viewpoints or terraces.
- Return through secondary streets for additional cultural scenes and photography.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not allowed. Special tours may be arranged during local festivals or cultural events.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays and non-festival periods are least crowded.
- Peak times are during Tibetan festivals and summer holidays.
- Early morning visits offer quieter exploration and better photography lighting.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Basic toilets at the village entrance or key spots.
- Small cafes or food stalls serving local snacks.
- Benches and shaded rest areas along main paths.
- Limited souvenir shops with local crafts and textiles.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Main village areas are accessible for elderly and children.
- Hilly or uneven trails may be challenging for disabled visitors.
- Guides can assist in navigating steeper areas.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is recommended for entrance fees, food, and small purchases.
- Some vendors may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local Tibetan and Qiang eateries in the village or nearby towns.
- Small tea houses and snack stalls along village paths.
- Restaurants in Barkam or nearby town centers for more options.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries; vegan and halal options may be limited.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and small hotels in nearby villages or Barkam town.
- Mountain lodges for overnight stays near scenic areas.
- Hotels in Barkam provide more comfort and amenities.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Nearby Tibetan and Qiang villages.
- Local temples and cultural sites.
- Mountain trails, rivers, and natural viewpoints in the region.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handmade Tibetan and Qiang crafts, prayer flags, and jewelry.
- Local textiles, small statues, and artisan products.
- Postcards and photography prints of the village and landscape.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Private car or taxi to nearby towns or attractions.
- Local buses to regional centers or villages.
- Guided tours can provide onward travel to other cultural or scenic sites.
