The remains of the former National Highway 213 after the Wenchuan earthquake

Introducing the remains of National Highway 213 after the Wenchuan earthquake

At the intersection of Yingxiu Town, Wenchuan County, stands a massive stone with the words "5.12 Epicenter Yingxiu" written on it. The words are particularly eye-catching. The stone, which rolled down from a mountain during the earthquake, now serves as a landmark signpost for Yingxiu, the epicenter.

During the Wenchuan earthquake, 80% of the Duwen Highway was destroyed, a 10-kilometer-long section was completely covered by collapsed mountains, more than 50 bridges were damaged, 7 bridges completely collapsed, and dozens of landslides occurred.

The Wenchuan earthquake began here, ripping the earth apart. With a terrifying roar, millions of cubic meters of rock fragments cascaded down the steep cliffs, creating a turbulent rock flow that zigzagged through the mountains on either side of several large ravines, creating a nearly 3-kilometer-long rock flow and nine rock impact surfaces. The original Niumian Valley was instantly raised by 30 meters.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for The remains of the former National Highway 213 after the Wenchuan earthquake

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

The remains of the former National Highway 213, located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, hold significant historical importance due to their connection to the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake. The earthquake severely damaged the infrastructure, and this stretch of the highway became a symbol of both destruction and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the power of natural disasters and the strength of the local communities that have rebuilt since then.

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

The remains of the former National Highway 213 are located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan Province. The site is accessible by bus, taxi, or private vehicle. Since public transport options may be limited, renting a car or using a taxi is recommended for a more flexible journey. Walking is not feasible due to the remote location of the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round, as it is a public and outdoor area. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and conducive to hiking. Avoid the summer months if you prefer to skip crowds, as the area can attract more visitors during peak travel seasons.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting the remains of the former National Highway 213, as it is an open-air site. However, nearby attractions or museums may have entrance fees. Tickets for these can typically be purchased on-site or through local tourist agencies.

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

No booking is required for visiting the remains of the highway itself. However, for any guided tours or nearby attractions that may require tickets, it's advisable to book in advance during peak tourist seasons (especially in the summer or public holidays).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the remains of the National Highway 213, you will need about 2-3 hours. This includes time for hiking along parts of the highway, taking photographs, and reading informational plaques about the site’s history and significance.

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

The main highlights include the scenic views of the earthquake remnants, the collapsed sections of the highway, and the nearby memorials that commemorate the victims and the recovery efforts. The surrounding natural beauty also offers picturesque views of the Sichuan mountains and valleys.

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

Guided tours are available through local tour agencies and can be arranged in advance. English-speaking guides may be limited, but guides are usually available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not commonly provided at this open-air site, but informational signage is available in both Mandarin and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the collapsed highway sections against the backdrop of the mountains, especially from elevated vantage points. The surrounding valleys and forests also provide great shots of the landscape's resilience after the disaster.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the base of the highway remains, where you can walk along sections that were damaged by the earthquake. Pause at key viewpoints for photographs and to learn about the history of the site. If time permits, explore the nearby villages to see how the local community has rebuilt their homes and infrastructure.

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

Night visits or light shows are not available at this site. The area is primarily visited during daylight hours. Special tours may be available during certain times of the year, but they typically occur during the day.

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

The site is generally not crowded, as it is a relatively remote location. The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak months, such as late autumn and winter. Weekdays are usually less busy compared to weekends.

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

There are limited facilities directly at the remains of the highway. Rest areas and toilets are available nearby in the local villages. Visitors are advised to bring their own water and snacks, as there may not be many shops in the immediate area.

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

The site is not easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to the rugged terrain and lack of paved paths. Children can visit but should be supervised, especially if hiking in the more remote areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in the area, and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) may be accepted in some local shops and restaurants. However, it is recommended to bring cash, as card payments are less widely accepted in more remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small local restaurants and cafés in the nearby villages where visitors can try traditional Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine. The options are more limited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food if you're planning a longer visit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the local restaurants, as plant-based diets are common in Tibetan cuisine. Halal options may be limited, but there are some Muslim-friendly eateries in the region.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodation options near the site are limited to basic hotels and guesthouses in the nearby towns or villages. For a more comfortable stay, you may need to travel to larger cities like Chengdu, which is several hours away by car.

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

Nearby attractions include the Songpan Ancient Town, the Jiuzhaigou Valley, and the Huanglong Scenic Area. These places are all within a reasonable distance and can be combined into a day trip or longer journey in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops are available in the nearby villages, selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts such as thangkas (painted scrolls), prayer wheels, woolen shawls, and local jewelry.

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

After visiting the remains of the National Highway 213, the best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or private car. Bus services are available, but they may be infrequent, especially in more remote areas. You can also rent a car to explore other nearby attractions at your own pace.