Qionglai

Introducing Qionglai

Qionglai, located west of the Chengdu Plain, is one of Sichuan's four earliest ancient cities. Historically, Qionglai flourished in commerce and industry. It was the first stop on the " Southern Silk Road " and the " Ancient Tea-Horse Road , " earning it the reputation of " the first prefecture south of the Land of Abundance . " Qionglai, established as a city and county over 2,300 years ago, is considered one of the four ancient cities of Bashu, along with Chengdu (Yizhou), Chongqing (Ba County), and Pi County (Juancheng).

This is the hometown of Zhuo Wenjun, a talented woman of the Western Han Dynasty. It's where the classic Chinese love story " The Phoenix Seeks the Phoenix " (a play between Zhuo Wenjun and Sima Xiangru) took place. The timeless tale of " Wenjun tending the wine shop while Xiangru cleaned dishes " adds a touch of romance to this land.

In addition, there are famous scenic spots such as Tiantai Mountain, Zhuxi Lake, and Wengting Park, where the green mountains and clear waters make people linger. There are also cultural attractions such as Wenjun Well, Huilan Tower, and Pingle Ancient Town, which are rich in history and culture.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

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Most Popular FAQs for Qionglai

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

Qionglai, located in Sichuan province, is a city with a rich history dating back to the Han Dynasty. It is known for its historical significance as a strategic point in ancient times and its role in trade and culture. The city is also renowned for its tea production and its beautiful natural landscapes.

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

Qionglai is located southwest of Chengdu, Sichuan Province. You can reach Qionglai by taking a bus or a taxi from Chengdu, which is about 60 kilometers away. There are no metro lines, so the primary methods of transport are buses and private taxis.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Qionglai are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is from April to October, when the weather is mild, and the natural beauty of the area is in full display. The spring and autumn months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

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

Entrance fees vary depending on the attraction. For example, Wawu Mountain has an entrance fee of around 80 RMB, and tea plantation tours may cost about 50-100 RMB. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance or through online platforms for certain attractions.

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

For popular attractions like Wawu Mountain, it is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient, but for holidays or weekends, booking a week in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Qionglai typically requires 2-3 days to explore major attractions like Mount Qionglai, Wawu Mountain, and the local tea plantations. A day trip is enough for a quick visit to the town and one or two nearby attractions.

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

• Mount Qionglai for breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
• Wawu Mountain for its dense forests and hiking trails.
• The Qionglai Tea Plantations to explore the tea culture and taste local tea.
• Ancient temples and historical buildings within the town.

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

Guided tours are available in Qionglai, particularly for major attractions like Wawu Mountain and tea plantations. Most guides speak Mandarin, and some may offer tours in English, especially during the peak tourist season.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mount Qionglai's summit for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
• Wawu Mountain's scenic overlooks, particularly near the hiking trails.
• The tea plantations during harvest time, with lush greenery as the backdrop.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary includes visiting Mount Qionglai in the morning for hiking and scenic views, followed by lunch in the town of Qionglai. In the afternoon, head to Wawu Mountain for a leisurely hike, and then enjoy an evening tea session at one of the local plantations.

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

Qionglai is not known for night visits or light shows. However, some temples and tea houses may offer evening tea ceremonies or cultural performances, particularly during festivals or special events.

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

Qionglai is generally not crowded, except during national holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit during the weekdays outside peak holiday seasons. The low seasons (winter and early spring) are less crowded.

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

Most tourist sites in Qionglai offer basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and water. Rest areas are available at popular spots like Wawu Mountain and tea plantations. Shops selling local products, such as tea and handicrafts, can be found near attractions.

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

Qionglai is generally accessible for elderly and children, especially in the town area. However, some natural sites like Wawu Mountain involve hiking over uneven terrain, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted in many places, mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely used in Qionglai, especially in restaurants, shops, and tourist sites. Credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and commercial areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local Sichuan restaurants in Qionglai, serving traditional dishes such as hotpot, braised pork, and noodles. Tea houses are also popular, offering local tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options available in most restaurants in Qionglai, especially in local vegetarian eateries. Halal food options can also be found in some restaurants catering to Muslim tourists.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Qionglai has a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Most hotels are located in the town center, close to attractions. For those visiting Wawu Mountain, there are also mountain lodges and guesthouses available.

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

• Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is about an hour’s drive from Qionglai.
• Mount Qingcheng, a famous Taoist mountain, is also nearby and can be visited on a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Qionglai sell local tea, handicrafts, and traditional Sichuan products like lacquerware and embroidery. Tea-related items are especially popular among visitors.

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

From Qionglai, you can continue your journey by bus or taxi to nearby attractions like Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng. For longer distances, buses to Chengdu are available, or you can opt for a private car hire.