Summer Escape Gem: Oxygen-Rich Hiking in the "Swiss Alps of China" - Dafeishui Scenic Area

✅Attention, ladies! With Chengdu's scorching 40°C heatwave approaching 🥵🔥, I've discovered the perfect cool retreat! 🍃
Here's a super detailed guide—tested and foolproof!

🚙 Transportation

- **Self-drive**: From Chengdu, take Chengdu-Wenjiang-Qionglai Expressway to Dayi, then follow Dashuang Road directly to the scenic area (~2 hours).
- **Bus**:
- Direct buses to Xiling Snow Mountain depart from Chadianzi/Riverside Bus Stations (~¥45, ~2.5 hours).
- Alternative: High-speed rail to Dayi + transfer to scenic shuttle.
- **Scenic shuttle**: "Snowland Bus" (departs from Jinsha Site Metro Station at 7:30 AM, returns at 4:30 PM).

🎫 Tickets & Discounts

- **Entrance**: ¥120 (varies by season).
- **Cable cars**:
- Yuanyang Pool Cable (round-trip ¥120) → Mid-mountain Yingxue Plaza.
- Sightseeing Cable (round-trip ¥120) → Summit Riyueping.
- **Discounts**:
- Free: Children under 6, seniors over 65, military personnel, disabled visitors.
- Half-price: Students, teens under 18, seniors aged 60-65 (non-holidays).
- 2025 Exam-takers: Free entrance + transport cable with exam ID.

⭐️ Itinerary Recommendations

**1-2 Day Classic Route**
- **Day 1 (Skiing/Snowplay)**:
Visitor Center → Yuanyang Pool Cable → Yingxue Plaza (skiing, snowmobiles, hot air balloons) → Overnight at Yingxue Plaza/Huashuiwan.
- **Day 2 (Sightseeing)**:
Yingxue Plaza → Sightseeing Cable → Riyueping (sunrise, sea of clouds) → Yinyangjie (weather wonder) → Return.

🚶🏻‍♂️ **Hiking Route (Summer/Fall)**:
Dafeishui Scenic Area → Chadipping → Liangxikou → Colorful Waterfall → Yinyangjie → Riyueping.

🏨 Accommodations

- **Inside Scenic Area**:
- Near Yingxue Plaza: Maple Leaf Hotel, Sunshine Holiday Hotel (ski-friendly, pricier in peak season).
- Scandic Resort: Nordic-style cabins, photogenic, book early.
- **Outside (Huashuiwan)**:
- Hot spring B&Bs like Banshe Xiaozhu, budget-friendly for relaxation.

🍜 Food Picks

- **In-scenic**: Shouchailu Roast Duck, Pizza Hut (Yingxue Plaza).
- **Local specialties**: Xiling stewed pork knuckle, rainbow trout, Dayi savory tofu pudding.

❗️ **Important Notes**
- **Clothing**: Winter—thermal wear + anti-slip shoes; Summer—sun/wind protection.
- **Altitude**: Summit at 3,250m; mild altitude sickness possible—ascend slowly.
- **Ski gear**: Rent on-site (~¥50-100/2hr for skis + boots).
- **Book ahead**: Cable tickets may sell out in peak season.

⏰ **Best Times to Visit**
- **Ski season**: Dec–Mar (snow park open).
- **Summer retreat**: Jun–Sep (grass skiing, hiking).

✅ Perfect for families, couples, and outdoor lovers—whether skiing, sightseeing, or hot springs! Plan ahead and avoid holidays for the best experience.