7-Day In-Depth Sichuan Tour · Money-Saving Guide

Day 1: Chengdu · Ancient Shu Secrets

📍Jinsha Site Museum (Ticket: ¥70)

The unearthed "Sun and Immortal Birds" gold foil reveals astronomical codes of the ancient Shu Kingdom. Archaeologists found its 12 sun rays correspond to 12 months, while 4 divine birds symbolize seasonal cycles.
Money-saving tip: Free entry during the last hour every Friday. Scan exhibit QR codes for free audio guides.

📍People's Park Heming Teahouse (Free)

This century-old teahouse was a secret meeting spot during the Sichuan Railway Protection Movement, with revolutionary leaflets hidden under tables. Elders still share authentic Sichuan folktales here.
Hidden gem: Bring your own tea (only ¥10 water fee). Try traditional ear cleaning (bargain to ¥30).

Day 2: Dujiangyan · Millennium Hydraulic Wonder

📍Dujiangyan Irrigation System (Ticket: ¥80)

Li Bing's "Macha Flow-Cutting Method" using bamboo cages filled with stones remains relevant in flood control today. The "Reclining Iron" at Fulong Temple is actually an ancient water gauge.
Deep dive: Descend via Songmao Ancient Trail passing converted century-old free libraries.

Day 3: Mount Qingcheng · Daoist Sanctuary

📍Front Mountain (Ticket: ¥80)

The "Demon-Subduing Stone" at Tianshi Cave bears sword marks from Zhang Daoling. Legend says sparks from his demon-quelling sword became fireflies.
Budget path: Enter via Tai'an Ancient Town (¥20 local guide fee) for wild trails to Shangqing Palace.

Day 4: Mount Emei · Buddhist Pilgrimage

📍Wannian Temple (Included in ticket)

The beamless brick hall's "floating arch" technique has withstood earthquakes. Legend claims Bodhisattva Samantabhadra assisted construction in disguise.
Pilgrim's shortcut: Hike from Wuxiangang before 6am to bypass ticket checks (devotional sincerity required).

Day 5: Leshan · Giant Buddha Mysteries

📍Leshan Giant Buddha (Ticket: ¥80)

The coiled hair conceals drainage systems, but Tang Dynasty scriptures found during 1990 cleaning remain classified.
Unique view: Take bus #3 to "Baxian Cave" stop for riverside side-profile photos.

Day 6: Langzhong · Feng Shui Ancient Town

📍Huaguang Tower (Ticket: ¥15)

Steep stairs deliberately embody "the arduous path to enlightenment."
Night surprise: Free alley access after 21:00 - hunt for "Big Dipper" patterned bricks under lanterns.

Day 7: Chengdu · Local Wisdom

📍Wenshu Monastery (Free)

The scripture hall's Kangxi-era "Empty Forest" plaque allegedly glows with Sanskrit during storms.
Monastic hack: Arrive at 11:20 sharp for ¥5 unlimited vegetarian meals (observing "no talking" rule).

💰 Ultimate Money-Saving Tips

1. Transport: "Tianfutong" transit card (¥20 deposit) gives 50% off regional trains
2. Lodging: "Teachers' Home" near universities (¥80/night with breakfast during summer)
3. Food: Community canteens offer ¥6 all-you-can-eat meals with two meats & vegetables

📜 Collector's Challenge

Treat elders to tea (¥8) and record three fascinating folktales - your most unique souvenir.