Guangyuan Travel Guide

🌄 Hidden gem Guangyuan, a divine journey you must take once in a lifetime!

Documents

ID card, student ID (bring if you have one, many attractions offer discounts), driver’s license (if you plan to drive).

Clothing

Guangyuan has distinct seasons. In spring and autumn, bring a long-sleeve jacket and a light sweater; summer is hot, so prepare lightweight, breathable clothes and sun protection; winter is cold, don’t forget thick cotton clothes, scarves, and gloves🧣.

Others

Umbrella or raincoat (weather in mountainous areas can change quickly), common medicines (cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, etc.), power bank, camera.

Transportation Guide

External Transportation

● Airplane: You can fly to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport or Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport first, then transfer by high-speed train or bus to Guangyuan.

● Train: Guangyuan has Guangyuan Station and Guangyuan South Station. Guangyuan Station has more trains and is the main passenger station, with direct trains from many cities.

● Bus: Long-distance buses to Guangyuan are available from surrounding cities; choose based on your departure location.

Internal Transportation

● Bus: Can reach major attractions, but intervals between buses may be long.

● Taxi/Ride-hailing: Convenient for travel, but may encounter traffic jams during peak tourist seasons.

● Car Rental: Suitable for group travel, allows flexible itinerary planning, and access to some less-visited spots.

Food Recommendations

Guangyuan’s cuisine is unique, with every bite full of local flavor. Don’t miss out, friends😋!

● Jianmen Tofu: Made from soybeans from Jianmen Pass, with over a hundred tofu dishes. Recommended tofu banquet restaurants near Jianmen Pass Scenic Area, try the pregnant tofu and bear paw tofu, all worth tasting.

● Empress Steamed Cold Noodles: Said to be invented by Empress Wu Zetian, smooth and chewy texture, served with chili oil, garlic paste, and other seasonings, spicy and delicious. Sold everywhere on the streets, any shop you pick won’t disappoint.

● Zhongzi Walnut Cake: Made from walnuts and flour, sweet and crispy with a strong walnut aroma, a great souvenir gift.

● Zengjiashan Old Bacon: After marinating and smoking through multiple processes, the meat is firm, fatty but not greasy, stir-fried with local vegetables, tastes amazing.

Attraction Guide

Must-visit Attractions

● Jianmen Pass Scenic Area⛰️: “One man guards the pass, ten thousand cannot open it” refers to this place! It is an important pass on the ancient Shu Road, with dangerous terrain and magnificent scenery. You can hike the Bird Trail and Ape Trail for thrilling cliff walks or take the cable car to overlook the stunning mountains and rivers.

● Huangze Temple: The only temple dedicated to China’s only female emperor Wu Zetian, preserving many Tang Dynasty stone carvings and historical relics. Here you can learn about Wu Zetian’s life and experience her legendary story.

● Zhaohua Ancient City: A city with over 2,000 years of history, preserving many Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. Walking through the ancient streets feels like traveling back in time. You can visit Jiameng Pass, Fei Yi’s Tomb, and taste local snacks in the ancient city.

● Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve: Home to rare wild animals like giant pandas and golden monkeys, with excellent ecological environment. You can join hiking and bird-watching activities to get close to nature and enjoy the wild charm.

Lesser-known Attractions

● Mingyue Gorge: A gorge combining six ancient and modern routes including the Jialing River waterway, pre-Qin plank road, and Baocheng Railway, known as the “China Transportation History Museum.” You can take a boat tour to enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the gorge.

● Qianfo Cliff: The largest grotto group in Sichuan, preserving many Tang Dynasty stone carvings. The Buddha statues are exquisitely shaped with varied expressions, showcasing the superb craftsmanship of ancient artisans.

● Zengjiashan Scenic Area: A summer resort for cooling off and a winter spot for skiing. It features natural landscapes like stone forests and caves, along with unique folk culture. You can experience farmhouse stays and taste local farm food.

Accommodation Suggestions

● Guangyuan City Center: Convenient transportation, complete facilities, with hotels of various levels to choose from. Suitable for those who want shopping and entertainment.

● Near Jianmen Pass Scenic Area: Convenient for early access to the scenic area the next day, with many guesthouses and hotels nearby, plus authentic Jianmen tofu to try.

● Inside Zhaohua Ancient City: Stay in inns within the ancient city to feel its tranquility and leisure. You can also enjoy the ancient city’s night view.

Itinerary

Three-day Tour

● Day 1: Huangze Temple → Qianfo Cliff → Guangyuan City Center
    Visit Huangze Temple in the morning to learn about Wu Zetian’s history; in the afternoon, admire the exquisite grotto carvings at Qianfo Cliff. Enjoy local food and explore the night market in Guangyuan city center in the evening.

● Day 2: Jianmen Pass Scenic Area
    Spend the whole day exploring Jianmen Pass, challenge the Bird Trail and Ape Trail, and marvel at nature’s wonders. Stay near Jianmen Pass at night and taste Jianmen tofu.

● Day 3: Zhaohua Ancient City → Return
    Stroll through Zhaohua Ancient City in the morning to soak in its charm. After lunch in the ancient city, end your pleasant journey.

Five-day Tour

Based on the three-day tour, add visits to Mingyue Gorge, Tangjiahe National Nature Reserve, and Zengjiashan Scenic Area for a deeper experience of Guangyuan’s charm.

Notes

● Wear comfortable sports shoes and pay attention to safety when visiting mountainous attractions like Jianmen Pass.

● Follow regulations in nature reserves, do not feed wild animals, and protect the ecological environment.

● Eat local food in moderation to avoid stomach discomfort.

Friends, Guangyuan’s beauty is like a splendid painting waiting for you to unfold. Pack your bags and start this unforgettable Guangyuan journey now! You will surely gain wonderful memories🥰!