A hidden mountain retreat with sea of clouds and starry hot spring pools
by The Foodie Explorer
Sep 6, 2025
Hello everyone! Today, I bring you a super value Lichuan one day and one night travel guide, with a budget controlled around 200 yuan, allowing you to experience the most exciting scenery and culture with the least money. Join me to start this low-cost, high-enjoyment trip to Lichuan!
【Trip Highlights】
Explore pristine natural landscapes  
Experience rich ethnic culture  
Taste authentic local delicacies  
Convenient transportation with excellent cost performance  
【Travel Preparation】
Transportation: Prioritize bus, walking, or carpooling  
Tickets: Many attractions are free or low-cost  
Dining: Local specialty snacks, economical and affordable  
Equipment: Comfortable shoes, camera, lightweight backpack  
【Itinerary】
Morning: Visit Lichuan National Geopark + Jindong Mountain  
Time: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM  
Start at Lichuan National Geopark, ticket about 20 yuan. The park’s strange rocks and geological wonders are breathtaking. Here, you can admire majestic canyons, unique rock layers, and learn about the earth’s history. After the visit, walk or take the bus to Jindong Mountain, a natural wonder famous for its karst caves, ticket about 15 yuan. Inside the caves, stalactites take on countless shapes, with light and shadow interplaying, like stepping into a dream.  
**Tip:** Bring your camera to capture nature’s masterpieces and enjoy the thrill of exploration.  
Noon: Taste local specialty food  
Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM  
Recommended to go to Lichuan Old Street, where snack stalls abound. Must-try dishes include “Sour and Spicy Rice Noodles,” “Tujia Cured Meat,” and “Handmade Steamed Buns.” A serving of rice noodles costs about 8 yuan, cured meat with rice 15 yuan, satisfying your taste buds without hurting your wallet.  
Afternoon: Stroll through Tujia Ethnic Style Park + Experience ethnic culture  
Time: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM  
After lunch, head to Tujia Ethnic Style Park, which is free to the public. You can admire traditional Tujia stilted buildings, folk dance performances, and immerse yourself in rich ethnic customs. You can also buy some unique handicrafts as souvenirs.  
Evening: Visit Lichuan Ancient City + Capture the sunset  
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM  
Wander along the ancient city streets and feel the weight of history. Though small, the ancient city’s streets are quaint and full of cultural atmosphere. When the sun sets, find a spot with a wide view to photograph the golden glow illuminating the ancient city—an excellent moment for photography enthusiasts.  
Night: Explore Lichuan Night Market + Enjoy authentic late-night snacks  
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM  
As night falls, head to Lichuan Night Market to taste various authentic foods: grilled skewers, cold noodles, candied hawthorn, specialty fried chicken, and more. Prices are affordable, and the atmosphere is lively. The night market is not only a food paradise but also a great place to experience local life rhythm.  
【Budget Summary】
Item Costs (yuan)  
Transportation (bus + walking) 20  
Tickets (Geopark + caves + Ethnic Style Park) 50  
Food (lunch + late-night snacks) 60  
Souvenirs/others 30  
Spare/pocket money 40  
Total 200  
【Warm Tips】
Check bus routes before traveling and plan your time reasonably  
Bring a power bank to ensure uninterrupted photography  
Prepare rain gear or sun protection according to the weather  
Respect ethnic culture and travel civilly  
This affordable Lichuan one day and one night guide balances nature and culture, economical yet rich. I hope it helps you gain unlimited excitement with a limited budget! Save this guide and start your Lichuan exploration journey! Looking forward to you sharing wonderful moments from your trip!
Post by Ethan Henderson59 | Oct 22, 2025














