A Day in Xichang: From Sunrise at Qionghai Lake to Torch Festival Revelry
by Charlotte Turner Charlotte52
Jul 22, 2025
Did you know? Xichang is not only the birthplace of the Torch Festival but also a dazzling gem hidden on the Sichuan Plateau! Here, you’ll find breathtaking natural landscapes, rich ethnic culture, and an incredible feast of delicious food. Whether you’re an adventurous backpacker or a young artist seeking a slow life, Xichang can fulfill all your dreams!✨
1. Why must you come to Xichang?🌟  
The charm of the Torch Festival: Every summer during the Torch Festival, light bonfires, dance around the flames, and feel the passion and mystery of the Tibetan and Qiang peoples!🔥  
Stunning natural scenery: Encounter Qionghai Lake, Lushan Mountain, and the Qionglai Mountain Range, and enjoy the freshness and vastness of the plateau!🏞️  
Rich ethnic culture: Strong Tibetan and Qiang customs, experience authentic ethnic handicrafts and folk performances!🎭  
Food paradise: Tibetan yak meat, roasted lamb, yogurt... you won’t want to stop eating!🍖🥛  
2. Super practical itinerary guide📝  
Day 1: Arrive in Xichang and feel the fiery atmosphere of the Torch Festival🔥  
Transportation: Chengdu → Xichang by high-speed train/bus, about 2 hours, convenient and worry-free!  
Accommodation recommendation: A Tibetan-Qiang style hotel in the city center, experience ethnic characteristics while being convenient for travel.  
Day 2: One-day tour of Qionghai Lake and Lushan Mountain  
Qionghai Lake: Cycling, boating, photography, enjoy the lake and mountain scenery! It’s best to get up early to avoid crowds.  
Lushan Mountain: Hiking and sightseeing, overlook the entire Xichang city, don’t forget hiking shoes and water!⛺️  
Special food: Snack stalls near Lushan Mountain, Tibetan-style barbecue and butter tea, warm your stomach and heart!  
Day 3: Ethnic culture experience day  
Torch Festival site: If it coincides with the festival, don’t miss the bonfire party and ethnic dances!🎉  
Ethnic handicrafts: Visit Tibetan and Qiang villages, learn hand weaving, and bring home some souvenirs!  
Night market food: Roasted lamb skewers, highland barley wine, Tibetan cheese, definitely satisfy your taste buds!🍢🥂  
Day 4: Explore the Qionglai Mountain Range and enjoy the plateau scenery  
Recommended route: Self-drive or charter a car, enjoy grasslands, forests, and Tibetan villages along the way.  
Photo spots: Plateau sunrise, sea of clouds, herds of cattle and sheep, absolutely stunning!📸  
3. Travel tips📝  
Best season: Spring and autumn (March-May, September-November), cool weather and the best scenery.  
Clothing advice: Large temperature difference between morning and night on the plateau, bring a thick jacket and sunscreen.  
Cultural respect: Respect ethnic customs, ask for permission before taking photos of locals.  
Safety first: Don’t ignore altitude sickness, rest appropriately and stay well hydrated.  
4. Interactive Q&A time!🤔  
What are you most looking forward to experiencing in Xichang? The passion of the Torch Festival? Or the purity of the plateau? Leave a comment to tell me, or share your Xichang story!👇✨  
5. Summary: Feel every bit of Xichang with your heart💖  
Xichang is not just a travel destination, but a spiritual cleansing. Every piece of sky, every mountain, every culture here is waiting for you to discover. Bring your curiosity and passion, and start an unforgettable plateau journey!🚀🌈  
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Post by Foster Matthew Matt | Sep 23, 2025
















