Natural Scenic Spots Worth Visiting in Chengdu
Chengdu, a city renowned for its rich history and modern vitality, is not only celebrated for its culinary delights and laid-back lifestyle but also for its breathtaking natural scenery. Below, we’ve curated a selection of must-visit natural attractions in and around Chengdu to help you plan a perfect nature-inspired getaway.
1. Xiling Snow Mountain: A Winter Wonderland Above the Clouds
- Highlights: Dominated by Mount Dayu (5,364 meters), Chengdu’s highest peak, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve offers year-round snow on its summit. In spring, wildflowers bloom, while winter transforms it into a skiing paradise. The Sun-Moon Platform’s sea of clouds and sunrise views are unforgettable.
- Tips: Take the cable car to the summit and hike through ancient forests. Ideal for summer escapes and winter sports
2. Qingcheng Mountain: A Serene Taoist Retreat
- Highlights: A sacred site for Quanzhen Taoism, divided into Front and Back Mountains. The Front Mountain features historic temples, while the Back Mountain boasts cascading waterfalls and secluded trails for hikers.
- Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and savor the tranquility of “Qingcheng’s World of Quietude.” Stop at teahouses along the way for a relaxing break.
3. Dujiangyan Scenic Area: Ancient Hydraulic Engineering
- Highlights: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area combines the ingenious Dujiangyan Irrigation System with Qingcheng Mountain. Must-see spots include the Baopingkou Diversion Tunnel, Flying Sand Weir, and Fish Mouth Levee. Nearby attractions like Qingxi Garden and Anlan Bridge add to its charm.
- Tips: Pair your visit with a stroll across the South Bridge at night and savor local delicacies like You Tu Tou (spicy rabbit head).
4. Beihu Ecological Park: An Urban Oasis
- Highlights: Spanning 2 million square meters, this park integrates lakes, wetlands, and forests. Walk along the lakeside trail, observe migratory birds at the observation deck, or explore the ecological exhibition center. Perfect for family outings and photography.
- Tips: Free entry and metro-accessible, ideal for picnics or morning jogs.
5. Guixi Ecological Park: Chengdu’s Green Heart
- Highlights: Covering 1,400 acres, this park features sprawling lawns, children’s playgrounds, and seasonal blooms. Spring brings magnolias and crabapples, while autumn paints the landscape in golden ginkgo leaves. A hotspot for camping, cycling, and kite-flying.
- Tips: Located near the Global Center, combine your visit with shopping and dining.
6. Qinglong Gorge: A Hiker’s Hidden Paradise
- Highlights: Nestled between Leshan and Chengdu, this canyon offers waterfalls, ancient fern forests, and autumn foliage. The 5-kilometer hiking trail winds through bamboo groves, resembling a prehistoric wonderland.
- Tips: Drive 2 hours from Chengdu and pack snacks. Be cautious of slippery paths during rainy seasons.
7. Jincheng Lake Park: A Lakeside Escape in the City
- Highlights: With four interconnected lakes, this park is perfect for boating, cycling, or lakeside picnics. The golden hour sunset over the water creates a picturesque scene.
- Tips: Metro-accessible and surrounded by dining options, making it a convenient day trip.
Recommended Itineraries
Chengdu Intangible Cultural Heritage One-Day Tour
Practical Information
- Transport: Metro covers major attractions; self-driving requires awareness of traffic restrictions. Use buses or e-bikes for shorter distances.
- Seasons: Spring for flowers, summer for cooling off, autumn for foliage, winter for skiing.
- Essentials: Comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear (mountain weather is unpredictable).
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Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
