Sichuan Accommodation & Holidays Guide
China, East Asia
Sichuan is in the Southern-Central Region of the vast Chinese state. It’s noted for its spicy food, and also has several regions with a large Tibetan population. The cities of the region are one drawcard – you can enjoy the museums, parks, as well as cultural attractions like festival and theatres. Another is the national parks, countryside and wilderness areas. Sichuan has some mountainous areas that intrepid travellers will enjoy exploring, as well as Tibetan monasteries, temples and burial sites. Sichuan is also one of the best places in the world to see pandas; if you wish, you’ll be able to get close to the black and white bears.
Map of Central China Asia
Sichuan – Regions or Cities to Visit
Sichuan Holidays Planner
Chungdu is the capital of Sichuan; it’s an ancient city, but also very laid back. Come here to see the museums, temples and parks, and also the Chengdu Panda Research Base. It functions as a zoo, but is also one of the foremost institutes for the breeding and protection of pandas, and is a must-see. Elsewhere in the region, the numerous National Parks allow you to see spectacular scenery and enjoy quiet hiking trails. Shunan Zhuhai National Park is filled with the bamboo that pandas love; Jiuzhaigou National Park also has pandas, as well as beautiful waterfalls and lakes. Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan National Park has temples as well as mountains, and is a key religious site.
Sichuan-Baiyun Temple
Highlights and Icons
Kung Pao Chicken is a dish that’s found in Chinese takeaways everywhere, but it’s best tried here, where it was invented – there are numerous other spicy delights on offer. If you’re interested in Tibetan culture, then there are many places of note. Amongst them is Dege, which is home to an extensive library of sacred texts. Leshan is the location of the world’s biggest Buddha. Langmusi has a monastery, and is also a great destination for walking and pony trekking holidays. There are sometimes tensions between the Tibetans and Chinese authorities in this area – its unlikely to disrupt your plans, but take travel advice before you go and avoid discussing politics with your hosts.
Travel Tips
Sichuan-Leshan Giant Budda
Sichuan-Huanglong Pools
Central China Holiday Tips
Sichuan Travel Info
There are flights to Chengdu from destinations across China and further afield. It’s also a hub for rail and bus travel.