How to Explore Western Sichuan from Chengdu Without a Private Car – A 12–15 Day Public Transport Guide for Foreign Travelers
You want to see Tibetan monasteries, snow-capped peaks, and emerald alpine lakes.But you don’t want to rent a car or join a tour. Here’s the truth: You CAN do the full 317 + 318 loop to Daocheng Yading using only buses and shared rides—if you plan right. I’ve lived in Chengdu for over 10 years. I’ve […]
One-Day Hike to the Summit of the Three Gorges from Chongqing – Yes, It’s Possible!
You’ve heard of the Three Gorges.But you think it takes days on a cruise ship to see them. Wrong. Thanks to China’s high-speed rail, you can leave Chongqing at sunrise, hike to the top of the Three Gorges (Sānxiá Zhī Diān, 三峡之巅), and be back in Chongqing by midnight—all in one day. I’ve done this hike […]
Dagu Glacier vs. Hailuogou: Why Foreign Travelers Should Skip the Crowds and Head to Dagu from Chengdu
You’ve probably heard of Hailuogou Glacier (Hǎiluógōu Bīngchuān, 海螺沟冰川). But have you ever heard of Dagu Glacier (Dágǔ Bīngchuān, 达古冰川)—the quieter, higher, and more magical ice field just 5 hours from Chengdu? A Portugal friend once told me: “Hailuogou felt like a theme park with glaciers. Dagu felt like standing on the roof of the […]
Beyond Dazu: The Secret Stone Carvings of Anyue You’ve Never Heard Of (But Should Visit from Chongqing)
You know Dazu Rock Carvings (Dàzú Shíkè, 大足石刻)—the famous UNESCO site near Chongqing. But have you heard of Anyue Rock Carvings (Ānyuè Shíkè, 安岳石刻)? They’re just as old.Just as detailed. And way less crowded. A Irish traveler once told me: “Dazu felt like a museum. Anyue felt like stepping into a hidden temple—just me and 1,000-year-old Buddha […]