12-Day Chongqing and Chengdu Tour: Jiuzhaigou Sanxingdui Pandas

Welcome to Chongqing! Our staff will meet you at the airport exit and escort you to your downtown Chongqing hotel for check-in. You can rest in your hotel or explore the surroundings to experience the bustling atmosphere of this “Mountain City” and “Fog City.”

After breakfast, start exploring Chongqing. Head to Liziba to witness the unique light rail passing through a building. Then visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, where you can enjoy local snacks like Chen’s Spicy Cookies and Maoxuewang, and explore traditional shops.

Next, visit Shiba Ti, an old staircase linking the upper and lower parts of the city. Strolling here feels like traveling through a historical time tunnel. Then head to Jiefangbei, a landmark of Chongqing, to experience the city’s bustling commerce and culture.

In the evening, visit Bayi Food Street for a variety of Chongqing specialties. After dinner, head to Hongyadong to enjoy the night view. The illuminated stilt houses are spectacular, and you can stroll along the river to admire the city’s dazzling night scenery.

After breakfast, drive toThree Natural Bridges (approx. 3 hours). These three natural stone bridges—Tianlong, Qinglong, and Heilong—are a world natural heritage site and famous movie locations. Take the scenic area shuttle and walk along the pathways to admire the breathtaking natural bridges, canyons, and waterfalls. There are two viewing platforms where you can capture the magnificent views of all three bridges.

After exploring, head to Fairy Mountain Hotel for check-in and some rest. Known as the “Southern Grassland,” Fairy Mountain offers vast grasslands and fresh air. Take a walk around the hotel to enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings.

After breakfast, visit Chiyou Nine Li City (approx. 2 hours). This ancient city represents Miao culture and history. Explore unique buildings like the Nine Li Shenzhu and Chiyou Temple. Enjoy Miao ethnic song and dance performances to experience rich ethnic traditions.

Then, take a boat cruise along the Wujiang River (approx. 2 hours). Famous for its steep cliffs, clear water, and karst landscapes, it’s known as the “Hundred-Mile Gallery.” As the boat glides along the river, enjoy the picturesque views. You can also stop at a small dock to walk and explore riverside villages.

In the evening, return to Chongqing for authentic Chongqing Hot Pot, famous for its spicy and fresh flavors. After dinner, return to your hotel for some rest

After breakfast, visit the Yangtze River Cableway (approx. 1 hour). This unique transportation links Yuzhong District and Nanan District. Take the cableway to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Yangtze River and Chongqing’s cityscape

Then, visit Kuixing Tower, one of Chongqing’s landmarks. Located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, it blends traditional and modern architectural styles. Climb the tower to enjoy the magnificent river views and city scenery. The tower also hosts cultural exhibitions showcasing Chongqing’s history.

Next, visit the Dazu Bao Ding Mountain Rock Carvings (approx. 3 hours). A World Cultural Heritage Site, Dazu Rock Carvings feature exquisite Buddhist sculptures. The Bao Ding Mountain carvings are the highlight, including the famous Reclining Buddha and Thousand-Hand Guanyin. A guide will help you understand the cultural significance of these masterpieces

After breakfast, visit Kuanzhai Alleys (approx. 2 hours). These three alleys form one of Chengdu’s well-preserved old streets. Stroll through the historic lanes, admire traditional Sichuan Western-style residences, and try Chengdu specialties like Zhong’s Dumplings and Long’s Wontons

Then, visit Wuhou Temple (approx. 1 hour). Dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the Three Kingdoms-period Shuhan chancellor, it’s China’s only combined temple for a monarch and his subject. Explore the halls of Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang, surrounded by ancient cypresses and a serene atmosphere.

Next, head to Jinli (approx. 1 hour), a famous Chengdu street filled with specialty shops and food stalls. Try traditional snacks like sugar paintings and Sanda Pao to experience Chengdu’s folk culture.

In the afternoon, visit Heiming Tea House in People’s Park (approx. 2 hours). People’s Park is a hub of Chengdu life. At Heiming Tea House, enjoy authentic Gaiwan tea, watch Sichuan opera face – changing shows, and chat with locals to experience a leisurely Chengdu afternoon.

After breakfast, drive to Die Xi Lake (approx. 1 hour). Formed after the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, this lake in the Songping Valley is now a beautiful scenic spot. Enjoy the tranquil lake, surrounding mountains, and dense forests. Use the viewing platform to capture its beauty.

Then, visit Songzhou Ancient City (approx. 1 hour). With a long history as an important passage connecting Central China and western ethnic regions, the city preserves many Ming – and Qing – era buildings. Stroll on its stone paths to admire ancient architecture and experience history. The city also offers specialty shops and restaurants.

Finally, head to Jiuzhaigou and check into your hotel.

Spend the full day exploring Jiuzhaigou Valley (approx. 7 hours). Known as a “fairyland” for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow – capped mountains, Jiuzhaigou offers amazing views like the Five – Color Pool, Nuorilang Falls, and Shuzheng Cluster of Lakes via eco – friendly shuttles. The scenery varies with the seasons: spring flowers, summer shade, autumn colors, and winter snow.

After exploring, head to Songpan for hotel check – in.

After breakfast, visit Huanglong Scenic Area (approx. 4 hours). Famous for colorful pools, snow – capped mountains, valleys, and forests, you can walk along pathways to enjoy vibrant pools and snow – capped peaks. The area also features rare flora and fauna

After exploring, return to Chengdu and check into your hotel.

After breakfast, visit the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (approx. 2 hours). One of the world’s largest panda breeding and research centers, you can see giant pandas and red pandas. Visit in the morning when pandas are most active.

Then, visit Yangtian Nest Plaza (approx. 1 hour), a modern hub for leisure and shopping. Next, head to Dujiangyan (approx. 1.5 hours), a World Cultural Heritage Site and ancient water conservancy project. A guide will explain its construction and history as you admire its grandeur.

Then, visit Guan County Ancient City (approx. 1 hour), known for its Ming – and Qing – era architecture. Stroll through its streets to experience history. In the evening, see the “Blue Tears” phenomenon (approx. 1 hour) in Dujiangyan. Caused by bioluminescent plankton, this magical blue glow adds romance to your journey.

After breakfast, visit East Suburb Memory (approx. 2 hours), a Chengdu cultural park transformed from old factories. Enjoy art exhibitions and creative shops. Then, head to the Sanxingdui Museum (approx. 3 hours), home to artifacts like bronze masks and the bronze divine tree from the Sanxingdui Site. A guide will help you explore the mysteries of ancient Shu civilization.

In the evening, visit Sanhe Food Market (approx. 2 hours) for local delicacies like rabbit heads and grilled skewers to experience Chengdu’s nightlife

After breakfast, your driver will escort you to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. Our staff will provide drop – off services for a smooth check – in.