Trip to Dujiangyan Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

by Emily | posted in: China | 0

Last updated on May 15th, 2026

A Dujiangyan Itinerary could include to visit impressive Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Nanqiang for its blue tear, Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Guanxian Ancient Town, and more.

Dujiangyan (Chinese: 都江堰) is renowned for its impressive Dujiangyan Irrigation System. This irrigation system, built over 2,000 years ago, is considered one of the world’s greatest engineering achievements and is a must-visit site for tourists traveling to Chengdu. Not only is it a functional irrigation system, but it is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors to Dujiangyan can witness the remarkable harmony between innovation, nature, and culture.

In addition to the famous Dujiangyan Irrigation System, other popular attractions to visit in Dujiangyan include Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Panda Valley, and the Guanxian Ancient Town.

In this Dujiangyan Travel Guide blog, we will provide essential travel tips and a detailed Dujiangyan itinerary to help you plan your visit to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System and other major attractions. We’ll cover how to get there, what to see, and offer tips for making the most of your experience.

How To Get to Dujiangyan from Chengdu

The nearest city to Dujiangyan is Chengdu, and most travelers plan their trips to Dujiangyan when visiting Chengdu. There are various transportation options available, including by car, bus, and train.

The distance between Chengdu and Dujiangyan is approximately 59 km, which takes about one hour by car. Moreover, Dujiangyan is well-connected by public transport. Daily buses and trains operating to and from Chengdu, making it easy and convenient to plan a day trip. However, keep in mind that the attractions in Dujiangyan are somewhat spread out, so you will still need to arrange transportation to get around.

Traveling from Chengdu to Dujiangyan by high-speed train, the journey takes only 30 to 50 minutes, depending on your specific destination.

Dujiangyan Railway Station (都江堰站) is located about 6.1 km from the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The journey takes 15 to 20 minutes by car or taxi. Alternatively, tourists can take Bus No. 4 from the station to reach either Dujiangyan Downtown or the Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
Lidui Park Station (离堆公园站) is situated only 1.8 km from the entrance of the Dujiangyan Irrigation System. The journey takes about 5 minutes by taxi.

Traveling from Chengdu to Dujiangyan by bus is also convenient. You can take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Dujiangyan Bus Station, and the journey takes around one hour.

If you prefer a private car tour, this option is the most convenient and hassle-free. With a private car tour, you won’t have to worry about navigating between the attractions.

Things To do for Dujiangyan itinerary

We booked a private car tour that took us to several locations in Dujiangyan at a reasonable price, allowing us to enjoy a comfortable pace without any hassles. While it’s possible to visit Dujiangyan on your own, you’ll need to plan your transportation and consider the traffic conditions independently. Ultimately, the choice is yours.

Things To do for 1-Day Dujiangyan itinerary:

Dujiangyan Panda Valley
Selfie with Giant Panda Sculpture at Yangtianwo Square
Dujiangyan Scenic Spot
South Bridge (Nanqiao) Night View
Guanxian Ancient Town
Other attractions: Mount Qingcheng
Recommended Accommodation: Hampton by Hilton Chengdu Dujiangyan

The above Dujiangyan itinerary is quite flexible; you can adjust it based on your interests. For hassle-free arrangement, below are some tour option where you can consider:

One Day Tour: Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain in SiChuan With Blue Tears Option.
Private Group Tour: Dujiangyan, Panda Valley, Yangtianwo Square, Zhongshuge, Nanqiao Night View.

Dujiangyan Panda Valley

The first agenda for our Dujiangyan itinerary was to visit the Dujiangyan Panda Valley (都江堰熊猫谷) to see the rare and adorable giant pandas. It is a wonderful place to observe pandas in their natural habitat.

During my previous visit to Chengdu, I went to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. However, since we loved meeting the adorable pandas there, we didn’t want to miss the chance to visit Dujiangyan as well.

Dujiangyan Panda Valley - Adorable Pandas

At the Dujiangyan Panday Valley, you can explore the giant pandas’ residences, where you’ll see them eating bamboo, playing, or climbing trees. We were also fortunate to spot a few rare red pandas during our visit. The facility is well-maintained, secure, and clean.

Compared to the Chengdu facility, the Dujiangyan Panda Valley park is smaller, less commercialized, and less hectic. Additionally, the panda enclosures are spacious, allowing us to get even closer to the pandas.

Dujiangyan Panda Valley (都江堰熊猫谷)
Opening time: Daily fom 8:00 to 17:30 (Best visit at morning as Pandas are more active).
Ticket price: CNY55 per person – Get the Entrance Ticket to Dujiangyan Panda Valley.
Time Needed: about 2 to 3 hours.

Selfie with Giant Panda Sculpture at Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square

Dujiangyan itinerary - Yangtianwo Square

Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场) features a massive panda sculpture that has become one of the landmark attractions of Dujiangyan. Designed by renowned Dutch artist Ferolentine Hoffman, this giant panda measures 26 meters long, 11 meters wide, and 12 meters high, weighing in at 130 tons. It is constructed from 3 million lacquered stainless steel wires.

The sculpture is depicted holding a selfie stick, with a giant LED screen designed to resemble a mobile phone camera, making it a fun and entertaining sight.

Selfie with Giant Panda Sculpture at Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square

Many visitors come here to take pictures with the panda. While it may not be a must-visit attraction, it’s a great spot for photography if you’re in the area. Yangtianwo Square is open to the public and free to enter.

Dujiangyan Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场)
Opening time: Always open, but best to visit at 10:00 to 20:00.
Ticket price: Free.
Time Needed: 15-30 minutes.

Dujiangyan Irrigation System

The next agenda for our full-day trip was to visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, located by the Minjiang River.

Built over 2,200 years ago during the Qin Dynasty, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰水利工程) is a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and the world’s oldest water management project still in use today. It was designed to divert water without relying on traditional dams and has been instrumental in irrigating the Chengdu Plain.

Visitors to the Dujiangyan Scenic Spot can marvel at its ingenious waterworks while walking through scenic areas surrounded by mountains and lush forests.

Get the Entrance Ticket for Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Dujiangyan Scenic Area - Baopingkou Water Inlet

Key attractions of Dujiangyan Scenic Area include the Yuzui (Fish Mouth), Feishayan Spillway, and Baopingkou Water Inlet, each meticulously designed to balance water distribution. This remarkable system has transformed the Chengdu Plain into a fertile “Land of Abundance,” a legacy that continues to thrive today.

Must-See Highlights on Dujiangyan Irrigation System Visit

The Dujiangyan Scenic Area is a huge area, and you will probably need to allocate about 3 to 4 hours to explore it. Here are some must-see highlights during your visit:

Dujiangyan Irrigation System - Anlan Suspension Bridge

Anlan Suspension Bridge (安澜索桥) – This picturesque suspension bridge offers a fun and scenic experience. It is renowned as one of the top five bridges in ancient China. Crossing it is a unique and memorable experience; however, it can get overcrowded, which raises safety concerns.

Erwang Temple (二王庙) – Dedicated to Li Bing and his son, the masterminds behind the irrigation system, this temple offers breathtaking views of the river. Locals come here to pay their respects to these engineering pioneers, and you can see statues of Li Bing and his son on the grounds.

Dujiangyan Irrigation System - Fulong Temple

Fulong Temple (Fulongguan, 伏龙观) is a significant ancient structure located in the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can be found in Lidui Park. The existing buildings date back to the mid-Ming Dynasty, boasting a history of over 400 years, and they have been well preserved.

Qinyan Tower (秦堰楼) – Situated near the irrigation system, Qinyan Tower provides a bird’s-eye view of the entire area. Climbing to the top rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Dujiangyan and the surrounding landscape.

Qinxi Garden (秦溪) – For a peaceful experience, stroll through the serene Qinxi Garden, which features traditional Chinese landscaping, including ponds, pavilions, and walkways.

Nanqiao (South Bridge, 南桥) – This bridge is another scenic spot, particularly in the evening when illuminated by colorful lights. It connects to the nearby city of Dujiangyan, making it a great location for a leisurely walk.

Entrance Fees and Opening Hours

Entrance to Dujiangyan Irrigation System

The entrance fee for the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is CNY80 per person. If you would like to explore nearby Mount Qingcheng, you can purchase a combo ticket for about CNY155. The site opens daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

It is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds, particularly on weekends and during Chinese holidays.

Dujiangyan Scenic Spot (都江堰景区)
Opening time: Daily from 8:00 to 18:00.
Ticket price: CNY60 – Get the Entrance Ticket for Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours.

South Bridge (Nanqiao) Night View

On your way out, head to South Bridge, also known as Nanqiao, located next to the east entrance of Dujiangyan Irrigation Park.

Dujiangyan itinerary - Visit South Bridge Nanqiao at Night

South Bridge (Nanqiao, 都江堰南桥) is an ancient, roofed corridor-style bridge that spans the Inner River of Minjiang. It is the first bridge over the mother river of Chengdu.

Take some time to enjoy the cozy interior of Nanqiao. The bridge is often bustling with activity as friends and families gather to have fun, take pictures, and, most importantly, appreciate the view of the rushing water.

South Bridge Nanqiao intricate wood carvings

The Duqiangyan Nanqiao bridge is unique because its galleries function as an open-air museum, showcasing intricate wood carvings, traditional paintings, and calligraphy.

Blue Tears at Dujiangyan View at South Bridge Nanqiao

Don’t miss the stunning night view, as the riverside offers an enchanting experience after dark.

When night falls, the river shimmers in soft blue hues, creating a magical atmosphere known locally as the “Blue Tears.” Blue lights are turned on, contrasting beautifully with the yellow lights on the buildings. This transformation makes the riverside a captivating scene, making the bridge a must-visit destination for anyone seeking natural beauty and tranquility in the evening.

Guanxian Ancient Town

On the left side of the South Bridge, you’ll find the Guanxian Ancient Town (灌县古城). Like many ancient cities in China, it features stunning traditional architecture, along with a variety of local foods, snacks, and unique experiences.

Dujiangyan itinerary - Guanxian Ancient Town

The charming streets and alleys are lined with restaurants, shops that boast traditional Chinese roofing and facades, and some trendy bars. You’ll also find numerous shops that rent beautiful photo outfits. When it comes to dining options, there are plenty to choose from. You can enjoy authentic local street food or sit down for a meal with a lovely view of the water, though the latter tends to be more expensive.

Most of the shops and restaurants in the ancient town closes at 10 PM. Many locals and visitors are arrived around sunset to soak in the vibrant night market town atmosphere.

How Many Times for Dujiangyan itinerary?

You can visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System on a half-day trip at a comfortable pace. However, if you wish to explore additional attractions in Dujiangyan, such as the Dujiangyan Panda Valley, Mount Qingcheng, the South Bridge, and the charming shops and restaurants in Guanxian Ancient Town, it’s best to dedicate an entire day. This will give you the opportunity to fully enjoy all the main sights and appreciate the area more deeply.

If you plan to see the South Bridge Blue Tear night view, we also recommend staying overnight in Dujiangyan. Please note that the last train back to Chengdu from Dujiangyan departs at 9 PM.

Where To Stay in Dujiangyan

We chose to stay one night here as we didn’t want a rushed Dujiangyan itinerary. If you plan to spend the night near Dujiangyan, there are various accommodations available throughout the town, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options.

Some popular choices for where to stay in Dujiangyan include:

Hampton by Hilton Chengdu Dujiangyan: This upscale hotel is in a prime location, making it very convenient for travelers. It’s close to restaurants and shopping areas, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city with ease. The staff is super friendly, kind, and helpful.

Yue Lanli S Hotel (Dujiangyan DaRongcheng Store): This hotel is located in the city center, offering great convenience. Next to the hotel, there is a mall with many restaurants and a supermarket. It’s also easy to arrange Didi (a ride-hailing service) pickups. The staff is very nice and friendly, and the rooms are spacious and clean.

Holiday Inn Dujiangyan Ancient Town: A more budget-friendly option located in the heart of the city. This hotel is very clean and bright, with family rooms available, making it suitable for families with young children. It offers great value for money.

Overall: A Trip to Dujiangyan

All in all, Dujiangyan is an excellent destination to visit and explore, renowned for its impressive irrigation system, historical attractions, temples, and delicious food. The city offers a variety of transportation options, making it easy to navigate and plan your Dujiangyan itinerary. It’s a perfect spot for a day trip, and it can also be included in your plans if you’re visiting other attractions in Sichuan. Highly recommended!

If you want to get more inspiration on how to plan your travel to Chengdu (Sichuan), be sure to check out our travel blog below:

Traveling to Chongqing? Read for more travel stories:

Planning to visit Sichuan? Please feel free to continue read below Sichuan travel blog posts:

Where To Stay in Hangzhou: Best Area and Hotel Picks

by Emily | posted in: China | 0

Last updated on May 15th, 2026

To help you decide where to stay in Hangzhou, we have created a comprehensive guide detailing the city’s most popular areas and our top hotel recommendations.

Are you planning your first trip to Hangzhou? It’s important to identify the areas that best suit your needs for a fabulous, hassle-free holiday. Hangzhou is a charming city that is incredibly easy to explore, with its welcoming and warm-hearted residents. The city is adorned with stunning traditional Chinese architecture, beautiful lakes, and the tranquil Lingyin Temple, among other attractions. The picturesque scenery makes it a fantastic location for photography.

As the capital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou (Chinese: 杭州) offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and inns, to suit the needs of every visitor. Hangzhou is divided into several neighborhoods, making it convenient for travelers. Each area offers its unique experiences, including diverse dining options, shopping, nightlife, and accommodations that cater to all budgets.

If you’re unsure where to stay in Hangzhou, we’ve compiled this accommodation guide to help you make the best decision. Keep reading to discover the ideal places to lay your head at night during your visit.

Accomodation Guide: Where to Stay in Hangzhou

Finding for where to stay in stay Hangzhou in Hangzhou is quite simple. The main attraction in the city is West Lake, so you need to decide whether you want to stay close to the lake or prefer the convenience of the downtown area.

For a luxurious experience with stunning views, the West Area Scenic Area is the ideal choice. This location offers easy access to West Lake within walking distance, allowing you to enjoy the fantastic scenery at any time. Most accommodations in this area consist of 5-star deluxe hotels and comfortable 4-star options.

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly choices but still nearby the main attraction, you can opt for hotels that are still within walking distance to West Lake. There are many boutique and 4-star hotels available to fit your needs.

For convenience and a variety of food options, consider staying in the Wulin Square area. This busy commercial hub features shopping malls, restaurants, and various dining choices. It is also a great location for getting around Hangzhou easily.

Continue reading for more details and our top picks for hotels in Hangzhou.

Stay nearby West Lake

Where to stay in Hangzhou - West Lake Scenic Area

West Lake is the most popular area to stay in Hangzhou, attracting those seeking a relaxing retreat. This region is filled with various accommodations, as well as lakeside restaurants, cafés, and bars. Hangzhou is especially favored by couples and families. Staying near West Lake provides easy access to temples, boardwalks, and Longjing Village, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The hotels located near West Lake are predominantly high-end luxury establishments. Among the best recommendations are the Grand Hyatt Hangzhou and Shangri-La Hangzhou. If you prefer more economical options, the Merchant Marco Hotel and several featured hostels are excellent choices. Slight far away from West Lake but within walking distance.

Staying adjacent or nearby West Lake Scenic Area

Grand Hyatt Hangzhou is a five-star hotel located by West Lake. Its prime location offers an excellent opportunity for an early morning run or walk along the lakeside road, allowing guests to enjoy the breathtaking tranquility before the area fills with tourists.

Shangri-La Hangzhou has a classic and nostalgic charm. It is excellently situated for accessing West Lake, making it easy to visit the lake at any time. The nightly Westlake Impression show is just a stone’s throw away. Highly recommended—everything about this hotel was great. Check for room rate at Shangri-La Hangzhou.

Staying within Walking Distance to West Lake

Merchant Marco Hotel is centrally located within walking distance of West Lake. There are numerous shopping areas and a wide variety of food options nearby. The hotel is very convenient for getting around, with a five-minute walk to the metro. It is a clean hotel that is well maintained. Be sure to check for room availability at Merchant Marco Hotel.

Haoyi Hotel(Hangzhou West Lake Southern Song Yujie store) is an excellent choice for travelers. Its location is ideal, offering easy access to key attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. Everything is within walking distance, and the Ding An metro station is nearby. The service at the hotel is outstanding; the staff are friendly, attentive, and always willing to help with a smile. The room was impeccably clean, well-maintained, and very comfortable, making it a perfect place to relax after a long day. I highly recommend this hotel. Check for room availability – Haoyi Hotel(Hangzhou West Lake Southern Song Yujie store).

Wulin Square (Hangzhou City Center)

Located to the north of West Lake, Wulin Square (武林广场) is the most prosperous business district in Hangzhou. If you enjoy shopping, this area is an excellent choice, as it features numerous shopping malls throughout. There is also a wide variety of food options available. Staying in the Wulin Square area offers convenience, making it easy to reach various attractions around Hangzhou. Additionally, shuttle buses run from the airport, providing a hassle-free travel experience.

Where to stay in Hanghou – Wulin Square:

Zhejiang Hotel is another popular choice when looking for where to stay in Hangzhou. It boasts a superb location next to Wulin Street, which offers numerous dining options. Additionally, the hotel is conveniently situated right next to a metro station and is surrounded by shops and restaurants. The hotel is clean and comfortable, and the staff are professional, paying close attention to details that enhance the guests’ experience. Please note that there is another Zhejiang Hotel located in the West Lake area, so be careful not to confuse the two.

Pagoda Hotel West Lake Wulin Hangzhou is another popular choice for accommodations. The property is ideally located in the city center, with a nearby metro station for easy transportation. It’s also convenient for using Didi to get around. The rooms are spacious, and clean. Popular option – check for room availability for Pagoda Hotel West Lake Wulin Hangzhou.

Crystal Orange Hotel Hangzhou Xihu Wulin Square Yintai is highly recommended for those looking for accommodation in the area. The hotel is well-located with many restaurants nearby and is just a 5-minute walk from the Wulin Square metro station. The rooms are exceptionally clean and equipped with good amenities. The pricing is very reasonable, offering great value for the quality of service provided.

Overall: Best Hotel to stay at Hangzhou

All in all, we hope this Hangzhou accommodation guide is helpful. It does help provide you with a better understanding of the various areas in the city, making it easier for you to decide where to stay in Hangzhou. This charming city has a lot to offer, and we recommend taking your time to explore by staying a few extra nights.

For leisure travel, consider staying in the West Lake area, where we recommend the Merchant Marco Hotel as a top choice. If you prefer convenience, the Wulin Square area is a great option, and we suggest the Pagoda Hotel West Lake Wulin Hangzhou.

Lastly, this Hangzhou accommodation guide is part of our Shanghai Suzhou Hangzhou travel blog. Continue reading for more travel stories.

Traveling to Chengdu, be sure to check out our travel blog below: