Sichuan and Chongqing, neighboring regions in southwest China, are celebrated for their spicy cuisine, rich Bashu culture, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant urban vibes. This 5-day tour combines the best of both destinations, letting you experience the charm of ancient traditions and modern dynamism.
Morning: Stroll Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street to feel the prosperity of Chongqing’s CBD. Afternoon: Take the Yangtze River Cableway to overlook the interwoven vistas of the Yangtze and the mountain city’s skyline, then walk to the Huguang Guild Hall to see the encounter between Ming–Qing architecture and the modern city. Evening: Visit Hongya Cave; photograph the golden stilt-house complex from the Qiansimen Bridge front view. Afterwards, wander Jiu Street (Jiu Jie) to experience Chongqing’s vibrant night economy and check in at trending bars and streetwear shops.
Morning: Head to Huangjueya Old Street; sip gaiwan tea in an old teahouse and hear stories of old Chongqing. On the way, visit Nanshan Botanical Garden—cherry blossoms in spring, colorful leaves in autumn. Afternoon: Check in at Xiahào Old Street, with distant views of the Yangtze and Dongshuimen Bridge; then stroll Nanbin Road for river sunsets, visit Danzishi Old Street, and shoot the confluence scenery of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers at the “Two Rivers Confluence” viewing deck. Evening: Watch the Two Rivers night-light show and feel the city’s dazzling nocturne.
Morning: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding—enter early when pandas are most active to watch them eating and playing. Then go to Kuanzhai Alleys to stroll and shop; check in at the Brick Culture Wall to view old photos and folk stories. Afternoon: Walk or taxi from Kuanzhai Alleys to the Wuhou Shrine, which includes core buildings such as the Hall of Liu Bei and the Hall of Zhuge Liang. Next door is Jinli Ancient Street, where you can taste Chengdu snacks and watch traditional crafts like shadow puppetry and Shu embroidery. Evening: Head to Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li; visit Fangsuo Bookstore, check in at the centuries-old Daci Temple, and feel the fusion of ancient and modern in this commercial district.
Morning: Go to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area; with a site guide, see the three main projects—Fish Mouth (Yuzui), Feisha Weir, and Bottle-Neck Channel (Baopingkou). Climb Yulei Pavilion to overlook the entire project and the Min River, and sense local reverence for Li Bing and his son. Afternoon: From Dujiangyan continue to Qingcheng Mountain (Front Range); along the hike, visit Wudongtian and Natural Painting and experience the mood of “Qingcheng, the most secluded under heaven.” Evening: Return to Dujiangyan city center, stroll Guanxian (Guankou) Ancient City, and taste local specialties.
Morning: Visit Wenshu Monastery to feel the solemnity of the Hall of Heavenly Kings and the Mahavira Hall; then go to Eastern Suburb Memory (Dongjiao Memory), home to cafés, livehouses, and cultural–creative shops—great for photos and an artsy atmosphere. Afternoon: Head to the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, focusing on the Du Fu Memorial Hall, Thatched Gate (Chaimen), and Flower Path (Huajing). Dusk: Go to Jiuyan Bridge Bar Street for fashionable nightlife, then take the Night Cruise on the Jinjiang River—depart from the pier and sail along Jinjiang, admiring ancient architecture and modern landmarks illuminated on both banks.
