Chengdu: Jiuzhaigou, Dujiangyan, and Emeishan 9-Day Tour

An Authentic 9-Day Journey Through Sichuan’s Natural Wonder and Cultural Heritage

Imagine traveling through a landscape where multi-level waterfalls cascade into vibrantly colored lakes and ancient engineering marvels still shape local life today. That’s exactly what this Chengdu: Jiuzhaigou, Dujiangyan, and Emeishan 9-day tour offers. Priced at around $2,165 per person, it’s a well-paced trip designed for those eager to see some of China’s most celebrated spots without rushing or sacrificing comfort.

What makes this tour special? First, the chance to experience Jiuzhaigou’s fairy-tale lakes and waterfalls—a place often called a “dreamscape” by travelers. Second, the insightful visits to Dujiangyan’s ancient irrigation system and Leshan’s colossal Buddha give you a taste of China’s engineering feats and spiritual artistry.

A potential consideration is the long drives between destinations, which means you’ll want to come prepared with patience and good snacks. If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of nature, history, and local culture, this tour hits those notes perfectly. It suits travelers who appreciate guided comfort but still want authentic, off-the-beaten-track moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Diverse landscapes: From colorful lakes to waterfalls and sacred peaks.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, attentive, and enthusiastic about sharing local stories.
Cultural immersion: Visits to ancient towns, temples, and a Sichuan cuisine cooking class.
Culinary highlights: Delicious local food and a hands-on cooking experience.
Comfort and convenience: Hotel stays in good locations and transportation in a private vehicle.
Limited group size: Small groups of no more than 6 travelers for personalized attention.

Exploring the Natural Wonders of Sichuan

This tour is a carefully structured journey that balances natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed travel. Over nine days, you’ll witness some of Sichuan’s most iconic sights, with each stop adding a unique layer to your understanding of this region.

Day 1: Arrival and the Blue Tears at Nanqiao

Your adventure begins with a warm airport pick-up in Chengdu, followed by a scenic drive to Dujiangyan. Here, you’ll find yourself at the Dujiangyan irrigation system, which dates back over 2,200 years. This marvel of ancient engineering still functions today, serving both as a reminder of human ingenuity and as a vital water management system.

In the evening, a highlight is the Nanqiao night tour, where the river is illuminated to create the ‘Blue Tears’ effect—an almost surreal sight of glowing blue water resembling tears falling in darkness. The glow is caused by special lights, but it feels like witnessing something truly mystical.

Day 2: Panda Encounters and Historic Waterworks

Our first full day includes a visit to Panda Valley, where you get an up-close look at China’s beloved pandas. The tickets are included, which is a plus, and you’ll love the chance to see these gentle creatures awake and playful.

Later, the tour takes you into Dujiangyan Scenic Area to learn how this ancient system works, blending nature and human effort seamlessly. This visit deepens your appreciation for the harmony between community needs and environmental care. In the evening, you’ll travel to Mao County, where the quiet surroundings give you time to relax and reflect.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Cultural Beginnings and the Journey to Jiuzhaigou

The morning kicks off with the opening ceremony of Maotun Ancient Qiang City, where history and tradition come alive. Then, you’ll visit Dixi Lake, formed after an earthquake, showcasing nature’s power to reshape landscapes in dramatic ways.

After lunch in Songpan, a town with a storied military past, you’ll arrive at Jiuzhaigou, known as a “fairyland” for its tranquil lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant colors. Your hotel, Indigo Jiuzhaigou, provides a comfortable base for exploring this magical region.

Day 4: Jiuzhaigou’s Lakes and Waterfalls

This day is dedicated to the full Jiuzhaigou experience. Travel by scenic bus through the park, stopping at highlights like Mirror Lake, Changhai, Five Color Pool, Shuzheng Lake, and Nuorilang Waterfall. The landscape here looks almost surreal—crystal-clear lakes reflecting surrounding mountains, waterfalls tumbling down like liquid ribbons, and vivid colors that change with the sunlight.

Traveling in a small group with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the geology and ecosystems that create this landscape. The included sightseeing bus and headset make it easy to follow the commentary and soak in the scenery without fuss.

Day 5: Huanglong and the Return to Mao County

Leaving Jiuzhaigou early, you’ll head to Huanglong Scenic Area, famous for its terrestrial calcite formations, rainbow-colored pools, and snow-capped peaks. A cableway takes you up for panoramic views and easier access to the stunning pools.

After lunch, you’ll begin the long drive back to Mao County, a journey that allows you to reflect on the day’s natural spectacle and settle into a peaceful hotel.

Day 6: Wenchuan Earthquake Site and Sichuan Cuisine

A somber visit to the Wenchuan Yingxiu Earthquake Site offers poignant insight into the resilience of this land. It’s a chance to see the remains of a disaster that profoundly affected the region, and how communities have rebuilt.

Later, the Sichuan Cuisine Museum provides a tasty introduction to local flavors. This includes a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn about bold spices, chili, and local techniques—an experience that leaves you with more than just memories, but new skills to try at home.

Day 7: Ancient Towns and the Leshan Giant Buddha

Your day begins in Huanglongxi Ancient Town, a place where old streets and traditional architecture evoke centuries past. Wandering here, you’ll feel the charm of small-town life and local crafts.

In the afternoon, visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff face over 1,200 years ago. At 71 meters tall, it’s the largest stone-carved sitting Buddha in the world, and the view from the mountain offers a sense of scale and history that’s hard to match.

Day 8: Emei Mountain and the Golden Summit

Emei Mountain is a sacred site renowned for its monkeys, temples, and breathtaking views. Going up via cableway, you’ll reach the Golden Summit, where the clouds seem close enough to touch. The mountain’s natural and spiritual ambiance makes for a memorable experience—especially if you enjoy hiking or exploring temples.

Descending via cableway and bus, you’ll return to Chengdu, with the evening free to explore or relax.

Day 9: Farewell and Airport Transfer

All good things come to an end, and your guide will escort you back to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in time for your flight. This seamless end ensures you leave with a sense of satisfaction and a collection of unforgettable memories.

What We Loved About This Tour

We especially appreciated the expert guides who shared insightful stories about Sichuan’s history, culture, and natural wonders. Their knowledge made visits like Dujiangyan and Leshan come alive with stories of engineering brilliance and spiritual significance.

The delicious Sichuan cuisine, particularly during the cooking class, was a highlight. We learned how local chefs balance bold spices and meticulous techniques—making the meal both educational and mouthwatering.

However, one consideration is the driving time between some locations, which can be lengthy, especially on Days 5 and 6. If you prefer more time at each stop or dislike long bus rides, this might be a point to weigh.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet comfortable experience—balancing natural beauty, cultural sights, and interactive local experiences. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided trips that handle logistics but still want authentic moments and personal touches.

Practical Details and Value

At $2,165 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included admissions, guided services, and hotel stays. The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and interaction.

Accommodations are in comfortable hotels, centrally located for each day’s activities. The transportation involves a private 7-seater vehicle, which keeps the journey smooth and allows for flexible stops.

Meals are mostly not included—except breakfast and the Sichuan cuisine class—giving you a chance to explore local restaurants on your own or with the group. Be prepared to pay for dinners, which can be a highlight when trying regional specialties.

The tour also includes practical extras like unlimited drinking water, portable oxygen cylinders (helpful at high altitudes), and basic first aid supplies.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 9-day journey is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and comfort. It’s well-suited for those who prefer guided support but still want genuine experiences like cooking classes and town visits.

If you’re someone eager to witness Jiuzhaigou’s lakes, explore ancient irrigation systems, see the Leshan Buddha, and ascend Emeishan, this trip covers all those highlights efficiently. The knowledgeable guides and included tickets make it easier to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than managing logistics.

While the drive times are long, the scenery and the depth of experience justify it. This is an excellent choice for travelers who value authentic cultural encounters, stunning landscapes, and a carefully curated itinerary.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers hotel accommodations, transportation in a private 7-seater vehicle, tickets to scenic areas, sightseeing bus, headset, guides, and a Sichuan cuisine cooking class. Some meals are not included, apart from breakfast.

How many people will be in the group?
The group size is limited to a small group of no more than 6 participants, which allows for more personalized attention and a less crowded experience.

Are flights included?
No, flights are not included. The tour begins with the guide waiting at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport and ends with airport transfer.

Is this tour suitable if I dislike long drives?
Long drives are a part of the itinerary, especially between Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong or Mao County and Chengdu. If long bus rides bother you, consider this in your planning but know that the scenery during these drives is part of the experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, and cash. The tour provides some essentials like drinking water and oxygen cylinders, but personal medications and snacks are advised.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Most activities involve walking and some uneven terrain. While the tour is comfortable overall, those with mobility challenges should review specific activity requirements and discuss with the tour provider.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Check the availability for start times, but generally, the scenery in Sichuan shines in spring, summer, and autumn. Winter can bring snow, especially on Emei Mountain, for those who enjoy seasonal changes.

This tour combines the best of Sichuan’s natural and cultural treasures in a way that’s manageable and enriching. Whether you’re after breathtaking landscapes, historical sights, or local flavors, it offers a well-rounded adventure for curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: