Family-Friendly Adventures in Chengdu, Sichuan!

Dujiangyan Panda Base

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Dujiangyan Panda Base

Morning: Arrival & Panda Cub Encounter

Start your day early by catching a bus or taxi from Chengdu to Dujiangyan Panda Base, roughly an hour’s drive. Arrive by opening time at 8:30 AM to make the most of the day. Begin with a visit to the panda nursery where you can see adorable panda cubs. It’s a delightful scene that will enchant both kids and adults alike. Don’t forget to bring your camera for those priceless moments!

Mid-Morning: Panda Keeper Program

Next, engage in the Panda Keeper Program (pre-booking required), where you can learn about and participate in daily panda care activities, such as preparing food and feeding the pandas. It’s not only fun but also educational for children, teaching them about conservation efforts and the panda"s diet.

Lunch: On-Site Dining

Enjoy a meal at the cafeteria inside the base. They offer simple local dishes that provide a taste of Sichuan cuisine. Dining here also saves time, keeping you close to the action.

Afternoon: Leisure Walk & Red Panda Viewing

Post-lunch, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully maintained bamboo forests which offer a natural canopy and fresh air. Make your way to the red panda area, where you can observe these smaller, active creatures. Red pandas are known for their climbing skills and playful nature, offering a contrast to the more sedate giant pandas.

Late Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping

Conclude your visit by stopping at the gift shop. It"s a great place to pick up panda-themed souvenirs, from plush toys to educational books, making for perfect mementos of your visit.

Departure

Head back to Chengdu in the late afternoon, ensuring you avoid rush hour traffic and have time to reflect on the wonderful encounters of the day.

This itinerary promises a blend of education, fun, and the unique joy of being up close with one of the world’s most beloved animals!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Du Fu Cottage

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable family day out at Du Fu Cottage in Chengdu, a haven that pays homage to Du Fu, one of China’s most revered poets. The site, set in a picturesque 24-acre garden, offers a blend of cultural enrichment and serene landscapes, perfect for a family excursion.

Getting There

Du Fu Cottage is conveniently accessible via public transport. Take the Chengdu metro and alight at Tonghuimen Station (Line 4). From there, it"s a short 15-minute walk to the cottage. Alternatively, numerous bus routes such as 19, 35, and 102 stop near the entrance, making it easily reachable from any part of the city.

Start Your Tour

Begin your visit at the Thatched Cottage, the heart of the complex. This reconstructed residence, where Du Fu wrote over 240 poems, offers a glimpse into the poet"s life during his stay in Chengdu from 759 to 763 AD. Engage the kids with stories of his life and the historical context of his work, making history come alive.

Explore the Grounds

Wander through the lush gardens adorned with bamboo paths and flowering trees. Don’t miss the Plum Garden, where the blossoms set a perfect scene for family photos in spring.

Interactive Activities

Participate in calligraphy lessons often held in the cottage gardens. It"s a fantastic way for the whole family to learn about ancient Chinese art and even try writing a few Chinese characters.

Visit the Museum

The on-site museum, featuring exhibitions about Du Fu’s work and Tang Dynasty culture, provides educational content in an engaging format suitable for children and adults alike.

Relax by the Streams

Conclude your visit by relaxing near one of the several streams crisscrossing the property. It’s a wonderful spot for reflection and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Du Fu Cottage not only offers a cultural journey but also provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Luodai Ancient Town

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Luodai Ancient Town

Morning: Arrival and Hakka Culture Exploration

Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Chengdu to Luodai Ancient Town, located approximately 20 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus (Bus No. 219 or 237) for an authentic experience.

Once there, step back in time as you enter through the grand archway leading into the town. Start at the Hakka Museum, just a few minutes from the main entrance. It"s a great spot for kids to learn about the Hakka people"s history and culture through interactive exhibits. The museum"s architecture, with its intricate wooden carvings, also makes it a visual treat.

Noon: Stroll and Lunch on Ancient Street

Walk along the cobblestone paths of the Ancient Street lined with Qing Dynasty-era buildings. Here, your family can admire the well-preserved architecture and perhaps pick up some local handicrafts. For lunch, try the Hakka cuisine at one of the local eateries. Dishes like ‘Kou Rou’ (braised pork belly) are a must-try!

Afternoon: Visit to Guild Halls and Leisure Activities

Post-lunch, explore the various guild halls like Guangdong Guild Hall and Huizhou Guild Hall, each uniquely reflecting the architectural styles of different provinces. These halls are not just historical sites but also places where kids can observe traditional Chinese arts.

Finish your day with a relaxing boat ride on the nearby pond or enjoy some traditional tea at a teahouse while the kids play in the town’s open spaces.

Evening: Return to Chengdu

Head back to Chengdu in the late afternoon, filled with memories and perhaps some souvenirs from this quaint, historic town.

Interesting Fact: Luodai was established during the Three Kingdoms period and is renowned for its role in preserving Hakka culture outside of its home province.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Huanglong National Park (Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Huanglong Valley

Morning: Start your adventure early in the morning by flying into Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport and hire a taxi or take a shuttle bus to Huanglong National Park, about a 50-minute scenic drive. After arriving, gear up for the day at the visitor center where you can rent walking sticks and grab a map.

Afternoon: Begin your walk up the famous Huanglong Valley. This 3.6 km trail is studded with colorful pools formed by calcite deposits, particularly vibrant at Wucai Pond. The pathway is family-friendly, mostly comprising wooden boardwalks that protect the fragile ecosystem while providing a safe path for children. Keep an eye out for diverse flora and fauna, and teach the kids about the endangered species in the area, such as the giant panda and the Sichuan golden snub-nosed monkey.

Late Afternoon: Reach the highlight - the stunning Five-Color Pond, known for its crystal-clear waters shimmering with different shades. This is an excellent spot for family photos! If the walk up seems daunting, there"s an option to take a cable car part of the way, letting you adjust the trip to your family’s energy levels.

Evening: Head back down the valley. Consider staying overnight at a nearby hotel in Songpan County to experience local hospitality and cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Nearby Attractions

Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to the nearby Munigou Valley. Spend the morning exploring Zhaga Waterfall – a breathtaking 104-meter high and 35-meter wide waterfall, known as one of the largest in eastern China. The path here is also well-maintained, ideal for families.

Afternoon: Post-lunch, explore Erdao Lake, a serene body surrounded by lush forests and a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic to wind down your trip.

Note: Always check the weather forecast and park advisories before planning your visit to ensure all attractions are accessible and safe for the day. Enjoy your family trip to the majestic Huanglong National Park!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jiuzhai Valley

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Nuorilang Falls

Begin your family adventure to Jiuzhai Valley by flying into Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport. From there, take a bus or taxi to your accommodation near the Jiuzhai Valley National Park. After settling in, start your exploration at the Nuorilang Falls, one of the most accessible and iconic spots in the park. Nuorilang Falls, which stands at about 24.5 meters high, is known as one of China’s widest waterfalls and offers breathtaking views that are easy to reach for families with children.

Day 2: Five Flower Lake and Panda Lake

Start your day early to visit the stunning Five Flower Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater colors. The lake is a kaleidoscope of color due to its bottom sediments and variety of algae, making it a magical sight. Next, head to Panda Lake, which features lovely waterfalls cascading into it. The lake got its name from the Giant Pandas that were once found in the area. Both sites have well-maintained wooden walkways suitable for family strolls.

Day 3: Long Lake and Shuzheng Village

Take a park bus to Long Lake, the largest in Jiuzhai Valley. At an elevation of 3,150 meters and a depth of 103 meters, it’s a serene spot perfect for photographing and enjoying nature’s tranquility. Later, visit Shuzheng Village to experience local Tibetan culture. The village offers a glimpse into traditional lifestyles and architecture. Try some local Tibetan dishes and learn about the region’s history and customs.

Day 4: Huanglong National Park

Dedicate your fourth day to visiting Huanglong National Park, famous for its colorful pools formed by calcite deposits. It"s best to take a cable car up and walk back down to enjoy the views gradually. The area is also known for its diverse ecosystem and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5: Departure

Conclude your trip with souvenir shopping at a local market before heading back to the airport. This family-friendly itinerary ensures a memorable and immersive experience in one of China"s most beautiful natural landscapes.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.