Treasure Memory: "Bashu Chengdu" – Where Classic Meets Modern, and "Deep Autumn in Northern Sichuan" – Water Descending from the Heavens

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Discover a 10-day Sichuan itinerary blending Chengdu's slow-paced charm with northern Sichuan's autumn wonders. From Kuanzhai Alley to Jiuzhaigou, this guide covers transport, accommodation, and hidden gems for your Bashu adventure.

Introduction: Why This Sichuan Journey Matters

Some trips are simply meant to be. Chengdu – a destination I had penciled in last year – finally welcomed me on October 17, 2016. I admit I have a bit of a procrastination problem when it comes to travel planning. I had booked the destination last year, yet somehow dragged my feet until this year. But perhaps that delay was a blessing in disguise, giving me ample time to prepare thoroughly. Should I head to Chengdu and northern Sichuan for autumn foliage, or pivot to Mount Emei in November? I already knew the answer deep down.

I've noticed I always book flights, hotels, and itineraries well in advance, meticulously planning every leg of the journey. To be honest, I've never had the romantic spontaneity of a "just-go" trip, but the joy of planning ahead never fails to excite me. As for the meaning of travel? I never overthink it. I simply love to play, to soak in the scenery, to feel that sensation of being on the road and in the wind. That's all there is to it.

Some say Chengdu is a city you never want to leave once you arrive. I think compared to the frenetic pace of Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, Chengdu is indeed much more laid-back. But as a tourist, if you truly want to experience the so-called "slow life," you need to give yourself time – room to breathe. So I scheduled a full 10 days: unhurried, just right. Chengdu alone wasn't enough, of course. I also ventured to Bipenggou, Jiuzhaigou, and Huanglong – hidden gems of northern Sichuan that left me utterly amazed.

[Link: Best time to visit Sichuan for autumn foliage]

Itinerary Overview: A 10-Day Slow-Paced Journey

My itinerary wasn't arranged by geographical proximity but rather followed my whims. Since I had plenty of time, revisiting Kuanzhai Alley and Jinli twice was perfectly normal. If I couldn't capture enough during the day, I'd make up for it at night. Here's my actual sequence of activities for reference:

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Beijing → Shuangliu Airport → Tianqing Youth Hostel → Kuanzhai Alley → Qingyang Palace → Du Fu Thatched Cottage → Qintai Road → Huangcheng Laoma
Day 2: People's Park → Wuhou Shrine → Jinli → Shu Feng Ya Yun
Day 3: Panda Base → Wenshu Monastery → Tianfu Square → Chunxi Road → IFS → Daci Temple → Taikoo Li
Day 4: Chengdu → Miyaluo Town → Bipenggou Entrance
Day 5: Bipenggou → Gancang Tibetan Village → Taoping Qiang Village → Chengdu
Day 6: Chengdu → Jiuzhaigou (via Diexi Lake and Songpan)
Day 7: Jiuzhaigou Full-Day Tour
Day 8: Jiuzhaigou Entrance → Huanglong → Return to Jiuzhaigou
Day 9: Jiuzhaigou → Chengdu → Jiuyan Bridge → Shu Jiuxiang
Day 10: Sichuan Museum → Kang Erjie Chuan Chuan Xiang → Fangsuo Bookstore → Chunxi Road → Beijing (Red-eye flight)

For a first-time visitor to Sichuan, this arrangement was fairly reasonable. My only regret was not having enough time to explore western Sichuan. But regret is also a kind of longing – I'll definitely return in the right season.

[Link: Top 10 things to do in Chengdu]

Transportation Guide: From Airplanes to Carpooling – Practical Tips

Getting to Chengdu

For long-distance travel, I chose flying. The straight-line distance from Beijing to Chengdu is about 1,560 kilometers. By train, it takes 28 hours; by high-speed rail, 14 hours. Discounted flight tickets cost about the same as the high-speed rail, offering the best value for money.

Airport to City Center

From the airport to the city center, there are three options: - Taxi: Jetta starting fare 8 yuan, Sagitar 9 yuan, 1.9 yuan per kilometer after 2 km - Airport Shuttle Bus: Check specific routes - Tourist Bus: 15–20 yuan per person, direct to your hotel

Within Chengdu, attractions are densely packed, and buses (2 yuan), the metro (zone-based pricing, starting at 2 yuan), and taxis are all convenient.

Chengdu to Bipenggou

Take a long-distance bus from Chadianzi Bus Station to Miyaluo Town. I bought a ticket to Erdaoqiao Station (74 yuan), and the hotel owner picked me up for free. If you stay in Lixian County, you can carpool to Bipenggou the next day. For 5–6 people, you can haggle down to 10 yuan per person. On the return trip, I carpooled back to Chengdu – 5 people in a Wuling minivan, 100 yuan each, about 3.5 hours.

Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou

I recommend the Jiantu tourist bus. Board at the west gate of Baihuatan or Minshan Hotel, departing at 7:00 AM, with a travel time of about 9 hours. Stops include Diexi Lake (lunch break) and Songpan Ancient Town. Important notes: - Restroom stops cost 1 yuan per person - Supermarket prices are inflated – don't be fooled - The Songpan city wall ticket is 60 yuan per person – not worth it – just explore the old town for free

Jiuzhaigou to Huanglong

Carpool round trip is 100 yuan per person (ask your hotel owner or drivers at the scenic area entrance). Jiantu bus is 85 yuan per person. Both options give you enough time to explore. Additionally, Chengdu's "Scenic Area Direct Bus" is very convenient, offering free transport between city attractions, and it also serves places like the Panda Base and Dujiangyan.

[Link: How to get to Jiuzhaigou from Chengdu]

Accommodation Recommendations: From Hostels to Guesthouses – Great Value

I stayed 9 nights across hostels, guesthouses, and hotels, each with its own character:

Tianqing International Youth Hostel (5 nights in dorm bed)

Located opposite the south gate of Baihuatan, excellent location – walking distance to Qintai Road and Kuanzhai Alley. Dorm beds cost 50 yuan per person, but it's a mixed-gender dorm only. Don't wander around in your underwear, or a girl might turn and leave – don't ask how I know.

Bipenggou Red Leaf Mountain Villa (1 night)

Less than 2 kilometers from the scenic area entrance. A double room cost 99 yuan. The owner provided free pick-up and drop-off to the scenic area. Air conditioning came at an extra charge, but the electric blanket on the bed kept me plenty warm. The downside: no toiletries provided, but at that price, it's a steal.

Jiuzhaigou Moon Bay Rainbow Hotel (3 nights)

Located on a small hill near the scenic area entrance, walking distance to Tiangoukou (where supermarkets and restaurants are). The owner offered free pick-up and drop-off – from the parking lot to the scenic area to meals, one phone call did it all. Jiuzhaigou promotes environmental protection, so aside from star-rated hotels, most places don't provide toiletries. I recommend bringing your own.

[Link: Best budget hotels in Jiuzhaigou]

Expenses & Photography: A 5,800-Yuan Journey

Total Cost Breakdown

Total trip cost: about 5,800 yuan. Transportation was the biggest expense, and entrance fees weren't cheap (peak season prices for Bipenggou, Jiuzhaigou, and Huanglong are high). Food and tickets cost about the same.

Photography Gear

My photography gear: a Nikon D3200 with an 18–55mm kit lens and a 35mm F1.8G prime lens, plus a Kenko CPL filter and a domestic ND filter. The camera's dynamic range was limited, but that didn't stop me from shooting with heart. After returning, my SD card got corrupted by a computer virus. I spent 110 yuan to recover the photos, but 200 were permanently lost – heartbreaking, but what can you do? I edited the rest using Lightroom.

[Link: Photography tips for Jiuzhaigou]

Day 1: The Hustle and Bustle of Kuanzhai Alley, My First Taste of Red Oil Hotpot

My flight was delayed by 2 hours. Despite not sleeping all night, I arrived in Chengdu feeling energized. After dropping off my luggage, I headed straight to Kuanzhai Alley. Kuan Alley isn't wide, and Zhai Alley isn't narrow. The area consists of three pedestrian streets lined with exquisite shops, ear-cleansing stalls, snacks, tea houses, and small Sichuan opera theaters. The sugar-painted figurines and "Three Big Bangs" (sān dà pào – glutinous rice balls thrown against a board to make three "duang" sounds) are must-tries. Ear cleaning costs 60 yuan – pricier than at People's Park, but for the skill involved, it's worth it.

The carved relief walls and street performers complement each other perfectly, creating an atmosphere that's both historic and vibrant. For dinner, I couldn't resist Huangcheng Laoma's famous red oil hotpot. The bubbling broth, laden with Sichuan peppercorns and chili, was an assault on the senses – but in the best possible way.

[Link: Best hotpot restaurants in Chengdu]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best time to visit northern Sichuan for autumn foliage?

The peak autumn foliage season in northern Sichuan (Bipenggou, Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong) typically runs from mid-October to early November. This is when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, and the weather is cool and pleasant.

2. How many days do I need for a Chengdu and northern Sichuan trip?

A minimum of 7–10 days is recommended. This allows you to explore Chengdu's highlights (2–3 days), visit Bipenggou (1–2 days), and explore Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong (3–4 days). A 10-day itinerary offers a more relaxed pace.

3. Is it safe to travel solo in Sichuan?

Yes, Sichuan is generally very safe for solo travelers, especially in popular tourist areas. However, always exercise common sense – keep valuables secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and use reputable transportation services.

4. What should I pack for a trip to northern Sichuan in autumn?

Pack layers: a warm jacket or fleece, comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof outer layer (rain is possible), a hat and gloves for higher altitudes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Don't forget toiletries – many budget accommodations don't provide them.

5. How much does a 10-day Sichuan trip cost?

Based on my experience, a budget-friendly 10-day trip costs approximately 5,000–6,000 yuan (about $700–$850 USD), including flights, accommodation, food, entrance fees, and local transportation. Costs can vary depending on your accommodation choices and dining preferences.

Strong Call to Action

Ready to embark on your own Bashu adventure? Whether you're drawn to Chengdu's laid-back charm or northern Sichuan's breathtaking autumn landscapes, this 10-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of classic and modern, serene and spectacular.

Start planning your trip today! Book your flights, reserve your accommodations, and download offline maps before you go. And if you have questions or want to share your own Sichuan travel stories, drop a comment below – I'd love to hear from you.

Don't wait – your unforgettable Sichuan journey awaits.

[Link: Book flights to Chengdu]
[Link: Reserve hotels in Jiuzhaigou]
[Link: Download our free Sichuan travel checklist]