5-Day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, Chongqing Adventure Itinerary

Begin your second day with an enriching experience at the 1-day Tour of Chengdu Panda Centre and Sanxingdui Site. This tour not only allows you to see more pandas but also takes you to the Sanxingdui Museum, where you can explore ancient artifacts from one of China's most mysterious civilizations. Have breakfast at Breakfast Bliss before embarking on this fascinating journey.

After your morning tour, visit Jinli Ancient Street in Chengdu. This bustling street is famous for its traditional Chinese architecture and vibrant atmosphere. It's an excellent place to shop for souvenirs or sample local snacks from various food stalls. For lunch, dine at Jinli Gourmet, which offers a range of Sichuan specialties.

Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at People's Park (Renmin Park). Here you can experience local life as residents practice tai chi, play music, or sip tea by the lake. Don't miss out on trying some local tea at one of the park's teahouses like Teahouse Serenity. For dinner, head to Parkside Dining nearby.

On your third day, travel from Chengdu to Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park (approximately 8 hours by car or 1 hour by flight). Start early to make the most of your time in this stunning natural reserve known for its colorful lakes and lush forests. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation before heading out to explore. Enjoy breakfast en route or upon arrival at Valley Breakfast Spot.

Spend your afternoon exploring Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park. Take in breathtaking views of crystal-clear lakes like Five Flower Lake and Pearl Shoal Waterfall. The park is perfect for hiking or simply enjoying nature's beauty. Have lunch within the park at one of its designated picnic areas or cafes like Valley Cafe.

As evening approaches, relax back at your accommodation or take a leisurely stroll around Jiuzhaigou town to experience local Tibetan culture. Dine at Tibetan Feast, which offers traditional Tibetan cuisine that will give you a taste of the region's unique flavors.

Start your day with a visit to the mesmerizing Huanglong National Park, known for its colorful pools formed by calcite deposits. These pools, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, create a surreal landscape that is a photographer's dream. Begin your journey early to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. For breakfast, enjoy a hearty meal at Huanglong Breakfast Haven before heading out.

After exploring Huanglong in the morning, return to Jiuzhaigou for lunch at Jiuzhaigou Delight, where you can savor local Tibetan dishes. Post-lunch, continue your exploration of Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park. Visit the Nuorilang Waterfall, one of the largest waterfalls in China, and take a leisurely hike through the park's scenic trails. The vibrant autumn foliage (if visiting in fall) adds an extra layer of beauty to the landscape.

In the evening, experience local Tibetan culture with a visit to a traditional Tibetan village within Jiuzhaigou. Enjoy dinner at Tibetan Village Feast, where you can try authentic Tibetan cuisine and perhaps even catch a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance. This immersive experience will give you deeper insights into the local way of life.

Travel from Jiuzhaigou to Chongqing (approximately 8 hours by car or 1 hour by flight). Upon arrival in Chongqing, start your day with breakfast at Chongqing Morning Delight. Then head straight to Hongya Cave, an 11-story stilt house complex that offers stunning views of the Jialing River and is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. Explore this unique architectural marvel and soak in its vibrant atmosphere.

For lunch, dine at Hongya Gourmet, which offers a variety of local Chongqing dishes. Afterward, visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, an old porcelain-making town that has been preserved for over 1,000 years. Wander through its narrow streets lined with traditional buildings and shops selling handicrafts and snacks. This area provides a charming contrast to Chongqing's modern skyline.

In the evening, embark on a Yangtze River Cruise to see Chongqing's illuminated skyline from the water—a truly magical experience as the city lights up after dark. Before boarding your cruise, enjoy dinner at Riverfront Dining, which offers spectacular views of the river along with delicious local cuisine. The cruise will provide unforgettable views of landmarks like Chaotianmen Dock and various bridges spanning the Yangtze River.