Things To Do
in Shichuanxiang
Shichuanxiang is a scenic town in northern Sichuan province, nestled among green hills and terraced fields. Its well-preserved old town blends traditional architecture with modern guesthouses and cozy cafes. The area is renowned for bold Sichuan flavors, riverside strolls, and easy access to nature trails.
Visitors come to explore markets, sample fiery cuisine, and use Shichuanxiang as a gateway to nearby mountains.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a visit to People’s Park where locals practice tai chi and sip jasmine tea at historic teahouses. Watch as antique kettles whistle and elders exchange stories under ancient bamboo groves. The aromatic scent of flower-scented tea and the tranquil pond set a serene tone for the day.
Wander through Jinli Ancient Street, sampling spicy tingle-pepper snacks and admiring wooden architecture decorated with red lanterns. Pause at artisan stalls to see traditional paper-cutting and Shu embroidery demonstrations. The lively crowd, folk music, and souvenir shops create a feast for the senses.
Attend a performance of Sichuan opera featuring face-changing and fire-spitting acts in a classic teahouse theater. Let the dramatic masks and vibrant costumes transport you into local legend. End the night with a bubbling hotpot dinner, savoring tender beef slices and mala broth under warm lantern light.
Depart Chengdu early and travel south to the Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone-carved seated Buddha. Board a river cruise to view the 71-meter statue from the water’s edge, feeling dwarfed by its grandeur. The mist rising from the confluence of three rivers lends a mystical atmosphere as sunlight filters through.
Disembark and hike the winding staircases around the cliffside to inspect the Buddha’s intricate features up close. Explore hidden grottoes and small shrines carved into the rock face. The panoramic vistas of the surrounding red sandstone cliffs and emerald river below create picture-perfect moments.
Return to Chengdu and unwind at a quaint Sichuan family-run restaurant. Savor signature dishes like twisty dandan noodles and spicy wontons in chili oil. Stroll through the evening street market, sampling sweet potato tanghulu and admiring local crafts under lantern glow.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-5 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Sichuan flavors and hospitality
- Compact town with easy access to nature and cultural sites
- Limited English in some areas
- Smaller international flight access; may require transit via Chengdu or Chongqing
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Do you accept card payments?
Places to Visit in Shichuanxiang
Visit one of these nice places.
The sun rises over the stone walls and river, casting long shadows along the ramparts.
Vast emerald terraces roll toward distant hills, often blanketed in morning mist.
Warm light bathes carved wooden pillars and red lanterns in a tranquil temple courtyard.
Vivid lanterns reflect on calm water, creating moody long-exposure opportunities.
Food in Shichuanxiang
Shichuanxiang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Silky tofu in a spicy chili bean sauce; a signature Sichuan dish found in most eateries.
Must-Try!
Thin noodles in a sesame-chili sauce with minced pork and pickled vegetables.
Sliced pork belly with peppers, garlic, and a savory-sweet glaze.
Stir-fried chicken with peanuts and dried chilies; a fiery, tangy favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling morning market offering fresh produce, pickles, noodles, and snack stalls.
Evening stalls with skewers, dumplings, buns, and cooling teas beside the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous nod or slight bow; address elders with surname or formal titles.
Keep elbows off the table; wait for the host to begin; use chopsticks properly and avoid pointing with them.
Haggling at markets is common but should be done with a friendly tone and a smile.
Dress modestly; remove hats; ask for permission before photographing monks or sacred objects.
Safety
Tipping in Shichuanxiang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most restaurants, but small tips may be appreciated for exceptional service; check if a service charge is included.
Cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted; carry some cash for markets and smaller stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; layer up for cool mornings and comfortable days.
Hot and humid with frequent rain; carry water, sun protection, and a light rain jacket.
Cooler, crisp air and clear skies; ideal for hiking and photography.
Cool to cold with occasional fog; bring warm clothing and a windproof layer.
Shichuanxiang at Night
Hiking in Shichuanxiang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 4-6 km loop with morning fog and valley views.
Gentle hike through hillside terraces and rural villages.
Airports
How to reach Shichuanxiang by plane.
Major international gateway; typically a 1.5-2.5 hour drive to Shichuanxiang depending on traffic.
Large hub offering regional and international flights; longer road transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Han Chinese with small ethnic minority communities in the hills surrounding Shichuanxiang.
A growing number of students and young workers fueling a vibrant food and arts scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Early-morning sessions in town squares and parks.
Public courts across neighborhoods; informal leagues and games.
Common community activity in recreation centers and hotels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shichuanxiang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or with tofu and mushrooms; ask for no meat stock and look for vegetable-based specialties.