I love Sichuan. One of the most distinctive provinces of China has in my humble opinion nothing to do with the traditional North-South China division; It’s just Sichuan. Wikipedia describes the province for being famous for its own cuisine and fertile soil with great harvests. Also, before Chongqing received a status aparte, it was the most populous province of the PRC. But there’s much more to it.For nature lovers, Sichuan is an absolute paradise. The region offers multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, amongst which Jiuzhaigou, where the famous movie ‘Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon’ is shot. But you would not do yourself a favor if you would keep your Sichuan nature exploration to Jiuzhaigou. In our ‘Fairyland of Sichuan’ itinerary, for instance, we add the Huanglong Nature Reserve, where countless colors will marvel in front of your eyes: https://www.atrails.cn/itinerary/fairyland-of-sichuan/.

For families, we would highly recommend an outing to the Wolong Panda Reserve. You and your young ones can spend a full day in the vicinity of these endangered, but still lovely species and learn about its particular behavior in daytime and in nighttime, by using infrared cameras. https://www.atrails.cn/itinerary/discover-the-great-nature-with-kids/

Called the ‘Paris of the Orient’ by locals, Chengdu is a cultural hub that cannot be missed. A laid back atmosphere that faintly reminds you of Mediterranean countries, combined with the dynamism of a bustling city in a growing economy, makes for a very interesting fusion. Play mahjong and drink tea in neighborhoods that resemble ancient China, or go watch the famous face changing show for which Sichuan is renowned: https://www.atrails.cn/itinerary/chengdu-and-leshan-weekend-experience/

As mentioned above, the division between Chongqing and Sichuan is actually nothing more than an administrative one. Chongqing is historically and culturally an integral part of the province and cannot be missed in any real description about Sichuan. The famous Yangtze River Cruise departs (or arrives) at Chongqing. This River Cruise is a once in a lifetime must-do for each China-visitor: https://www.atrails.cn/itinerary/century-glory-yangtze-cruise-chongqing-to-yichang/. While in Chongqing, do not forget to take a spectacular ride in its subway system that actually goes through buildings and malls.

Of course the cuisine does need to have its special mention here as well. The famous Sichuan pepper (麻椒/majiao) is what gives the local cuisine its special taste. It is a remarkable spice that gives an intense feeling of numbing your mouth and lips for a few minutes. Together with regular peppers it gives the famous 麻辣(ma la) taste for which Sichuan is famed. And yes, of course, we can add a cooking class to your travel in Sichuan! Check this link for more information on how to literally spice up your trip https://www.atrails.cn/itinerary/chengdu-half-day-cooking-class-join-in-tour/.

Welcome to Sichuan with A Trails – for a trail that you will never forget!