China Unveiled: Ancient Capitals & Avatar Landscapes
From Panda Sanctuaries to River Gorges: A Curated Exploration
Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu - Gateway to Sichuan
Evening Settling In
Arrive at Chengdu Airport and transfer independently to your pre-booked accommodation. We recommend Civil Aviation Hotel near Tianfu Square for its central location and backpacker-friendly amenities. Take Airport Shuttle Bus Line 2 (CNY10) to Tianfu Square East stop, then a short CNY8 taxi ride to the hotel. Alternatively, a direct taxi costs approximately CNY60. Rest well for your adventure beginning tomorrow.
Day 2: Chengdu Panda Immersion & Ancient Civilization
Morning Panda Encounter
Depart by 8:00 via taxi (CNY50, 40 minutes) to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Observe pandas during their most active feeding hours (8:00-10:00). Enjoy Sichuan cuisine at the onsite restaurant near Swan Lake.
Afternoon Archaeological Discovery
Taxi to Jinsha Site Museum (CNY70, 30 minutes) to explore ancient Shu civilization artifacts. Evening exploration of Chunxi Road commercial district via subway, concluding with dinner and return to hotel.
Day 3: Leshan Grand Buddha & Historic Alleys
Full-Day Cultural Expedition
Early taxi to Xinnanmen Bus Station for coach to Leshan (CNY42, 2 hours). Transfer via Bus No.13 to Leshan Giant Buddha for 2-3 hour visit. Return to Chengdu for evening exploration of Wide and Narrow Alley, featuring traditional architecture, local snacks, and vibrant nightlife.
Day 4: Chengdu to Chongqing Transition
High-Speed Rail Journey
Check out and taxi to Chengdu East Railway Station (CNY25, 30 minutes). Take morning bullet train to Chongqing (approximately 2 hours). Check into Wanyou Conifer Hotel near Daping subway station.
Afternoon Ancient Village Exploration
Subway to Ciqikou Village to wander ancient lanes, souvenir shops, and sample local street food before returning to hotel.
Day 5: Rock Carvings & River Embarkation
Morning World Heritage Site
Check out after breakfast, deposit luggage at Chaotianmen Port. Taxi to Chongqing Railway Station, then bus to Dazu (CNY43, 2 hours). Visit UNESCO World Heritage Dazu Rock Carvings via local taxi or Bus No.205.
Evening Cruise Departure
Return to Chaotianmen Port by 20:00 to board 5-star President No.6 cruise ship. Set sail at 22:00 beginning your Yangtze River journey.
Day 6: Yangtze River Leisure & Forest Exploration
Full-Day Cruise Experience
Morning scenic viewing and cultural activities aboard ship. Afternoon shore excursion to Shuangguishan National Forest Park. Evening features captain's welcome banquet and cultural performances.
Day 7: Gorge Navigation & Stream Adventure
Three Gorges Passage
Morning sailing through Qutang and Wu Gorges. Afternoon transfer to traditional wooden boats for Shennong Stream exploration with local boatmen's folk songs. Continue through Xiling Gorge with farewell party at 18:00.
Day 8: Dam Discovery & Journey Conclusion
Final Shore Excursion
Morning visit to Three Gorges Dam project. Transfer to Yichang's Three Gorges Tourist Center concluding your itinerary. Taxi to Yichang Sanxia Airport (CNY60, 50 minutes) for onward travel.