Ya'an

Introduction

Nestled in the western reaches of Sichuan province just below the Tibetan Plateau, you will find a landscape shaped by its high-altitude geography. The city serves as a regional hub where academic life and local culture intersect.

You can explore the area's educational landscape, which includes the Sichuan Agricultural University, a prominent institution within the region.

Before you go

Prepare for your journey to this mountainous region on the western edge of the Sichuan Basin. You will find a location steeped in history, with human activity dating back to the Paleolithic period and the significant Fulin Culture site. Positioned at a major highway junction between Sichuan and Tibet as well as Sichuan and Yunnan, the city served as a capital for Xikang Province and acted as a gateway to the ancient Southern Silk Road.

You should pack for a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by abundant rainfall. Be prepared for heavy rainfall, which is a defining feature of the local weather throughout the year.

Getting there

You can reach the city via fast buses departing from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen bus station throughout the day. Be mindful that while your ticket specifies Ya'an, you may be directed toward a bus heading for Bifengxia Nature Park. If you choose to bypass the park, the driver will drop you at the first intersection inside Ya'an, where you can flag down a minivan bound for Shangli or take a taxi to the Wangyu minivan depot.

Getting around

You can navigate the urban areas by taking one of the many bus routes available, where drivers stop at every designated location to pick up and drop off passengers. For a faster way to reach your destination, various forms of taxis ply the streets.

If you prefer to travel by bike, communal shared bikes are available throughout the city. You can access these by scanning a code using WeChat.

Where to stay

Depending on your preference for atmosphere and location, you can find a variety of accommodations throughout the city. For those seeking local charm, a family-run establishment near the museum offers basic amenities like WiFi. If you prefer a more curated experience, some properties feature unique cultural focuses, such as a hotel decorated with antiquities that highlights regional tea culture through a dedicated tea house and promenade. For a peaceful retreat, a Zen-themed stay on the quiet side of town provides rooms with balconies to connect with nature.

For those prioritizing convenience or specific aesthetics, several options are available:

• A European-decorated hotel offers a pleasant ambiance and complimentary breakfast.
• Modern facilities can be found in hotels featuring wood accents and minimalist designs, including some situated on a bridge over the Qingyi River with river views.
• If you need to stay near transit hubs, a detached hotel located close to the high-speed train and bus station provides easy access for travelers arriving by rail.
• For a more secluded experience, a large courtyard property set on several acres of land features a fish pond, vegetable garden, and wood-decorated interiors.
• Other options include riverside properties with views of the water or hotels in central locations convenient for shopping.

Food & drink

Savor a diverse range of local flavors that highlight regional specialties. You can enjoy traditional Sichuan hot pot prepared with eagle tea, or opt for hearty bowls of tart noodles featuring unique textures and savory fillings like braised beef or spicy chicken. For those seeking seafood, several establishments specialize in fish dishes, including casserole fish soup made with traditional simmering methods and fresh, tender varieties served in clay pots. Other local favorites include yak meat grilled on an iron plate, assorted kebabs, and authentic dumplings. If you prefer a quick bite, try the crunchy soy beans paired with large slices of garlic or a sweet and soft egg baked cake.

Relax with a variety of beverages across different settings:

• Visit a teahouse in a beautiful setting to slow down and experience the city atmosphere.
• Find a comfortable spot for tea when chatting with friends.
• Experience a unique atmosphere in a camping-themed tavern featuring tent-style seating.
• Enjoy coffee at a hillside location surrounded by mountains, rivers, and tea fields.
• Visit a bar with a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks.
• Cool off with handmade ice noodles or iced bean curd at a popular local shop.

What to see and do

Explore the diverse landscapes surrounding Ya'an, where you can experience high-altitude scenery and lush nature. Visit Menghuo Castle to wander through expansive alpine ecological meadows filled with free-range cattle and sheep, or head to ShenMuLei to see snow-capped mountains and a Sequoia Forest. For dramatic vistas, Dawagengza offers a renowned viewing platform for seas of clouds and sunrise views, while Mountain Jiaoding provides a high-altitude vantage point to view the Gongga Snow Mountain. If you prefer dense greenery, Longcanggou Forest Park offers a vast virgin forest with high foliage coverage, or visit Bifeng Gorge to see local wildlife and giant pandas in their natural habitat.

Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting several historic towns featuring traditional architecture and unique atmospheres:

• ShangLi old town, known for its "well" type streets and wooden houses.
• Qingxi Ancient Town, a famous historical site known as the "Hometown of Jasmine."
• Xintian Ancient Town, characterized by blue-tiled huts and traditional inns.
• Wangyu Ancient Town, located along the upper reaches of the Zhougong River.

When to go

You can expect a subtropical monsoon climate when visiting the region. During the summer months, you should prepare for the rainy season, which brings heavy rainfall and frequently wet conditions that may limit your visibility.

Three days in Ya'an

Day one, you can explore the area and experience the local culture. You can find a sense of zen as you relax and savor the surroundings.

Day two, you can visit Bifengxia Nature Park to enjoy the scenery. You can also explore other nearby locations to see more of the region.

Day three, you can spend your time in the city center. You can find a place to relax and experience the local atmosphere before your departure.