I just got back from Xichang, and I'm still buzzing from the trip!

Hey everyone 👋, I'm that travel enthusiast who's always on the lookout for hidden gem destinations 😎. I recently visited Xichang, taking advantage of the beautiful April weather, and it felt like stepping into a sun-drenched, enchanting paradise. I'm here to share my super detailed travel guide with you all. 📍Xichang, located in southwestern Sichuan, is a captivating "city where spring dwells" 👏! Here, you'll find Qionghai Lake, shimmering like a sapphire, its waters complementing the surrounding wetlands and mountains. Then there's the majestic Luoji Mountain, home to ancient glaciers and high-altitude lakes. Xichang is also a significant birthplace of Yi culture, where the vibrant Torch Festival and colorful Yi costumes showcase the unique ethnic charm. It's a dreamlike place where nature and culture intertwine. 🚗【Transportation Guide】 ✈️If you're flying, you'll land at Xichang Qingshan Airport. While not a large airport, it offers quite a few routes. After landing, you can take a bus, airport shuttle, or a taxi to the city center. Taxis are the quickest and most convenient option, whisking you away to start your adventure. 🚌From Chengdu, you can take a high-speed train or a long-distance bus to Xichang. High-speed rail is faster and offers scenic views along the way. Long-distance buses are more frequent and offer greater flexibility, but the journey is longer, so pack some snacks. Public transportation within the city is mainly by bus, with some scenic spots having dedicated tourist buses. You can pay using Alipay or WeChat's transit QR code. If you plan to visit slightly further destinations like Qionghai Lake or Luoji Mountain, renting a car is a great option, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and stop for photos whenever you like. 🗺【Recommended Itinerary】 Day 1: Qionghai Lake - Moonlit Town - Qionghai Wetland Head to Qionghai Lake in the morning. The crystal-clear water and gentle breeze will instantly lift your spirits 😃. Stroll along the lakeshore, admire the scenery, and explore the charming Moonlit Town. For lunch, savor Xichang's Huopen barbecue—sizzling pork belly, tender intestines, and unique dipping sauces. It's incredibly delicious 😋. In the afternoon, visit the Qionghai Wetland, a place with a rich ecosystem and diverse wetland landscapes. Watch the birds soar and capture countless photos 📷. Day 2: Luoji Mountain - Yi Village In the morning, journey to Luoji Mountain. Take the cable car up, ascending through the clouds as if entering a fairyland. The mountain's glacial lakes and primeval forests are breathtaking, especially Heilongtan (Black Dragon Pool), a deep, dark lake resembling a giant piece of black jade. Enjoy Tuotuo meat for lunch on the mountain—large chunks of boiled pork, tender and flavorful, a true taste of Yi cuisine. In the afternoon, visit an Yi village to experience their folk culture, watch Yi song and dance performances, and feel their passionate spirit. Day 3: Jianchang Ancient City - Departure Visit Jianchang Ancient City during the day. Wander along the ancient city's cobblestone streets, touch the old city walls, and feel the passage of time. The ancient city has many unique shops where you can find interesting souvenirs. Have a bowl of rice noodles for lunch—smooth, chewy, and flavorful. In the afternoon, pack your bags and head home with wonderful memories. 🌟【5 Must-Visit Attractions】 📍Qionghai Lake: The second largest freshwater lake in Sichuan, with azure waters and rich surrounding wetlands, it's a perfect place for leisure and vacation. 📍Luoji Mountain: Home to wonders like the "Ninety-Nine Mile Hot Spring Waterfall," high-altitude lakes, and glacial scenery, the natural beauty is stunning. 📍Moonlit Town: A romantic town by Qionghai Lake, with unique architecture and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for strolling and unwinding. 📍Yi Village: Immerse yourself in Yi culture, experience unique folk customs, and participate in the vibrant Torch Festival. 📍Jianchang Ancient City: Rich in history, the ancient city is full of charm. Explore Xichang's past and feel the weight of time. 📌【Practical Tips】 🎫Book tickets online in advance for discounts. Some areas, like certain parts of Qionghai Wetland, are free. 👗The weather in Xichang warms up in April, but it can be cool in the mornings and evenings. Bring a light jacket. For Luoji Mountain, wear warm clothes and non-slip shoes, and don't forget sunscreen. 📸The lighting is perfect for photos at Qionghai Lake in the early morning and Luoji Mountain in the late afternoon. Remember to bring a portable charger. 🍜【Local Food Recommendations】 🥘Xichang Huopen Barbecue: Unique and flavorful, ingredients are grilled over a fire pit. The pork belly is rich but not greasy, the intestines are crispy, and the dipping sauces are diverse. 🍜Tuotuo Meat: A traditional Yi dish, large chunks of pork are boiled until tender, retaining their original flavor. It's a hearty and satisfying meal. 🥣Drunken Shrimp: Fresh shrimp marinated in wine, tender and with a hint of wine aroma, it's a unique delicacy. 🐟Qionghai Grilled Fish: Made with fish from Qionghai Lake, grilled until golden brown and tender, seasoned with local spices. 🥔Buckwheat Pancake: Made with buckwheat flour, it has a firm texture and a slightly bitter taste, often served with honey. It's nutritious and delicious. 🏨【Hotel Accommodation】 📍Qionghai Lake Area: Xichang Qionghai Hotel, located by the lake, offers beautiful surroundings, rooms with lake views, and complete facilities, perfect for a relaxing vacation. 📍Near Luoji Mountain: Xichang Luoji Mountain Hot Spring Resort, close to the scenic area, allows you to unwind in hot springs after a day of exploring. It has comprehensive facilities. 📍City Center: Xichang Meili Sunshine International Hotel, located in the city center, offers convenient transportation, nearby dining and shopping options, and complete facilities for a comfortable and convenient stay. 💖【Travel Experience】 My three days in Xichang felt like a journey into a picturesque world. The gentle beauty of Qionghai Lake, the majestic Luoji Mountain, the warmth of the Yi villages, and the delicious food all captivated me. Xichang is like a melodious folk song, each note filled with beauty. Don't miss this hidden gem, my friends. Come and start your Xichang adventure 💕.