5 must-visit places for self-driving in Ya'an

Ya'an is a famous tourist city with 4A-level scenic spots. We recommend some self-driving attractions that are close to Ya'an and have a good reputation, such as Ya'an Lane Bridge, Niubeishan, Bifengxia, Mengdingshan, and Shangli Ancient Town. There are not many worthwhile attractions along the way from Chengdu to Ya'an. The recommended attractions in Ya'an are mostly located in the surrounding areas and not far from the city center of Ya'an. Travelers with time can arrange their visits to the attractions based on their own itineraries and preferences.

Yazhou Covered Bridge (Ya'an Covered Bridge)

Also known as Yazhou Covered Bridge, it is named after the ancient name of Ya'an, Yazhou. It is currently the longest and largest covered bridge in China and a landmark building in Ya'an city. The Yazhou Covered Bridge is located in the center of the old city group of Ya'an, spanning both sides of the Qingyi River, and is an important node of the city's landscape. The bridge is 22 meters wide and 240 meters long, with a two-story structure and a partial three-story ancient-style architecture. After completion, the ground floor not only meets pedestrian traffic needs but also provides a considerable commercial area. The second and third floors offer multifunctional business spaces for restaurants, tea houses, exhibitions, displays, and open-air viewing. The total usable area of the Yazhou Covered Bridge is 9028 square meters. It can be used for dining, tea houses, and other commercial purposes, with complete water, electricity, and gas infrastructure. The Yazhou Covered Bridge will feature city construction exhibition halls, water and electricity exhibition halls, historical and cultural exhibition halls, and tourism exhibition halls, fully showcasing the local customs and culture of Ya'an.

Niubei Mountain

Niubei Mountain is about 150 kilometers away from Ya'an. From Ya'an to Luding, take the route from Ganguyi to Lengqi Town, and then from Lengqi Town to Niubei Mountain. The best seasons to visit Niubei Mountain are April, May, September, and October. Although you may occasionally encounter wind, snow, rain, or hail, the breathtaking scenery will not disappoint you. Here, you can enjoy stunning views of snow-capped mountains, seas of clouds, sunrises, sunsets, golden mountains, Buddha's light, starry skies, and seas of flowers. The mountain roads are rugged, and the scenery is absolutely beautiful. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or a photography aficionado, this route is considered a top-tier travel and photography journey. The majestic snow-capped mountains, seas of clouds, and Buddha's light will unfold before your eyes. Such unparalleled scenery can only be truly appreciated in person. It is the perfect place to shoot landscape photos, almost without the need for Photoshop or filters. Just press the shutter, and a magnificent landscape photo is completed.

Bifeng Gorge

Altitude: 700-1971 meters. Recommended visit duration: 2 days. Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn. Best time of day: Early morning. Accommodation prices: Tents, Inns. Transportation: Self-driving, Hiking, Chartered car. Scenic features: Bifeng Gorge is densely forested with numerous waterfalls, making it an ideal place for summer vacation and a panda base. Bifeng Gorge is about 14 kilometers from Ya'an, approximately a 30-minute drive.

Mengding Mountain Town

The birthplace of world tea culture, with ancient ginkgo trees over 2200 years old. Mengding Mountain is 15 kilometers away from Ya'an. The main activity in Mengding Mountain is hiking, which takes about 40 minutes to reach Tiangai Temple. It is a good way to exercise and rejuvenate. Mengding Mountain is the birthplace of world tea culture, and you must try a cup of tea at Tiangai Temple. Under the ancient ginkgo trees, chatting and drinking tea is a unique pleasure. Visitors interested in history can visit the Red Army Memorial Hall.
Shangli Ancient Town is located in Yucheng District, Ya'an City. The town is nestled by the mountains and rivers, where visitors can admire many stilt-style buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties that have been preserved to this day. The ancient town is not large, so you can slow down and savor its charm. While strolling through the town, you can experience the '井' (well) layout, which symbolizes 'water in the well' to prevent fire hazards. The town is surrounded by flowing water, facing fields and small hills, and is complemented by ancient trees, bamboo groves, streams, and ancient bridges, creating a picturesque rural landscape. It is an ideal place for photography.