Recommendation of 5 famous tourist attractions for self-driving in Ya'an

Ya'an is a famous tourist city with four 4A-level scenic spots. We recommend some self-driving attractions that are relatively close to Ya'an and have a good reputation, including Ya'an Langqiao, Niubeishan, Bifengxia, Mengdingshan, and Shangli Ancient Town. The recommended Ya'an attractions along the way from Chengdu to Ya'an are mostly located in the vicinity of Ya'an and not too far from the city center. Friends with time can arrange and visit these attractions based on their own itinerary and preferences.

Also known as the Yazu Langqiao, it is named after the ancient city of Yazu and is currently the longest and largest corridor bridge in China. It is a iconic architectural landmark in Yazu. Located in the center of the old city cluster in Yazu, the Yazu Langqiao spans across both sides of the Qingyi River and serves as an important focal point of the urban landscape. The Yazu Langqiao will feature exhibition halls showcasing the city's urban development, hydropower, history and culture, and tourism, providing a comprehensive display of the local customs and culture in Yazu.

Niu Beishan

Niubeishan is about 150 kilometers away from Ya'an. From Ya'an to Luding, go through Ganggu Valley to Lengqi Town, and then from Lengqi Town to Niubeishan. The best seasons to appreciate the scenery at Niubeishan are April, May, September, and October. Despite occasional snow, rain, and hail, the extraordinary beauty of the landscape will never let you down. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of snowy mountains, sea of clouds, sunrise, sunset, golden mountains, Buddhist light, starry sky, and flower fields. The mountain road is rugged and the scenery is stunning. Whether you are a hiking enthusiast or a photography enthusiast, this route can be considered a top-level photography journey. Magnificent snowy mountains, sea of clouds, and Buddhist light will be presented before your eyes. Only by experiencing it in person can you truly feel the unparalleled beauty of this scenery. It is perfect for capturing magnificent landscapes here, as there is almost no need for post-processing or filters. Just press the shutter button, and you will have completed a magnificent landscape photo.

Bifengxia

Elevation: 700-1971 meters Duration: 2 days Best seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn Best time: Early morning Accommodation price: Tents, guesthouses Transportation: Self-driving, hiking, chartering Features: Lush forest, numerous waterfalls, a good place for summer retreat and vacation.

Mount Mengding Scenic Area

The birthplace of world tea culture, with over 2200 years old ancient ginkgo tree, Mount Mengding is located 15 kilometers away from Ya'an. The main activity in Mount Mengding is climbing, reaching Tian Gai Temple takes about 40 minutes, which can exercise the body and cultivate the mind. Mount Mengding is the birthplace of world tea culture, so you must try a cup of tea at Tian Gai Temple. It is enjoyable to chat and drink tea under the thousand-year-old ginkgo tree. Tourists interested in history can visit the Red Army Memorial Hall.
Shangli Ancient Town is located in Yucheng District, Ya'an City. The town is surrounded by mountains and water, and tourists can enjoy many Ming and Qing style hanging houses. The ancient town is not large, and visitors can slow down and savor the charm of the ancient town. While strolling through the town, one can feel the layout of the town's "well" (which means to prevent fire hazards with the water in the well). The town is surrounded by flowing water, facing fields and small hills, and surrounded by ancient trees, bamboo, streams, and ancient bridges. It is like a pastoral landscape painting, making it a perfect place to take pictures.