Two hours by high-speed train｜No one believes I haven’t been to Jiangnan! The gentle ancient towns and landscapes of western Sichuan make it hard to leave

No need to rush to Jiangsu or Zhejiang. This route around Chengdu has streams, ancient dams, and blue-tiled mansions, creating an immersive atmosphere. Trip highlights 📍 Dujiangyan 🌊 The Yuzui water diversion dam winds the river, with green trees on both banks. The water’s reflection resembles Jiangnan scenery. The evening breeze at Nanqiao is cool. The blue firefly night scene is atmospheric. The ancient city of Guanxian spreads along the river with cobblestone streets. Yangtianwo Square has gentle paths. You can wade in the shallow creek. The route has few steep slopes, making it easy to push strollers. Qingcheng Mountain 🍃 Qingcheng is known for its tranquility. The whole forest is lush and green, with especially comfortable summer temperatures. Take a boat on Moon City Lake in the front mountain. Temples and ancient buildings stand by the water. Moss grows beside the stone steps. In the back mountain, Wulonggou Creek flows gently. The emerald lake hides in the valley. The wooden boardwalk is flat, and the shade fully blocks the sun. Anren Ancient Town 🎞️ A lesser-known group of Republican-era mansions in western Sichuan. Blue tiles and white walls pair with carved Western-style windows. It’s quiet and uncrowded. Vintage trams run through the old streets. Every photo looks like a scene from the Republican era. The main street is free to stroll with no ticket pressure. The Liu family mansion has a deep courtyard. Old banyan trees provide shade. Tea houses by the water invite you to sit, relax, and daydream. Three-day relaxed itinerary Day 1 Dujiangyan: Explore the water conservancy site during the day. Enjoy the breeze and night view at Nanqiao in the evening Day 2 Qingcheng Mountain: Light hiking and water play in the back mountain. Cool off in the forest. Take the cable car down in the afternoon to save energy Day 3 Anren Ancient Town: Leisurely stroll the old streets and check out the vintage tram. Return slowly in the afternoon Authentic affordable food 🍜 Dujiangyan: scallion rolls, You rabbit head, ice jelly Qingcheng Mountain: ginkgo stewed chicken, cured bacon, tofu pudding Anren Ancient Town: spicy duck blood, Tangchang tofu, yellow rice cake Travel tips 💡 Intercity high-speed trains reach the scenic area in 30 minutes. Overall commute is within 2 hours, making travel convenient. There is a big temperature difference between day and night by the mountains and rivers. Bring a light jacket. Afternoon showers are common, so prepare rain gear. The stone steps on Qingcheng Mountain are damp. Wear non-slip flat shoes. Watch children carefully near the creek areas. Only one in-depth visit is planned per day. Take breaks at tea houses or restaurants at noon. Avoid rushing or overexerting. Do not enter private mansions in the ancient town without permission. Protect the forest and plants. Do not litter in the river.