Yingxiu Town

What are the most recommended things to do in Yingxiu Town?

In Yingxiu Town, visitors can enjoy the following activities:

Visit the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial to learn about the 2008 earthquake and its impact on the region.
Explore the traditional Tibetan architecture and culture of the town.
Hike in the nearby mountains for scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Take part in local festivals and cultural events, especially those celebrating Tibetan traditions.
Visit the Sichuan-Tibet Railway Construction Memorial to understand the region's infrastructure development.

Introducing Yingxiu Town

Yingxiu Town, located south of Wenchuan County, Sichuan, borders the Wolong Nature Reserve and serves as the gateway to Aba County. It's a must-stop for travelers heading to Jiuzhaigou, Wolong, and Mount Siguniang. The town is home to a mix of Han, Tibetan, Qiang, and Hui ethnic minorities, all of whom collaborate to develop the local economy.

Yingxiu Town is rich in water resources, with good water quality and a large drop in elevation. It has successively built hydropower stations such as Yingxiu Bay Power Plant, Huaneng Taipingyi Power Plant, and Futang Hydropower Plant, and is known as the "Hometown of Hydropower".

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Yingxiu Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Yingxiu Town, located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is historically significant due to its cultural heritage and its role during the 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake. The town has rebuilt itself with resilience, and visitors can learn about both its natural beauty and its community's strength.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Yingxiu Town is located in Sichuan, within the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Visitors can reach the town by bus from Chengdu (around a 2-3 hour drive) or by taxi. There is no metro service in the town, but buses are the most common form of transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Yingxiu Town is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no specific entrance fee for visiting Yingxiu Town itself, but some attractions like the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial or other sites may charge a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most attractions in Yingxiu, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or for special tours. Booking a few days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring Yingxiu Town and its surrounding attractions typically takes a full day. If you plan to hike in the mountains or visit multiple sites, you may want to allocate an additional half-day or more.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The key highlights include:

The Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial and museum.
The traditional Tibetan-style architecture in the town.
The scenic mountain views surrounding the town.
The Sichuan-Tibet Railway Construction Memorial.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, particularly for the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial. English-speaking guides can be found, though availability may be limited. Audio guides are typically available in Mandarin and Tibetan.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Some of the best spots for photography in Yingxiu include the view from the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial, the surrounding mountains, and traditional Tibetan houses with the backdrop of the natural scenery.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the Wenchuan Earthquake Memorial, then explore the town's Tibetan architecture. Afterward, hike to a nearby mountain viewpoint for scenic photos. End your day with a visit to the Sichuan-Tibet Railway Construction Memorial.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available in Yingxiu Town, but the area is peaceful and tranquil, making it ideal for quiet evening walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Yingxiu Town is not generally crowded, but it can become busy during Chinese public holidays and the summer months. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays and during the off-season (winter months).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities in Yingxiu Town include public toilets, local eateries offering Tibetan cuisine, shops selling local goods, and rest areas for travelers.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The town is generally accessible, but some areas, especially hiking trails, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is suitable for children, especially those interested in nature and culture.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, though mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in most parts of town. Carrying some cash as backup is recommended, especially in rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local Tibetan restaurants and small cafes are available in and around Yingxiu Town, offering traditional dishes such as momo (dumplings), yak meat, and Tibetan tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan restaurants. Halal food options may be found in Chengdu, but they are not as common in Yingxiu.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Yingxiu Town, catering to visitors who wish to stay overnight. For more luxurious options, travelers can stay in nearby Chengdu and visit the town on a day trip.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Shrine, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, and the Sichuan-Tibet Railway Museum. These can be combined in a day trip from Chengdu.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops in Yingxiu Town, selling Tibetan handicrafts, local textiles, prayer beads, and small trinkets related to the 2008 earthquake.