Qionglai Small Mill

Introducing Qionglai Small Mill

Located within the Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area, Xiaomofang is a place name within the area and also serves as the name of a sightseeing bus stop. Hailed by tourists as one of the most beautiful sights in Tiantai Mountain, it's a prime spot for river tracing. Compared to the canyons of Guangdong and Guangxi, the water here originates from the snow-capped mountains, making Xiaomofang a unique destination for summer water play.

The entire Tiantai Mountain Scenic Area has a mild climate, abundant rainfall, an average annual temperature of 16°C, a forest coverage rate of 94.4%, and a rich variety of flora and fauna. There are more than 20 rare plants under national protection, such as Davidia involucrata, Taxus chinensis, and Ginkgo biloba, and 7 rare animals under national protection, such as the giant panda, red-bellied tragopan, and giant salamander. Currently, Tiantai Mountain has been included in the scope of the Sichuan Giant Panda Habitat World Natural Heritage.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Best time to visit in summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours

Tickets

Included in the Tiantai Mountain ticket: 58 yuan, sightseeing bus 45 yuan

Attraction opening hours

07:00-19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Qionglai Small Mill

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

Qionglai Small Mill is part of the region’s rich agricultural history, representing the traditional milling and farming practices that have sustained local communities for centuries. It’s a unique glimpse into the rural heritage of Sichuan and its food culture.

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

Qionglai Small Mill is located in the Qionglai district, just outside Chengdu, Sichuan.

• By taxi or private car: It's about a 1.5-hour drive from Chengdu city center.
• By bus: Public buses from Chengdu station go to Qionglai, from which a short taxi ride will take you to the mill.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Qionglai Small Mill is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (March to May, September to November) when the weather is mild, and the surrounding fields are lush.

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

The entrance fee is typically around ¥30–¥50 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the mill, but it’s also advisable to check if online booking is available, especially during busy seasons.

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

While advance booking is not required, it is recommended during peak travel seasons (especially during Chinese New Year and National Holidays) to ensure availability and avoid long waits.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can spend about 1 to 2 hours exploring Qionglai Small Mill, depending on how much time you spend learning about the milling process and enjoying the surrounding scenery.

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

Must-see highlights include:

• The traditional water mill, where you can see the milling process in action.
• The agricultural exhibits showcasing old farming tools and techniques.
• The local market for a taste of authentic Sichuan produce and artisanal products.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. If you need an English-speaking guide, it’s best to check in advance or bring a translator app. Audio guides may not be available, so it’s recommended to explore with a guide for better understanding.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best photography spots include:

• The water mill in action, with the surrounding countryside in the background.
• The local market, bustling with vendors and colorful goods.
• Scenic views of the rural farmland and rolling hills surrounding the mill.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the traditional milling area to see how grains are ground. Then, take a walk through the local market, followed by a short tour of the agricultural exhibits. End your visit with some time to relax and enjoy the peaceful countryside views.

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

Night visits or special light shows are not available at Qionglai Small Mill, as it is primarily a daytime agricultural and historical attraction. However, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere in the evening if staying nearby.

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

The mill can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays during the morning or early afternoon on non-holiday seasons.

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

The mill has basic facilities including:

• Toilets and rest areas for visitors.
• A small local café offering Sichuan snacks and drinks.
• Shops selling souvenirs and local produce like tea, spices, and handcrafted items.

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

Yes, Qionglai Small Mill is generally accessible for elderly and children, with wheelchair access to most areas. However, some parts of the site, such as the milling area, may have uneven terrain, so it’s best to confirm accessibility needs in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the mill, although it’s recommended to carry some cash, especially if visiting the local market or small vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the mill, there is a small café offering local snacks. Nearby, you can find a few local eateries offering Sichuan hotpot, noodles, and dumplings.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan options at the local café, such as vegetable-based dishes and noodles. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in nearby Chengdu restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

For accommodations near Qionglai Small Mill, you can find local guesthouses or hotels in Qionglai town or Chengdu, such as:

• Qionglai Hotel
• Sichuan Jinjiang Hotel (in Chengdu, about 1-1.5 hours away)

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

Nearby attractions include:

• Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for Taoist temples and hiking trails.
• Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient water management system in Chengdu.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, tea, spices, and traditional Sichuan items. Common souvenirs include handmade pottery, embroidered goods, and bamboo products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip after visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Chengdu, or use public transportation to visit nearby attractions like Mount Qingcheng or Dujiangyan Irrigation System.