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April 9-11 Shuhe Ancient Town - Lugu Lake, 310 km
Shuhe is tranquil, Lugu Lake is deeply enchanting.On April 9th, I woke up around 7:00 AM and left my hotel around 8:30 AM, embarking on this journey of discovery, filled with longing for Shuhe Ancient Town. The drive took just 20 minutes, and we arrived at the southeast gate parking lot. Not far away, the towering Shuhe Memorial Archway stood quietly beneath the clear blue sky, like a silent and solemn guardian, witnessing the passage of time in the ancient town.
After passing through the archway, we were immersed in the lively and leisurely atmosphere of the ancient town.
The Naxi ancient music at Sifang Tingyin Square has not yet begun.
The ripples of flying flowers touching the water have already brought laughter to the visitors
The bluestone of Qinglong Bridge has withstood the baptism of time
The clear water of Jiuding Dragon Pond reflects the lush green mountains
We admired and felt the tranquility and beauty of nature, as if all our worries had melted away in that moment.
The streets and alleys of the ancient town crisscrossed like a maze, yet full of surprises. Each alleyway was unique. Some were narrow and deep, lined with quaint houses, their wooden doors and windows intricately carved; others were more spacious, lined with shops selling a variety of unique handicrafts, delicacies, and souvenirs. Flowers bloom freely in every corner of the streets and alleys, red like fire, pink like clouds, white like snow, decorating the entire ancient town like a poem and a picture. Small bridges and flowing streams weave through the town, and the gurgling sound of the water adds a touch of agility and vitality to the ancient town, making it feel like being in a paradise, refreshing and relaxing. Before I knew it, the clock had already pointed to 12 o'clock.
With deep reluctance and nostalgia, we departed this enchanting land and drove straight to our next stop, the mysterious and beautiful Lugu Lake.
Lugu Lake was a highlight of our self-drive trip. We chose the Lining Highway, passing the magnificent Lining Eighteen Bays. Standing on the observation deck, overlooking the winding road and the magnificent riverscape, I instantly felt like a travel master exploring the unknown, my heart filled with the joy of conquest and discovery. After stopping and walking along the way, we arrived at the Lugu Lake Tourist Service Center at around 4:00 PM. We bought our tickets and entered the lake. We were told there was a viewing platform at the entrance, but we didn't see the sign and missed it. We checked into the 7 Days Inn near Lugu Wharf, unpacked our bags, and drove straight to the Walking Marriage Bridge and Caohai. The Walking Marriage Bridge is a wooden bridge connecting Lugu Lake to Caohai. Dense reeds grew around the bridge, creating a sea of grass from afar. Strolling leisurely across the bridge, the water ripples beneath your feet, reeds sway around you, white clouds float overhead, and mountains rise in the distance – the natural beauty is so refreshing and captivating that you'll never want to leave.
After parking our car at the hotel around 7 p.m., we immediately headed to the lake to capture the stunning moment as the sun sank behind the mountains and the lake was bathed in a crimson glow. It only takes 3-4 minutes to get there. The sun slowly sets, dyeing the sky into a gorgeous color. The lake is sparkling, and the beauty is breathtaking.
It was not until 9 p.m. that we reluctantly returned to the hotel and enjoyed a piping hot pot meal, bringing a warm end to this fulfilling day.
On the morning of April 10th, we greeted the first rays of sunshine and went to the lakeside to record the beautiful sunrise over Lugu Lake.
At around 8:30, we started our journey around Lugu Lake, visiting Daluoshui, Qingrentan, and Lige Viewing Platform.
When we arrived at Goddess Mountain, we took the cable car up and climbed a rather strenuous staircase. The playful monkeys accompanied us all the way. There is a cave at the top, which is spacious, with many forked paths and caves within caves, like a maze. The stalactites in the cave are of various shapes and forms, which are very shocking.
From the upper viewing platform, overlooking Lugu Lake, the jade-like surface is surrounded by mountains, with the mountains and water reflecting each other, creating a fairyland-like scene. It instantly makes you feel the beauty of nature and a sense of relaxation and joy. Although climbing the stairs is tiring, the scenery and the lively and fearless monkeys make the effort worthwhile. After leaving Gemu Goddess Mountain, continue forward, passing Xiaoluo River and Dazu Viewing Platform, and arrive at Goddess Bay. It's a very beautiful bay with a short shoreline and few tourists. There are many colorful boats in and around the lake, reflecting the water's beauty. We played in the water, took photos, and thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful scenery. 
Every section of the way offers a viewing platform, and from every vantage point, Lugu Lake is breathtakingly beautiful. In the morning mist, it resembles a lost emerald disk; at noon, a mellow waltz of blues and clouds; in twilight, the sunset glow gilds the lake's surface. No matter where you turn, Lugu Lake, in its various forms, will etch its beauty into your eyes. Around 5 p.m., we reluctantly returned to the hotel. At 7 p.m., we had beef noodles, stir-fried mushrooms, and potatoes at a restaurant run by fellow Xunhua residents across the street. Then, we headed to the lake to witness the stunning sunset over Lugu Lake. As we slowly approached Langfang Pier, the scenery before us was like a melodious love song. The colorful boats on the shore, as vibrant as blooming spring flowers, shone enchantingly in the setting sun. The azure waters, like a vast piece of silk, gently enveloped the boats, their cuddles nestled against each other, as if telling a moving story. We sat quietly on a bench on the pier, gazing at the beauty before us. In that moment, time seemed to stand still, leaving only us and the sunset over Lugu Lake, the colorful boats and the contrasting azure waters forming a timeless and heartwarming scene.
At 9 p.m., we returned to the hotel to rest, full of memories and photos.
April 11-12, Lugu Lake to Xichang, 256 km
April 11 At 7:00 AM, we packed our bags, enjoyed breakfast, and set off promptly at 8:00 AM, leaving behind this place that has given us so many wonderful memories. Passing by the Grass Bridge and the Walking Marriage Bridge, the familiar scenery once again made us pause, and we captured this reluctance and longing with aerial photography.
Afterwards, with deep affection for Lugu Lake, we embarked on a new journey to Xichang. The road twisted and turned like a winding dragon, its two lanes weaving between cliffs and deep valleys, with sharp bends and steep slopes. The car was kept at under 60 mph, and the 200-kilometer journey was stretched into a slow six hours. As Yanyuan County passed by the car window, we spotted many apple boxes. After checking the guide at the service area, we discovered that they contained the "ugly apples"—the "King of Southwest Apples." Sadly, we didn't buy any, which became the most painful regret of the trip. We arrived at our reserved hotel, the Hanting Wetland Park Moon Lake, Xichang, around 2:30 PM, checked in. Around 5:00 PM, we took a Didi Express to explore Jianchang Ancient City. Arriving outside the Datong Gate, we were struck by a banyan tree clinging directly to the city wall, its roots entwined and weaving into the cracks between the bricks, creating a breathtaking fusion of tree and city. Climbing up the city wall and looking out from the railing, you can see the crisscrossing streets and alleys and the staggered brick and tile roofs, which paint a quaint picture in the sunlight.
Walking along South Street, you will feel the breath of life: narrow alleys, old shops, and pedestrians coming and going. After visiting the Jiyangxiang Mosque, I walked out of the ancient city and wandered to a restaurant opposite the West Mosque. A bowl of beef in sour soup and a plate of fish-flavored eggplant soothed away the fatigue of the journey.
April 12-13, Xichang-Qingcheng Mountain, 440 kilometers
On April 12, I got up around 7 am, packed my luggage, and left the hotel around 8:30. I originally planned to stroll along the Qionghai Plank Road, but was stopped by the drizzle and turned to Qionghai Park.
The rain has stopped and the clouds have settled. A blue-gray silk is floating on the surface of the lake. Water birds fly over the lake, like turning over a scroll of wet ink. We walked, stopped, and took photos along the lakeside for about two hours, enjoying the diverse scenery of the plank road, stone pillar square, and the Moon's Daughter sculpture. We left Xichang around 11 o'clock after stopping for a while. On the way back, I wanted to stop at a service area, but I mistakenly entered the exit of Hanyuan County. Fruit farmers set up bamboo baskets along the roadside. Freshly picked oranges were still drenched in morning dew, and golden loquats were covered in hoarfrost. I decided to buy some. Accompanied by the sweet aroma of fruit and the mountain breeze, we continued on our way, heading straight for Mount Qingcheng.
A few years ago, we visited Dujiangyan but didn't visit Mount Qingcheng. This trip was a way to make up for that miss! Thanks to advance communication with the front desk, we entered the scenic area smoothly around 5:00 PM and checked into Qingcheng Mountain Villa. Instant noodles, mingled with the rich aroma of bamboo shoots and meat, filled our stomachs. Outside the window, bamboo shadows swayed, and inside, the warm, dim light shone. Dreams filled us with the crisp sweetness of Yanyuan apples and the lingering mist of Qionghai Lake.
April 13th, Qingcheng Mountain - Guanghan City, 86 kilometers
On April 13th, I woke up around 7:30 AM, washed, had breakfast, and packed my luggage. By the time the clock had quietly struck 8:50 AM, I bid farewell to my temporary hotel and, filled with endless yearning for nature and culture, embarked on a journey to explore Qingcheng Mountain.
Mount Qingcheng, a sacred site hailed as one of China's Four Great Taoist Mountains, has long been known as "the most secluded place in the world." Its tranquility and profoundness seem to cleanse the world of dust. A short distance away, the towering gatehouse of "Western Sichuan's First Mountain" comes into view. It serves not only as a geographical landmark but also as a spiritual gateway, guiding every visitor into this wonderland.
Passing through the gatehouse, the outlines of the Qingcheng Mountain Gate and Jianfu Palace gradually become clear. Jianfu Palace, a Taoist temple, boasts magnificent yet elegant halls, lush greenery, and surrounding trees, shading the sky and creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Above the mountain gate, vivid sculptures tell ancient and mysterious stories.
Slowly walking along the winding mountain path, you will soon reach the Rain Pavilion, which feels like a touch of coolness in the mountains, refreshing and invigorating.
Going deeper, Yuecheng Lake emerges like a emerald green pearl set amidst the mountains. Boats drift leisurely across the lake, reminiscent of a moving ink painting, evoking the beautiful scene of "a boat sailing on the blue waves, a person swimming within a painting."
We chose to take a cable car. Beneath the cable car, the words "Zhangrenquan" are engraved on stone, bearing witness to the passage of time.
Not far from the cable car terminal, Ciyun Pavilion stands quietly. We pass through its ancient gate and continue our mountaineering journey.
Soon, Shangqing Palace came into view. On the stone wall in front of it, the two characters "Tao" and "De" are vigorous and powerful, guiding the light of Taoist wisdom. Ascending the mountain path, beyond the Great Red Palace, Laojun Pavilion looms large. Standing atop Qingcheng's first peak, this six-story tower, round at the base and octagonal at the top, exudes a majestic presence. Standing atop Laojun Pavilion, with its panoramic views of lush greenery, one feels a sense of spiritual cleansing and refinement. On the way down the mountain, a sign that read “Cliff Carvings” caught our eye. Following the sign, we came across the words “Fifth Famous Mountain in the World” engraved on the cliff not far away. The heavy sense of history washed over us.
Ahead, the Sun Viewing Pavilion awaits travelers who wish to capture the beauty of the sunrise.
Returning along the original route, the most precipitous Nine Turns in Qingcheng Mountain is like a natural test. The almost vertical stone steps test the will and courage of every hiker.
Passing by Chaoyang Cave, although it was just a quick glance, I could feel the tranquility and peace that came from nature;
The Pen Throwing Trough, with its steepness, inspires awe.
Continuing down, Tianshi Cave came into view. This is the filming location of the 1982 version of "Journey to the West." With reverence for the classic, I carefully searched for every angle similar to the drama, trying to relive those warm memories 40 years ago.
Afterwards, passing the "Five Caves" archway and Shanyin Pavilion, we finally completed our exploration of Qingcheng Mountain and returned to the hotel around 1:30 PM. At around 2 p.m., we set off again, heading towards Guanghan. We checked into the Guanghan Hotel around 3:30 p.m. and visited the nearby Fanghu Park around 6:30 p.m.
The first thing that catches your eye is an elegant ancient city tower, with the gilded characters "Luocheng" inscribed on it. Passing through the city gate and into the park, you'll slowly walk along the stone path, flanked by pavilions and towers, some hidden among the trees, some half-exposed above the water. Continuing on, a shimmering, emerald lake unfolds before your eyes, framed by plank roads and shallow bridges. The park also features cultural attractions such as the Wenfeng Pagoda, Lingxing Gate, and the Hanzi Library Pagoda, as well as the city wall. Elderly people sit around a table in the park, playing chess, chatting, or dancing. Their relaxed and comfortable atmosphere is the unique charm of this city. We strolled through the gardens, each one imbued with the allure of a classical garden. Before we knew it, the lights were already on, and we had no choice but to return to our hotel.
April 14th, Sanxingdui Museum - Longnan, 400km
On April 14th, after breakfast, we left the hotel around 8:30 AM and arrived at the Sanxingdui Museum before 9 AM. The exhibition halls were packed with visitors. We toured the first and second exhibition halls on the first floor, then the third exhibition hall on the second floor. The bronze sacred tree towers into the clouds, seemingly reaching the sky and the earth;
The bronze sacred tree towers into the clouds, seemingly reaching the sky and the earth;
The vertical-eyed mask has bulging eyes, smiling at the vicissitudes of a thousand years;
The golden staff and jade halberd exude the mysterious luster of ancient civilization, telling of the glorious past;
The purpose of the bronze climbing dragon lid and the bronze sun-shaped vessel remains a mystery, sparking endless speculation.
The large bronze standing figure, with its unparalleled casting process, showcases the extraordinary skills of ancient craftsmen and is truly breathtaking.
In the Sanxingdui Museum, every artifact is a dialogue across time and space; the light and shadow of every artifact are filled with echoes of history; every artifact is a storyteller; every artifact makes one's heart beat; every artifact makes people puzzle.
It wasn't until 12:30 p.m. that we finally wrapped up this visual and spiritual feast, still wanting more. After buying a few souvenirs, we drove straight to Longnan. Around 6:30 p.m., we checked into the Longnan Hotel. As dusk fell and the lights came on, we strolled to the snack street, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Longnan. After enjoying stir-fried vegetables and rice at Husai Fried Meat Restaurant, we returned to the hotel to rest.
April 15th, Return Trip, Longnan to Linxia, 435 kilometers
On April 15th, we left the Longnan Hotel around 7:30 AM, bidding farewell to Longnan and embarking on our return journey. We sped along, arriving at Sanjiaji at 12:10 PM. We savored the delicious hand-pulled lamb and riverside noodles, bringing our journey to a perfect culinary conclusion. At 2:00 PM, we finally arrived back home, bringing our Yunnan road trip to a successful conclusion, filled with exploration, discovery, laughter, and emotion.
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