"5 Days & 4 Nights in Western Sichuan: Chengdu → Honghaizi → Yuzixi → Xinduqiao Loop"

Here’s a detailed guide for Day 1 (Chengdu → Honghaizi → Yuzixi → Xinduqiao) of this 5-day Western Sichuan loop trip: 🚗 Itinerary Overview - Route: Chengdu → Honghaizi → Yuzixi → Xinduqiao - Distance: ~350 km, ~6-7 hours driving (including sightseeing) - Altitude: Chengdu (500m) → Honghaizi (4200m) → Yuzixi (4200m) → Xinduqiao (3300m) 🌄 Detailed Schedule 1. Depart from Chengdu (recommended 7:00-8:00) - Take the Yakang Expressway to Kangding, passing through Erlangshan Tunnel and Dadu River Bridge, enjoying the plateau scenery. - Breakfast tip: Try local beef noodles or wontons in Chengdu for energy. 2. Honghaizi (arrive around noon) - Duration: 1-1.5 hours - Highlights: - Pristine alpine lake with turquoise waters and stunning snow-capped mountain reflections (Mt. Yala, Bijia Mountain). - Photo spots: Lakeside swing and prayer flags 📸. - Fee: 10-20 CNY cleaning fee (collected by locals). - Tips: - High altitude (4200m)—avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. - Pack windproof jackets, sunglasses, and sunscreen for changeable weather. 3. Yuzixi (head there in the afternoon, arrive 2 hours before sunset) - Duration: 2-3 hours (arrive by 16:00) - Highlights: - 360° panoramic view of Gongga Snow Mountain and Yala Snow Mountain at golden hour. - New 2025 attractions: Cliff swing and starlight lighthouse. - Transport: - Self-drive: Navigate to "Yuzixi Stargazing Camp"—some gravel roads; drive carefully in sedans. - Tours/private cars may require a local shuttle (60 CNY/person). - Fee: 20-30 CNY cleaning fee (unofficial). - Tips: - Sunset around 18:30-19:30 (summer)—arrive early for photography. - Cold and windy—wear down jackets/thermal gear, hats, and gloves. 4. Overnight in Xinduqiao - Accommodation: - Gongga Zong Manor Hotel (mountain-view rooms, ~688 CNY/night). - Baiyunjian Homestay (budget-friendly for students). - Dinner picks: - Shouzu Shantang: Tibetan fragrant pork and cheese pancakes (~60 CNY/person). - Yak meat hotpot: Warms you up and combats altitude sickness. ⚠️ Notes ✅ Altitude sickness: - Avoid showers/extreme activity on Day 1. - Bring oxygen cans, Rhodiola (take 1 week prior), and glucose oral solution. ✅ Driving safety: - Provincial Road 434 has better conditions than Zheduo Mountain route. - Download offline maps—some areas have no signal. ✅ Outfit tips: - Daytime: Windbreaker + fleece + sun hat. - Nighttime: Light down jacket/thick coat (large temperature drops). ✅ Photography gear: - Tripod (for stars/sunset), drone (check flight restrictions). 🍽️ Food Recs - Honghaizi/Yuzixi: Pack snacks (self-heating meals, energy bars). - Xinduqiao: - Tibetan yogurt (tangy and refreshing). - Butter tea (alleviates altitude sickness, warms you up). 📌 Backup Plans - If Yuzixi is closed due to weather/traffic control, try: - Balangshengdu Village (alternative sunset views). - Gedilamu · Sky City (niche viewpoint with lighthouses/swings). Summary: Day 1 is intense but breathtaking—Honghaizi’s serenity and Yuzixi’s sunset are the highlights! Plan wisely, dress warmly, and enjoy Western Sichuan’s beauty~ 🌄