Little Switzerland of Western Sichuan: The Ultimate Guide to Bipenggou’s Winter “Double Wonders” of Scenery and Snow
Skip the Northeast and head straight to Western Sichuan! The complete winter guide to Bipenggou’s “Double Wonders” of scenery and snow
Snow-capped mountains and ice waterfalls awaken in the morning light, the roar of snowmobiles doesn’t disturb the tranquil frost in the forest, and in the evening, dive into a Tibetan-style hot spring to watch steam and snowflakes dance together—this is what winter in the south should feel like.
Winter days on the Chengdu Plain are often gray, but just a two-hour drive west and the rising altitude quickly transports you to a completely different world. The view outside the window changes from plains to deep valleys until you reach Lixian County, where the snow-covered “Little Switzerland of Western Sichuan,” Bipenggou, appears before your eyes.
Winter here is not monotonous white. It is the sapphire blue ice lake of Longwang Sea, the fiery red on the snow-covered Red Stone Beach, the warm mist rising from the Nam Lake hot springs, and the joyful laughter echoing across the 80,000-square-meter snowfield.
01 The Ice and Snow Trilogy: The Core of Winter Travel in Bipenggou
Bipenggou’s winter charm lies in the perfect blend of “scenery” and “snow,” officially called the “Double Wonders” of scenery and snow. It perfectly balances visual impact and fun experiences, enchanting photographers and snow lovers alike.
Scenery: Hiking trails to collect fragments of a winter wonderland
The classic hiking boardwalks transform into a serene ice and snow gallery in winter. The three main highlights are:
· Longwang Sea Blue Ice: The first stop, the lake often freezes into crystal-clear blue ice reflecting the surrounding snowy mountains and forests, a signature winter scene.
· Panyang Lake Secret Realm: Shrouded in morning mist, the lake and snow mountains look dreamlike. This is also a snow play area, perfect for both active and quiet enjoyment.
· Swallow Rock Nest: The sightseeing bus terminus, facing majestic snow mountains and glaciers, its grandeur is breathtaking.
Snow: Entertainment zones to unleash your passion for winter sports
Bipenggou’s snow fun is concentrated in two main areas, catering to different needs:
· Moon Bay Ice and Snow Entertainment Park: This year’s newly upgraded highlight, covering 80,000 square meters, adjacent to the Alai Study at 3,577 meters altitude with excellent views. It offers 12 activities including snowmobiles, off-road vehicles, banana boats, and snow tubes, making it a comprehensive “snow fun + sightseeing” park.
· Zhuoma Beach Ski Area: Focused on skiing, with gentle slopes friendly to beginners, offering adult and children’s ski runs for both single and double board skiing.
Warmth: Hot spring village to experience the contrast of ice and fire
Just a half-hour drive away, Gurgou Hot Springs is the perfect healing retreat after playing in the snow. As Sichuan’s only natural hot mineral spring suitable for bathing, drinking, and therapy, soaking in 62°C water while watching snowy mountains in subzero temperatures is the ultimate indulgence. The infinity pool at the popular Gurgou Ramada Hot Spring Hotel offers stunning shots of snow mountains and hot springs together.
02 Beyond Snow: Cultural Festivals and Tibetan-Qiang Ethnic Charm
This winter, Bipenggou offers more than natural scenery, with a series of themed events elevating the winter experience.
During the “Passionate Bipenggou” Ice and Snow Festival (December 10, 2025 - March 31, 2026), activities include:
· Sichuan Opera Ski Show and Snow Tai Chi Gathering: A creative fusion of traditional art and winter sports.
· “Moving Fairy Tale” Hiking Check-in: Participants receive limited-edition winter medals.
· Photography Contest and “Decade Reunion”: Cash prizes of 10,000 yuan for stunning photos and warm gifts for visitors from ten years ago.
Lixian County, where Bipenggou is located, is a corridor of Tibetan and Qiang cultures. Besides sightseeing, you can visit:
· Taoping Qiang Village: A thousand-year-old ancient Qiang village with maze-like alleys and watchtowers, charming in the winter smoke.
· Ganbao Tibetan Village: A “village on the slope” where you can try on Tibetan costumes and experience the Jiarong Tibetan culture.
03 Trip Planning: 2-3 Days to Explore Snowy Lixian
How to efficiently connect the highlights? Lixian officials have launched three themed routes for you to choose based on your time and interests:
Route 1: Ice, Snow & Hot Spring Wellness Tour (Classic 2 days 1 night)
· Core: Bipenggou’s scenery and snow + Gurgou Hot Springs.
· Plan: Day 1 morning departure from Chengdu, afternoon at Bipenggou Moon Bay snowfield; evening check-in at Gurgou for hot springs relaxation. Day 2 morning return to Bipenggou for hiking or skiing, afternoon return trip.
· Suitable for: Most travelers, balancing snow fun, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Route 2: Alpine Ski Challenge Tour (2 days 1 night deep snow experience)
· Core: Bipenggou snow entertainment + Zhegu Mountain professional skiing.
· Plan: Day 1 morning departure, afternoon snow entertainment warm-up at Bipenggou Moon Bay; Day 2 full day at Zhegu Mountain ski resort (about 1 hour from Bipenggou), challenging longer and more professional slopes.
· Suitable for: Ski enthusiasts or those wanting to experience different ski resorts.
Route 3: Tibetan-Qiang Cultural Immersion Tour (3 days 2 nights panoramic experience)
· Core: Snow + hot springs + culture.
· Plan: Day 1 explore Bipenggou; Day 2 morning visit Taoping Qiang Village or Ganbao Tibetan Village, afternoon soak in Gurgou hot springs and stay overnight; Day 3 leisurely return or optional visits to nearby Mengtun Valley.
· Suitable for: Travelers with ample time wanting a comprehensive experience of Lixian’s nature and culture.
Transportation and Cost Overview
How to get there
· Self-driving (highly recommended): Depart Chengdu via Rongchang Expressway to Putou Town, then take Lixiao Road directly, about 2 hours. Prepare snow chains and drive carefully in winter.
· Bus: Take a bus from Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station to Lixian, then transfer to local transport to the scenic area.
Basic scenic area costs (reference)
· Winter season ticket: About 70 yuan for admission, 60 yuan for sightseeing bus.
· Electric cart: Pay per segment, 20 yuan one way, 30 yuan round trip.
· Snow activities: Extra fees ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan.
04 Pre-trip Essentials: Safety Tips for High-Altitude Winter Travel
1. Cold resistance and anti-slip are top priorities
Mountain temperatures often drop below zero with large day-night temperature differences. Dress in layers: moisture-wicking base, warm middle, windproof and waterproof outer. Anti-slip hiking boots or snow boots are essential; simple crampons greatly improve safety on icy surfaces.
2. Manage altitude sickness, act within your limits
The scenic area ranges from 2,400 to 3,800 meters altitude. Move slowly at first, avoid strenuous exercise. Prepare glucose oral solution, ibuprofen, etc. Not recommended for severe heart or lung conditions.
3. Play safely and follow rules
· Follow staff instructions and stay in designated areas during snow activities.
· Smoking and open fires are strictly prohibited.
· Pets are not allowed.
· Protect the environment by taking your trash with you.
4. Use discounts wisely for smart travel
· Follow the “One Phone Travel Aba” platform and major OTAs for free tickets, ski coupons, and more.
· Discounts available for children, students, seniors, and disabled visitors.
When the city’s winter is just damp and cold, Bipenggou’s winter is a sensory celebration. The crunch of snow underfoot blends with the roar of snowmobiles; the crisp scent of cedar mingles with the sulfur aroma of outdoor hot springs; your eyes feast on the grandeur of snowy mountains and blue ice, while your body basks in warm comfort.
It’s not far from Chengdu, yet enough to fulfill all your pure winter dreams. This winter, it’s time for a “Double Wonders” date with scenery and snow—find the true essence of winter in Bipenggou.