Songpan Ancient Town Travel Guide | A Hidden Gem to Heal the Soul

| A Hidden Gem to Heal the Soul. Songpan, this small town nestled in northwestern Sichuan, boasts breathtaking landscapes and profound culture. Last weekend, my best friend and I couldn't resist embarking on an unforgettable soul-healing journey. I. Travel Routes 🚄 High-speed rail: After the Chengdu-Lanzhou high-speed rail opened, it takes only 1.5 hours from Chengdu to Songpan Station. There are direct shuttle buses to scenic spots right outside the station, making it super convenient. ✈️ Flight: If you choose to fly, you can first arrive at Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport, then take a taxi or bus to the county town. 🚗 Self-drive: Drive along National Highway G213 from Chengdu, enjoying stunning scenery along the way. Highly recommended for road trip enthusiasts. II. Attraction Recommendations 🏯 Songzhou Ancient Town 📍Address: No. 66, North Street, Songpan County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan 🎫 Ticket: Free 🌟 Highlights: With over 2,300 years of history, it was once a frontier stronghold and trade hub. The ancient city walls are remarkably well-preserved, and the south gate "Yanxun Gate" is impressively large. It was also a filming location for the movie "Chang An San Wan Li." 🌳 Songpan Mounigou Scenic Area 📍Address: Songpan County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan 🎫 Ticket: Single attraction 70 RMB, combo ticket 100 RMB (includes Zhaga Waterfall and Erdao Lake) 🌟 Highlights: Zhaga Waterfall is Asia's largest calcified waterfall. When water cascades down its three terraces, rainbows frequently appear—absolutely stunning. Erdao Lake features 37 bead-like lakes hidden in the forest. 🏡 Songpan Maiji Village 📍Address: Within Songpan County (navigable) 🎫 Ticket: Free 🌟 Highlights: A typical Qiang ethnic village with picturesque stone houses built along the mountainside and a stream running through it. Misty mornings create a magical atmosphere. III. Tips Some areas are at high altitude, so prepare for altitude sickness in advance with appropriate medication. Strong UV rays—don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses. Steep paths in scenic areas—wear comfortable sneakers for easier walking. Respect local religious and customs traditions. Food Recommendations 🍲 Wuhujiang Old Hotpot (Songpan Ancient Town Branch) OMG! This hotpot is incredible! Fresh tripe coated in spicy beef oil is absolutely addictive—my friend and I couldn't stop eating. 🍢 Ancient Town King of Beef BBQ (First Beef Branch) A lively BBQ spot! Wrapping meat in grilled flatbread is supremely satisfying. Beef omasum is a must-try specialty, and yak meat skewers offer great value. 🐟 Chongqing-Style Yak Meat Hotpot & Grilled Fish (Chuanzhusi Branch) Locals' favorite! Freshly grilled fish with crispy skin and tender flesh, paired with Chongqing-style spicy sauce, tofu skin, and bean sprouts—the unique flavor gets better with every bite. 🥘 Weixian Yak Meat Mushroom Hotpot (Songpan Ancient Town Branch) One visit isn't enough! The yak meat hotpot is tender and fresh, while barley wine offers a perfect blend of grain aroma and alcohol—healthy with no additives. 🥣 Sichuan Memory Yak Meat Mushroom Hotpot (Chuanzhusi Branch) Yak yogurt with honey strikes the perfect sweet-sour balance—great for cutting through richness. The wild mushroom hotpot is incredibly fresh, and the yak meat is tender—truly a local treasure.