Zangwang Village: A Real-Life Shangri-La Hidden in Jiangyou, Mianyang

I used to believe that hidden paradises only existed in legends and imagination, but later I realized that true wonderlands are hidden in plain sight. In Jiangyou, Mianyang, there is a place called Zangwang Village, a sanctuary seemingly untouched by the world. Every year in mid-April, magnolia flowers bloom one after another in the gentle spring breeze of the valley. As the morning mist and smoke from cooking fires rise, Zangwang Village is veiled in a dreamy haze, a picturesque scene straight out of Tao Yuanming's poems. Isn't this the embodiment of the idyllic Shangri-La that we all long for? This year, don't miss this incredibly romantic sea of magnolia flowers. 🚘【Transportation】 📍Navigation: Guixin Valley, Yongsheng Town, Jiangyou, Mianyang 🚙Transportation: From Chengdu, you can choose to drive, which takes about 3 hours and allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed train, which only takes 1 hour, and then take a taxi to your destination. 🌟【Hiking Difficulty】 This hiking route is beginner-friendly and perfect for those new to hiking. The round trip is about 26 km with an elevation gain of about 1,000 m. It is recommended to complete the hike in 2 days to fully appreciate the scenery without overexertion. 🥾【Hiking Guide】 D1: Guixin Valley - Forest Ranger Station - Xiaochanggou - Fengdongzi - Dawuji D2: Dawuji - Jiucaiyuan - Wangjiacao - Forest Ranger Station - Guixin Valley 🔔From the Forest Ranger Station upwards is a small loop. On the second day, you can choose to take the loop to experience different scenery or return via the original route. The section from Guixin Valley to the Forest Ranger Station is the most challenging part of the entire route. It's about 4 km long with an elevation gain of 1,000 m. However, the second half of the route is relatively flat and easy to walk. If you take your time and enjoy the scenery, the one-way hike takes about 6–7 hours. Note that the trail can be very muddy and difficult to navigate after rain. So, whether you are traveling light or with a heavy pack, be sure to wear non-slip hiking boots and bring hiking poles. Gaiters are also recommended to keep your clothes clean. From personal experience, going downhill is more difficult than going uphill, especially after rain when the muddy path becomes very slippery. Extra caution is advised. 🔖【Practical Information】 1. Accommodation and Flower Viewing: Dawuji has the most magnolia flowers and is where most hikers choose to stay. Last year, camping fees were CNY 20, and a bed in a shared room with breakfast and dinner cost CNY 100. Xiaochanggou also offers accommodation, but the flower scenery is not as good as in Dawuji. 2. Blooming Season: The photos in this article were taken around April 10 last year, between 6 am and 9 am. The magnolia flowers usually bloom for about half a month. Before going up the mountain, it's best to confirm the blooming period with the locals at Dawuji to avoid missing the peak season. 3. Route Guidance: There are signs along the hiking trail, but it's still easy to get lost at some forks. It is recommended to download a map with the trail beforehand for reference. 4. Mobile Signal and Payment: There is no mobile signal at campsites like Dawuji, so remember to bring cash for payment. 5. Supplies and Rest: The Forest Ranger Station offers a place to rest and free hot water refills. Meals and accommodation are also available. You can also rent horses to carry your equipment, but the prices for this year are not yet available.