A local's guide to Xichang's hidden gems for Labor Day

Just got back from Xichang and put together an honest itinerary. Sharing this guide without the influencer filters with everyone. 🌿Three-day itinerary (tested and not rushed) ▶️DAY1: Slow tour of Qionghai Lake Start the morning with a cup of hot tea at Moonlit Town. You'll see lots of seagulls while strolling along the Qiao Bridge Pier. Take the cable car up Mount Lu in the afternoon (watch out for monkeys stealing snacks!). In the evening, splash around at Yinlin Beach (remember to bring flip-flops). After dark, the lanterns at Jianchang Ancient City are super atmospheric. ▶️DAY2: Discovering hidden gems The reeds at Tingtao Town are especially photogenic. You can sample wine at Yuegu Winery (just a small sip, don't overdo it). The orange earthen walls of the Dashi Ban Ancient Village are perfect for Yi ethnic photoshoots. Wait for the sunset at Jinlin Beach at 5pm (find a good photo spot in advance). Remember to wear Hanfu when you go to Tang Garden at night! When the lights come on, it's like traveling back to the Tang Dynasty. ▶️DAY3: Culture and leisure day You can still see wintering migratory birds on the Guanniao Island boardwalk. The Educated Youth Hall at the Jianchuan Museum brought me to tears. Remember to buy some Liangshan snow yogurt to drink on the way back. Accommodation Manxin Hotel (the location is really convenient) A 5-minute walk to the ancient city walls. About a 10-minute bike ride to Qionghai Lake. ⚠️Important weather reminder This week, Xichang suddenly cooled down and it rained (warning: bring a down jacket!). Local friends say it won't warm up until after April 20. Be sure to bring a windproof jacket along with your summer clothes. The wind by the lake is strong in the morning and evening and can really give you a headache. 🚌Transportation tips to avoid getting ripped off Don't rush to take a black cab when the plane lands! There's an airport bus to the left when you exit the station. It costs CNY 15 to get to the city (recommended if you have a lot of luggage). Remember to locate the South Exit when taking a cab from the high-speed rail station. One time I waited like an idiot at the North Exit for half an hour. Use the Yuecheng Bus mini program to check real-time bus schedules in the city. The 106 bus on the loop line basically goes to all the attractions.