8 Days in Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou: May 2025
Before our tour we were quite anxious about the weather. However, it turned out just nice, no heavy rain, no sweltering heat - we were truly blessed. The hotels were good, although some had minor problems.
At the Dujiangyan Panda Base, we met Le Le, (Singapore born, 14 August 2021), who returned to Chengdu in January 2024. He was very busy having his bamboo lunch. In Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou we visited many scenic places, including the Diexi lake and the Songpan Ancient town. The Min River flowed endlessly through, while our coach followed faithfully along its twists and turns - a marvelous sight.
In Jiuzhaigou we saw glimpses of snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and true-blue lakes. Huanglong was challengingly freezing and oxygen scarce. But we survived the cable car ride, bus rides and endless walking! Three of our members (Karuni, Irene and Lena) managed to climb down to the temple and viewed the colorful ponds and climbed up again! They were our heroes!
At the Chuancais Museum, we learned to cook the world-renowned Sichuan cuisine, namely the Panda steamed dumplings, Ma Po Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken. All passed with flying colours. Sichuan Opera was an eye opener, showcased the Face changing skills and Hand shadow skills. Also in Chengdu we learned the history of the three Kingdoms, at Wuhou shrine, about Zhuge Liang, Lui Bei the empower of Shuhan and Chow Chow. History repeats itself - a lot of fighting and many perished.
The food was the best, we were feasted at every meal, no complaints except some of us had numbed tongues after tasting the peppercorns! Last but not least, we enjoyed the shopping along the way. Thanks to Travel Hub (Alice) for such an enjoyable and great experience in Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong!
Written by Shirley Wan, May 2025.
