4 days Qianwei steam train and Mount Emei tour
Itinerary
The classic steam train in Qianwei county, southwest of Chengdu, is regarded as 'A living fossil of the Industrial Revolution'. Since opened to the public in 1959, the steam train became the main transportation for the local villagers. With the railway line of 19.84 kilometers, narrow gauge of 0.76m, and the steam engine driven technology invented by Watt at 18th century Britain, this train appeals to many visitors from both and abroad.
Rapeseed flower blossoming in spring is another highlight at the valleys all the train riding. From March (from 15th to 25th, about 19 days), when the temperature begins to rise, the rapeseed flower blossoms around the fields and the hills. The golden sea of flowers' and pleasant countryside view attract tourists and photographers.
In the morning, drive about 1.5 hours to Leshan, appreciate the farmlands and villages along with the driving (If you go in the late March or early of April, then you will see the vast Rape Flower blooming). Upon arrival, you will be arranged to visit Leshan Leshan Grand Buddha which was completed in 803 of Tang Dynasty after 90 year's construction and enjoys the fame of the biggest sitting stone sculpture in the world with a 71-meter height. Carved on the cliff face, the sculpture is well designed with perfect balance and effective water drainage system. Here you can choose to climb up the hill to visit the Giant Buddha and the temples behind it or take a boat tour to have a whole view of the Buddha.
After lunch at Leshan, head to Luocheng ancient town, a gem for those interested in traditional teahouse culture! Luocheng is renowned for its boat-like architecture: the two sides of its main street narrow down at both ends and widen gradually towards the middle, thus creating the oval shape of a boat. It is covered in traditional grey tiles and flamboyantly decorated with historic scenes and a smiling Buddha. Joining the locals for a cup of tea, you can really get an impression of what village life must have been like in the old days. Late afternoon head to Qianwei for overnight.
Today drive to take China's only existing steam train in Qianwei to gain a unique experience. The Jiayang Steam train has been running for almost half a century in Qianwei county, you will be arranged to take the stream train to Bajiao valley where the old coal mine is located. Late afternoon drive to Emeishan for overnight.
Today you will be arranged to visit half Mountian Wanian Temple, then continue to the Golden Summit.
In the morning, take the local sightseeing bus to Wannian Parking Lot (half an hour), then take a cable car or walk about 40 minutes to visit Wannian Temple, built in Tang Dynasty and is the biggest temple at Emei scenic area, then continue travelling to Qinyin Pavilion, White Dragon Cave, Monkey area all the way down to Wuxiangang, where you can have lunch.
After lunch, continue your bus journey to Leidongping (1.5 hours), then walk to Jieyin Hall (half an hour walk) where you can take a cable car to Golden Summit(or if you choose to walk, then it takes 2 hours). If you are lucky enough, you may see Buddha Rays and saint lamps. Overnight at Golden Summit hotel.
Enjoy the splendid sunrise at Golden Summit, visit the Huazang temple, Golden summit Buddha Statue. On a clear day, you will see the highest peak in Sichuan - Gongga Mountain. Afterward, take the cable car and sightseeing bus down to the foot of the mountain, and drive to Chengdu, end the trip.