Bishan

Bishan is known as Chongqing’s “back garden,” famous for its Jiangnan water-town scenery of “dark-green mountains and elegant lakes” and authentic jianghu-style cuisine. Driving from central Chongqing or Chengdu, you can arrive directly in about 1 hour, making it perfect for a short weekend getaway.

• Xiuhu Park: A free 4A-rated park, with a 1,500-mu lake paired with antique-style eastern Sichuan architecture. The reflection of Tianzi Bridge is stunning, making it ideal for Hanfu photos and lakeside camping.

• Lude Church: A French Gothic Catholic church first built in 1899, with white walls, pointed spires, and century-old yellow fig trees, creating a distinctly European small-town atmosphere in the light and shadows.

• Dayuanxiang Museum: Known as “Dunhuang on wood,” it houses tens of thousands of Bayu ancient architectural components, Ming and Qing dynasty wood carvings, and stone carvings. A must-visit for lovers of historic architecture.

• Guanyintang Wetland Park: A national-level wetland park with vast original wetlands and overwater boardwalks. It is especially photogenic in summer when the lotus flowers are in full bloom.

• Fengxiang Lake Children’s Park: A completely free non-powered children’s playground, with a carousel, slides, and a sand play area. An excellent choice for family outings with kids.

Classic Two-Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Historic Architecture, Culture, and Lakeside Night Views
  • Morning: Depart from Chengdu or central Chongqing and drive about 1.5 hours to Bishan.
  • Noon: Try authentic Bishan rabbit and Laifeng fish in the urban area to begin your culinary journey.
  • Afternoon: Head to Lude Church for romantic French-style photos in front of the Gothic church; then visit Dayuanxiang Museum for an immersive look at Bayu historic architecture and woodcarving art.

• Evening: Stroll through Xiuhu Park, enjoy the night views of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Town and the musical fountain, which is open on weekends, and feel Bishan’s relaxed pace.

• Day 2: Natural Wetlands and Leisure Camping
  • Morning: Visit Guanyintang Wetland Park to breathe fresh air along the wetland boardwalk, or go to Fengxiang Lake Children’s Park and let the kids play to their hearts’ content.

• Afternoon: Drive to Western Deer King Valley to see sika deer and set up a canopy for camping, or go to Tianci Huatang Forest Hot Spring for a relaxing soak before returning.

Must-Try Food Guide

In Bishan, rabbit and fish are the main highlights, while jianghu dishes and specialty noodles are just as impressive.

Transportation and Practical Tips

• Transportation Guide:
  • Self-driving: Depart from Chengdu or central Chongqing and navigate to each attraction. Bishan’s attractions are close to one another, so driving is the most convenient option, and most parks offer free parking or very low parking fees.
  • Public transport: Take Rail Transit Line 1 to Bishan Station. After exiting the station, transfer to the Bishan Yunba aerial train, which goes directly to core attractions such as Xiuhu Park and offers an excellent experience.
• Accommodation Suggestions: Staying near Bicheng Subdistrict or Xiuhu Park is recommended. The surrounding area has a high concentration of food options, convenient access to various attractions, and plenty of hotels and guesthouses.
• Pitfall Avoidance Tips:
  • Xiuhu Park and Guanyintang Wetland Park are very large, so be sure to wear comfortable flat shoes.
  • There are many mosquitoes and insects around the wetland park and Lude Church, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent.
  • Some popular rabbit restaurants, such as Taoma Rabbit and Caitoo Rabbit, have long queues during holidays. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours or call ahead to confirm opening status.