Ziyang

Ziyang is a hidden-gem small city with both deep historical weight and lively modern character. It has awe-inspiring Tang and Song dynasty stone carvings, as well as unforgettable mutton soup and the fragrance of lemons. Here is a detailed Ziyang travel guide to help you explore this “homeland of the Shu people” with ease.

• Anyue Stone Carvings: A treasure of Chinese stone-carving art, begun during the Northern and Southern Dynasties and flourishing in the Tang and Song dynasties, with 100,000 cliffside statues. The Purple Bamboo Guanyin and the Reclining Buddha are iconic landmarks of Sichuan and Chongqing; a self-drive in-depth trip is recommended.
• Former Residence of Chen Yi: A 4A-rated red-culture site, showcasing the childhood and life story of founding marshal Chen Yi. The courtyard is simple and historic, making it especially suitable for family educational trips.
• Ziyang Museum: Its distinctive shape resembles a “gaiwan” teacup. The collection includes Han dynasty bronze chariots and horses, replicas of stone carvings, and other exhibits, offering a systematic look at Ziyang’s past and present. Closed on Mondays.
• Fengling Park: A filming location for the outdoor scenes of CCTV’s Spring Festival Gala and the “back garden” of Ziyang locals. Yanhu Lake in the park has clear water, with beautiful reflections of pavilions and arched bridges. From the top, you can overlook the whole city.
• Zikushan Park: China’s first Chinese-character culture theme park, with the “Character Treasury Tower” as its cultural symbol. It is the largest forest park in Ziyang’s urban area, and from higher ground you can enjoy views of the Tuojiang River.
• Piludong Grotto: One of the highlights of the Anyue Stone Carvings. The “Purple Bamboo Guanyin” statue inside the cave has an elegant posture and is praised as the “Eastern Venus”; it is extremely photogenic.

Itinerary Planning

• Day 1: Ziyang Urban Culture and Local Life
  • Morning: After arriving in Ziyang, visit Ziyang Museum to learn about “Ziyang Man” and Han dynasty history. Booking in advance through the mini program is recommended.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Sanxian Cultural Park and climb Sanxian Pavilion for a view over the city, then head to Fengling Park to see the reflections on Yanhu Lake and enjoy the relaxed feel of the city’s green lung.
  • Evening: Check out Zhongxue Road Pedestrian Food Street, try time-honored chuanchuan skewers, No. 1 Middle School cold noodles, and huang guokui, and experience Ziyang’s authentic night-market atmosphere.
• Day 2: Exploring the Art of the Anyue Stone Carvings
  • Morning: Drive or take a bus from Ziyang’s urban area to Anyue County, about 1.5 hours, and visit Yuanjue Cave to admire the exquisite craftsmanship of Tang and Song dynasty cliffside statues.
  • Afternoon: Head to Piludong Grotto to see the “Eastern Venus,” or visit Wofo Temple to pay respects to the giant nirvana statue of Shakyamuni. Return to Ziyang or Chengdu in the evening.

Must-Try Local Specialties

Transportation and Accommodation Tips

• Getting Around:
  • Intercity Transport: It takes only 25 minutes by high-speed rail from Chengdu East Railway Station to Ziyang North Railway Station, with tickets around 42 yuan, making it very convenient. You can also drive, which takes about 1.5 hours.
  • Local Transport: Taxis and buses are sufficient within the urban area. If you plan to visit Anyue to see the stone carvings, self-driving or hiring a car is recommended. A 7- to 9-seat vehicle costs about 600-800 yuan per day, as the stone-carving sites are relatively scattered.
• Accommodation Recommendations:
  • It is recommended to stay near Ziyang Wanda Plaza or Ziyang North Railway Station, where transport is convenient and dining options are plentiful. Options include Weihai Yunju Hotel, which offers good value, or Ziyang Howard Johnson Hotel, suitable for families with children and featuring a surfing pool and buffet breakfast.

Pitfalls to Avoid and Things to Note

• Reservation Reminder: Ziyang Museum is closed on Mondays. Be sure to confirm opening hours and make a reservation in advance before visiting.
• Stone-Carving Road Conditions: Some Anyue stone-carving sites, such as Banyueshan Giant Buddha, may be temporarily closed due to mountain maintenance. Some mountain roads are also relatively narrow, so drive carefully if self-driving, and check the latest opening status of the scenic areas in advance.
• Food-Hunting Tips: Many authentic old Ziyang eateries, such as those selling huang guokui and potato bread, open relatively late or close once sold out. Plan your time accordingly and avoid going too early.