September U.S. Self-Drive Exploration of Jiuzhaigou and Western Sichuan Double Loop in China
As an adventure-loving American traveler, I plan to embark on an extraordinary driving trip in September, starting from Hebei Province, China, and traveling to Jiuzhaigou and Western Sichuan, covering about 6,000 kilometers of magnificent rivers and mountains in 15 days, with highways, national highways, provincial highways and county roads, to experience a cross-country driving adventure that is as easy as it is to say goodbye.
Departure: Hebei to Shanxi
On the first leg of my journey, I drove through the busy Beijing-Harbin and Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressways, and then onto the Taiyuan Second Ring Road, eventually arriving in Jinzhong City, Shanxi Province, a journey of about 700 kilometers. Along the way, I enjoyed the unique natural scenery and cultural landscape of northern China, and was filled with anticipation for the unknown journey.
Jinzhong to Baoji: Traveling through the historical corridor
The next morning, I left Jinzhong City, which is full of history, and drove along the Jingkun Expressway, Linxing Expressway and Lianhuo Expressway all the way west to Chencang District, Baoji City, Shaanxi Province. The 741-kilometer journey was not only a test of physical strength, but also an in-depth experience of China's long history. The simplicity of the Chencang district and its long history made me feel like I had traveled back in time to the era of the Golden Goose and the Iron Horse.
Baoji to Jiuzhaigou: The Call of the Fairytale Highway
On the third day, I embarked on the journey to Jiuzhaigou. After passing through Yinkun Highway, Meifeng Highway, Shitian Highway, Lanhai Highway, Pingmian Highway and the magical road known as the “Fairytale Highway”, I finally arrived at the entrance of Jiuzhaigou. After checking into a hotel not far from the entrance to the scenic area, I couldn't wait to check out the detailed Jiuzhaigou tour guide on the Ctrip app to get ready for the next day's adventure.
The Fantastic Journey of Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou is famous for its crystal clear lakes, colorful woods and staggering waterfalls. I spent a whole day exploring this magical land and feeling the wonders of nature.
Huanglong and Songpan: A High-Altitude Encounter
On the fifth day, I drove to Huanglong scenic spot. Passing through the snowy mountain beam tunnel and driving on the winding 120 county road, I finally arrived at the parking lot of Huanglong Scenic Spot. Taking the scenic ferry, I visited the Colorful Pools at an altitude of 3,576 meters, where the beauty of the area made me forget. Afterwards, I headed to Songpan Ancient City, taking photos and experiencing the historical flavor of this ancient city.
West Sichuan Mini-Ring Route: A Blend of Nature and Humanity
Over the next few days, I traveled counterclockwise through the first Western Sichuan Mini-Circuit: from Jiuzhaigou to Huanglong, and then to Songpan Ancient City, Ruoergai Flower Lake, the First Bay of the Yellow River, Wachen Taling, Hongyuan Moon Bay, Bibanggou, Taoping Qiangzhai, and Wenchuan County. Along the way, I not only enjoyed the magnificent natural scenery, but also deeply experienced the unique culture of Tibetans, Qiang and other ethnic minorities.
The Second Western Sichuan Mini-Circuit: Exploring Four Girls Mountains and Danba
On the ninth day, I left Wenchuan County and traveled to the Shuangqiaogou Scenic Area of Four Girls Mountains. The snowy mountains, forests and lakes there formed a moving picture. Afterwards, I drove to Danba County, passing by Yala Snow Mountain Viewing Platform, Mo Shi Park and Tagong Grassland on the way. The beauty of these places made me feel as if I was in the middle of an exquisite oil painting.
Xinduqiao to Dujiangyan: Echoes of History
On the 11th day, I traveled east along the 318 National Highway, crossed the pass of Mt. This bridge, which has witnessed countless historical changes, made me feel a lot of emotions. Afterwards, I traveled to Dujiangyan Scenic Spot and felt the wisdom and greatness of the ancient water conservancy project. In the evening, I checked into the town of Mount Qingcheng, ready to explore this famous Taoist mountain on the next day.
Mount Qingcheng and Sanxingdui: A Clash of Cultures
On the twelfth day, I visited Mount Qingcheng and the Sanxingdui Museum. I was enchanted by the Taoist temples and scenery of Mount Qingcheng, while the artifacts in the Sanxingdui Museum gave me a deeper sense of awe for the vastness of ancient Chinese civilization.
Homeward Bound: Xi'an and Hebei
As the journey drew to a close, I drove to the Yanta District of Xi'an to check in and visit the Datang Nocturnal City and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Square Musical Fountain. On the 14th day, I left Xi'an and drove back to Hebei Province along the Jingkun and Qinglan Expressways. On the fifteenth day, I finally returned home.
This self-driving trip not only let me enjoy the magnificent and diversified mountains and rivers of China, but also let me deeply feel the warmth and friendliness of the Chinese people. I believe this unforgettable journey will become one of the most valuable memories in my life.
