Meishan Day Trip Guide: Discover Su Dongpo's Hometown from Chengdu
- DolphinUnion
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
You probably know Chengdu's pandas and spicy hot pot. But have you heard of Meishan? My Spanish friend Carlos asked me this question last month.
Most tourists visit Sichuan's famous spots. They miss Meishan - the hometown of China's most famous poet Su Dongpo. Carlos followed my advice and called it "the most cultural small city experience."
This guide will show you everything about Meishan. From poetry heritage to authentic local food.
Getting to Meishan from Chengdu
The high-speed train is your best choice. It takes only 30 minutes. Tickets cost 18-33 RMB.
Trains run every 20 minutes from Chengdu South Station. Choose "Meishan Station" for city access.
Tianfu Express buses take 70 minutes and cost 11.8 RMB. But trains are faster and more comfortable.
I recommend taking the 8:30 AM train. You'll arrive before 9:00 AM ready to explore.
（Meishan Su Dongpo hometown day trip guide）
Must-Visit Attractions in Meishan
Three Su Temple
Visit Three Su Temple (Sānsū Cí). This is Su Dongpo's birthplace and childhood home.
The temple costs 40 RMB to enter. It opens from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Don't miss the ancient well and lychee tree roots. These are original artifacts from Su's time.
My Italian friend Sofia loved the atmosphere. She said "the red walls and old trees feel like walking through history."
Skip the Pickle Museum
Meishan Pickle Museum (Pàocài Bówùguǎn) sounds interesting but disappoints.
The museum is free but very small. It has three floors with limited exhibits.
Local children often run around inside. The noise makes it hard to enjoy.
Don't waste your time here. There are better places to visit.
Dongpo Wetland Park
Dongpo Wetland Park (Dōngpō Shīdì Gōngyuán) offers beautiful sunset views.
Visit the Yuanjing Tower for panoramic views. The park is perfect for evening walks.
Music fountains usually perform at night. But they close during flood season.
Trust me, the sunset here is worth waiting for. The colors over the water are amazing.
Dongpo Impression Water Street
Dongpo Impression Water Street (Dōngpō Yìnxiàng Shuǐjiē) has evening performances.
The street gets busy after sunset. Locals come here for walks and entertainment.
Some shows feel underwhelming. The commercial development isn't complete yet.
Still worth a quick visit if you've never been. The atmosphere is lively and local.
Best Local Food in Meishan
Ma Wangzi Restaurant
Try Ma Wangzi Restaurant (Mǎwàngzǐ Jiǔlóu). This Michelin-recommended spot is famous.
Arrive between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM for lunch. They only accept walk-ins.
My favorites are spring bean mash and crispy steamed pork. Each dish surprises with unique flavors.
Two people can eat well for 180 RMB. Worth the 20-minute wait on weekends.
Bingge Pickled Rabbit
Bingge Pickled Rabbit (Bīnggē Pàojiao Tù) near Meishan First Middle School is fantastic.
The rabbit is stir-fried with pickled peppers. It's tender, fragrant, and perfectly seasoned.
Portions are generous. Be prepared for short waits during peak hours.
This place makes my Brazilian friend Marco happy every time. He says "it's the best rabbit in Sichuan."
Perfect One-Day Itinerary
8:30 AM: Train from Chengdu 9:00 AM: Arrive in Meishan 9:30 AM: Three Su Temple 11:30 AM: Lunch at Ma Wangzi 1:30 PM: Dongpo Wetland Park 3:00 PM: Explore local streets 5:30 PM: Dinner at Bingge Pickled Rabbit 7:00 PM: Dongpo Impression Water Street 8:30 PM: Return to Chengdu
Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
Download a translation app. Very few locals speak English.
Carry cash. Many restaurants don't accept foreign cards.
Wear comfortable shoes. You'll walk through parks and old streets.
Taxis are affordable. Most rides within town cost 10-15 RMB.
Visit on weekdays. Weekends can be crowded with local tourists.
Why Meishan Beats Tourist Traps
Meishan shows you authentic Chinese culture. No massive tourist groups. Just genuine historical sites.
My French friend Marie said: "This is the China I dreamed of seeing. Real history, real poetry, real people."
The food is exceptional and reasonably priced. You taste both culture and flavor in every bite.
My Personal Recommendation
Visit Meishan if you want:
Cultural and historical depth
Authentic local cuisine
Peaceful atmosphere
Poet Su Dongpo's legacy
Skip Meishan if you prefer:
Luxury accommodations
English-speaking services
Modern entertainment
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