Neijiang Day Trip Guide: Discover Zhang Daqian's Hometown from Chengdu
- DolphinUnion
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
You probably know Chengdu's pandas and spicy hot pot. But have you heard of Neijiang? My German friend Anna asked me this question last month.
Most tourists visit Sichuan's famous spots. They miss Neijiang - the hometown of China's most famous painter Zhang Daqian. Anna followed my advice and called it "the most authentic small Chinese city experience."
This guide will show you everything about Neijiang. From art heritage to local snacks.
（Neijiang day trip guide from Chengdu for foreign tourists）
Getting to Neijiang from Chengdu
The high-speed train is your best choice. It takes only 40 minutes. Tickets cost about 70 RMB.
Trains run every 30 minutes from Chengdu East Station. Choose "Neijiang North Station" for city access.
Buses take 2 hours and cost 50 RMB. But traffic can be unpredictable.
I recommend taking the 8:00 AM train. You'll arrive before 9:00 AM ready to explore.
Must-Visit Attractions in Neijiang
Daqian Park
Visit Daqian Park (Dàqiān Yuán). It's a large park complex honoring Zhang Daqian.
The park is free to enter. It opens from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
Don't miss Zhang Daqian Museum (Zhāng Dàqiān Bówùguǎn). The white building is photogenic.
But my French friend Pierre noticed something. He said "all exhibits are replicas, no original artworks."
Xilin Temple
Xilin Temple (Xīlín Sì) is a Buddhist temple near the river.
The temple is active and authentic. Local worshippers pray here daily.
Entry is free but donations are welcome. The architecture shows traditional Sichuan style.
Visit in the morning. You'll see locals lighting incense and praying.
Skip Xianglong Mountain Carvings
Xianglong Mountain Carvings (Xiánglóng Shān Móyá Shíkè) sound interesting.
But my British friend Emma was disappointed. She said "the carvings were removed, only empty caves remain."
Don't waste your time here. The site is currently under maintenance.
Xining Ancient Ferry
Xining Ancient Ferry (Xīníng Gǔ Dù) offers river boat rides.
Take the local ferry across the river. One way costs only 2 RMB per person.
The boats depart immediately when full. The river views are peaceful and authentic.
Trust me, this is the most local experience you can get in Neijiang.
Best Local Food in Neijiang
Food is Neijiang's real treasure. The local noodles will surprise you.
Try Yao Mei Mixed Dishes (Yāomèi Bàncài). Their rabbit and cold noodles are delicious.
Each dish costs about 25 RMB. The spicy flavors are authentic Sichuan style.
Visit Sanba Street (Sānbā Jiē) for snacks. This old street has many local food stalls.
Perfect One-Day Itinerary
8:00 AM: Train from Chengdu
8:40 AM: Arrive in Neijiang
9:00 AM: Xining Ancient Ferry
9:30 AM: Xilin Temple
10:30 AM: Daqian Park
12:30 PM: Lunch at Yao Mei Mixed Dishes
2:00 PM: Sanba Street exploration
4:00 PM: Return to Chengdu
Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
Download a translation app. Very few locals speak English.
Wear comfortable shoes. You'll walk between attractions.
Taxis are cheap. A ride across town costs 10-15 RMB.
Bring mosquito spray. The park areas have many insects.
Why Neijiang Beats Tourist Traps
Neijiang shows you real Sichuan life. No tourist crowds. Just authentic local culture.
My British friend Mark said: "This is the China I wanted to see. No queues, no souvenir shops, just real people."
The food is delicious and affordable. A full meal costs only 20-30 RMB.
My Personal Recommendation
Visit Neijiang if you want:
Authentic local experience
Art and culture heritage
Cheap delicious food
No tourist crowds
Skip Neijiang if you prefer:
Luxury accommodations
English-speaking services
Major tourist attractions
Continue Your Sichuan Adventure
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The guide includes:
Best panda viewing times at three major bases
30+ authentic food spots locals love
Complete transportation guides
Bilingual maps and addresses
Hidden tea houses and temples
Qingcheng Mountain hiking tips
Sichuan opera booking advice
Survival guide for China travel
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Don't waste time on tourist traps. Get the local knowledge that makes travel special. Your Sichuan trip should be amazing.
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