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Suining Travel Guide: Discover the Hidden Gem Between Chengdu and Chongqing

You probably know Chengdu's pandas and Chongqing's hot pot. But have you heard of Suining? My German friend Anna asked me this question last month.

Most tourists rush between Chengdu and Chongqing. They miss Suining - the perfect stop between these two cities. Anna followed my advice and called it "the most relaxing Chinese town experience."

This guide will show you everything about Suining. From ancient temples to local food secrets.

City skyline with modern buildings and a wavy-roofed structure by a calm lake under a partly cloudy sky. A small boat sails on the water.
Suining

Getting to Suining from Chengdu

The high-speed train is your best choice. It takes only 1 hour. Tickets cost about 65 RMB.

Trains run every 30 minutes from Chengdu East Station. Choose "Suining Station" for the city center.

Driving takes 2 hours. The expressway is good. But parking in Suining can be challenging.

I recommend taking the 8:30 AM train. You'll arrive at 9:30 AM ready to explore.

（Suining travel guide from Chengdu for foreign tourists）


Must-Visit Attractions in Suining

Aerial view of a traditional temple complex surrounded by lush green trees. Orange-roofed buildings contrast with dense foliage under a blue sky.
Guangde Temple

Guangde Temple

Visit Guangde Temple (Guǎngdé Sì). It's one of Sichuan's most important Buddhist temples.

The temple is free to enter. It opens from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Take a taxi to Wolong Mountain Park gate. Walk left to find the temple entrance.

Don't miss the temple cafeteria. Spicy noodles cost only 5 RMB. Remember to wash your bowl after eating.

My French friend Pierre loved the peaceful atmosphere. He said "this is real Chinese Buddhism."

Modern green-roofed building with unique wave design, set in an urban area with high-rises, greenery, and a distant river under a cloudy sky.
Song Porcelain Museum

Song Porcelain Museum

Song Porcelain Museum (Sòngcí Bówùguǎn) is a hidden gem. The collection is amazing.

Free English tours run at 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM. The tour lasts 90 minutes.

Listen for announcements to get headphones. The guide shows you the entire museum.

Check the performance schedule. You might see Li Bai and Su Shi shows at 3:30 PM.

A white ceramic jar on display is illuminated under a spotlight. The background features a vivid green lotus leaf and pink bud, creating an elegant mood.
Song Porcelain Museum
People walk across a narrow bridge over a tranquil lake. Traditional buildings and lush trees reflect in the water. Peaceful atmosphere.
Longfeng Ancient Town

Skip Longfeng Ancient Town

Longfeng Ancient Town (Lóngfèng Gǔzhèn) looks interesting on maps. But most shops close by 7:00 PM.

My British friend Emma found it disappointing. No special snacks, no beautiful lights, no historical sites.

Don't waste your time here. There are better places to visit.

Pagoda on an island surrounded by water in a city. Skyscrapers in the background, clear sky, vibrant greenery, and walkways visible.
Linxian Pavilion Area

Linxian Pavilion Area

Linxian Pavilion (Línxiān Gé) offers great night views. The building itself is closed. But the area is worth visiting.

You might see drone shows and water performances. The 9:30 PM fire show is particularly good.

Parking is difficult. Be prepared to walk from distant streets.

The big moon installation is photogenic. But it's not very bright at night.


Best Local Food in Suining

Food is Suining's real treasure. The flavors will surprise you.

Hand serving a plate of dumplings topped with brown sugar and sauce. Stainless steel bowl and utensils in the background. Moody food scene.
Wang Ciba

Try Wang Ciba (Wáng Cíbā) in New Market. Glutinous rice cakes cost 6 RMB. Beef rice noodles cost 10 RMB.

The temple cafeteria at Guangde Temple serves amazing spicy noodles. Only 5 RMB per bowl.

Local rice jelly and cold noodles are perfect for hot days. Each dish costs about 6 RMB.


Perfect Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1: 8:30 AM: Train from Chengdu 9:30 AM: Arrive at Suining Station 10:00 AM: Visit Guangde Temple 12:00 PM: Lunch at temple cafeteria 2:00 PM: Explore Song Porcelain Museum 5:00 PM: Check local performances 7:00 PM: Dinner at New Market


Day 2: 9:00 AM: Visit Shengliandao Island 12:00 PM: Local food exploration 2:00 PM: Explore Gaofeng Mountain 6:00 PM: Return to Chengdu


Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers

Download a translation app. Few locals speak English.

Carry cash. Many small places don't accept cards.

Wear comfortable shoes. You'll walk a lot.

Taxis are affordable. A ride across town costs 10-15 RMB.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Summers can be hot and humid.


Why Suining Beats Tourist Traps

Suining shows you real Sichuan life. No tourist crowds. Just authentic local culture.

My Spanish friend Carlos said: "This is the China I wanted to see. No lines, no crowds, just genuine experiences."

The food is incredible and cheap. A full meal costs 20-30 RMB.


My Personal Recommendation

Visit Suining if you want:

  • Authentic Chinese temple experience

  • Peaceful ancient town atmosphere

  • Delicious cheap food

  • No tourist crowds

Skip Suining if you prefer:

  • Luxury accommodations

  • English-speaking services

  • Western food options


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  • Qingcheng Mountain hiking tips

  • Sichuan opera booking advice

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