Buzz
We embarked on the journey at 6:30 AM, arriving at Gu'ergouzhen around 11 AM after a 200km trek through the picturesque mountains and winding rivers of Four Streams. Gu'ergouzhen's temperature was 10 degrees Celsius lower than Chengdu, with an altitude soaring thousands of meters above sea level. The weather was brisk and sunny, possibly tiring or causing headaches for those less robust. After checking in and preparing our belongings, the two of us rented a 7-seater for a 200 CNY round trip to Tat Bang Cau.
The majestic scenery of Tat Bang Cau.
Upon reaching Tat Bang Cau, head to the tourist center to purchase tickets. The total cost for us was 250 CNY for two, covering admission and various transportation fees within the tourist area. The first stop of the bus was a vast, partially frozen lake, surrounded by waterfalls, mountains, and forests. As it was winter, parts of the lake were frozen, exhibiting a similar hue to the Moon Crescent Lake in Yunnan. From here, visitors would clockwise traverse many picturesque photo spots before reaching the 4km-long forested section.
Snow-capped mountains surround the valley, leaving visitors awestruck.
The deep blue sky in winter at Four Streams accentuates the pristine white snow.
For those not inclined to trek through the forest, an alternative is taking the bus to a point 4 km away on a paved road. Here, a small snowslide area awaits exploration. However, due to rapidly darkening skies and a snowier destination tomorrow, we opted for a brief exploration and photo session before returning to the tourist center. A light meal, and we were back on the road to the town. Numerous food stalls offer a variety of options, including boiled corn, steamed buns, and, more uniquely, deep-fried items and spicy powdered chili-coated fries.
In the evening at Gu'ergouzhen town, an abundance of dining options awaits. Typically, each eatery here specializes in three culinary delights – one offers hot pot, another serves skewered delights, and the third provides grilled rabbit and chicken. On our first night, we indulged in beef hot pot and an array of skewers to relish the local flavors.
Day 3: Exploring Mount Gia Co
A glimpse of the snowy panorama of Mount Gia Co.
On the third day of our independent journey through Four Streams, we scheduled a taxi at 8 AM to venture to Mount Gia Co, about 100 km away into the mountainous terrain. The round-trip fare for the journey was 400 CNY. The scenery along the way was breathtaking as the road traced alongside rivers, traversed mountains, and passed by a massive hydroelectric dam.
After purchasing tickets, 124 CNY per person covering entrance and bus fees, we were transported to the main area around 20 km away. The initial feeling upon disembarking was awe-inspiring – nature unfolded its grandeur with enormous mountain ranges, towering peaks capped with pristine snow, and a gleaming white amusement area. We explored from 10 AM to 2 PM, then returned to the ticket booth, capturing hundreds of dazzling photos against the backdrop. Given the significant Tibetan population in the region, the area was adorned with distinctive prayer flags, standing out vividly against the snowy canvas. Additionally, there was an exquisite wooden house area with thick, soft, and smooth snow on the roofs, resembling scenes from fairy tales.
An exhilarating experience stepping foot on Mount Gia Co.
The scenery here is so magnificent that wherever you position yourself, there's a beautiful photo opportunity.
On the second night in Gu'ergouzhen, we switched to grilled chicken as my wife couldn't eat rabbit meat. Additionally, we ordered various skewers for a more diverse and enjoyable meal.
Day 4: Exploring Cam Ly Street
On the fourth day, we asked the hotel owner to arrange transportation to Lixian city center, where the bus station is located to buy tickets back to Chengdu. There are morning buses at 6 AM, 6:50 AM, 8:50 AM, 10:10 AM; and afternoon buses at 1:30 PM and 3 PM. We took the 8:50 AM bus, reaching Chengdu right on time for our Airbnb check-in at noon.
After resting and having lunch, we took a taxi to Vu Hau Temple but ended up wandering around the ancient Cam Ly Street right next to it. This is a renowned ancient street in Chengdu, similar to many other ancient towns in China, offering a variety of shops from souvenirs, clothing to food and drinks.
After exploring, snacking, and spending about 2 hours in Cam Ly, we walked to find a Sichuan hot pot restaurant on the way to savor the local delicacy. Even if you can handle spicy food, it's advisable to choose a non-spicy pot for a fuller experience. The prices in Chengdu are reasonable, and a satisfying hot pot meal for two costs around 200 CNY.
In the evening, we went shopping for gifts, opting for either Walmart or Carrefour as they are large supermarkets with a wide selection and fixed prices.
(*) On the morning of the fifth day, the couple explored some fashion stores, purchased additional gifts, and checked out before heading to the airport for the flight back to Hanoi.
The snow-covered wooden houses resemble scenes straight out of a fairy tale.
The Tibetan five-colored prayer flags were one of the most enchanting sights, from Shangri-La to Lixian.
Some Tips for Traveling to Chengdu, Four Streams, China
- Due to the extremely cold weather, prepare thermal clothing and windproof gear to stay warm. It's advisable to wear leather shoes with slip-resistant soles for easy movement in the snow.
- Additionally, bring sunglasses to combat glare, as the snow reflects sunlight intensely.
Essential Apps for Independent Travel in Four Streams:
- Map.me for offline maps
- Wechat for communication with hosts and drivers
- Dear translate for conversations with locals
- Refer to the bus routes at chinabusguide website
Opt for warm-toned clothing to stand out against the white snow in Mount Gia Co.
Explore Four Streams, China with Klook - No Worries!
Thanks a bunch, Dinh Duc Tung, for this incredibly insightful travel review. Hope you have many more exciting journeys in the near future. #teamKlook, are you planning a trip to Four Streams, China? Remember, Klook offers a plethora of convenient services/day tours for you to indulge in. Not to mention the wide variety of experiential shares, tips, and DIY travel experiences on the Klook Blog. What are you waiting for? Start exploring now!
