The Hometown of the Empress Awaits You: Guangyuan, an underrated niche tourist destination

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without going too far? Then come to Guangyuan·Sichuan! This underrated niche tourist destination is not only known as the 'Hometown of the Empress' but also boasts a rich heritage of Three Kingdoms culture and Bashu civilization. A two-night, three-day trip will give you a taste of a different historical charm. 🚄 Travel Guide: Depart from Chengdu East Station and take the high-speed train directly to Guangyuan Station, which only takes 1.5 hours and costs about 111 yuan; or choose to go to Jianmenguan Station, with a ticket price of 96 yuan! Self-driving is also very convenient. Departing from Chengdu and following the Mianzhu Expressway, it takes about 3 hours to reach Guangyuan·Sichuan. 🎫 Ticket Information: Ancient City is now open to tourists for free, but please note that some popular attractions, such as the Confucian Temple and the County Yamen, still require a joint ticket, which costs 52 yuan. 🛣️ Travel Tips: Zhaohua Ancient City (4A) - One of the most intact ancient cities preserving Three Kingdoms culture in the nation, known as 'the First County of Bashu, the Second Capital of Shu'. Huangze Temple (4A) - The only temple in China dedicated to Empress Wu Zetian, with a wealth of historical relics. Thousand Buddha Cliff Tourist Area (4A) - The largest grotto group in Sichuan, with cliff carvings dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. Tangjiahe Nature Reserve (4A) - Ecologically rich, known as the 'natural gene pool'. Zengjia Mountain Scenic Area (4A) - Known as the 'Kingdom of Caves', suitable for visiting in all seasons. Tianquan Mountain (4A) - Known as the 'Garden of the Empress's Youth', it has many cultural landscapes. Gucheng Mountain-Qili Gorge Scenic Area (4A) - Dominated by water scenery, the natural beauty is charming. Qingxi Ancient Town (4A) - Known as the 'Gateway to Northern Sichuan and the Throat of Western Sichuan', it has a long history. Mingyue Gorge Scenic Area (4A) - As one of the earliest ancient plank roads in China, it is not only a witness to history but also a breathtaking natural wonder. Accommodation Recommendations: It is recommended to choose accommodations near the high-speed rail station, Phoenix Mountain Park, or Totem Square. In the evening, you can take a walk to the riverside to enjoy the tranquility of the river breeze. 🍜 Food Recommendations: Guangyuan stewed bread, Ding pot stewed cured meat, Mumen rice wine, grey mixed balls, ham chicken health pot, Zhaohua pork intestines, Qingchuan copper hot pot, Jianmenguan tofu, Guangyuan steamed cold noodles, meat toad Why slow down? Because the beauty of Guangyuan·Sichuan is worth savoring slowly. Here, not only can you find the legendary story of Empress Wu Zetian, but also the profound cultural heritage of the Three Kingdoms. In this city, history and modernity blend together, allowing you to find a peaceful haven in the fast-paced life. Guangyuan·Sichuan is a travel destination you definitely shouldn't miss!