[2026 Mianning Attraction] Eerzeer Scenic Area Travel Guide & Travel Experiences | Updated Mar

In Western Sichuan, some place names are destined to remain niche, such as E'erze'e. This Yi language name is so ancient that even locals can't clearly explain its exact meaning. Today, it is used to collectively refer to dozens of mountain peaks within the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture. The highest peak reaches 4,500 meters, which is not particularly majestic on the Western Sichuan Plateau, but its charm has never been about height — it lies in the mountains scattered with crystals, more than 30 alpine lakes dotted around, and rhododendron seas blooming in two seasons. Even more luxurious is that this place remains undeveloped, with no entrance fees, no boardwalks, no commercial facilities—only the most pristine wilderness and crystals waiting to be discovered. Due to the steep terrain, even mule caravans cannot reach here; only a few hikers and photography enthusiasts come to explore. If you are tired of queuing for the same photo spot at popular tourist sites, then E'erze'e might be the last "virgin land" you can find in Western Sichuan. 01 The Core of the Secret Realm: Why E'erze'e? E'erze'e’s uniqueness lies in its extremely high natural density and minimal human interference. Within a relatively concentrated area, you can experience three completely different surprises all at once. 💎 Crystals Everywhere: Starlight from Billions of Years Ago Scattered in the Wilderness The most astonishing thing is that in the primeval forests and rock crevices of E'erze'e, natural crystals of various sizes are scattered about. These crystals formed billions of years ago and, through complex geological processes and glacial movements, were pushed to the surface, quietly lying there, waiting for an unexpected encounter. Here, you don’t have to buy polished crystals from craft shops; you can search for and pick up these uncarved raw crystals yourself. If you’re lucky, you might find transparent hexagonal prisms in rock crevices or smooth crystal pebbles washed by streams. This "treasure hunting" joy is something no ticketed scenic spot can offer. 🏞️ Alpine Lakes Cluster: Pearls Scattered on the Ridge Around the main peak, there are more than 30 alpine lakes of various sizes, like pearls scattered along the ridge. Without a strenuous trek, it’s hard to catch a glimpse of their beauty. The most famous among them is Mo Lake, a typical glacial lake with crystal-clear water. On sunny, windless days, it perfectly reflects the surrounding jagged peaks, creating an ideal symmetrical composition for photography. Sitting by the lake, surrounded by lush mountains, with only the sound of wind and occasional bird calls, time seems to freeze at this moment. 🌸 Two Seasons of Rhododendrons: Different Blooming Times on North and South Slopes Due to differences in altitude and climate, rhododendrons in E'erze'e bloom twice a year — on the south slope from May to June, and on the north slope from August to September. During the blooming seasons, vast seas of rhododendrons burst into brilliant color, with clusters of pink and white flowers mingling with the sea of clouds, resembling a fairyland. This "two-season bloom" feature makes E'erze'e worth visiting in both summer and autumn. Whether it’s the south slope flower sea in June or the colorful forest on the north slope in September, you can feel nature’s most generous gifts. 02 Itinerary Planning: Two Days Immersed in the Crystal Kingdom E'erze'e is located in Mianning County, Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province, suitable for a 2-day, 1-night deep hiking trip. This is not a developed scenic area; you must hire a local guide and cannot enter the mountains alone. Core Itinerary Overview Day Itinerary Main Experiences Accommodation Suggestions Day 1 Xichang → Mianning → E'erze'e Village → Mo Lake round-trip hike Alpine rhododendrons (June), Mo Lake photography, initial crystal exploration E'erze'e village farmhouse/guide’s home Day 2 E'erze'e Village → Xiaoxiangling Tea Horse Ancient Road → Xichang Ancient trail hiking, climate wonders, Yi cuisine Xichang city area Day 1: Depart from Xichang, hike to Mo Lake Morning · Departure and Arrival Depart from downtown Xichang, self-drive navigation to "E'erze'e Village," about 2.5 hours by car. The route features typical Western Sichuan canyon scenery; as altitude rises, vegetation changes from broadleaf forest to coniferous forest. Upon arrival at the village entrance, you will encounter a fire prevention checkpoint. Non-local vehicles must contact a guide (cost about 200 RMB per group) to be led up the mountain by villagers. This step is mandatory, both for fire safety and because the complex terrain of E'erze'e makes it easy to get lost without a guide. Noon · Head to Mo Lake From the village parking lot, there is about a 10 km gravel road that can be slowly driven to the hiking start point. The official hike is about 4 hours round-trip (above 3,000 meters altitude, slow pace recommended). Along the way, you will pass through primeval forests and rhododendron thickets (in full bloom in June), finally reaching Mo Lake. This glacial lake is like a mirror on calm sunny days, reflecting the surrounding jagged peaks, making it a perfect spot for symmetrical photography. Evening · Return to the Village Start descending before sunset and return to E'erze'e Village. You can stay overnight at the guide’s farmhouse or contact local homestays. The cost is about 80-120 RMB per night, simple but clean, offering an authentic Yi rural night experience. Day 2: Xiaoxiangling Ancient Trail, Return to Xichang Morning · Tea Horse Ancient Road Hike Depart from E'erze'e Village to the Xiaoxiangling Tea Horse Ancient Road section. Pass through the Xiaoxiangling Tunnel (3.5 km) and experience the "ten miles of different weather" climate phenomenon. Climb to the "Today’s Hilltop" viewing platform to photograph the war horse sculptures and mountain scenery resembling an ink painting. This hike is moderate in intensity, allowing you to appreciate historical relics and alpine landscapes. Noon · Yi Cuisine There is a Yi farmhouse halfway up the mountain, recommended to try buckwheat cakes and sauerkraut potato soup, about 40 RMB per person. Buckwheat is a specialty of Liangshan, slightly bitter with a sweet aftertaste, paired with the tangy potato soup, a heartwarming treat after hiking. Afternoon · Return to Xichang Drive back to Xichang, about 2.5 hours. If you have energy, you can visit the Lingshan ancient temple or climb the Xiangying ancient post station, both historical relics along the Tea Horse Ancient Road. 03 Travel Essentials: Survival Guide for High-Altitude Hiking How to Get There Navigation: Use Gaode/Baidu Maps to search for "E'erze'e Village" (Mianning County, Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province) Self-drive route: Xichang — Mianning — E'erze'e Village, about 2.5 hours total Car hire: You can hire a car from downtown Xichang, costing about 400-500 RMB/day; the driver will wait at the village entrance Important: You must pass the fire prevention checkpoint at the village entrance and hire a local guide (about 200 RMB per group); solo mountain entry is prohibited 🎫 Tickets and Opening Hours Tickets: Completely free, no scenic area gates, no entrance fees Opening hours: Open all day, but daytime hiking is recommended, return before dark Best seasons: May-June (south slope rhododendrons), August-September (north slope rhododendrons), October (autumn foliage) 🏔️ Altitude and Altitude Sickness Core hiking area altitude: 3,000-4,000 meters, Mo Lake area above 3,500 meters Compared to Tibet and Qinghai, the risk of altitude sickness here is lower, but still be cautious: starting from Xichang (about 1,500 meters), altitude rises quickly, so walk slowly and drink plenty of water 🎒 Gear Checklist Category Essential Items Notes Clothing Windbreaker/fleece liner, quick-dry underwear, windproof pants Large temperature difference day and night, strong winds at the summit, summer summit temps only 10-15℃ Footwear Non-slip hiking boots (high-top preferred) Many gravel and muddy sections Sun Protection High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hat, face scarf Strong UV rays, even stronger reflection on snow Supplies At least 2L drinking water per person, high-calorie snacks No commercial facilities inside the scenic area, Mo Lake water not drinkable Treasure Hunting Tools Small hammer, gloves, cloth bag For searching and collecting crystals; avoid damaging rock layers Others Power bank, trash bags, basic first aid kit Carry out all trash, leave no trace in the wilderness ⚠️ Important Safety Tips Mandatory Guide: E'erze'e’s terrain is complex, primeval forests are easy to get lost in, and weather is changeable. Solo mountain entry is strictly prohibited; you must follow a guide. Weather Forecast: High-altitude mountain weather is unpredictable, with possible sudden rainstorms or fog. Always check the weather before setting out. Water Source: Mo Lake water is not drinkable; bring sufficient drinking water. Leave No Trace: Carry out all trash, protect alpine rhododendrons and primeval forests. Crystal Collection: You may pick up crystals scattered on the surface but do not dig extensively or damage rock layers to maintain sustainable exploration. 04 Best Season: When Is the Best Time to Visit? E'erze'e is beautiful all year round, but each season offers different highlights.

Want to give your child a truly “read thousands of books, travel thousands of miles” experience? Come to Liangshan, Sichuan! This is a microcosm of the Hengduan Mountains, featuring top-notch natural landscapes and unique cultural customs. We have designed a route perfect for family exploration, with each stop like opening a new chapter in a textbook. 🌍 Trip Highlights (Parent-Child Interpretation Version): Xichang (P10): A comfortable starting point. The “Aerospace City” can spark children’s imagination about the sky, and the city full of jacaranda trees in May is a naturally romantic classroom. Fruits are cheap and sweet, enjoy blueberry freedom! Longtoushan Grand Cliff (P1-P5): A high-difficulty option, suitable only for older or very fit children (see previous article for details). If conditions don’t match, just admire from afar or experience the shock of the “edge of the world” through pictures. E’erze’er (P6-P8): Alpine lake hiking. You can choose an easier route to find the Ink Sea and Red Sea. The moss forest at the foot of the mountain is a child’s favorite, like stepping into “The Wizard of Oz,” touching a thick “green carpet.” Gukede (P11-P12): The Soma Flower (Rhododendron) Valley in April and May. Here you can experience Yi ethnic customs, and the aroma of roasted suckling pig from roadside barbecue stalls will surely be remembered by children. Cliff Village (P13-14): For viewing and education only. Let children understand another way of life and learn to cherish and be grateful. Not recommended to bring children to climb the old sky ladder. Cyathea Grand Canyon (P15-17): A highly recommended family spot! Stroll under the dinosaur-era cyathea trees, with misty canyon views after rain, children will feel like they’ve traveled to Jurassic Park. The path is gentle and full of exploration fun. ⚠️ General Tips for Family Travel in Liangshan: Transportation: Attractions are scattered; self-driving is the best option. Prepare motion sickness medicine for children as mountain roads are winding. Altitude: Some areas are at high altitude; watch for signs of altitude sickness in children and slow down activities. Respect Culture: In Yi ethnic areas, briefly introduce local customs to children in advance and teach respect. Seasons: Scenery varies greatly by season—enjoy flowers in spring, cool weather in summer, and colorful forests in autumn. The beauty of Liangshan is wild and profound, a living encyclopedia of geography and culture, waiting for prepared families to explore.

| Flower Sea, Ink Lake, Yi Village Charm. ‌🌤️Weather and Outfit Guide‌ ‌Climate‌: Altitude 3,000-4,000m, large temperature difference between day and night. Summer summit temperature is around 10-15°C, winter can be as low as -5°C.‌ ‌ 🎒Essential Gear‌: Windproof and Warm: Hiking jacket/light down jacket + quick-drying base layer for high-altitude wind and cold protection.‌ Hiking Boots: Non-slip hiking boots (lots of gravel and muddy sections).‌ Protective Gear: Sunglasses, sunscreen (strong UV rays), raincoat (rainy season June-September). ‌ 🚶Day 1 Xichang → Erze'e Village → Ink Lake Round Trip‌ ‌Transportation‌: Drive to Erze'e Village (approx. 2.5h drive). You need to pass a fire prevention checkpoint at the village entrance. Non-local vehicles need to contact a guide (fee approx. CNY 200/group) and be led up the mountain by a villager.‌ ‌Hiking Section‌: Starting Point: Village parking lot → 10km gravel road (can be driven slowly) → Hiking trailhead.‌ Core Attractions: ‌Alpine Rhododendron Sea‌🌸 (full bloom in June, pink and white flowers intertwined with the sea of clouds).‌ ‌Ink Lake‌: A glacial lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. On a clear, windless day, you can capture symmetrical compositions.‌ Duration: Approx. 4 hours round trip (altitude 3,000m+, slow walking recommended).‌ ‌ 🚶Day 2 Xiaoxiangling Tea-Horse Trail → Today Mountain Scenic Area‌ ‌Cultural Hiking Route‌: Walk through the Xiaoxiangling Tunnel (3.5km) and experience the "Ten Miles, Different Skies" climate phenomenon.‌ Climb to the "Today Mountain" viewing platform to photograph the warhorse sculptures and the landscape.‌ Lunch Recommendation: Yi farmhouse restaurant on the mountainside. Try buckwheat pancakes + sour vegetable and potato soup (approx. CNY 40 per person).‌ ‌🍜 Food Guide‌: Breakfast from Xichang‌: [Dechang Laobing Mutton Restaurant]: Mutton rice noodles + mint leaves, rich and flavorful soup (search term: Dechang mutton rice noodles).‌ ‌Hiking Snacks‌: Roasted potatoes from the Yi guide's home, dipped in chili paste + pepper powder (portable and filling).‌ ‌Dinner after Descent‌: [Qionghai 17 Degrees Fire Pit BBQ]: Small intestine wrapped bean curd + Tuo Tuo meat (dipped in soybean chili powder).‌ [Erze'e Farmhouse Restaurant]: Firewood chicken + wild mushroom soup (approx. CNY 60 per person).‌ ‌⚠️ Safety and Environmental Tips‌: ‌Mandatory‌: No solo hiking. Must follow a guide (to prevent getting lost + deal with sudden weather changes).‌ ‌Water Source‌: Ink Lake water is not drinkable. Bring at least 2L of drinking water.‌ ‌Leave No Trace‌: Take away all trash, protect the alpine rhododendrons and the virgin forest.‌ 🚗Alternative Route Suggestions‌: If you have limited physical strength, you can wait for the new road to open (estimated completion by the end of 2025), which will lead directly to the trailhead.‌ Combined Itinerary: Xiaoxiangling + Luojishan (hot springs to relieve hiking fatigue).‌ Xichang Xiaoxiangling, an unspoiled plateau, reveals its natural beauty and rich culture to those who explore it on foot.✨

Forests, lakes, snowy mountains, seas of clouds… Thick moss carpets the forest, soft and fluffy. Walking through the moss-covered forest, you'll feel like you've stumbled into Alice in Wonderland, or perhaps the next moment, you'll find yourself in the primeval jungle of Jurassic Park! This is an incredibly unique hiking route that 99% of the internet hasn't explored! 📍Location: Xiao Xiang Ling (Erze'e), Mianning County, Sichuan 🚄Transportation: Take the high-speed train to Mianning County, then a taxi to Lingshan Temple. 🌳🌲🌲🌳Hiking tips: 1️⃣The altitude of this hiking route climbs steadily, reaching a maximum of about 4500m. Hike within your limits. If you just want to see the moss forest, it's concentrated in the first half of the trail. The second half leads to a high-altitude alpine lake. 2️⃣May and June are the blooming season for azaleas. During this time, the scenery is truly dreamlike. Unfortunately, I missed the blooming season on my previous visit. 3️⃣Be sure to wear comfortable, non-slip hiking shoes, as some areas can be slippery.

🌲Scenery: Magical forest 📍Location: Eerze'e, Xide County, Xichang 🚗Transportation: Self-driving or high-speed rail + taxi ⛰️Altitude: About 3,600 meters 🎫Tickets: Free 🅿️Parking: Free ✅[Travel Guide]: 1⃣️This is actually a very famous hiking route in the outdoor circle in the early years, from the back mountain of Mianning Lingshan Temple to Eerze'e, Xide County. It takes about 3 days to cross the Xiaoxiangling Mountains in Liangshan Prefecture, and you need to camp outdoors at night. The scenery along the way is very unique. The primeval forest and plateau lakes are embedded in it, but because of the high altitude, the climate is changeable, and the mountains are often shrouded in clouds and mist, and heavy rain often comes. 2⃣️There are two magical forests, and most netizens go to the one that is relatively easy to reach behind Lingshan Temple. This time we went to another more primitive and undisturbed magical forest in Xide County. 3⃣️Although the altitude of this magical forest is about 3,600 meters, due to the lush vegetation, there is almost no feeling of altitude sickness and hypoxia. 4⃣️Self-driving cars cannot drive near the forest, and can only stop by the roadside near Eerze'e Village and walk to the magical forest, a total of about 16 kilometers; about 10 kilometers of paved roads and about 6 kilometers of unpaved roads. If you only visit the magical forest, it is no problem to go back and forth on the same day. 5⃣️The most beautiful season of the magical forest is from the end of June to mid-July every year, when the rhododendrons on the top of the mountain are in full bloom; the best time to take pictures is after the rain, when the forest is filled with smoke, as if countless elves will fly out in the next second 🧚‍♀️. 6⃣️The good ecological environment that has grown naturally for thousands of years can breed this magical forest like a fairy tale world. It is located in the sparsely populated mountains, with fresh and lush moss, and the ecosystem is relatively fragile. Please be sure to protect the environment, do not destroy or harm, and do not leave any garbage!

🌈 The real version of Alice in Wonderland, hidden in China? You might guess the beginning, but not the location—it's not in a foreign fairyland, not in distant Xinjiang, but right in Sichuan! 🌟 🌲 Immersive experience! No longer surrounded by the noisy city, but by endless greenery, every step on the soft moss carpet, as if the whole world is draped in a mysterious green veil. 📍 Destination revealed: Mianning County, Xichang, Sichuan, a place not well-known but breathtakingly beautiful—Er'orzhao, or simply search for 'Tianxia Ling Mountain Scenic Area'. 🚗 How to get there: 🚄 High-speed train: First, take the high-speed train to Mianning Station, and enjoy the fast and comfortable journey. 🚖 Subsequent transportation: After exiting the station, you can choose to take a taxi directly to the destination, or rent a car for a flexible arrangement. 🏞️ Hiking highlights: 🌳 Dreamy forest: Step into this almost undisturbed primeval forest, as if walking through a fairy tale book. Ancient trees reach for the sky, moss weaves a carpet, every step is on the soft fabric of time. 🏞️ Alpine lakes: The hiking route is not limited to the forest, continue forward and you will encounter clear alpine lakes, the magnificence at an altitude of 4500 meters, but the lush vegetation makes your plateau journey more relaxed and enjoyable. 🎒 Essentials for the trip: 🧥 Equipment suggestion: Carry waterproof and breathable clothing to guard against the mountain's changeable weather; a pair of comfortable hiking shoes, a solid companion for exploring the unknown. 🛡️ Safety notice: Given the special nature of the route, it is recommended for non-beginners or to go in groups, and consider hiring a local guide. Download hiking trails to ensure safety and avoid getting lost. Weather reminder: The mountain climate is changeable, with large temperature differences between morning and evening, be sure to prepare for cold protection and warmth, and carry rain gear to cope with sudden rain. 🌿 Photo hotspots: The entrance of the forest captures a lush scene, but deeper inside, you will find more astonishing shooting spots, remember to fully charge your camera! Tips: 🔋 Physical endurance: Adjust your itinerary according to your own condition, there's no need to rush, the beauty along the way is worth savoring slowly. 🌱 Ecological protection: Please respect nature, take your trash with you, leave only footprints, so that this beauty can continue.

If you go here by plane, most people will choose Land at Xichang Airport, transfer to Xichang West Station EMU to Mianning Station (about 30 minutes by car, 10r/person), Mianning Station transfer to the county bus to Mianning County (about 45 minutes by car, 12r/person) City (about 45 minutes by car, 12r/person) Land at Chengdu Airport, transfer to Chengdu Railway Station (multiple options) EMU to Mianning Station (about 4-5 hours by car, 100+ r/person), Mianning Station transfer to the county bus to Mianning County (about 45 minutes by car, 12r/person) If you go here by rail, choose Mianning Station directly; The starting point of the hike starts from Lingshan Temple in Lingshan Scenic Area. You can take a taxi directly here at 8 o'clock in the morning. After 8 o'clock, you can only take a taxi to the entrance of the scenic area and then transfer to the shuttle battery car. 43 routes, 3 different hiking duration plans Orzeo: ① Scenic area gate - light hiking and taking photos in the forest behind Lingshan Temple Same-day round trip, high intensity, no matter you have experience ② Scenic area gate - Liansanhai Same-day round trip, high intensity, beginners can challenge but not recommended; - Two days and one night hiking and camping round trip, high intensity, no matter you have camping experience ③ Scenic area gate - Liansanhai - Mohai - Xide County Pass (the plan we took)