Located in Wenchuan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, the Wenchuan Special Tourist Area is a national 5A-level scenic spot combining earthquake memorial sites, Qiang cultural experiences and eco-tourism, showcasing the miracle of rebirth after the 2008 "5·12" Wenchuan Earthquake.
Overview
Basic Information
Planned area of about 150 square kilometers, covering three core areas: Yingxiu, Shuimo and Sanjiang.
A national patriotic education base and classic red tourism destination.
Historical Background
Planned and constructed during post-earthquake reconstruction after the 2008 "5·12" Wenchuan Earthquake.
Designated as a national 5A-level tourist attraction in 2013.
Main Attractions
Earthquake Memorial Sites
- Yingxiu Epicenter Memorial: Comprehensive display of earthquake relief and reconstruction
- Xuankou Middle School Ruins: Important memorial site preserving earthquake aftermath
- Wenchuan Earthquake Monument: Solemn site to commemorate victims
Cultural Experience Areas
- Shuimo Ancient Town: Model of post-disaster reconstruction, blending Qiang, Tibetan and Han cultures
- Qiangren Valley: Authentic Qiang cultural experience
- Renji Ximu Valley: Tibetan-Qiang cultural park
Natural Ecological Areas
- Sanjiang Ecological Zone: Natural oxygen bar with over 90% forest coverage
- Wolong Nature Reserve: Important habitat for giant pandas
- Balang Mountain Sea of Clouds: Magnificent snowy mountain and cloud views
Special Experiences
Thematic Education
- Earthquake Relief Spirit Study: Experience the great earthquake relief spirit
- Disaster Prevention Training: Earthquake simulation and emergency escape drills
- Volunteer Spirit Inheritance: National volunteer service base
Cultural Experiences
- Qiang New Year Celebration: Qiang New Year activities on the first day of the tenth lunar month
- Tibetan-Qiang Song and Dance: Daily scheduled ethnic performances
- Intangible Cultural Heritage Crafts: Experience Qiang embroidery, Tibetan incense making etc.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Open year-round. Memorial Sites: 09:00-17:00 (closed Mondays)
Natural Scenic Areas: 08:30-18:00
Ticket Prices
- Yingxiu Epicenter Memorial: Free admission
- Shuimo Ancient Town: 60 CNY/person
- Sanjiang Ecological Zone: 80 CNY/person
Transportation
- Self-driving: About 2 hours from Chengdu via Duwen Expressway
- Public Transport: Direct buses from Chadianzi Bus Station to Wenchuan
- Tourist Shuttle: Direct shuttles from multiple Chengdu hubs
Notes
Maintain solemnity when visiting earthquake memorial sites.
Drive carefully on winding mountain roads.
Respect local Tibetan and Qiang customs.