China Road Trips: Self-Drive & Guided Routes Across China

Xiahe Travel Guide: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Travel Tips

Tucked away in the poetic highlands of Gansu, Xiahe County (夏河县) is the spiritual heart of the Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (甘南藏族自治州)—and a place that truly feels worlds away. Come walk with me through this Xiahe travel guide as we explore the wonders of Xiahe County together.

Ruqin China Travel October 14, 2025

China Road Trips Lhasa Travel Guide

Tingri Travel Guide: Map, Mt. Everest Routes & Travel Tips

Planning a trip to the north side of Mt. Everest in Tibet? Then don’t miss Tingri County (定日县)—known as the “Home of Mt. Everest.” This remote highland region isn’t just a final stop before reaching the Everest North Base Camp—it’s a soulful place where snow peaks, vast skies, and Tibetan culture meet.

Ruqin China Travel October 11, 2025

China Road Trips Tibet Travel Guide

Shigatse: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Travel Tips

Whether you're drawn by ancient monasteries, scenic drives, or routes to Mount Everest, Shigatse makes an unforgettable base for exploring Tibetan culture and landscapes. This Shigatse Travel Guide will help you explore it all. Let's hit the road and discover it together!

Ruqin China Travel October 10, 2025

A young Jiarong Tibetan woman in Danba County

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Danba, Sichuan: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Tips

Danba County (丹巴县) lies deep in the eastern Garzê Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in western Sichuan Province, where the Dadu River carves its way through dramatic cliffs. Danba County is well known for its Jiaju Tibetan Village and Suopo Tibetan Village.

Ruqin China Travel October 8, 2025

China Destination Guides China Road Trips Ruqin’s Notes

Shangri-La, Yunnan: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Tips

Welcome to Shangri-La City, the heart of northwest Yunnan and gateway to the Tibetan Plateau. Once called Zhongdian, it was renamed in 2001 to reflect the mythical utopia described in Lost Horizon.

Ruqin China Travel October 7, 2025

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Daocheng Yading: Map, Scenic Routes, Highlights and Travel Tips

Daocheng Yading is one of those rare places you just have to see once in your life. Tucked away in Daocheng County, Sichuan, this 5A-rated wonder—along with Jiuzhaigou and Siguniang Mountain—ranks as one of western Sichuan’s top three scenic gems.

Ruqin China Travel October 4, 2025

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Litang: Map, Scenic Routes, Top Attractions & Travel Tips

Welcome to Litang Town – The Sky City of Western Sichuan. Litang Town, sitting at a breathtaking 4,014 meters, is known as the “Sky City”—one of the highest towns in the world! Its name comes from Tibetan: “Li” means copper, and “Tang” means open plain.

Ruqin China Travel October 3, 2025

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Xinduqiao: Map, Scenic & Driving Routes, Must-See Spots and Tips

What makes Xinduqiao special? It’s often called the Corridor of Photographers. Especially in autumn, the valley transforms into a dreamscape — golden poplars, grazing yaks, Tibetan homes, winding streams, and soft alpine light at sunrise and sunset. It’s simply magical.

Ruqin China Travel October 3, 2025

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Kangding: Map, Routes, City Walks and Travel Tips

Kangding City (康定), the capital of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, is a key stop along Western Sichuan’s legendary G318 Highway. Once a bustling trade hub on the ancient Tea and Horse Road, it still echoes with Tibetan culture and the timeless “Kangding Love Song.”

Ruqin China Travel October 1, 2025

China Destination Guides China Road Trips Ruqin’s Notes

Ya’an, Sichuan: Maps, Best Things to Do and Travel Tips

In this updated Ya’an travel guide, I’ll share the best things to do, local tips, hidden spots, and how to make the most of your time in this underrated gem. Tucked away just 136 kilometers southwest of Chengdu, Ya’an (雅安) feels like a breath of fresh air.

Ruqin China Travel September 27, 2025