Near Gufu Yan, Banyan Tree Qingcheng Mountain stands out as a top choice. Nestled in the lush hills of Chengdu, this eco-luxury retreat blends traditional Sichuan architecture with modern sustainability features. Guests enjoy serene bamboo gardens and private hot spring suites, with a 15-minute walk to Gufu Yan’s ancient water channels.

The hotel offers complimentary shuttle tours to the site, highlighting the engineering brilliance of the 1,000-year-old irrigation system. Each room is crafted with locally sourced timber and stone, enhancing the connection to nature. Additionally, every Saturday evening features a Sichuan Tea Ceremony Experience, where guests learn about the historical role of Gufu Yan in regional agriculture—perfect for travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion.

The most convenient route from Chengdu city center is to take Line 2 Metro to Xipu Station, then transfer to Bus P39 (or rent an e-bike) for a 40-minute ride. For drivers, follow the Chengdu-Guanghan Expressway toward Qingcheng Mountain—approximately 35 minutes with clear signage along the way.

Gufu Yan lies within the Qingchengshan Scenic Area, which features a large parking lot with ADA-compliant access and electric shuttle services for elderly and disabled visitors. Arrive before 9:00 AM to avoid afternoon crowds. On-site tourism centers also offer free maps and multilingual audio guides, greatly enhancing the visitor experience.

Gufu Yan offers more than just historical sightseeing—it hosts immersive cultural events year-round. Every March during the Lunar Calendar, the Gufu Yan Water Festival celebrates ancestral water rituals with traditional blessings, Sichuan Opera face-changing shows, and handmade paper umbrella workshops.

Daily guided walks from 10:00–12:00 feature the "Quest for Water" interactive tour, where visitors solve puzzles based on ancient hydraulic principles. Some areas host an immersive light-and-water theater, "The Pulse of a Thousand Years," which narrates the construction of the ancient canal using projection mapping.

All activities are free, but advance HopeGoo via the "Chengdu Culture & Tourism Pass" app is recommended. Don’t miss the Overnight Canal Camping Program, where you can sleep under the stars beside the canal, experiencing the tranquility once cherished by ancient engineers.

Near Gufu Yan, families can explore several kid-friendly sites: Qingchengshan-Dujiangyan Scenic Area (just 1.5 km away), Fish Leaping Dragon Gate Park (with water play zones), and Zhu Xi Lake Ecological Wetland (offering paddle boat rentals and nature trails).

At Fish Leaping Dragon Gate Park, the Family Science Hub uses animated models to teach children how ancient water systems regulate flow—making learning fun through hands-on games. Zhu Xi Lake features sandbox areas and interactive wildlife panels, helping kids identify local birds and plants.

All sites provide ADA-accessible paths, stroller rentals, and family combo tickets (including entry, guided tour, and refreshments). We recommend a full-day itinerary starting at Gufu Yan, walking along the scenic riverside trail to each attraction—a perfect blend of history, nature, and active exploration for all ages.