Location & How to Get There

Another Village sits nestled on the waist of Qingcheng Mountain’s rear section in Dujiangyan, Sichuan. To reach it, first head to Qingcheng Mountain’s rear mountain entrance (a 40-minute taxi ride from downtown Dujiangyan). From there, hike up for about 1–1.5 hours along winding trails, or take the Baiyun Cable Car for a quicker ascent. Once you see traditional wooden buildings peeking through the trees, you’ve arrived at Another Village—literally “a village after the dark path,” inspired by ancient Chinese poetry about finding hope after challenges.

Natural Scenery: A Green Oasis

Surrounded by dense forests and mist-covered peaks, Another Village feels like a hidden gem. The air here is crisp, and you’ll hear birds chirping as you walk. Nearby, the Taohuo Creek (a scenic path) offers waterfalls and moss-covered stones, perfect for quick photo stops. If you visit in spring, wildflowers bloom along the trails, while autumn paints the mountains in fiery reds and oranges. Just be prepared for steep steps and occasional rain showers—bring waterproof shoes!

Cultural Backstory: Name & History

The name Another Village comes from a famous Chinese poem: “When mountains seem endless and rivers block the way, suddenly, a new village appears beyond the dark willows.” This spot captures that “surprise relief” feeling. Locals say it’s a rest stop for hikers, but also a nod to Qingcheng Mountain’s history as a Taoist holy site. You’ll spot ancient-style pavilions and stone carvings, though most buildings are modernized for tourists.

Food & Dining: Humble Eats, High Prices

Another Village is the go-to spot for snacks and meals on Qingcheng Mountain. Street vendors sell cheap shawl-noodles (~¥10) and corn on the cob, but flavors are basic—think of it as “fill-your-belly” food. For sit-down meals, several restaurants serve local specialties like spicy mountain frog and smoked tofu, but dishes start at ¥50+. Pro tip: Always bargain! Locals expect tourists to haggle, so don’t hesitate to cut prices by 20–30%.

Trails & Routes: Navigating the Forks

At Another Village, you’ll face a triple choice:

  1. Golden Eagle Cable Car: Take this to descend quickly (must-take if you’re tired).
  2. Baiyun Cable Car: Leads deeper into the mountain (for hardcore hikers).
  3. Taohuo Creek Path: A scenic but steep walk—great for photos, tough on knees.

Warning: Signs are sparse, and trails look similar. Mark your path carefully; otherwise, you might accidentally hike toward Baiyun Soar instead of descending. Trust us—getting lost here means extra hours of climbing!

Practical Tips for Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Early morning (beat the crowds) or late afternoon (softer light for photos).
  • What to bring: Water, snacks, sunscreen, and cash (some vendors don’t take cards).
  • Avoid: Weekends—it’s packed! Distraction levels = high.
  • Must-do: Sit by the creek near Another Village to people-watch and enjoy the cool breeze.

Final Thoughts: A Mixed Bag

Another Village isn’t a “wow” destination, but it’s essential for anyone tackling Qingcheng Mountain’s rear section. Think of it as a pit stop with decent food, tricky trails, and a cultural wink. Just remember: the real highlight here isn’t the village itself, but the journey—both up and down the mountain. Wear comfy shoes, charge your phone, and embrace the “lost-and-found” adventure!