A Must-Visit Summer Cool-Down Spot! Super Detailed Travel Guide to Lichuan

Dear friends, when summer arrives, the heat becomes unbearable. Want to find a cool place to escape the heat? Lichuan is your perfect choice! This small city in Hubei has an average altitude of 1100 meters, a summer average temperature of 22°C, and a forest coverage rate of over 68%, making it a natural giant air conditioner. Let’s check out this super detailed Lichuan summer escape travel guide! 🚀 🏞️ Must-Visit Attractions 1. Tenglong Cave: Asia’s super large karst cave, a national 5A-level scenic spot and national geopark. The cave maintains a constant temperature of 16°C, stepping inside in summer feels like entering a giant freezer. Here you can see the stunning "Wolong Swallowing the River" waterfall, where river water rushes underground; plus an amazing 5D light and shadow show vividly presenting Tujia ethnic myths—definitely not to be missed! 2. Fobao Mountain Rafting: 19°C mountain spring water rafting, 5 kilometers long. Drift through the canyon, feel the splashing waves, and instantly cool off from the summer heat. Note that rafting depends on weather conditions, so be sure to check the opening status before your trip. 3. Qiyue Mountain: The largest mountain grassland in southern China, at 1500 meters altitude. The area is dotted with wind turbines and herds of cattle and sheep, offering endless prairie scenery. Watch the sunrise in the morning, enjoy the sunset in the evening, and stargaze lying on the grass at night—extremely romantic. 4. Qingjiang Ancient Riverbed: A free hiking paradise and filming location for "The Assassin Nie Yinniang." Hike through caves and stone beaches, experiencing nature’s craftsmanship. The cave’s cool breeze is very refreshing. 5. Sumadang: "China’s Most Beautiful Small Place," with an average altitude of 1500 meters. Summer average temperature is 22°C, with thousands of acres of lush forest. In the early morning, the sea of clouds roils, making you feel like you’re in a fairyland. Stroll through the town and enjoy a leisurely summer escape. 🗺️ 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary - Day 1: Lichuan Station → Tenglong Cave → City district for Hezha cured meat → Stay at Qingjiang Hotel - Morning: Arrive at Lichuan Station, take a shuttle bus to Tenglong Cave, about 20 minutes. Buy tickets online in advance, 150 RMB (half price for children), sightseeing bus 10 RMB. After entering the cave, visit the geological museum to learn about karst landforms. Then enjoy the "Wolong Swallowing the River" waterfall, experience aerial views and the musical fountain. Finally, take the sightseeing bus to the cave bottom for the laser show. - Afternoon: After touring, return to the city and try local specialties Hezha and cured meat. Hezha is light and refreshing, cured meat is salty and rich. - Evening: Check in at Qingjiang Hotel, convenient transportation and many nearby dining options. - Day 2: Fobao Mountain Rafting → Sumadang sightseeing → Stay at forest homestay - Morning: Head to Fobao Mountain Scenic Area for rafting. It’s recommended to prepare waterproof bags and change of clothes in advance. - Afternoon: Go to Sumadang, stroll along the ten-mile corridor, and watch the sunset at the cliff edge overlooking Qiyue Mountain. - Evening: Stay at a forest homestay, breathe fresh air, and fall asleep to the sound of insects. - Day 3: Watch sunrise at Qiyue Mountain → Hike Qingjiang Ancient Riverbed → Buy dried tofu as souvenirs and return - Early morning: Get up early to watch the sunrise at Qiyue Mountain and experience the magnificent sea of clouds. - Morning: Hike Qingjiang Ancient Riverbed, pass through three caves and two sinkholes, and enjoy the primitive scenery. - Afternoon: Return to the city, buy Baiyang dried tofu as souvenirs, and head back. 🍱 Specialty Foods 1. Water Shield Soup: A nationally recognized geographical indication product, grown in the clean waters of Qingjiang, tender and delicious, perfect for cooling down and health. 2. Tujia Gege: A perfect blend of steamed pork and rice, fragrant and satisfying with every bite. 3. Smoked Pig Trotters Stewed with Yam: Smoked pig trotters from mountain pigs paired with soft yam, fresh and tasty soup, nourishing and beautifying. 4. Spicy Dried Tofu: Made with intangible cultural heritage techniques, rich bean aroma, the more you chew the more fragrant it gets, a must-have snack for the trip. 🚗 Transportation Guide 1. High-speed Rail: Direct high-speed trains to Lichuan Station from Wuhan, Chongqing, and other places. About 4 hours from Wuhan, about 2 hours from Chongqing. 2. Scenic Area Transport: Shuttle buses available for Tenglong Cave, Fobao Mountain, etc.; Qiyue Mountain and Sumadang are farther away, so car rental or self-driving is recommended (drive carefully on mountain roads). 🏠 Accommodation Suggestions 1. City District: Many hotel options with convenient transportation and dining, such as Lichuan Times Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel. 2. Sumadang: Mostly summer homestays where you can enjoy cool mountain life, but book early during peak season. 3. Along Qingjiang Ancient Riverbed: Unique farm stays, convenient for hiking the next day. 🎒 Travel Gear 1. Clothing: Large temperature difference in the mountains, bring a light jacket; for rafting bring swimwear and sandals. 2. Protection: Sunscreen products (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), mosquito repellent. 3. Others: Hiking shoes (for trekking), backpack, power bank. 💡 Tips: 1. Summer is peak tourist season in Lichuan, book tickets and accommodation in advance. 2. Pay attention to weather and opening announcements for Fobao Mountain rafting. 3. Qiyue Mountain is windy, wear a hat to protect against the wind. Dear friends, come to Lichuan and enjoy a 22°C summer! If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below~💕