Here comes the 2-day, 1-night foolproof guide to Xichang Torch Festival from Chengdu!

"Half landscape, half city"—Xichang is truly a hidden gem, with summer temperatures around a pleasant 20°C, making it perfect for a summer getaway. The annual Torch Festival is just around the corner! For those planning a trip to Xichang, don’t miss this Chengdu🚅Xichang 2-day travel guide. **Day 1:** Depart from Chengdu at 9 AM and arrive in Xichang by noon. Start with an authentic bowl of lamb rice noodles—the addition of mint makes it surprisingly delicious! After lunch, head to the Torch Square for photos. The 56 towering red stone pillars are majestic and incredibly photogenic📸. In the afternoon, visit Tang Garden, a newly discovered treasure with no entrance fee and stunning photo spots. The vast garden features landmarks like Huaiyuan Pagoda, Xizhou Pavilion, Qiongdu Tower, Tang Poetry Garden, and Sunshui Bridge—every corner is picture-perfect! I thought Tang Garden was beautiful by day, but at night, when the lights come on, it’s absolutely breathtaking! It feels like stepping into the Tang Dynasty’s "Nightless City," with dazzling lights, especially the radiant Huaiyuan Pagoda—truly magnificent! During the Torch Festival, the garden also has torch installations. The blazing torches against the glowing pagoda create a spectacular photo backdrop. After exploring Tang Garden, join the Torch Festival celebrations—the Yi people’s grandest annual event. Thousands gather for torch parades and dancing around bonfires… it’s an unforgettable experience. Stay overnight near Tang Garden for convenience. **Day 2:** Start early at Fishing Terrace for sunrise—the wooden boardwalk by Qionghai Lake is incredibly photogenic. Next, visit Dashi Village to rent Yi ethnic costumes (around ¥50–100 per set) and take photos against the striking orange walls of Lingying Temple. For lunch, try Xichang’s famous charcoal-grilled barbecue—it’s exceptionally flavorful! Spend the afternoon strolling along Qionghai Lake, with plenty of photo spots like the Crooked Neck Tree and Southern France Manor. Take a break at a lakeside café—pure relaxation! Catch the 7 PM high-speed train🚅 back to Chengdu, arriving by 10 PM with subway🚇 still running for easy transit.