Things To Do
in Yilong
Yilong County lies in northeastern Sichuan province and is a largely rural, agricultural county with a small county seat that serves as the local service and market center. The area is characterized by rolling hills, farmland, tea patches and old village lanes that give a glimpse of traditional Sichuan life. Visitors come for relaxed countryside scenery, simple local food and to experience markets, temples and village culture rather than big-city tourist infrastructure.
Because it is off the main tourist routes, Yilong offers low-cost travel, friendly locals and opportunities for photography of everyday rural life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Yilong Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Stroll through the nearby traditional market, soaking in the vibrant sights and sounds of local vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Don't forget to stop by a local tea house for a refreshing cup of tea, learning about the local tea culture.
After lunch at a quaint local noodle shop, head to the Yilong Museum to delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Explore the fascinating exhibits showcasing ancient artifacts and local art, which provide insights into Yilong's past. Spend some time walking along the riverside park, enjoying the peaceful scenery and perhaps trying your hand at traditional calligraphy.
As the sun sets, find a spot at a riverside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor authentic Sichuan cuisine while watching the water flow by. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying the beautifully lit cityscape and the gentle sound of water. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local night market, where you can sample street food and shop for unique souvenirs.
Start your morning with a hike up to the stunning Mount Yilong, where panoramic views of the surrounding landscape await. Enjoy the fresh mountain air as you navigate through lush forests and rocky terrain, keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Upon reaching the summit, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking vistas and capture some memorable photographs.
Once back down, have lunch at a nearby cafe that offers local specialties, refueling for your next adventure. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Yilong Lake, where you can rent a paddleboat to explore the tranquil waters surrounded by lush greenery. Take a leisurely walk around the lake's shore, enjoying the serene environment and the beauty of nature.
As night falls, find a cozy restaurant with a view of the lake for dinner, where you can enjoy local fish dishes. After your meal, consider taking a sunset boat ride on the lake, watching as the sky transforms into vibrant hues of orange and pink. Conclude your evening by stargazing from the lakeside, appreciating the peaceful ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-35 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.30-1 |
| 🚕Taxi start + short ride | $1.50-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel / guesthouse (per night) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Sichuan experience away from mass tourism
- Low costs and friendly local hospitality
- Great opportunities for photography of everyday village life and landscapes
- Easy access to simple local food and markets
- Limited tourist infrastructure and English signage
- Fewer entertainment and accommodation options compared with larger cities
- Public transport options are limited for reaching remote villages
- Spicy cuisine may be challenging for visitors with low tolerance
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
- "我不吃辣 (Wǒ bù chī là)" - I don't eat spicy food
- "厕所在哪里？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "对不起 / 劳驾 (Duìbùqǐ / Láojià)" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Yilong
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful early-morning activity with fresh produce, butchers and vendors — excellent for candid documentary photos and food shots.
Narrow brick alleys, traditional shopfronts and faded signage that capture the county’s historical character and everyday life.
Hills and small terraces near villages provide panoramic views at sunrise or sunset; ideal for landscape and golden-hour shots.
Photograph architectural details, incense rituals and local religious customs — be respectful and ask before photographing people.
Warm-lit street scenes and candid portraits of locals socializing make for atmospheric evening photography.
Food in Yilong
Yilong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A communal meal with a spicy broth and fresh local ingredients — many small restaurants offer mild or mixed broths for visitors who can’t handle intense heat.
Must-Try!
Pan-fried pork belly with leeks and spicy bean paste; commonly available in family-run eateries and a Sichuan classic to try.
Noodles dressed with a savory, slightly spicy sauce, minced meat and preserved greens — a cheap, delicious option at local noodle shops.
Homemade preserved mustard greens, radish and spicy pickles accompany many meals and are sold at markets and stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A morning market where locals buy produce, meat, spices and snacks — great for photographing food culture and trying breakfast street foods like steamed buns and fried dough.
Evening stalls selling skewers, grilled fish, cold noodles and sweets; a good place to sample inexpensive local snacks and mingle with residents.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people in greetings and seating; addressing elders politely is appreciated.
In many homes and some traditional guesthouses, it’s customary to remove shoes before entering — follow the host’s lead.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in private or religious settings; a smile and gesture are usually enough to get consent.
Queue discipline may be relaxed in rural markets; bargaining is normal for souvenirs and small goods but not for set-price items in formal shops.
Keep conversation friendly and avoid sensitive political topics unless you have established rapport; asking about family, food and local festivals is a good way to bond.
Safety
Tipping in Yilong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most everyday situations in county-level Sichuan; small tips may be appreciated for exceptional service or private guides, but are not expected in restaurants or taxis.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate urban China but may be less widespread with small vendors in rural Yilong; carry some cash (RMB) for markets and village purchases. ATMs are available in the county seat; use larger banks or Nanchong for bigger withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation; a pleasant time for walking and photography, though occasional rain is possible — bring a light layer and waterproof gear.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; insect repellent, light breathable clothing and rain protection are useful. Expect lush green countryside but plan outdoor activity for mornings and evenings.
Crisp, comfortable weather and clear skies — widely considered the best season for hiking, photography and enjoying local produce.
Cool to chilly and often damp rather than snowy; central heating may be limited in rural homes, so bring warm layers. Fewer tourists and quieter villages make for peaceful visits.
Yilong at Night
Hiking in Yilong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic loop through small tea terraces and agricultural plots, offering close-up views of rural cultivation and village life — best in spring and autumn.
A gentle riverside walk that passes small bridges, fields and local hamlets — good for birdwatching and low-effort hiking.
Short but steeper trail to a ridgetop viewpoint that provides panoramic vistas of surrounding hills and farmland, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Yilong by plane.
The nearest regional airport serving Nanchong, with flights to major Chinese cities; from the airport take a taxi or shuttle to Yilong (a drive of about 1–2 hours depending on location).
Major international and domestic hubs in Chengdu about 2.5–4 hours away by car or bus; offer many more flight options and convenient connections to high-speed rail and long-distance buses to Nanchong/Yilong.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Han Chinese engaged in agriculture, small business and local services.
Many villages have an older population as younger adults migrate to cities for work; agriculture remains a major livelihood.
Seasonal or longer-term migrant workers who travel between larger cities and the county for employment, affecting local demographics during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played and watched sport in towns and schools; you’ll see pick-up games in community courts.
Popular indoor sport for all ages and common in community centers and schools.
Frequently played in parks and open spaces; accessible and social.
Common among youth and local school teams; village matches are social events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yilong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist (stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, noodles and rice plates), but many preparations use meat-based broths or fermented sauces with animal products — ask explicitly for vegetarian (素食 sùshí) and to avoid meat broth.
More challenging due to common use of animal-based broths and seasonings; communicate clearly that you avoid meat, eggs and dairy, and be cautious with sauces and pickles which may include shrimp paste or fish sauce.
If you have allergies, name the ingredient clearly in Chinese and carry a translation card. For low-spice, ask for ‘mild’ (少辣 shǎo là) or ‘no chili’ (不要辣 bù yào là).