Xichang: City of Space Rockets and Mountain Rocks
The capital of the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture is Xichang, China. The city has made its round across various local and global news portal for having a Satellite Launch Center. Thus, earning its nickname “Space City of China.” There is so much to see in the city and you should allot a few days to explore when visiting. With domestic flights to other major Chinese cities, the city is easily accessible via its own airport – Xichang Qingshan Airport (XIC).
Best Time to Visit
Xichang is a destination you will surely adore not just for the sights but also for the weather. The weather is very favorable and the temperatures are moderate and mild throughout the entire year. There are plenty of festivities happening year-round as well. But one of the best is the Xichang Torch Festival that falls on the Chinese Lunar Year, usually around late January to early February. These are the months when Xichang hotels are highly priced because of the high volume of tourists.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Housing the largest hot spring waterfall in the world is Mountain Luoji. There are hiking trails on the mountain which will not only take you to said waterfall but also to a mineral-rich cave and towards a gorgeous peak where you can have panoramic views of the city. Qionghai Park is also worth a visit as it is home to the second largest freshwater lake in the province. Check out Xichang National Stadium as well and if you are lucky, you might just witness a sports game live. Qionghai Hotel is one of the top-tier hotels in the city. It is the hotel used by domestic and international diplomats. Xichang Minshan Hotel is also a great choice as it is very modern and offers free private parking.
