Dujingyan the world’s oldest and only surviving non-dam irrigation facility — and learn how this 3rd-century BC marvel still channels waters from the River Minjiang to the surrounding farmlands. Then, continue to the Erwang Temple (Two Kings Temple), a grandiose wooden complex on the banks of the Minjiang built to honor the irrigation system’s designers. From here, walk across the Anlan Suspension Bridge to view two of Dujiangyan’s best-known sections — Fish Mouth Weir and Bottle-Neck Channel. See how his fish-mouth-shaped levee and channel funnel the river waters, and then stroll through Lidui Park and beautiful bonsai gardens before returning to Chengdu. Your tour then ends back at the starting point.

early pickup from your downtown Chengdu hotel, travel to Mount Qingcheng by private, air-conditioned vehicle with your guide. One of China’s most important Taoism centers, this densely forested mountain featured in 2016's Kung Fu Panda 3 and inspired its makers to create the movie's idyllic-looking Panda Village. On arrival, ride a electric kart to the entrance and set off to explore the highlights of temples, pavilions, and other attractions. Trek up to the Moon City Lake and ride a cable car to Shangqing Palace, Qingsheng’s must-see building. Perched at 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) and dating from the Jin Dynasty (265 AD-420 AD), this elaborate complex was rebuilt in the 1800s and consists of serene temples and an ancient gingko tree.