Overview
Ya'an is a mountainous prefecture-level city in Sichuan Province, nicknamed the "rainy city" for its abundant rainfall (1,180 mm annually) and "gateway to Tibet" as a key stop on the Sichuan-Tibet highway. It is famous as the birthplace of Chinese tea culture, with tea cultivation dating back over 2,000 years at Mengding Mountain.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Budget rooms from ¥90/night with WiFi. Mid-range hotels ¥200-600. Note police registration is required after check-in at family-run establishments.
Connectivity
4G coverage is good in urban areas. WiFi common in hotels and cafes. Power outlets: Type I and Type A/B.
Food
Sichuan cuisine dominates with spicy dishes. Ya fish (雅鱼) is the local specialty. Budget meals from ¥17. Hot pot restaurants open late.
Health
Medical facilities are available in Ya'an city center. Tap water is not potable; drink bottled or boiled water. Altitude sickness possible on mountain excursions above 3,000 metres.
Money
Chinese yuan (CNY) is the local currency. ATMs are available throughout the city. Mobile payment via WeChat and Alipay is ubiquitous. Some small vendors may accept cash only.
Transport
Buses run throughout Ya'an's urban area. Shared bikes (WeChat scan) are available. Long-distance buses to Chengdu (¥46, 2 hr) depart every 35 min from Xinnanmen bus station.
Weather
Ya'an receives 1,180 mm annual rainfall, mostly June-August. Average temperature exceeds 14°C. Pack waterproof clothing year-round. Summers are humid; winters are mild but rainy.
