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city · Sichuan · Yibin

Yibin 宜宾

Where the Yangtze begins and baijiu flows

At the meeting of rivers that forms the main Yangtze, Yibin is China's 'first city on the Yangtze' — famous for the misty Bamboo Sea, the powerful Wuliangye baijiu, and old riverside towns.

History & culture

An ancient junction on the southern Silk Road and Yangtze trade, Yibin grew wealthy on river commerce and distilling; its Wuliangye liquor is one of China's most prestigious spirits.

What to see & do

  • The Shunan Bamboo Sea (Zhuhai) forest
  • Lizhuang ancient town on the Yangtze
  • Wuliangye distillery heritage
  • Bowang Mountain and river confluences
  • Hanging coffins of the Bo people (Gongxian)

What to eat

  • Yibin 'burning' noodles (ranmian)
  • Bamboo-shoot dishes from the Bamboo Sea
  • Sichuan river fish

Getting there

Yibin has an airport and high-speed rail (Yibin West) ~1h from Chengdu; the Bamboo Sea is a further drive into the hills.

Avoid the pitfalls

  • The Bamboo Sea is a large scenic area needing most of a day — plan transport.
  • Baijiu is very strong (50%+ alcohol); taste in moderation.
  • Hill roads to outlying sights are slow; pad your schedule.

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