 Miyaluo scenic spot Miyaluo in Lixian County, Sichuan Province, has the largest area of autumn leaves in China, covering almost 3,688 square kilometers. The area is about 180 times that of the well-known Fragrant Hills in Beijing. About 260 kilometers from Chengdu, capital of Sichuan Province, Miyaluo is inhabited by Tibetan and Qiang ethnic minority groups. In the Tibetan language Miyaluo means “a place with breathtaking scenery.” The place is hidden in Zagunao Valley, called “Auspicious Valley” in the Tibetan language, along a tributary of the Minjiang River. Maples, birch trees, pines, and larches add seasonal richness in color to the forests of Zagunao Valley. With the arrival of autumn, the mountains are covered in a blaze red and gold. The skyline of snowy mountains and colorful forests appear as if in a dream world. There is also Gu’ergou hot springs with water temperatures of 40 to 60 degrees Celsius. A skiing slope will open for the first time in November. The Tibetan and Qiang ethnic cultures are a highlight of Miyaluo. It’s great to visit the stone castles built in ancient times and join in the traditional guozhuang dance, one of three Tibetan dances where people dance hand in hand. Unaccompanied by music, men and women sing questions and answers. The dance resembles a religious ritual and there is no need to understand the language to feel the passion. Sheepskin vests of the Qiang people and coral belts of Tibetans are attractive souvenirs. The best time to visit is late October and early November. Transport: Fly to Chengdu. Take a bus at Chengdu West Gate Bus Station to Miyaluo. Delicacies: Sichuan hotpot is a must. Rice steamed in bamboo tube is also recommended as is a rice wine fermented by the local people. | 