Huanglong Temple Fair

The Huanglong Temple Fair is a grand multi-ethnic folk and cultural celebration held in Huanglong Scenic Area (黄龙风景区), Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It beautifully blends stunning natural scenery with living cultural heritage, showcasing the vibrant traditions of Tibetan, Qiang, Hui, and Han communities.

Quick Facts at a Glance

? A Glimpse into History

The Huanglong Temple Fair dates back to the Ming Dynasty, originally held to commemorate the Taoist figure Huanglong Zhenren (黄龙真人). Over centuries, it evolved from a purely religious ceremony into a lively multi-ethnic celebration, bringing together Tibetan, Qiang, Hui, and Han cultures.

In 2023, it was officially recognized as a Provincial Intangible Cultural Heritage, and in 2024 it was selected as a model case for Heritage & Tourism Integration in Sichuan.

Today, it stands as the only preserved living folk culture sample on the Northwest Sichuan Plateau, and an important platform for cultural confidence, ethnic unity, and tourism development.

? Highlights & Experiences

Day 1 – July 7: Sacred Opening Ceremonies

• Golden Huanglong “Eye-Opening” Ceremony – infusing auspicious blessings.

• Ritual for Huanglong Zhenren – honoring the spiritual roots of the festival.

• Nine-Bell Prayers – striking nine times to symbolize harmony and prosperity across all of China.

• New in 2025: Blessing Scroll Ceremony – visitors can join by painting, stamping handprints, or writing wishes on a giant scroll.

Day 2 – July 8: Tibetan Cultural Showcase

• Tibetan Dragon & Yak Dances

• Powerful Folk Songs echoing across the plateau.

Day 3 – July 9: Main Festival Day

• Distribution of “Peace & Fortune Fruit” (apples) to visitors.

• Qiang-style Wine-Opening Ceremony (咂酒开坛)

• Hui Ethnic Lantern Dance

• Local Lute & Folk Singing Performances

• Concerts by Tibetan & Local Singers, creating a festive climax.

Innovative 2025 Features

For the first time, the fair offered bilingual (Chinese & English) live-streaming, led by cultural ambassadors and local guides. Online audiences could explore Huanglong’s scenic wonders, temple architecture, and the symbolic “three-perspective temple plaque” — transforming a regional folk event into a cross-cultural bridge.

? Practical Travel Information

Timing

• Annual Dates: Lunar June 13–15 (usually July).

• 2025 Edition: July 7–9.

Location

• Huanglong Scenic Area, Rear Temple Square (黄龙后寺广场), Songpan County, Aba Prefecture, Sichuan – altitude 3,500m.

Getting There

• From Chengdu: fly or take a long-distance bus to Songpan County or Chuanzhusi Town.

• Huanglong Scenic Area is about 56 km from Songpan County and 57 km from Jiuzhai Huanglong Airport.

• Shuttle buses and taxis are available to the scenic area.

Accommodation

Stay in Songpan County, Chuanzhusi Town, or hotels near Huanglong Scenic Area.
⚠️ During the temple fair, accommodation is in high demand – book well in advance.

Travel Tips

• High Altitude (3,500m): Take precautions against altitude sickness. Bring oxygen bottles or medication if needed.

• Weather: Expect sudden changes and big temperature drops at night. Pack warm clothes and rain gear.

• Crowds: Keep valuables safe and follow staff instructions.

• Respect Local Customs: Observe and respect the religious and cultural practices of Tibetan, Qiang, Hui, and Han communities.

? Why Visit?

The Huanglong Temple Fair is more than just a festival — it is an immersion into living heritage. Against the backdrop of UNESCO World Natural Heritage landscapes, you’ll witness colorful ethnic traditions, spiritual rituals, and joyful performances.

With new creative elements like interactive blessing scrolls and bilingual cultural live-streaming, the ancient fair is revitalized for the modern age — becoming a bridge between past and present, between local culture and global audiences.

✨ If you are in Sichuan next July, don’t miss the chance to join this cultural feast beneath snow-capped peaks.