Rencun Village, Daocheng, Sichuan, China

Getting There - Rencun Village, also known as Shangri-la, is in southwestern Sichuan near Daocheng and Yading Nature Reserve. You can get there by bus from Shangri-la, Yunnan or through Daocheng by bus. It's also possible to fly from Chengdu to Yading and take a short bus ride to the village. Attractions - The village is a small, quaint, up and coming paradise in the middle of nowhere. It's clear they've made a lot of investment in the town in terms of hotels and restaurants. It's a good base for beginning a trip to Yading Nature Reserve. The city is quite small, but there's still a plethora of restaurants offering quality Sichuan food. There's not much to do per se, but it's still a nice place to relax. It's a little odd to see a Village such as this in China, much less in the middle of nowhere. It's clear the money invested, attention to detail, and outdoor environment is to appeal to future tourists. It seems that the city is rapidly expanding with what appears to be a new shopping and eating center, similar to what you'd find in Chingqing, but on a smaller scale. Hotels - There are a number of options ranging from budget to high end. All within walking distance of restaurants and shopping. Food & Restaurants - There are many options selling typical Sichuan cuisine - hot pot, noodles, dumplings, and others. Shopping - Not many options available outside your basic necessities or snacks, but development seems to be taking place.