CTU → XIY

Longmen Mountains

Dramatic limestone ridges that mark the sharp tectonic boundary of the Sichuan Basin's northwestern edge.

Tibetan Plateau Fringe

On exceptionally clear days, the snow-capped high-altitude peaks of western Sichuan are visible on the western horizon.

Min River Valleys

Deeply incised river canyons and turquoise waters snaking through the northern Sichuan highlands.

Qinling Crest

A direct view of the massive mountain wall that serves as the primary geographic and climatic divide between North and South China.

Wei River Valley

The sudden transition from high mountains to the flat, yellow-soiled loess plains as you descend into Xi'an.

Chengdu Skyline

A sweeping view of the massive, dense urban sprawl of Chengdu immediately following departure from CTU.

Sichuan Basin Terraces

The iconic 'Land of Abundance' patchwork of green terraced fields and small rural villages below.

Daba Mountains

The eastern sub-range of the Qinling system, known for its dense forests and sharp, jagged ridgelines.

Mount Taibai

Distant views of the highest peak in the Qinling Range, which remains snow-capped well into the late spring.

Xi'an Urban Expansion

Excellent views of the sprawling industrial and residential developments of the New Xixian Area during the final approach.