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Top Attractions & Best Things to Do in Chengdu
No.1 Up-Close Encounters with Adorable Giant Pandas
In Chengdu, pandas are everywhere! They not only adorn various souvenirs and plush toys, but also live leisurely in the major panda bases. These adorable black and white fluff balls can be seen happily munching on bamboo, playfully chasing each other and nibbling on ears, or even sprawled out in all sorts of funny sleeping positions, including up in the trees. Watching them quietly, hours pass by without notice.
Where to See Pandas in Chengdu?
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Located just 10 kilometers from the city center, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding offers a fantastic opportunity to conveniently observe China's famous black and white bears. With over 200 giant pandas of different age groups, you'll find yourself captivated. The best time to visit is in the morning when the pandas are most active. Don't miss the chance to witness their feeding time—it's an incredibly cute sight.
Dujiangyan Panda Base: Approximately an hour's drive from Chengdu, the Dujiangyan Panda Base allows for up-close encounters with pandas. You can even experience being a panda volunteer , preparing fresh bamboo for the adorable pandas or creating panda-shaped cakes for the vegetarian pandas.
Wolong Nature Reserve: In just 2.5 hours from Chengdu, you can reach the Wolong Nature Reserve. Home to 74 giant pandas, this place also offers volunteer opportunities, allowing you to serve and get up close with these lovable creatures.
1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat4 Days Ultimate Panda Tour for Panda Fans (Chengdu - Wolong - Dujiangyan)
No.2 Be a Local for Hours at People’s Park
People's Park is the perfect place to experience the heart and soul of Chengdu. It's a hub of social activity and a beloved retreat for locals. Here, you can join in or watch traditional Chinese activities like Tai Chi, dancing, singing, and water calligraphy.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Heming Tea House located in the park. The tea house is a testament to Chengdu's laid-back lifestyle, where locals spend hours sipping tea, playing Mahjong, or simply enjoying the serene setting. For a small fee, you can also experience a traditional ear cleaning, a practice that has been part of Chengdu's culture for centuries.
No.3 Taste Old Chengdu in Lively Jinli Street Nightlife
Jinli Ancient Street, a renowned destination, is at its best during the evening hours. This lively pedestrian street is illuminated by red lanterns, creating a vibrant ambiance and featuring an array of Sichuan street food stalls. The traditional architecture houses a variety of establishments, including bars, teahouses, and shops.
Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys, explore the small stalls selling trinkets, and savor street snacks such as spicy skewers, sweet rice cakes, and candied fruits. Grab a chilled beer and unwind in the outdoor seating area of a bar, while observing the bustling crowd passing by. The bustling alleys of Jinli Street offer a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in rich nightlife of Chengdu.
No.4 Immerse in Tales of Heroes Past at Wuhou Temple
The Wuhou Tempel, constructed in honor of China's greatest military strategist Zhuge Liang, invites you to embark on a journey back to the Three Kingdoms era and immerse yourself in tales of heroism, strategy, and loyalty.
The architectural complex comprises various halls, each housing sculptures of pivotal figures from the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, accompanied by inscriptions recounting their accomplishments. Among the notable features are the Three Heroes' Stele, the Hall of Liu Bei, the Hall of Zhuge Liang, the Temple of the Three Loyalties, and the Huiling Mausoleum. As you leisurely wander through the vast temple grounds, you'll encounter resplendent crimson walls, serene courtyard gardens, majestic pine trees, and traditional structures. Engage in conversations with the resident monks and delve into the art of calligraphy. Reflecting on the 1,800-year history of this temple, you'll gain a glimpse into enchanting past of Chengdu and the enduring legacy of its legends.
No.5 Find Your Zen Among Temple Treasures at Wenshu Monastery
Founded in 605 AD, Wenshu Monastery is one of Chengdu’s most renowned Zen Buddhist temples. Spend an afternoon wandering the sprawling temple grounds, with winding paths leading to ancient pagodas, gilded Buddha statues, and tranquil gardens. Stop to light incense at the Mahavira Hall under its soaring copper roof to send a prayer into the heavens.
Marvel at the intricately carved Buddha figures and centuries-old scriptures housed in the Sutra Hall. Find a quiet rock or grassy patch to sit upon and become immersed in the temple's meditative ambience. With its air of serenity and enchanting traditional architecture, Wenshu Monastery offers a place to nourish your spirit amidst bustle of Chengdu.
Related: Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu - Chengdu Attractions & Places to Visit
How Long to Stay – Suggested Travel Length & Itineraries
Visitors typically spend 1-3 days exploring Chengdu and its nearby attractions such as Chengdu city center, the Giant Panda Base, Leshan, and Dujiangyan, among other top-notch sights. However, to truly delve into the essence of this captivating destination, it is highly recommended to allocate 4-7 days for your dream Chengdu trip.
2-Day Chengdu Tour
Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People's Park, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu Museum, Tianfu Square
Day 1: Spend delightful moments with adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, experience the leisurely urban atmosphere at People's Park, and immerse yourself in the legendary Three Kingdoms era at Wuhou Shrine. Stroll through the quaint streets of Jinli Ancient Street.
Day 2: Experience the tranquility of well-preserved temples, admire the towering cityscape from the skyscrapers of IFS, and delve into Chengdu's legendary history at the museum.
2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu2 Days Chengdu Leisure Tour with Leshan Giant Buddha2 Days Chengdu Tour with Dujiangyan & Mount Qingcheng World Heritage Site2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat
4-Day Chengdu and Mount Emei Tour
Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People's Park, Kuanzhai Alley, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei Scenic Area, Golden Summit
Day 1: Upon arrival in Chengdu, freely explore the city, discover panda souvenirs at the corner souvenir shops, watch Sichuan Opera face-changing performances at the Grand Theater, or indulge in local cuisine.
Day 2: Enjoy a day trip to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha. Look up at the colossal 71-meter tall sitting Buddha and explore every part of it by walking along the plank road.
Day 3: Focus on exploring the highlights of Mount Emei: listen to the bell tolls at Baoguo Temple, take a leisurely stroll on the Golden Summit, explore Buddhist architecture and traditions, and admire the panoramic views of Mount Emei and its surroundings. If weather permits, you may be fortunate enough to witness the splendid spectacle of the sea of clouds.
Day 4: Visit the Giant Panda Base, fulfill your panda dreams, and spend the morning with these adorable creatures. Then experience the "slow life" and "new life" of Chengdu by visiting People's Park and Kuanzhai Alley like a local.
5-Day Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou Tour
Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu and explore the city center.
Day 2: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, sip tea at a teahouse in People's Park, and wander through Jinli Ancient Street to experience the unique flavors of Chengdu.
Day 3: Explore the iconic landscapes of Huanglong National Park, where you'll encounter colorful lakes in hues of white, blue, green, or turquoise.
Day 4: Discover the enchanting scenery of Jiuzhaigou Valley. Visit the azure lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant forests, and lush meadows set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Day 5: Bid farewell to Jiuzhaigou and Chengdu as you prepare for departure.
Related: Chengdu Itineraries: How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Chengdu
Best Time to Visit Chengdu
With pleasant weather and lively festivals year-round, any time is a great time to visit Chengdu. However, spring and autumn are considered ideal for comfortably exploring the city and surrounding sights.
March-June and September-October: Best Time to Visit Chengdu
Spring in Chengdu, from March to May, brings temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). The city's parks come alive with beautiful blossoms, and the Chengdu Botanical Garden is a must-visit for its stunning floral displays. Enjoy the leisurely atmosphere of Chengdu while strolling through People's Park and admiring the vibrant colors of spring. Moreover, Longquan's peach blossoms and Danba's pear blossoms are at their most beautiful during this season. Most importantly, it's the perfect time to explore the renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, as the adorable black-and-white bears are most active during this time.
From September to November Chengdu welcomes the autumn season with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, averaging between 60°F and 72°F (15°C to 25°C). Don a light jacket or sweater and witness the golden hues of ginkgo leaves that grace the city. Nearby attractions of Chengdu such as Jiuzhaigou Valley Park and Huanglong National Park dazzle with a riot of autumn colors. It's an ideal time for hiking, cycling, and discovering the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Chengdu.
Related: Best Time to Visit Chengdu: Seasonal, Monthly Weather & Climate Guide
How to Get to Chengdu – by Air or High Speed Train
Getting to Chengdu is a breeze, thanks to the abundant flight and high-speed train options that allow you to easily reach this captivating city in Southwest China.
By Air
The convenience and time-saving aspect of air travel make it the preferred choice for many passengers heading to Chengdu. The city is served by two international airports: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU), located 15 kilometers from the city center, and Tianfu International Airport (TFU), situated 60 kilometers away. Both airports offer over 100 international flights daily, connecting Chengdu to major hub cities in Asia, Europe, and North America. Direct flights to Chengdu are available from destinations such as Seoul, Singapore, Frankfurt, London, and San Francisco.
ith well-connected domestic flights, travelers can easily reach Chengdu from over 80 cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Nanjing, Jiuzhaigou, Lhasa, and Guilin. It takes only 2 to 3 hours by air to reach Chengdu from other popular destinations in China, making air travel a convenient option.
By High-Speed Train
Chengdu boasts a convenient and comfortable high-speed train network that connects it to various parts of China. Travelers can take high-speed trains from major destinations such as Xian (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), Kunming (6-6.5 hours), and more to reach Chengdu. The fast and advanced bullet train ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey, adding to the excitement of your Chengdu trip.
Currently, there are three train stations operating in Chengdu: Chengdu East Station, Chengdu West Station, and Chengdu South Station. However, most high-speed trains from cities across China arrive at Chengdu East Station, which is conveniently located just 8 kilometers from the city center. It takes about 15 minutes by subway to reach the city center of Chengdu.
Where to Stay in Chengdu - Recommended Best Areas to Stay in Chengdu
When exploring Chengdu's city, there are several iconic attractions that visitors usually include in their Chengdu itinerary, such as the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People's Park, Wenshu Monastery, Wuhou Shrine, Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Ancient Street, Chunxi Road, Chengdu Museum, and Jinsha Site Museum. Except for the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and Jinsha Site Museum, all of Chengdu's top attractions are located within the Chengdu First Ring Road. Within this area, there are five accommodation districts, and for convenient transportation, it is recommended to choose the Jinjiang or Central district.
Central District (near Tianfu Square, Chengdu Museum, People's Park, Kuanzhai Alley): The city center is undoubtedly the most popular accommodation area in Chengdu because it offers easy navigation to the city's top attractions and activities. With over 100 accommodation options ranging from luxury to standard hotels and youth hostels, this area concentrates the highest number of lodging choices. Some popular options are located near People's Park or Tianfu Square.
Jinjiang District (near Chunxi Road, Taikoo Li): The East District is another excellent choice for accommodation in Chengdu. This area is home to some of the city's best hotels. If you're looking for luxury accommodations, Jinjiang District can fulfill your needs. Additionally, you can find bars and taste craft beer by strolling along the nearby streets at night.
Wuhou District (near Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street): If you're interested in Chengdu's nightlife, staying in the Wuhou District allows you to enjoy the area's vibrant atmosphere. After exploring Jinli Ancient Street, you can easily walk back to your hotel or take the subway or taxi. There is a wide range of hotel choices in this area to cater to different travelers' preferences.
Qingyang District (near Wenshu Monastery, Du Fu Thatched Cottage): If air quality is a priority for you, the accommodation options in Qingyang District are ideal. It covers the northern part of Chengdu's city center and is relatively quiet. Many attractions near the city center can be reached on foot.
What to Eat in Chengdu – Chegndu Food & Restaurant Guide
Chengdu is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a tantalizing array of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you're in search of hotpot or eager to explore the vibrant street food culture, Chengdu's culinary delights will surely make your taste buds tingle.
Hotpot: Your culinary experience in Chengdu would be incomplete without trying the signature Sichuan hotpot, known for its numbing sensation from the chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. Indulge in a moderately spicy or dual-flavored (yuan yang) hotpot. We recommend the renowned Ba Shu Da Zhai Men Hotpot (91 Beidajie) for an authentic experience.
Dan Dan Noodles: One of Chengdu's beloved dishes, Dan Dan Noodles feature noodles coated in a variety of flavorful sauces. Grab a bowl from Chunyang Yuxiang Paigumian (6 Jixiang Jie, Qingyang District) near People's Park in the city center and savor these satisfying noodles like a local.
Dry Chili Wontons: Succulent wontons infused with chili oil and fragrant Sichuan peppercorns make Dry Chili Wontons one of Chengdu's most famous delicacies. Visit Gan Hai Jiao Chao Shou (71 Jianshe Lu, Ba Er SuShe Yi Qu) for a taste of this culinary delight.
If you're unsure about which delicacy to try, head to the bustling Chunxi Road near the city center. This area offers an abundance of dining options, from upscale Chinese and Western restaurants to street-side stalls serving Sichuan snacks. International chain eateries like McDonald's, KFC, and Starbucks can also be found here.
Another food-centric area to explore is Yulin Road, where tree-lined streets are adorned with restaurants, teahouses, and bars. This is where locals flock to enjoy famous Sichuan cuisine, including barbecue, hotpot, stewed dishes, and shrimp delicacies.
For a taste of street food delights, make your way to Jinli Street. Amidst the glow of red lanterns, indulge in grilled skewers, delectable pancakes, and other enticing Chengdu street snacks.
When you're planning your ideal trip to Chengdu, I hope the following links will be helpful to you:
How to Plan A Chengdu Tour: Useful Chengdu Planning Guide
Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu - Chengdu Attractions & Places to Visit
Chengdu Itineraries: How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Chengdu
Best Time to Visit Chengdu: Seasonal, Monthly Weather & Climate Guide
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Facts, Attractions & Route)
Explore Chengdu & Pandas with Local Based Asia Odyssey Travel
Headquartered in China with a branch office in Chengdu, Asia Odyssey Travel is dedicated to providing the best service and ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Chengdu. Our local team offers a range of carefully designed tours, including classic Chengdu tours, Chengdu Food Tours, Chengdu Day Trips, Best Panda Tours, Panda Volunteer tours, Mount Siguniang Tours, Leshan Giant Buddha Tours, Mount Emei Tours, and Jiuzhaigou Tours to meet your needs and desires. Whether you prefer flexible private tours or cost-effective that don't compromise on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has got you covered to ensure a pleasant holiday during your Chengdu tour.
If you want to extend your Chengdu tour into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China tour packages from Chengdu. Our professional travel consultants are always ready to help you customize your Chengdu tour at the most favorable local prices. Contact us now to start planning your dream Chengdu trip!
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