Chengdu is the capital Sichuan Province. A mix of old and new, it’s best known for being the home to the giant panda.
However, Chengdu has much more to offer visitors than just a chance to see the country’s most beloved animal.
It’s a foodie haven, a great destination for culture seekers, and the ideal base for exploring the natural beauty in the area, including that of Mount Emei.
Whether you want pandas, hotpot, or history, this list has you covered on the top things to do in Chengdu, what to eat, cultural activities, and travel tips.
Popular Attractions in Chengdu
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Chengdu is panda country and animal enthusiasts visiting the city should definitely make the trip to this research base.
It’s a special opportunity to see these cute critters up close in their environment.
You can also get educated about conservation efforts as you watch the pandas at play.
Tips:
I suggest going early in the morning, since the pandas are most active early in the day.
Wear good shoes because the park is huge and there are a ton of walking trails, and hills.
2. Wuhou Shrine
Wuhou Shrine is a historic site honoring Zhuge Liang, a key figure in the Three Kingdoms period.
Complete with scenic gardens and ancient-style buildings, this offers a serene place to learn about the history of China.
It’s worth walking around Jinli Ancient Street after to get some snacks or souvenirs.
It gets busy, so your best bet is to go early in the day or later in the afternoon when there are less people.
3. Jinli Ancient Street
Sitting next to the Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street is a busy pedestrian street full of traditional buildings, regional wares, and delectable Sichuan street snacks.
It’s a great area to enjoy the old-world vibe of Chengdu.
Tips:
In the evening, lanterns light up the street, making for a more picturesque visit.
Expect some spicy treats, like the dishes “mapo tofu” and “chuan chuan” (meat skewers).
4. Mount Qingcheng
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Qingcheng is home to lovely Taoist temples and hiking trails through scenic countryside.
It’s a wonderful place to hike, relax, and learn more about the local philosophy.
Using hiking boots is best as the trails are steep and rocky.
The area gets cloudy and rainy, so bring your rain gear.
5. Du Fu Thatched Cottage
This is a garden dedicated to the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. It gives a sense of his life and beautiful works.
The garden is peaceful, and this is a wonderful spot to sit around and enjoy Chinese literature.
Tips:
Take some time to relax in this serene garden park. Watch a fountain show, read a book, and rest from the rush of the city.
The site can be really busy in high season so head there on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
6. Wenshu Monastery
Wenshu Yan is a significant Buddhist temple in Chengdu.
Its charming architecture and serene environment make it a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle.
Respect the local customs by dressing modestly and speaking softly.
Visit the temple’s tea house, known for offering a variety of traditional Chinese teas.
Chengdu Must-Try Food
1. Chengdu Hotpot
Chengdu Hotpot is a great and interactive way to savor a meal, where you cook thinly sliced foods and veggies in a spicy broth.
You need at least one or two people to enjoy this Sichuan meal as it’s quite a lot of food to eat on your own.
It’s also really numbing too!
2. Mapo Tofu
Another classic Sichuan dish, this is soft tofu in a spicy, oily sauce with minced meat (usually pork or beef), Sichuan peppercorns, and chili.
The flavor is both spicy and numbing from the peppercorns. It’s unlike anything else you’ll ever eat in your life.
3. Dan Dan Noodles
The most classic dish to try is this noodle soup dish covered in the spicy sesame paste and chili oil, expelling minced pork and Sichuan peppercorns.
It’s a lovely mix of spicy, savory, and a bit sour as it’s a dish that Chengdu is famous for.
4. Sichuan Kung Pao Chicken
One of the bestselling dishes around the world besides General Tso’s Chicken, this dish consists of diced chicken and peanuts stir-fried with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, resulting in a spicy, sweet, and savory flavor.
Every Sichuan restaurant serves it.
5. Boiled Fish in Chili Oil
This Sichuan specialty is comprised of thinly sliced fish that is boiled in a red, spicy chili broth filled with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.
The flavor and heat of the broth with the fish that turns out tender make for a fiery and wonderful meal.
6. Fried Dumplings
In Chengdu, fried dumplings are often filled with your choice of meat (pork, shrimp) or vegetables, and pan-fried to a crispy golden brown.
They’re usually accompanied by a sweet and sour sauce.
Chengdu Cultural Experience
1. Sichuan Opera and Face-Changing Performance
Recommendation Reason:
A traditional art form you shouldn’t miss in Chengdu, which includes the mysterious and captivating “face-changing” technique.
You can watch riveting shows here, based on a story and featuring acrobatics and fire breathing.
It’s part history, part theater, and part colorful costume performance highlighting Sichuan’s art culture.
Start Time: Most theaters have evening shows, usually starting around 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Recommended venues: Shufeng Yayun Tea House, Jinjiang Theater, Sichuan Opera Art Center.
Tips:
Book ahead, since they do sell out.
Select VIP seats to front-row views of the face-changing actors.
Some theaters offer the opportunity for people to dress up in a Sichuan opera costume for photographs.
2. Traditional Chengdu Teahouses
Recommendation Reason:
Tea houses are probably the most iconic feature of the easygoing pace of life in Chengdu.
Sample the original Kung Fu Tea ceremony and spend the afternoon drinking tea.
It’s an ideal spot to observe the locals gossiping, playing mahjong, and snacking on traditional Chinese treats.
Start Time: Most teahouses open around 10:00 AM - 10pm but the mornings and afternoons are the best to visit.
Famous teahouses: Heming Teahouse (People’s Park), Shunxing Old Teahouse, Yuelai Teahouse.
Opt for jasmine tea, green tea, or Sichuan dark tea for an authentic experience.
Remember to try ear cleaning in a local ear-cleaning parlor in Chengdu’s teahouses!
Bring money, as many old-school teahouses don’t take card.
3. Sanxingdui Museum
Recommendation Reason:
It also houses one of the most important archaeological sites in China, with enigmatic bronze masks and artifacts that are over 3,000 years old.
It helps you understand and appreciate this pre-Qin society with its unique art, rituals, religion.
But for history buffs wanting to know more about ancient China, it’s a great stop.
Start Time:
Open 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM.
In Guanghan City (about 1 hour from Chengdu).
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds.
Practical Travel Tips for Chengdu
1. Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are the best times to visit Chengdu. Temperatures are moderate.
2. Transportation: Getting Around the City
Chengdu’s metro is extensive but also inexpensive and convenient, and it keeps you out of the city’s notorious traffic.
Taxis and Didi (China’s Uber) are useful, but avoid peak times, as traffic can be horrendous — be sure to always have your destination written in Chinese if you don’t speak Mandarin.
3. Language
English isn’t widely spoken, so having a translation app like Google Translate or Pleco is essential for getting around.
4. Food & Dining Etiquette
Chengdu is well known for its spicy cuisine. If you can’t take the heat, let your servers know “少辣 (shǎo là)” (less spicy) or “不辣 (bù là)” (no spice).
5. Payment Methods
Cash is seldom accepted, as most businesses here prefer payment via mobile phone using WeChat Pay and Alipay (foreigners can set up these apps with their international credit cards).
FAQ
1. Do I need to use a VPN in Chengdu?
Yes, Western apps like Google, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are blocked in China. Download a VPN before your trip to access them.
2. How many days do I need in Chengdu?
A 3-5-day trip is the perfect amount of time to see the highlights, from the pandas and historic sites to the food and culture. If you’re making day trips to Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei, add a few days.
3. What are the best things to buy in Chengdu for a souvenir?
Popular souvenirs here are Sichuan peppercorns, panda-inspired items, Shu brocade (a traditional silk fabric), teapots, and Sichuan-style chili sauces. Wide and Narrow Alley as well as Jinli Old Street are excellent shopping options.
4. How’s the air quality in Chengdu?
It can get a little polluted in Chengdu, especially in the winter. Check the AQI (Air Quality Index) and mask up if necessary.
5. Do I need travel insurance for Chengdu?
Yes, I absolutely advise getting travel insurance to protect against illness, cancelations, and theft.
Conclusion
Chengdu is a city you visit to linger, taking in the history, the food, and the pace of life.
As you explore the pandas, dive into the food, and pass the time at the old-style teahouses, you’ll be sure to fall in love with the city!