Chengdu
Chengdu, China, often referred to as the "Land of Abundance," is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spicy cuisine, panda sanctuaries, and rapid technological advancements.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chengdu, China depends on what you're most interested in seeing and doing during your visit. However, in terms of weather, Chengdu has a subtropical monsoon climate, which makes the months from March to June and September to November the most ideal for travel.
Spring (March to June): Spring in Chengdu is generally pleasant and mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 25°C (77°F). The humidity is relatively low, which is comfortable for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with flowers in full bloom, including the famous peach blossoms. The Qingming Festival in April offers unique cultural experiences as locals pay respects to their ancestors.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn in Chengdu is considered another ideal time to visit. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), and the weather remains comfortable with little rainfall. The city is adorned in autumn colors, and it's the perfect time for culinary explorations, including the city's famous hotpot. The Mid-Autumn Festival in September or October offers a chance to partake in traditional celebrations.
Visiting in these periods also gives you the best opportunity to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can see the pandas when they are most active.
Keep in mind that these are also the peak tourist seasons, so popular attractions may be crowded, and prices for accommodations and flights may be higher.
If you're interested in less crowded periods and don't mind hotter, more humid weather, consider visiting in the summer. July and August can be quite hot and humid but also less crowded. The winters are relatively mild, though often overcast, and can offer off-season pricing and fewer tourists.
How to Get There
Getting to Chengdu, China can be achieved by several means of transportation, depending on your location:
By Air: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) is the primary entry point for most international and domestic visitors. It's the fourth busiest airport in mainland China and offers numerous flights from all over the world. From the airport, you can take the metro, a taxi, or an airport shuttle bus to reach downtown Chengdu.
By Train: Chengdu is well-connected to many cities in China via a high-speed train network. There are three main railway stations: Chengdu Railway Station (also known as the North Railway Station), Chengdu East Railway Station, and Chengdu South Railway Station. High-speed trains from cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Xi'an, and Chongqing arrive at these stations.
By Long-Distance Bus: If you're traveling from a nearby city, long-distance buses are an option. Chengdu has several long-distance bus stations, the largest of which are the Chengdu Wuguiqiao Bus Station, Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station, and Chengdu Chadianzi Bus Station. Buses can be a cheaper alternative to trains or flights, though the journey can be significantly longer.
Once you're in Chengdu, the city offers an extensive metro system, buses, taxis, and bike rentals for getting around. It's also a very walkable city with many attractions clustered in the city center.
Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Chengdu, China
Top 20 Attractions in Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is one of China's most popular tourist destinations, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions in Chengdu:
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: This is arguably Chengdu's most famous attraction, where you can see and learn about China's celebrated giant pandas.
Jinli Ancient Street: This bustling marketplace offers a taste of ancient Sichuan culture and architecture, and you can find local crafts, food, and tea houses here.
Wenshu Monastery: This is the best-preserved Buddhist temple in Chengdu, featuring beautiful gardens and a renowned vegetarian restaurant.
Kuanzhai Xiangzi (Wide and Narrow Alleys): These alleys are a part of the old city of Chengdu and offer a mix of traditional architecture, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Mount Qingcheng: Known as one of the most important centers of Taoism (Daoism) in China, it's a perfect place for a day trip for those who appreciate natural beauty and historic sites.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System: A remarkable ancient irrigation project that's still in use today. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the technological prowess of ancient China.
Sichuan Cuisine Museum: If you're a food lover, this museum offers a deep dive into the spicy and flavorful world of Sichuan cuisine, including cooking classes.
Sanxingdui Museum: Situated in Guanghan, about 40km north of Chengdu, this museum houses the extraordinary archaeological finds of the ancient Shu Kingdom, showcasing the rich history of Sichuan.
Leshan Giant Buddha: Though it requires a day trip to reach, this enormous Buddha statue carved into a cliff is one of the most incredible sights in the region and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
People's Park: The biggest park in Chengdu, it's a great place to see local life, sip tea at a traditional teahouse, or even join in on a local dance class.
Tianfu Square: This is the largest square in Chengdu and a center for cultural activities. It's surrounded by a range of shops, restaurants, and landmarks, including the Chengdu Museum.
Chengdu Museum: This modern, comprehensive museum houses a large collection of historical artifacts and exhibits that reflect the rich history of Chengdu and the surrounding region.
Sichuan Opera: Visit a Sichuan opera for an unforgettable experience of traditional Chinese entertainment. The Shu Feng Ya Yun Sichuan Opera House is a popular venue. Highlights of the performances include the mesmerizing 'face changing' technique.
Huanglongxi Ancient Town: About 50 km from Chengdu, this 1,700-year-old town offers a peek into the traditional rural life of Sichuan. It features ancient streets, temples, and buildings by the river.
Luodai Ancient Town: It's another well-preserved ancient town, known as the Hakka Town, where you can experience Hakka culture and architecture.
Chengdu Culture Park: This city park is especially known for hosting the annual Lantern Festival Show. It's a great place to take a leisurely stroll or participate in local recreational activities.
Dufu's Thatched Cottage: This is a beautiful park and museum in honor of Dufu, one of China's most famous poets. It's a peaceful area with traditional architecture, bamboo groves, and bridges.
Chengdu Botanical Garden: For plant lovers, the Chengdu Botanical Garden offers a diverse array of plant species, beautiful landscapes, and a serene environment.
Happy Valley Chengdu: If you're traveling with children or enjoy thrill rides, this amusement park is a great choice. It has various themed areas and attractions suitable for all ages.
New Century Global Center: As one of the largest buildings in the world, this structure houses a shopping mall, a water park, a hotel, a cinema, and numerous restaurants.
Top 15 Activities to do in Chengdu
Chengdu offers a wide variety of activities to suit different interests. Here are some top activities you might want to consider:
Panda Volunteering: At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, you can participate in a volunteering program where you'll help take care of the pandas, clean their enclosures, and learn about their lives.
Sichuan Cooking Class: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare authentic Sichuan cuisine. This often includes a trip to a local market to source ingredients, followed by a hands-on cooking experience.
Tea Tasting: Visit a traditional tea house, such as those in People's Park or Wenshu Monastery, where you can experience the local tea culture, sample different teas, and watch the world go by.
Visit a Traditional Opera: Enjoy a Sichuan Opera performance which is famous for its 'face-changing' and fire-breathing performances.
Bike or Walk along Jinjiang River: The Jinjiang River flows through the city and there are many beautiful spots to walk or rent a bike and take a leisurely ride.
Visit Local Markets: Explore local markets, such as the Jinli Ancient Street or the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi), where you can sample street food, buy local handicrafts, and experience the lively local atmosphere.
Spa and Massage: After a day of sightseeing, unwind with a traditional Chinese massage or a spa treatment.
Hot Pot Dining: Trying Sichuan hot pot is a must-do activity in Chengdu. This flavorful, spicy dish is a social experience, where you cook your own ingredients in a communal pot of simmering broth.
Explore Chengdu's Nightlife: Visit Jiuyanqiao Bar Street or Lan Kwai Fong to experience Chengdu's lively nightlife scene, full of bars and clubs.
Day Trips: Take a day trip to surrounding attractions such as the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Qingcheng, or the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System.
Visit the Flower Market: Chengdu has several flower markets, such as the one on Longzhou Road, where you can see a variety of beautiful and exotic plants and flowers.
Calligraphy Class: Join a calligraphy class to learn this traditional Chinese art. Some cultural centers and museums in Chengdu offer short courses or workshops.
Explore the Art District: Visit the Chengdu Eastern Suburb Memory (also known as the 798 Art District of Chengdu), an old factory area transformed into an art zone, filled with contemporary art galleries, studios, trendy shops, and cafés.
Visit a Traditional Chinese Medicine Center: Sichuan province is known for its Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). You can visit a TCM center, where you can learn about this ancient practice and even receive treatments like acupuncture or cupping.
River Cruising: Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Funan River, especially beautiful during the evening when the surrounding buildings and bridges are lit up.
Best Shopping
Chengdu is a major shopping destination in China, known for its local crafts, luxury brands, tea, and spices. Here are some of the best shopping areas and markets in Chengdu:
Chunxi Road: This is Chengdu's main shopping street, often compared to New York's Fifth Avenue. It's a pedestrian zone filled with hundreds of retail shops, from international brands to local boutiques. The area also hosts many shopping malls like the IFS (International Finance Square) and Taikoo Li, where you can find luxury brands.
Jinli Ancient Street: This shopping area offers more traditional Chinese items, from handicrafts to local snacks. The atmosphere is wonderful, with old-style buildings and decorations that give you a sense of China's past.
Kuanzhai Xiangzi (Wide and Narrow Alleys): Here, you can find a combination of modern and traditional goods, including many local souvenirs and traditional Sichuan artifacts.
Songxianqiao Art Market: For art enthusiasts, this is a must-visit. It's one of China's largest art markets, where you can find traditional Chinese paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, jade, and antiques.
Hehuachi Market: If you're looking for traditional Chinese clothing, silk, and accessories, this market is the place to go. You can also find a wide range of teas and spices here.
Wuhouci Cross Street: This street is known for its numerous stores selling traditional Chinese tea sets and tea leaves. If you're a tea lover, this is the place to be.
Computer City: If you're interested in electronics, this area is filled with shops selling all kinds of gadgets, from the latest smartphones to computer accessories.
Global Center: Claimed to be the world's largest single building, the Global Center houses a huge shopping mall with a mix of international and domestic brands, an IMAX cinema, an indoor water park, and a plethora of dining options.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Chengdu is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The city seamlessly blends traditional Chinese entertainment with modern nightlife experiences. Here's a rundown of what Chengdu's nightlife and entertainment scene has to offer:
Sichuan Opera: One of the must-do activities is to watch a performance of the Sichuan Opera. Known for its unique styles of singing, puppetry, and the famous 'face-changing' technique, Sichuan Opera is a fantastic cultural experience. Shufeng Yayun Teahouse and Chengdu Culture Park are popular venues.
Live Music: Chengdu has a flourishing live music scene, with venues offering everything from traditional Chinese music to modern rock and pop. Little Bar, Jah Bar, and Machu Picchu are well-known for live music.
Night Clubs and Bars: Chengdu has a lively clubbing scene. The Lan Kwai Fong (LKF) district, a famous nightlife hotspot originally from Hong Kong, has many popular nightclubs and bars. Here, clubs like Play House and Space Club are known for their DJ sets and dance music. The Jiuyanqiao Bar Street on the banks of the Jinjiang River is another hotspot with a wide range of bars and clubs.
Teahouses: Chengdu's teahouses are an integral part of its culture. They are great places to relax and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. You can find teahouses in parks, on the riverbanks, and in bustling commercial districts. The most famous are Heming Teahouse in People's Park and Yuelai Teahouse in Chengdu Culture Park.
Rooftop Bars: For a more laid-back night, Chengdu's many rooftop bars offer great views of the city along with a variety of drinks. The St. Regis Chengdu's Vantage XXVII and The Temple House's Jing bar are two popular rooftop bars.
Night Markets: Chengdu's night markets are vibrant and bustling, perfect for a late-night snack or just a stroll. The Jinli Night Market and the Kuixinglou Street Night Market are popular for their street food and local specialties.
River Cruising: A nighttime river cruise on the Jinjiang River is a wonderful way to see the city's lights reflect on the water.
Cinemas: If you want to catch a movie, Chengdu has many modern multiplexes. Sichuan Film Studios and Stellar Yingdu Cinema are among the best.
Karaoke: KTV (Karaoke TV) is a popular pastime in China. It's common to spend a night in a private karaoke room with friends, singing your favorite songs. Chains like Partyworld and Haoledi offer a wide range of song selections.
Hot Pot Dinners: Sharing a Sichuan hot pot meal with friends or family is another popular evening activity in Chengdu, with many hot pot restaurants staying open late.
Local Cuisine
Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province, which is famous for its unique and flavorful cuisine, recognized as one of the Four Great Traditions of Chinese cuisine. Sichuan food is known for its bold, pungent, and spicy flavors, primarily due to the use of garlic, chili peppers, and the unique Sichuan peppercorn that imparts a numbing sensation. Here are some dishes you should try:
Hot Pot: The Sichuan Hot Pot is an iconic dish. It's a communal meal where you cook a variety of ingredients like meat, seafood, vegetables, and tofu in a pot of simmering broth, which is often spicy and packed with flavor.
Mapo Tofu: This is a spicy dish made with tofu, ground beef or pork, fermented broad bean paste, fermented black beans, and Sichuan peppercorns. The result is a flavorful, spicy, and numbing dish that's a staple in Sichuan cuisine.
Kung Pao Chicken: Known as Gong Bao Ji Ding in Chinese, this is a stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. It's sweet, sour, and mildly spicy.
Dan Dan Noodles: These are a classic street food dish consisting of noodles served in a spicy sauce made with sesame paste, chili oil, Sichuan pepper, and minced pork.
Twice-Cooked Pork: As the name suggests, this dish involves pork (usually belly) being cooked twice – first boiled, then stir-fried with vegetables in a sauce that's sweet, sour, and slightly spicy.
Sichuan Dumplings in Chili Oil: Known as Hong You Chao Shou, these are boiled dumplings filled with pork and served in a spicy and fragrant chili oil sauce.
Fuqi Feipian: This dish is made from thinly sliced beef and beef offal, like heart, tongue, and tripe. The slices are typically served cold and dressed in a spicy and numbing sauce.
Laziji: This is a very spicy chicken dish made with deep-fried chunks of chicken stir-fried with Sichuan peppers and lots of chili peppers.
Yuxiang Shredded Pork: Also known as "fish-fragrant" shredded pork, this dish doesn't actually involve fish. The name comes from the combination of seasonings used, which are traditionally used in fish dishes.
Long Chao Shou: These are Chengdu-style wontons, usually served in a spicy, savory broth or with red oil.
Chengdu was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2010, the first city in Asia to receive this designation, so food lovers will certainly enjoy their time here. Be sure to try these dishes at local restaurants or street food stalls to get a true taste of Sichuan cuisine!
Accommodations
Choosing where to stay in Chengdu depends on your interests and what you want to do during your visit. Here are some areas to consider:
Jinjiang District: This is the commercial center of Chengdu and home to the famous Chunxi Road shopping area. This district is bustling with modern amenities and has a wide range of accommodations from luxury hotels to budget hostels. It's well-connected by public transportation and offers easy access to various attractions, making it an ideal place to stay for first-time visitors.
Qingyang District: Known for its cultural and historical significance, Qingyang District houses some of Chengdu's most popular attractions, such as the Qingyang Palace and the Cultural Park. It has a range of accommodations and is an excellent area to stay for culture and history enthusiasts.
Wuhou District: This district is home to the Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street. The area has many hotels and guesthouses and is a great place to stay if you want to be close to traditional attractions, local restaurants, and shopping streets.
Gaoxin District: This is Chengdu's high-tech zone, filled with modern buildings, shopping centers, and restaurants. It's a bit farther from the city center but offers luxurious hotels and is close to the Global Center, the world's largest single building.
Chenghua District: Home to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, this district is an excellent choice if your primary goal is to see the pandas. It's a bit quieter but still offers a good range of accommodations.
Jinniu District: This is one of the most populated residential areas in Chengdu and hosts the famous Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi), a historic and cultural reserve with a variety of traditional shops, teahouses, and restaurants.
Tianfu New Area: Located in the south of Chengdu, this area is being developed as the new city center. It's well-planned with modern infrastructure, high-end hotels, and is close to Chengdu's international exhibition center.
Day Trips from Chengdu
Chengdu's location provides several excellent options for day trips that can help you explore more of Sichuan Province's rich culture, history, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are some suggestions:
Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei: About two hours' drive from Chengdu, the Leshan Giant Buddha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest stone Buddha statue at 71 meters high. After visiting the Buddha, you can head to Mount Emei, one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, where you can hike or take a cable car up to enjoy the stunning views.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Mount Qingcheng: Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is an ancient feat of engineering that has been functioning for over two millennia. Nearby Mount Qingcheng, considered the birthplace of Taoism, offers serene surroundings and beautiful vistas.
Panda Valley in Dujiangyan: If you want more panda encounters, head to the Dujiangyan Panda Base about an hour and a half away from Chengdu. It's less crowded than the one in Chengdu and you can even volunteer to take care of pandas for a day.
Huanglongxi Ancient Town: Just over an hour from Chengdu, this ancient town retains its charm with over 1700 years of history. It offers an opportunity to step back in time with its cobbled streets, old wooden houses, and traditional local lifestyle.
Jiuzhaigou Valley: While it's a bit far for a day trip (around 8-9 hours of driving), you can consider an overnight stay. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful lakes, snow-capped peaks, and waterfalls. Note that after the 2017 earthquake, the site underwent extensive rehabilitation and some parts might still be under recovery.
Xiling Snow Mountain: If you're visiting in winter and love snow sports, this is the largest snow sports resort in southern China, offering skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, you can enjoy the alpine meadows, waterfalls, and forests.
