Chengdu

China, Asia

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is famous for its giant pandas, spicy cuisine, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, savor mouthwatering Sichuan hot pot, and admire ancient temples like Wuhou Shrine. As a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Chengdu offers a delightful culinary scene, while the nearby Chengdu Plain and Mount Qingcheng provide ample opportunities for nature lovers. Its vibrant teahouse culture and relaxed spirit make it a must-visit destination in China.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

Other

Airport

Shuangliu

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Chengdu

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Chengdu Research Base

Observe giant pandas in their natural habitat.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Jinli Ancient Street

Stroll through ancient architecture and vibrant shops.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste Sichuan Hotpot

Experience the famous spicy hotpot dining culture.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Wuhou Shrine

Learn about the Three Kingdoms history and culture.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax in People’s Park

Enjoy tea and local life in a peaceful park.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a Sichuan Opera Show

Experience unique face-changing performances and music.

Booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Explore an ancient engineering marvel and UNESCO site.

No booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover Mount Qingcheng

Hike in serene nature and Taoist temples.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Chengdu Museum

Learn about local history and culture through exhibits.

No booking required
10

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Kuanzhai Alley

Walk through historical alleys filled with culture.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-5 (#93 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Yuan Renminbi

Majority religion

Unaffiliated

Language

Mandarin

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Peking Roast Duck

Crispy duck served with pancakes. (National dish)

Xiaolongbao

Soup dumplings filled with meat and broth.

Hot Pot

A communal pot of simmering broth.

Mapo Tofu

Spicy tofu dish with ground meat.

Dim Sum

V

Steamed dishes served in small portions.

Phrases to learn

English

Mandarin

Hello

Nǐ hǎo

(Nee how)

Yes/No

Shi / Bushi

(Shi / Boo-shi)

Thank you

Xièxiè

(Shyeh-shyeh)

Excuse me

Duìbuqǐ

(Doo-ay-boo-chee)

How much?

Duōshǎo qián?

(Dwoh-shao chyen)