Top 10 Things to Do in Chengdu

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is not just a zoo but a conservation and research facility dedicated to giant pandas. Situated about 10 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, this base offers visitors a chance to see pandas in a semi-natural habitat, simulating their native environment of bamboo forests. Here, pandas of all ages can be observed playing, eating bamboo, and sometimes even engaging in breeding activities during the right season.

Apart from viewing pandas, the base educates visitors about panda conservation efforts and the challenges these endangered animals face. There are informative exhibits, videos, and opportunities to learn about the breeding programs that aim to increase the panda population. For those interested in a deeper experience, volunteer programs allow visitors to assist with panda care under supervision.

Wuhou Shrine, also known as Wuhou Memorial Temple, is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the famous strategist and statesman of the Three Kingdoms period. Located in the southern part of Chengdu, the shrine features ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and historical artifacts related to Zhuge Liang and other notable figures of that era.

Adjacent to Wuhou Shrine is Jinli Ancient Street, a bustling pedestrian street that captures the essence of ancient Chengdu. Here, traditional Sichuanese architecture lines both sides of the street, offering a vibrant mix of local snacks, handicrafts, and cultural performances. Visitors can sample spicy Sichuan snacks like rabbit’s head, spicy skewers, and mouth-numbing Sichuan hotpot.

People’s Park is a central hub in Chengdu where locals gather for leisure activities, exercise, and socializing. This large urban park features serene ponds, bamboo groves, and meticulously maintained gardens. One of the park’s highlights is the Matchmaker’s Corner, where parents seek suitable matches for their unmarried children, a tradition that dates back centuries.

Visitors can join in various activities such as practicing tai chi, playing traditional Chinese musical instruments, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll. The park also houses the Heming Teahouse, where visitors can sip tea while watching Sichuan Opera performances, including face-changing and fire-spitting acts.

Chengdu is synonymous with Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors, abundant use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, and diverse range of dishes. Popular dishes include mapo tofu, a spicy tofu and minced meat dish; hot pot, where diners cook thinly sliced meat and vegetables in a simmering broth at their table; Dan Dan noodles, a fiery noodle dish with minced pork and preserved vegetables; and kung pao chicken, which combines tender chicken, peanuts, and dried chili peppers in a spicy-sweet sauce.

Visitors can explore local food streets like Jinli Ancient Street or Kuanzhai Xiangzi (Wide and Narrow Alleys) to sample these delicacies from street vendors and traditional restaurants. Chengdu’s food scene caters to all tastes, from fiery hot dishes to milder options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Sichuan Opera is a vibrant traditional art form that originated in Sichuan Province. Known for its unique performances such as face-changing (bianlian), where performers change masks in the blink of an eye, and fire-spitting, where performers manipulate flames with their mouths, Sichuan Opera offers a captivating cultural experience.

The Shufeng Yayun Teahouse in Chengdu is a popular venue for Sichuan Opera performances. Visitors can enjoy these performances while sipping tea and sampling local snacks. The teahouse also features other traditional opera acts such as puppetry and storytelling, providing insights into Sichuan’s rich cultural heritage.

The Leshan Giant Buddha, located about two hours from Chengdu, is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Carved into a cliff face overlooking the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers, this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the Tang Dynasty (8th century).

Standing at 71 meters tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha is an impressive sight, showcasing intricate details and serene expression. Visitors can climb the adjacent stairs or take a boat ride to view the statue up close and appreciate its colossal size and historical significance.

Dujiangyan is an ancient irrigation system built over 2,200 years ago to control flooding and ensure irrigation for the Chengdu Plain. Designed by Li Bing, an engineer during the Qin Dynasty, Dujiangyan is a testament to ancient Chinese engineering prowess and remains functional to this day.

Adjacent to Dujiangyan is Mount Qingcheng, one of the birthplaces of Daoism (Taoism). This mountainous area features lush forests, serene temples, and historic pathways leading to picturesque viewpoints. Visitors can explore Qingcheng’s temples, such as the Jianfu Palace and Tianshi Cave, and enjoy scenic hiking trails amid tranquil natural surroundings.

The Qingyang Taoist Temple, also known as the Green Ram Temple, is one of Chengdu’s oldest and most revered Taoist temples. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, the temple complex encompasses traditional Taoist architecture, serene courtyards, and ancient statues.

Inside the temple, visitors can explore halls dedicated to different Taoist deities, admire intricate wood carvings and stone sculptures, and participate in religious rituals performed by Taoist priests. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a popular destination for spiritual reflection and cultural exploration.

Chunxi Road is Chengdu’s premier shopping street, renowned for its wide array of retail stores, department stores, and luxury boutiques. Whether you’re looking for fashion apparel, electronics, or souvenirs, Chunxi Road offers a bustling shopping experience amidst modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks.

Adjacent to Chunxi Road is Taikoo Li, a vibrant shopping and dining district that blends contemporary architecture with traditional elements. Taikoo Li features international brands, designer boutiques, upscale restaurants, and trendy cafes housed in meticulously designed buildings, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists alike.

Wide and Narrow Alley, also known as Kuanzhai Xiangzi, is a restored historical area comprising three parallel alleys: Kuan Lane (Wide Alley), Zhai Lane (Narrow Alley), and Jing Lane (Well Alley). This area retains traditional Qing Dynasty architecture, including courtyard homes, wooden facades, and stone-paved streets.

During the day, visitors can explore boutique shops, teahouses, and traditional Sichuanese restaurants serving local delicacies. At night, Kuanzhai Xiangzi transforms into a vibrant nightlife hub, with bars, live music venues, and illuminated alleys bustling with locals and tourists enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Chengdu Museum and Sichuan Provincial Museum: These museums offer comprehensive exhibits on Chengdu’s history, culture, and art, showcasing artifacts, ancient relics, and interactive displays.

Wenshu Monastery: Visit this serene Buddhist monastery to admire its classical architecture, tranquil gardens, and extensive collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

Anren Ancient Town: Take a day trip to Anren Ancient Town, located about an hour from Chengdu. This well-preserved town features Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, museums, and historic residences, offering insights into Sichuan’s rich cultural heritage.