Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is a city of contrasts—where ancient teahouses stand beside futuristic skyscrapers, and spicy hot pots share the spotlight with adorable giant pandas. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or an adventure seeker, Chengdu offers an unforgettable travel experience.
This complete tour package guide covers the best things to do in Chengdu, including must-see attractions, hidden gems, food experiences, and day trips. Let’s plan your perfect Chengdu itinerary!
Day 1: Chengdu Classics – Pandas, Temples & Tea Culture
Morning: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
📍 Location: 1375 Xiongmao Avenue
🕒 Best Time to Visit: 8:00–10:00 AM (when pandas are most active)
🎟 Ticket: ¥55 (about $8)
- Why Go? Meet China’s most beloved animal—the giant panda! Watch them munch on bamboo, play, and even see adorable baby pandas in the nursery.
- Pro Tip: Book a volunteer program (extra cost) to get closer to the pandas.
Afternoon: Wenshu Monastery & Local Lunch
📍 Location: 66 Wenshuyuan Street
🎟 Entry: Free
- What to Do:
- Explore this 1,300-year-old Buddhist temple, one of Chengdu’s most peaceful spots.
- Enjoy a vegetarian meal at the monastery’s restaurant.
- Visit Wenshu Fang, a nearby cultural street with handicrafts and tea shops.
Evening: People’s Park & Heming Teahouse
📍 Location: Qingyang District
🎟 Entry: Free (tea costs ¥20–40)
- Experience:
- Sip traditional Sichuan tea at Heming Teahouse, a Chengdu institution.
- Try ear cleaning (a quirky local tradition!).
- Watch locals dance, play mahjong, and socialize.
Day 2: History, Shopping & Sichuan Opera
Morning: Kuanzhai Alley (Wide & Narrow Alleys)
📍 Location: Qingyang District
🎟 Entry: Free
- What to See:
- Wander through three historic alleys (Kuan, Zhai, Jing) with Qing Dynasty architecture.
- Shop for Sichuan souvenirs (pepper oil, embroidery, Shu brocade).
- Try local snacks like zhong dumplings and dan dan noodles.
Afternoon: Jinli Ancient Street & Wuhou Shrine
📍 Location: Near Wuhou Temple Metro Station
🎟 Ticket: ¥50 (Wuhou Shrine)
- Highlights:
- Jinli Street – A bustling ancient-style market with street food and performances.
- Wuhou Shrine – A temple honoring Zhuge Liang, a famous Three Kingdoms strategist.
Evening: Sichuan Opera at Shufeng Yayun
📍 Location: 23 Qintai Road
🎟 Ticket: ¥180–300
- Must-See Acts:
- Face-Changing (变脸) – A magical performance where masks change in seconds.
- Fire Spitting & Puppet Shows – Traditional Sichuan folk arts.
Day 3: Day Trips from Chengdu
Option 1: Leshan Giant Buddha
📍 Distance: 2 hours from Chengdu
🎟 Ticket: ¥80
- Why Visit? See the world’s largest stone Buddha (71m tall!) carved into a cliff.
- Bonus: Combine with a trip to Mount Emei, a UNESCO-listed sacred mountain.
Option 2: Dujiangyan Panda Base & Ancient Irrigation System
📍 Distance: 1.5 hours from Chengdu
🎟 Ticket: ¥90
- Why Go?
- Volunteer with pandas in a less touristy setting.
- Visit the 2,000-year-old Dujiangyan irrigation system, a marvel of ancient engineering.
Option 3: Qingcheng Mountain (Taoist Retreat)
📍 Distance: 1 hour from Chengdu
🎟 Ticket: ¥90
- What to Do:
- Hike through lush forests to Taoist temples.
- Experience qi gong or meditation in a serene setting.
Day 4: Modern Chengdu & Nightlife
Morning: Tianfu Square & Sichuan Science Museum
📍 Location: City center
🎟 Entry: Free (museum ¥30)
- Highlights:
- See the giant Mao statue and underground mall.
- Visit the Sichuan Science Museum for interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Taikoo Li & Chunxi Road Shopping
📍 Location: Near Chunxi Road Metro Station
- What to Do:
- Shop at luxury boutiques in Taikoo Li.
- Visit Fangsuo Commune, a stunning bookstore.
Evening: Lan Kwai Fong (LKF) Chengdu
📍 Location: Near Jinjiang River
- Nightlife Picks:
- Jellyfish Bar – Futuristic cocktails.
- NASA Club – Chengdu’s top nightclub.
Chengdu Food Bucket List
No trip is complete without trying these Sichuan specialties:
✔ Hot Pot (火锅) – Try Haidilao (famous chain) or local hole-in-the-wall spots.
✔ Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐) – Spicy, numbing tofu dish.
✔ Chuan Chuan Xiang (串串香) – Skewers dipped in spicy broth.
✔ Sichuan BBQ (烧烤) – Late-night street food feast.
Best Chengdu Tour Packages
If you prefer organized tours, consider these options:
- 3-Day Classic Chengdu Tour (Pandas, Jinli, Opera) – From $250
- 5-Day Sichuan Highlights (Chengdu + Leshan + Emei) – From $500
- Luxury Private Tour (VIP panda experience, chauffeur) – From $1,200
Final Tips for Your Chengdu Trip
✔ Best Time to Visit: March–June & September–November (mild weather).
✔ Transport: Use metro (cheap & efficient) or Didi (Chinese Uber).
✔ Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use Google Translate.
Conclusion
Chengdu is a city where tradition meets modernity, offering everything from panda encounters to spicy culinary adventures. Whether you’re here for 3 days or a week, this guide ensures you experience the best of Chengdu—like a local!
Ready to explore? Book your trip and get ready for an unforgettable Sichuan adventure! 🐼🌶️
