Chengdu is the capital of southwestern China's Sichuan province. Chengdu's history dates back to at least the 4th century B.C., when it served as capital for the Shu Kingdom. Artifacts from that dynasty are the focus of the Jinsha Site Museum. The city is also home to the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a conservation center where visitors can view endangered giant pandas in a natural habitat.
Top Attractions:
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see giant pandas in a natural habitat. Watch these adorable creatures eat bamboo, play, and nap in a conservation-friendly environment.
- Jinli Ancient Street: Explore Jinli Ancient Street, a lively pedestrian street lined with traditional Sichuan-style architecture, shops, teahouses, and street food vendors. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and enjoy local snacks such as spicy rabbit heads and Sichuan hotpot.
- Wuhou Shrine: Visit Wuhou Shrine, a historic temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. Explore the temple complex, admire ancient statues and artifacts, and learn about Chinese history and culture.
- Wenshu Monastery: Discover Wenshu Monastery, one of the oldest and best-preserved Buddhist temples in Chengdu. Admire its ancient architecture, beautiful gardens, and tranquil atmosphere, and enjoy vegetarian cuisine at the monastery's tea house.
- Du Fu Thatched Cottage: Visit Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a museum and park dedicated to the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. Explore replicas of traditional thatched-roof houses, scenic gardens, and pavilions, and learn about the life and works of Du Fu.
- Chengdu People's Park: Relax in Chengdu People's Park, a popular urban park known for its picturesque landscapes, lotus ponds, and teahouses. Watch locals practicing tai chi, play mahjong, and enjoy traditional Sichuan opera performances.
- Chengdu Museum: Explore Chengdu Museum, a modern museum showcasing the history, culture, and art of Chengdu and Sichuan Province. Discover ancient artifacts, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays, and learn about the region's rich heritage.
Things to Do:
- Sichuan Opera: Experience Sichuan opera, known for its unique art forms such as face-changing, fire-spitting, and puppetry. Attend a live performance at a local theater or teahouse and immerse yourself in the colorful costumes, music, and storytelling.
- Hotpot Dining: Indulge in Chengdu's famous hotpot cuisine, known for its spicy and numbing flavors. Choose from a variety of hotpot restaurants and enjoy cooking fresh ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and tofu in a simmering broth.
- Leshan Giant Buddha Excursion: Take a day trip to Leshan to see the Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, carved into a cliff overlooking the confluence of three rivers.
- Chunxi Road: Shop and dine on Chunxi Road, Chengdu's most famous shopping street. Explore modern malls, boutique shops, and international brands, and sample local snacks and delicacies at food stalls and restaurants.
- Chengdu Tea Culture: Experience Chengdu's tea culture by visiting traditional teahouses and tea markets. Enjoy a leisurely tea ceremony, taste different varieties of tea, and learn about the history and significance of tea in Chinese culture.
- Chengdu's Nightlife: Explore Chengdu's vibrant nightlife scene in neighborhoods such as Lan Kwai Fong and Jiuyanqiao. Visit bars, clubs, and live music venues, and enjoy cocktails, craft beer, and local specialties.
- Panda Volunteer Program: Participate in a panda volunteer program at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Get up close to pandas, help with feeding and care tasks, and contribute to panda conservation efforts.