10 Days Deep Dive of Chengdu and Chongqing Tour: Pandas, Temples & Karst Wonders

Nihao! Welcome to Chengdu, the Hometown of Giant Pandas! Your private driver and guide will be ready for you when you arrive in Chengdu. Enjoy a trouble-free transfer to your hotel. The rest of today is yours to relax in Panda City on your own.

Arrival Ideas:

Chengdu is well-connected by air and high-speed rail. There are two airports - Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport, operating many international and domestic airlines. Travelers can go to Chengdu by air from most cities in China, like Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing… In addition, travelers can take high speed train to Chengdu from Xian (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), Kunming (6-6.5hours), etc.

Free Time Ideas:

You are welcome to ask your tour guide for some useful tips to spend your free time based on your time and interests.

In the morning, you will meet your guide early at the appointed time in your hotel lobby. Since pandas prefer cool weather and are more active in the morning, we advise you to arrive early at Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Chengdu Panda Base), located only about 17 kilometers away from the city center. This is the closest panda base around Chengdu for you fulfill your panda dream.

Chengdu Panda Base is the base with the largest population of captive giant pandas in the world, accommodating over 100 pandas of different ages. You can watch pandas playing, eating, climbing, sleeping, and in autumn, even see the pink newborn giant panda cubs in the Sunshine Nursery House and the Moonlight Nursery House. Discover the charming panda stars at this base, such as Hua Hua, the most adored and celebrated panda who has captured the hearts of the nation, and Zhi Ma, the real-life inspiration behind the panda mascot of the World University Games. Besides giant pandas, the cute red pandas (rarer than giant pandas) at the Red Panda Playgrounds are also the highlight of the Chengdu Panda Base. Nowadays, the panda base has also become an urban birding spot for local birders and kids to search for Red-billed Leiothrix, Black-throated Tit, Chinese Blackbird, Spotted Dove, White-browed Laughingthrush, and more. If you're interested, you can follow your guide to discover more about pandas' secrets through the Chengdu Giant Panda Museum, which is free to enter but requires advance reservation, and closed on Mondays.

After lunch, it's time to take a leisurely stroll inside Chengdu Renmin Park (Chengdu People's Park) like a local and enjoy the city's slow lifestyle. You can watch locals square dancing, practicing Taiji, singing Chinese folk songs, playing traditional Chinese musical instruments, as well as playing Chinese chess and boating on the lake. Don't miss the blind date corner (a marriage market) where parents of unmarried adults flock to the park to find a partner for their daughter or son. Then, order a cup of fragrant jasmine green tea (a favorite of Chengdu locals) while sitting in a time-honored tea house, such as Heming Tea House. Chat with your friends, try Chengdu Ear Cleaning by professional ear cleaner, and see locals having fun playing mahjong.

Later, enjoy a historical trip to explore the renowned Wuhou Temple (the Temple of Marquis Wu). Walk in the footsteps of legendary figures from the classic novel "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" and delve into the intriguing stories of this pivotal period in Chinese history. Wuhou Temple is the only temple in China where a ruler and his officials are worshipped together. The temple is famous for its dedication to Zhuge Liang, a prominent military strategist and politician of the Shu Han kingdom (221AD - 263AD), revered as a symbol of wisdom and loyalty. Start your tour at the Han Zhao Lie Temple, dedicated to Liu Bei, the emperor who founded the Shu Han state and was known for his charisma and leadership skills. Continue to the main hall of Wuhou Temple, where you can discover the fascinating life story of Zhuge Liang, who devoted himself to the Shu Kingdom until his death. Marvel at the 24 civil and military generals depicted in the novel as you explore the temple's intricate architecture and beautiful gardens. Also, be sure to visit Sanyi Temple to learn about the famous story of "The Oath of the Peach Garden", which tells the tale of three sworn brothers, Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, who pledged to support each other and fight against tyranny and injustice. Don't miss the chance to take brilliant photos at the Red Wall, and if time allows, pay a visit to the Hui Mausoleum, where Liu Bei is buried.

When the sun sets, the nightlife on Jinli Street becomes even more charming. Known as the "Chengdu Riverside Scene at Qingming Festival Scroll" and ranked at the top of the world's most beautiful streets by CNN Travel in 2021, Jinli Street was first built during the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280) and was then known as "Shu Jinli". Walking on Jinli Street, you can appreciate the brilliant Chinese Traditional buildings of Qing Dynasty style (1616-1911), buy all kinds of souvenirs (Shu embroidery, lacquer products, folk handicrafts, calligraphy, and paintings), try delicious local snacks (Dan Dan Noodles, Egg Pancake, Bon Bon Chicken, Sweet Potato Noodles with Pork Intestines, Iced Jelly, Sour and Spicy Tofu Pudding), and discover intangible heritages like Sugar Painting, Shadow Puppy Play, Sichuan Opera Show...

After the tour, be transferred to your hotel in Chengdu downtown.

On this day, start your day with a delightful morning visit to Wenshu Monastery, a 1400-year-old temple dedicated to honoring Manjushri Bodhisattva, the Symbol of Wisdom. It is one of the four great temples of the Chan (Zen) school of Buddhism in China. Before entering the temple, take a moment to capture the beauty of the Red Wall. Once inside, stroll leisurely through the temple's beautiful Qing Dynasty-style buildings and marvel at the Heavenly Kings Hall, Three Saints Hall, Grand Buddha Hall, Dharma Hall, and Scripture Library in that order. The temple's buildings, such as the bell tower and corridor, are seamlessly integrated with the main complex, creating a peaceful and immersive atmosphere where you can explore and reflect on the teachings of Buddhism. If you like, indulge in the delicious vegetarian food served inside the monastery, which is both healthy and satisfying.

Later, move to the Chengdu Museum, the largest comprehensive museum in Chengdu where you could learn about the ancient and modern history of Chengdu. It has a collection of 200,000 objects. You will travel through history from the pre-Qin period (the Paleolithic period to 221 BC) to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). It starts with the masks of Sanxingdui, continues with the stone statues of ancient Shu, the pottery of the Sui and Tang dynasties, and the porcelain of the Ming and Qing dynasties - presenting a complete developmental history. Besides, enjoy exploring the intangible cultural heritage of Sichuan, including Sichuan opera, puppet shows, shoulder-pole Chinese opera, shadow puppetry, Sichuan cuisine, and teahouse culture, among others.

After uncovering Chengdu's rich history, prepare to be awe-struck by the city's dazzling modern landscape. Chengdu is affectionately known as "Tianfu", meaning "Heaven City". Make your way to Tianfu Square, centrally located in Chengdu's commercial district. Don't miss sighting iconic landmarks nearby like the imposing Chairman Mao's statue and the intriguing Sichuan Science and Technology Museum. As you take in the dynamic scenery, you'll understand why Chengdu is celebrated as both "The Land of Abundance" and China's most livable city.

Then, revel in a leisurely stroll down Chunxi Road, appreciating the giant panda sculpture playfully scaling the sleek facade of the Chengdu International Finance Square (IFS). This whimsical juxtaposition elegantly captures Chengdu's blend of old and new. Afterwards, meander through the bustling lanes of Taikoo Li Chengdu, a harmonious fusion of global and local influences. Browse lavish boutiques showcasing luxury brands while soaking in the vibrant energy of this chic shopping district. Visit the 1300-year-old Daci Temple, hidden amidst the modern cityscape. Stroll peacefully through the grounds, order a cup of tea, and find your own inner quiet in the heart of the bustling city.

After the tour, you will be escorted back to your hotel, or we can take you to the airport or train station.

In the morning, you will be picked up at your hotel, then be driven about 2 hours from Chengdu to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site - Leshan Giant Buddha, which is the largest and tallest stone-carved statue of Buddha in the world. Standing at the confluence of two rivers, the extraordinary, monumental 1200-year-old Buddha image at Le Shan is carved directly into the rock face. The monument stands 71m (233ft) tall and 28m (92ft) wide making it the largest ancient Buddha in the world. His shoulders span 28m, and each of his big toes is 8.5m long. His ears are 7m. He is indeed grand. There is a local saying: "The mountain is a Buddha and the Buddha is a mountain".

You will walk down and up and watch the Buddha from a very close distance. It allows you to see each part of Leshan Giant Buddha closely and presents you with a surprising experience with many ancient Buddhist temples, sculptures, caves, and religious relics on the way up tothe mountain top near the head of the Buddha. (Recommended Optional Activity: The plank pathways are steep and narrow. If it is not convenient for you to walk, you can take a cruise to get a panoramic view and fully appreciate this Buddha on the river.)

Later, you will be driven about 45 kilometers to Baoguo Temple, which is the biggest temple of Mount Emei at the mountain foot. After the tour, drive to check in at your hotel and have a good rest.

You will spend a full day visiting Mount Emei, which is one of the World Heritage Sites for both cultural and natural heritage. Mount Emei is one of the four famous sacred Buddhist mountains in China, with numerous Buddhist temples and monasteries. Beyond its rich cultural heritage, the mountain also stands on the edge of the eastern Himalayan highlands and hosts a diverse range of plants and animals ,and amazing natural scenery.

You will take a relaxing way to visit Mount Emei by sightseeing bus+hiking+cable car. Tourist Center - Sightseeing Bus to Leidongping( about 1.5~2 hours) - Walk 30mins to Jieyin Hall - Go up to Golden Summit by cable car(5mins) - Sightseeing in Golden Summit - Ascend the Mountain in the Same Way.

It will help you save energy and focus on the highlights of Mount Emei. The Golden Summit is an extravagance of natural wonders and Buddhist spirituality, which comprises four marvelous spectacles of Sunrise, Cloud Sea, Buddhist Light, and sacred lamp. You can stroll around the Golden Summit to explore Buddhist architecture and tradition, and enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Emei and the surrounding area. If the weather permits, you will have luck to enjoy the magnificent wonder of Cloud Sea.

After the tour, your guide and driver will escort you back to the hotel in Chengdu.

This morning, you will take the high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing (about a 1-2 hour ride). Welcome to Chongqing, China's Spectacular Mountain City! Get ready to immerse yourself in one of the most exciting destinations trending on TikTok! Known for its unique 3D city layout and dazzling night views, Chongqing is often called the "Little Hong Kong" for its vibrant skyline and dynamic urban vibe. Indulge in the most authentic hotpot in the Hotpot Capital of China. Nestled at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River, Chongqing also serves as your gateway to the breathtaking Three Gorges, one of China's most iconic natural wonders.

Upon meeting you at the train station, take a journey through time at the Three Gorges Museum, home to a vast collection of over 280,000 precious historical relics. Dive deep into the fascinating story of the Yangtze River, the formation of the iconic Three Gorges, and the evolution of Chongqing from its ancient beginnings to its vibrant rise in the 20th century. After exploring the museum, don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos in front of the People's Assembly Hall, an architectural masterpiece located just outside the museum.

Later, let's witness the most thrilling sight - the train that passes through a building at Liziba Metro Station. Located on Line 2 of Chongqing's monorail, this station is famously constructed through the middle of a residential building, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

After that, you will be transferred to Hongya Cave, located along the Jialing River and near Chaotianmen Square. It is famous for its traditional stilted buildings (Diaojiaolou), dazzling night views, and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll along the riverside promenade to enjoy spectacular views of the Jialing River and the modern Chongqing skyline. Explore the multi-level complex, featuring Diaojiaolou-style wooden structures and steep stairways. Here, you can even try Hot Pot, if you like. As night falls, this complex transforms into a dazzling spectacle, offering one of Chongqing's most iconic night views.

Today, you'll DIY Intangible Cultural Heritage hot pot base and enjoy authentic local Chongqing life by exploring old streets, urban park, and creative cultural park.

Morning - Chongqing San’er Hot Pot Museum

Hot Pot with chili oil is Chongqing's iconic food. You'll visit the Chongqing San’er Hot Pot Museum (重庆三耳火锅博物馆), the world's first hot pot museum, to try a DIY intangible cultural heritage hot pot base.

This museum, shaped like a giant hot pot, houses over 600 pieces of hot pot ware across six floors. Its most precious item is the 1200-year-old "Tang Sancai Hot Pot," a rare Tang Dynasty artifact still showing its reddish-brown interior, exquisite golden patterns, and cloud-carved base.

One side of the museum displays over 5,000 sauce jars, holding the San'er hot pot base, a recognized Chongqing Intangible Cultural Heritage. With guidance from pros, you can DIY your hot pot base, selecting, washing, grinding, and mixing fresh broad beans, chilies, and spices.

Notice: Closed on Mondays.

Afternoon - Shancheng Lane, Eling Park, Eling Testbed 2

Drive 1 hour to Shancheng Lane(山城巷). It is an authentic old street by the Yangtze River, a "Chongqing Architecture Museum" dating back to the 14th century. Spanning 1.5 km with a 70-meter drop, its buildings cover 600+ years: from Ming walls, Qing gate and European churches to WWII homes and modern shops, all woven with classic Chongqing stone staircases.

Don't worry about your knees - we've planned an easy downhill route (Old Chinese Medicine Hospital- Ren'ai Church- Cliffside Plank Road- Changle Yongkang Stone Gate) . You'll see Ren'ai Church, a complex built by the French Catholic Church in 1900, which once housed a monastery, church, bell tower, and hospital. Inside, you can still faintly see the European-style columns and ornate carvings of the ruins.

Continuing your walk, arrive at Chongqing's only Cliffside Plank Road. This path is 300+ meters long, with stilt houses on your left and the Yangtze River on your right. Soon, you'll spot the lead-gray Ming Dynasty city wall, then the Qing Dynasty Stone Gate engraved with "Changle Yongkang (Eternal Well-being)." Congrats—you've just journeyed through six centuries of Chongqing history!

Next up, we'll take you to Eling Park (鹅岭公园), Chongqing's earliest urban park. Once a Qing Dynasty garden, it unfolds like a "miniature Jiangnan" where each step paints a new picture. Climb the seven-story Lansheng Tower within the park for panoramic views of Chongqing's Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.

Right next door, Eling Park's tranquility gives way to the vibrant Eling Testbed 2 (鹅岭二厂)! This old factory site is now an artsy hub for youth, buzzing with creative shops and eye-popping graffiti. So much energy!

After the tour, you'll be escorted back to your hotel in Chongqing's downtown area.

Optional: Intangible Cultural Heritage Fish Lantern

Inside Eling Testbed 2, you can craft a fish lantern. A dreamy ancient Chinese heritage comes from 14 century, these fish-shaped lanterns are crafted from bamboo and painted paper. Danced to simulate swimming fish, they usually celebrate harvests and peace. With help from artisans, craft your own, then pick it up and join the fish lantern dance!

Beyond the fish lantern, you can also experience ancient Chinese crafts like rubbings, Diancui (feather inlay), bamboo weaving, and velvet flowers (symbolizing blessings).

Notice: Intangible Cultural Heritage experiences within Eling Testbed 2 require booking one week in advance and are non-cancellable once booked.

Chongqing also features the Tongliang Fire Dragon Dance, an intangible cultural heritage where molten iron sparks like golden flowers. Inquire with Asia Odyssey Travel for details.

Today, you will discover Chongqing's Old Streets for treaty port history

After breakfast, stroll through Xiahaoli Old Street (下浩里老街), a place where you can discover Chongqing's treaty port history from a century ago. In 1890, Chongqing was forcibly opened as a treaty port. Western buildings and cultures poured in. The Chinese-Western blend of buildings here will amaze you.

This six-story old street preserves century-old buildings like the former French Yongxing Foreign Firm and the Belgian Consulate. These structures mix European arched doors, vermilion red bricks, and colonnades with local grey bricks and tiles. As you stroll, you can also enjoy various art exhibitions, feeling all the artsy vibes!

Then, walk 5 minutes to Longmenhao Old Street (龙门浩老街). Like Xiahaoli Old Street, it shares a treaty port history and artsy vibes, and is also structured in six tiers. Here, you can explore several century-old former consulates, foreign firm sites, and more.

This is an excellent spot for contrast photography. We recommend posing with your back to the century-old architecture and facing the skyscraper on the opposite bank.

This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel to begin your journey to the Three Natural Bridges in the Wulong Karst National Geological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (about 160km, 2.5 hours’ drive). These three massive limestone arch bridges - Tianlong Bridge (Heavenly Dragon), Qinglong Bridge (Azure Dragon), and Heilong Bridge (Black Dragon) - are among the largest natural bridges in the world, renowned for their breathtaking scenery. The site also served as a filming location for the Hollywood blockbuster Transformers: Age of Extinction, adding to its fame.

Upon arrival, you’ll enter the tourist area and take the sightseeing elevator down to the bottom of the gorge, where your exploration begins. As you hike along the scenic trail, you’ll visit the three iconic bridges and other smaller scenic spots, immersing yourself in the unique beauty of the park.

Highlights of the Three Natural Bridges:

Tianlong Bridge (天龙桥): The largest and most majestic of the three bridges, Tianlong Bridge is named after the mythical "Heavenly Dragon." Towering above the valley, it forms a natural "gateway" to the area and inspires awe with its sheer scale and grandeur as you walk beneath it.

Tianfu Official Post (天福驿站): Nestled in the valley beneath the bridges, this historic stone-built courtyard dates back to the Tang Dynasty. It later served as an official post station during the Ming and Qing dynasties, providing shelter and rest for travelers and officials. Its architecture and cultural significance offer a glimpse into the past.

Qinglong Bridge (青龙桥): Often regarded as the most scenic and photogenic of the three, Qinglong Bridge is named after the "Azure Dragon" of Chinese mythology. With its elegant and slender structure, this bridge perfectly complements the lush greenery and dramatic cliffs around it, making it a favorite spot for photography.

Heilong Bridge (黑龙桥): The smallest of the three bridges, Heilong Bridge is no less captivating. A tranquil stream flows through the gorge below, adding to the serene yet majestic atmosphere. Its name, "Black Dragon", reflects the mysterious and profound beauty of this natural wonder.

After visiting the Three Natural Bridges, take a short 10-minute ride on the sightseeing bus to the Longshuixia Gap, a stunning karst gorge that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This natural wonder is characterized by towering limestone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and lush greenery. Formed over millions of years by the erosive power of underground rivers flowing through the karst landscape, the Longshuixia Gap is a geological masterpiece. The hiking trail through the gorge stretches about 2-3 kilometers and typically takes 2 hours to complete, offering you an immersive experience in nature’s grandeur.

Tips for Visiting Wulong:

Wear Comfortable Shoes: The trail includes stairs and uneven terrain, so sturdy and comfortable walking shoes are a must.

Bring Water and Snacks: The hike can be tiring, so stay hydrated and bring light snacks to keep your energy up.

Photography Tips: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the dramatic scale of the gorge, while a waterproof case is helpful for areas near waterfalls.

Dress for the Weather: The gorge tends to be cool and damp, so dress in layers and consider bringing a light raincoat, especially if visiting during the rainy season.

Stay overnight in Wulong Xiannvshan Town.

Optional Evening Experience: Impression Wulong Show (印象武隆)

This evening, immerse yourself in the Impression Wulong, a spectacular outdoor night show set against the stunning backdrop of the Wulong Karst National Geological Park. Designed by the world-renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou, this performance is a masterpiece of art, culture, and nature. The show brings to life the rich heritage of the region, centered around the theme of "Chuanjiang Haozi" (traditional river work songs). It weaves together local intangible cultural treasures, such as the Wujiang boatmen's work songs, wedding laments, and stone-carrying songs, with the vibrant Bashu cultural elements of "Huagan" (bamboo sedan chairs), hotpot traditions, and the enduring spirit of Tuojiang boat trackers. The show lasts about 70 minutes.

After breakfast, we'll drive about an hour to the Furong Cave (芙蓉洞). This massive limestone cave, formed over 1.2 million years ago, is part of the UNESCO Wulong Karst World Natural Heritage site. It's renowned as one of the world's three great caves, alongside Mammoth Cave in the USA and Clamouse Cave in France.

The cave stretches approximately 2,700 meters and boasts over 70 types of astonishing karst formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, stone curtains, and an underground river.

Upon entering the scenic area, you'll take a 10-minute cable car ride directly to the cave's entrance. The most spectacular parts of Furong Cave include a rock waterfall measuring 15 meters wide and 21 meters high, as well as delicate stone flowers, smooth palm-shaped stalagmites, and dense helical formations.

After the tour, you'll be escorted back to your hotel in Chongqing's downtown area.

Tips for Exploring the Cave:

1. Enclosed, Dimly Lit Environment: You may feel a bit damp and chilly.
2. Watch Your Step: The interior can be slippery and has many stairs, so please walk carefully.
3. Mind Narrow Passages: Some sections are quite narrow, with the tightest spots only allowing one person to pass at a time. Be careful not to bump or scrape yourself.
4. Limited Phone Signal: Mobile phone signal inside the cave is weak, or even nonexistent. Never attempt to explore unexplored sections of the cave on your own!

After the tour, your 10-Day Chengdu and Chongqing Tour reaches its final day! You will be escorted back to Chongqing's downtown area. Your driver will then take you to the airport or train station in Chongqing for your onward flight or high-speed train to your next destination.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Chengdu and Chongqing tour! We are always here to assist you and look forward to seeing you again on your next trip to China or Asia!