1 Day Chengdu Walking Tour: Walk Through Ancient Dynasties or Step into a Sci-Fi Future?

Meet your guide at Wuhou Temple, dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the legendary military strategist, and Liu Bei, the emperor of the Shu Han Kingdom. Walk through the Han Zhao Lie Temple, honoring Liu Bei’s leadership, and the main hall, which celebrates Zhuge Liang’s wisdom and loyalty. Don’t miss the Sanyi Temple, where the story of "The Oath of the Peach Garden" between Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei comes to life. Stroll through the temple’s tranquil gardens, admire the Red Wall, and, if time permits, visit the Hui Mausoleum, Liu Bei’s burial site. Visit Time: About 2-3 hours.

Next go to the Jinli Old Street, a vibrant area famous for its Qing Dynasty-style architecture and lively atmosphere. Stroll through the beautifully lit streets, shop for souvenirs like Shu embroidery and lacquer products, and sample local delicacies such as Dan Dan Noodles, Bon Bon Chicken, and Sweet Potato Noodles with Pork Intestines. Witness traditional crafts like sugar painting and shadow puppet plays, or enjoy a Sichuan Opera Show. Visit Time: About 1 hour.

Continue to People's Park to enjoy a leisurely stroll through Chengdu People's Park, where you’ll experience the city's laid-back lifestyle. Watch locals square dance, practice Taiji, sing folk songs, or play chess by the lake. Visit the blind date corner, where parents seek partners for their children, and relax with a fragrant cup of jasmine green tea at the historic Heming Tea House. You can also try the famous Chengdu ear cleaning service or watch locals play mahjong for a truly authentic experience. Visit Time: About 0.5-1 hour.

Head to Qingyang Palace, one of China's oldest Taoist temples, to marvel at its red walls and ancient cypresses. End at Huanhuaxi Park, a serene green space along the river, perfect for photos and a moment of calm before wrapping up.

Meals: Optional local snack stops (guide recommends budget-friendly bites)

Things to do in Chengdu at night

1. Experience the Vibrancy of Chengdu Nightlife with the Sichuan Opera (Optional)

As evening falls, Chengdu's vibrant nightlife starts to pulse with energy. Experience this enchanting atmosphere by catching a performance of the Sichuan Opera. Known for its elaborate costumes, colorful storytelling, and unique performances such as "face-changing" and "fire-spitting", it offers a sensory feast that you won't want to miss.

2. Evening Hot Pot Dinner (Optional)

To conclude your day like a true Chengdunese, enjoy a hot pot dinner (optional). Sichuan hot pot is renowned for its spicy broth and a wide variety of ingredients. Select from an array of meat, vegetables, and other dishes to cook in the hot broth. Enjoy the bold flavors and camaraderie of this traditional dining experience.

Start your exploration at Jiaozi Park, a stunning modern waterfront oasis that offers the best vantage point for Chengdu’s soaring skyline. Here, the iconic Twin Towers serve as a dramatic backdrop to colorful art installations and manicured lawns, making it the city’s premier spot for high-fashion Instagram photography. Nestled within the park is the Jiaozi Finance Museum (entry included); step inside this architectural gem to discover the fascinating history of the "Jiaozi"—the world’s first paper currency—and witness Chengdu's evolution into a global financial powerhouse through sleek, interactive multimedia exhibits.

A short walk leads you to Chengdu SKP, a groundbreaking "sunken" luxury landmark that reimagines the shopping experience. Even if you aren't shopping, the avant-garde window displays and the "bio-energy" light installations make it a must-see for fans of futuristic design. Next, transition from steel to silk-green at Guixi Eco Park. As a key jewel in the 100-kilometer Tianfu Greenway, this sprawling park features undulating bridges, crystal-clear lakes, and vast meadows where locals fly kites and sip artisanal coffee—it’s the perfect place to witness the "Park City" lifestyle firsthand.

Continue to Tiexiangsi Water Street, where the charm of an ancient Sichuanese water town meets contemporary chic. This trendy district is lined with boutique cafes, art galleries, and zen-like waterways, offering a sophisticated atmosphere to relax. Finally, conclude your journey at Jincheng Lake Park. This serene landscape of interconnected lakes and modern bridges is so beautiful that it even caught the eye of international dignitaries—French President Emmanuel Macron famously chose the scenic lakeside paths of Jincheng Lake for his morning run during his state visit to Chengdu. Take a deep breath of the fresh air and snap a final photo of the "Chengdu Eye" Ferris wheel as it begins to glow against the evening sky.

Things to do in Chengdu at night

1. Experience the Vibrancy of Chengdu Nightlife with the Sichuan Opera (Optional)

As evening falls, Chengdu's vibrant nightlife starts to pulse with energy. Experience this enchanting atmosphere by catching a performance of the Sichuan Opera. Known for its elaborate costumes, colorful storytelling, and unique performances such as "face-changing" and "fire-spitting", it offers a sensory feast that you won't want to miss.

2. Evening Hot Pot Dinner (Optional)

To conclude your day like a true Chengdunese, enjoy a hot pot dinner (optional). Sichuan hot pot is renowned for its spicy broth and a wide variety of ingredients. Select from an array of meat, vegetables, and other dishes to cook in the hot broth. Enjoy the bold flavors and camaraderie of this traditional dining experience.