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Best Things to Do in Chengdu: Enjoy Chengdu’s Classic Attractions
When it comes to experiencing the best things to do in Chengdu, whether it's visiting playful pandas, sipping tea in bustling parks, or exploring ancient temples, these classic activities leave a lasting first impression. They bring joy to both first-time visitors and those returning, adding a unique charm to Chengdu's character.
No.1 Visit Chengdu's Famous Pandas
Visit Time: 0.5-2 days
Ticket Price: 55-95RMB per person
Locations: Chengdu Panda Base, Dujiangyan Panda Base, Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve
Giant pandas are Chengdu's most iconic ambassador, with their image found across the city. Their roly-poly furry bodies and silly antics win over hearts worldwide. The Chengdu Panda Base, Dujiangyan Panda Base, and Wolong Panda Nature Reserve offer prime panda-viewing near Chengdu.
The Chengdu Panda Base, just 30 minutes from downtown, is the most popular given its 200+ pandas, vast size, and accessibility. Spend a half or full day watching pandas lazily munch on bamboo, tumble together as cubs, swing playfully from trees, or simply sprawl out napping.
For more interaction, visit the Dujiangyan Panda Base 1.5 hours from Chengdu. Volunteer as a panda nanny, cleaning enclosures and preparing fresh bamboo for the fuzzy residents. You can also make fun shaped cakes for these vegetarian bears and watch feedings up close.
For an immersive experience, drive 2 hours to Wolong Panda Nature Reserve, 100km outside Chengdu. Become a panda keeper for a day, gaining insider access to learn about their daily lives in the wild.
1 Day Chengdu Panda Tour with Leisure Time in Renmin Park & Ancient Streets2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat4 Days Ultimate Panda Tour for Panda Fans (Chengdu - Wolong - Dujiangyan)
No.2 Relax at People's Park
Ticket Price: Free
Address: Renmin South Road Section 2, Chengdu
Relaxing in People's Park is a classic way to experience laidback soul of Chengdu. Located right downtown, this green oasis embodies the city's signature leisurely vibe.
Find a teahouse within the park and sit on bamboo chairs sipping aromatic jasmine tea. Observe locals dancing in the plaza, singing folk songs, and becoming engrossed in lively games of mahjong. Chuckles arise amidst the mahjong players' banter. Expressive shouts ring out with each victory or defeat.
Chat with friends, get professional ear cleanings, and feel your stress melt away as you soak in the community ambience. Both lively yet relaxed, People's Park offers the perfect venue to unwind and embrace captivating culture in Chengdu.
No.3 Step Back in Time at Wenshu Monastery
Visiting Time: 1-3 hours
Ticket Price: Free
Address: No. 66 Wenshu Yuan Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu
The Wenshu Monastery, with its serene ambiance, is a timeless portal into Chengdu's spiritual heart. This Buddhist temple, one of the best-preserved in Chengdu, offers an escape from the city's hustle and bustle, as it is enveloped in an aura of tranquility and reverence.
Walking through the monastery's stone-paved courtyards, you'll find locals praying, lighting incense sticks, and rotating prayer wheels. The monastery is home to over 500 paintings and pieces of calligraphy by renowned Chinese artists, providing a unique glimpse into Chinese art and culture.
The temple's teahouse is another highlight, offering a peaceful setting for a cup of traditional tea amidst the monastery's verdant gardens and koi ponds. The ancient trees and singing birds add to the peaceful atmosphere. Wenshu Monastery is not just a place of worship, but also a place of peace and reflection, making it an essential stop on your Chengdu itinerary.
No.4 Pay Tribute at Wuhou Memorial Temple
No.4 Pay Tribute at Wuhou Memorial Temple
Visit Time: 2-3 hours
Ticket Price: 60RMB per person
Address: No. 231 Wuhou Temple Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu
Wuhou Memorial Temple in Chengdu, dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the legendary Minister of Shu during the Three Kingdoms period, is a must-visit for history buffs. This temple is a testament to a time of heroes and epic tales, contributing to China's rich historical tapestry.
Upon entering the Wuhou Memorial Temple through the main gate, you can first visit the "Three Remarkable Steles" on the right, which are considered the hallmarks of the temple. Then head to the "Hall of Liu Bei", where 28 statues of Shu Han ministers and generals "guard" the founding emperor of the Shu state on both sides. Continue straight along the central axis to arrive at the "Hall of Zhuge Liang", which houses statues of the Shu Han chancellor Zhuge Liang and his ancestral line. Walking past the Wuhou Memorial Temple takes you directly to the San Yi Temple. After visiting the San Yi Temple, take a leisurely stroll among the red walls to visit Hui Mausoleum.
Things to Do in Chengdu at Night: Hotpot & Old Street
What some things to do in Chengdu at night await to delight your senses after dark? Blaze up some fiery hotpot feasts with your homies? Or wander under glowing red lanterns, scouting bustling open-air bars and streetside snack stalls for Sichuan eats? Chengdu's lit nightlife scene is yours for the taking, just waiting for you to explore.
No.5 Wander Through the Historic Streets: Kuanzhai Alleys and Jinli Street
Visiting Time: 1-2 hours
Ticket Price: Free
Locations: Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Ancient Street
At nightfall, take a stroll down the bustling streets of Kuanzhai Alleys and Jinli Ancient Street to unveil captivating nightlife charm of Chengdu. The old lanes lit up by red lanterns come alive, filled with lively bars, cozy cafes, and mouthwatering street snacks, with aromas of chili and Sichuan peppercorns wafting through the air, evoking Chengdu’s signature “spicy vibe”.
These historic hoods date back to the Qing dynasty, boasting well-preserved architecture and vestiges of old-school lifestyles. Browse souvenir shops and sample street eats like candied haws and meat skewers. Chengdu’s nightlife appeal is in full force amid the melodic streetside chatter and tempting aromas.
Lose yourself in the vibrant heritage lanes, soaking up the beguiling allure of the city after dark. Let the surrender to the mesmerizing nighttime ambience as you wind through alleys lined with mahjong parlors and tea joints, transported back in time.
No.6 Savor the Fiery Chengdu Hotpot
Chengdu is renowned for its mouth-numbing, tongue-tingling hot pot. This fiery, flavor-packed dish is ideal for a night out with your homies or family. With hot pot joints on practically every block, you've got dozens of options to pick your fave broth, ingredients, and dipping sauces.
For the classic version, opt for a Sichuan peppercorn-infused broth brimming with chili peppers to unleash your taste buds. If you don't do spice, grab a split yin-yang pot with mild and spicy divider. Gather your squad around a table, pass around dippin' sauce plates, and let the DIY feast commence. The vibes get hype as the chili high kicks in. Hot pot is a chance to bond over food and push your boundaries. Give it a whirl - your tastebuds will thank you!
Fun Things to Do in Chengdu: Museums & Sichuan Opera
Beyond pandas and teahouses, Chengdu offers visitors plenty of fun and fascinating things to do through its wealth of museums and lively cultural performances. For insights into ancient cultures, admire archaeological wonders at museums displaying relics of past eras and lost civilizations that once thrived in Sichuan. Or witness the mysteries of Sichuan Opera first-hand by watching masters morph colorful masks with swift sleight of hand complemented by stunning vocals, acrobatics and drama.
No.7 Unearth the Past at Local Museums
Recommend: Sanxingdui Museum, Chengdu Museum, Jinsha Site Museum
For culture and history buffs, spending an afternoon museum-hopping in Chengdu is a blast, where you can easily lose a few hours immersed in the exhibits at the trippy "alien civilization" Sanxingdui Museum, the Jinsha Site Museum centered around religious sacrificial vessels, and Chengdu Museum showcasing the city's history from ancient to present day.
Located in the city center, Chengdu Museum takes you on a fascinating journey in Chengdu through the region’s rich history, uncovering secrets from antiquity to modern times through captivating displays. With its jaw-dropping treasures, high-tech exhibits, and insights into ancient cultures, it engages visitors of all ages.
Meanwhile, Jinsha Site Museum located around a 30-minute drive from Chengdu Museum features over 60 sites worth of relics revolving around religious sacrificial artifacts. Don't miss the Sun God Bird and golden masks in Gallery No.4.
If you’re into the flamboyant ancient bronzes, Guanghan Sanxingdu Museum, 40 km from Chengdu, is worth several hours of your exploration. From the 3.95-meter-tall Divine Tree to the dramatic bronze masks in Gallery No.1, and the giant standing figures and gold scepter in Gallery No.4, it’s sure to impress.
No.8 Be Dazzled by Sichuan Opera's Face-Changing Performance
Checking out a face-changing show at Chengdu's historic theaters is a one-of-a-kind cultural experience. As you sit transfixed trying to figure out how the masks morph, another appears! Expressions flash from happy to sad to shocked in an instant. Each mask depicting memorable characters from classic tales and legends. You'll be hypnotized attempting to unlock the secrets behind the mesmerizing act. Let the kaleidoscopic character masks transport you into ancient stories brought to life.
Catch the iconic performance nightly at renowned venues like Yule Tea House, Shufeng Yayun, and Jinjiang Theater, where you can even pick out fave masks and costumes to play dress up and experience Sichuan opera's magic.
Top Surrounding Things to Do from Chengdu: Explore Natural and Man-Made Wonders
For those seeking to truly explore the essence of Chengdu's tourism, the surrounding natural and man-made wonders will elevate your journey. Expand your horizons with these top surrounding things to do from Chengdu, as you embark on a captivating adventure through both nature and human ingenuity.
No.9 Marvel at the Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Visiting Time: 0.5-1 day
Ticket Price: 80 RMB
Address: Dujiangyan, Chengdu, Sichuan
Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a must-see just outside Chengdu, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. This massive 2,200-year-old irrigation project is an ancient engineering and innovation marvel that has long controlled the Min River's water source and nourished the Chengdu Plain.
Spend a morning or afternoon wandering alongside the glistening Min River, dotted with cascading streams and lush greenery. Pause to admire iconic sights like the Fish Mouth Levee, which regulates water flow through an ingenious weir system. Learn from your guide how the dams, channels and levees work in harmony to prevent catastrophic flooding. Ascend Mount Yulei for breathtaking panoramas of the irrigation system winding through the mountains.
How to Get to Dujiangyan Irrigation System
From Chengdu, take a quick 35-min bullet train and you're there. You can also cab it in around 1 hour for 100-150 yuan. Or book our Chengdu Dujiangyan Tour package and we'll arrange sightseeing in Chengdu and Dujiangyan including transport, tickets, and an experienced English-speaking guide. Just focus on travel and leave the rest to us!
No.10 Inquire Within the Daoist Wonders of Qingcheng Mountain
Visiting Time: 0.5-1 day
Ticket Price: 80 RMB
Address: Qingcheng Town, Dujiangyan City, Sichuan Province, China
Escape the city and make your way up the slopes of Qingcheng Mountain, one of China’s most famed Taoist holy sites just a two hour drive west of Chengdu. This lush, forested mountain has drawn pilgrims for over 2,000 years.
If you’re into Taoist culture, the dozens of Taoist temples, shrines, and monasteries in Qingcheng’s Front Mountain await your visit before reaching Laojun Pavilion atop Qingcheng’s First Peak, overlooking the undulating hills blanketed in emerald.
Cascading waterfalls and ancient trees distinguish Qingcheng’s Back Mountain where you can amble along streams and traverse mossy bridges and winding wooden trails between steep valleys and gushing falls. The cliffside plank path through Longyin Gorge is a highlight.
The famed Puzhao Temple lies outside Qingcheng Mountain. Devout followers flock here to pay respects at this hallowed temple where you can spot photos of many Chinese celebrities adorning the walls.
How to Get to Qingcheng Mountain
Chengdu’s Xipu Station has over 30 bullet trains daily to Qingcheng Mountain Station just 30 minutes away. From there take a shuttle bus to the Front or Back Mountains. Direct buses from downtown Chengdu take around 1.5 hours.
No.11 Behold the 71-meter tall Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is one of the world's largest and most iconic statues, a breathtaking marvel carved into the face of a cliff. It stands at an astonishing height of 71 meters, captivating visitors with its immense scale and stunning beauty. As you approach the Leshan Giant Buddha, a sense of grandeur envelops you. This massive sculpture gazes serenely at the confluence of three rivers, with intricate details carved into the stone, depicting the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha.
The best way to appreciate the grandeur of the Leshan Giant Buddha is up close. As you descend along the walkways, the enormity of the statue becomes even more apparent. Along the way, you'll encounter various viewing platforms where you can pause and admire different perspectives of the Buddha. Continue your descent until you reach the feet of the Buddha, where you can observe the intricate details and marvel at its colossal size. After exploring the statue, consider taking a boat ride on the river for a unique vantage point and a different perspective.
How to Get to Leshan Giant Buddha
The distance from Chengdu to Leshan Giant Buddha is ca. 130 kilometers, and the journey by car usually takes around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can also take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Leshan, which typically takes around 1-1.5 hours. From Leshan Railway Station, you can easily find local transportation options, such as buses or taxis, to reach the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area.
No.12 Scale the Sacred Buddhist Peaks of Mount Emei
Visiting Time: 1-3 days
Ticket Price: 185 RMB
Address: Emeishan, Sichuan Province
Situated in the vicinity of Chengdu, rises Mount Emei, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China. With its majestic natural scenery and the ethereal presence of Buddhist temples, it captivates visitors from all corners of the world. Towering peaks of Mount Emei disappear into the clouds, while ancient temples dot the mountainside, offering panoramic views that resemble a painting come to life. The resounding chimes of Baoguo Temple echo through the ages, and the breathtaking sights of sunrise, sea of clouds, Buddha's light, and glowing lanterns leave an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to witness them.
Starting from Baoguo Temple at the foot of the mountain, a winding path leads upward, passing by notable attractions such as White Dragon Cave, Qingyin Pavilion, and Jiulong Cave. Along the way, one may encounter playful monkeys, but it is advised not to disturb them. Finally, reaching the summit known as the Golden Summit, the highest point of Mount Emei at over 10,000 feet above sea level, one is rewarded with glimpses of the sea of clouds and fluttering Buddhist prayer flags, a sight that truly uplifts the spirits of climbers. To rejuvenate weary bodies after the ascent, the hot springs of Mount Emei provide an ideal retreat that offers relaxation and healing.
How to Get to Mount Emei
Traveling from Chengdu to Mount Emei is convenient and straightforward. The mountain is located approximately 120 miles southwest of Chengdu. Regular buses take around 3 hours to reach the Emeishan Station, while high-speed trains cover the distance in just over an hour.
No.13 Explore the Fairyland of Jiuzhai Valley National Park
Visiting Time: 1-2 days
Ticket Price: 259 RMB (peak season)
Address: Jiuzhaigou County, Sichuan Province
A true natural wonderland, Jiuzhai Valley National Park is one of top attractions in Sichuan and a scenic paradise just a flight away from Chengdu. Famed for its breathtaking vistas of crystal clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, and multi-colored forested mountains, Jiuzhai Valley landscape resembles a fairyland come to life.
Follow the boardwalks and trails through the park’s main routes to marvel at highlights like the stunning Five Flower Lake and thrilling Pearl Shoal Waterfall. Ride the environmental bus between scenic spots and ascend in the cable car for bird’s eye vistas of the valley’s gem-like waters. With turquoise Nuorilang Falls, imposing White Waterfall, and golden Shuzheng Lakes, Jiuzhai Valley enchants visitors with its vibrant palette.
How to Get to Jiuzhai Valley National Park
From Chengdu, take a direct 2-hour flight or 8-10 hour bus ride to Jiuzhaigou County to arrive at the park entrance and begin exploring this natural wonderland. Park hotels ranging from luxurious to rustic offer overnight stays for extended enjoyment. For spellbinding scenery from lush greens to vibrant blues, Jiuzhai Valley offers a glimpse of paradise.
No.14 Stroll Through the Mystical Huanglong National Park
Visiting Time: 1 day
Ticket Price: 120 RMB
Address: Songpan County, Sichuan Province
With its stunning landscape of colorful ponds and travertine lakes, Huanglong National Park is one of fairy tale wonders of China. Literally meaning “Yellow Dragon”, Huanglong derives its name from the dynamic yellowish hues of its crystal clear waters flowing over calcium carbonate deposits.
Follow the 3-mile walkway through the park’s valley of shimmering emerald ponds and golden-hued lakes, fed by cascading waterfalls and set amidst lush forested slopes. Marvel at signature sights like the magnificent Five Color Pond and the graceful White Waterfall plunging down a mountainside. Early mornings present the most brilliant colors and clearest reflections.
How to Get to Huanglong National Park
The distance from Chengdu to Huanglong is ca. 350 kilometers, and the journey by car takes around 7 hours. If you prefer to travel by train, you can board a high-speed train bound for Aba Prefecture at Chengdu East Railway Station. Once you reach Songpan County, you can transfer to a local bus or take a taxi to Huanglong National Park.
No.15 Conquer the Siguniang Mountain
Mount Siguniang is renowned for its unparalleled beauty and often referred to as the "Eastern Alps." It is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Comprising four peaks, the mountain presents a breathtaking sight when standing at its base, gazing up at the towering peaks that seem to transport you to a realm of enchantment. The peaks are adorned with glistening white snow, resembling a silver cloak that shimmers in the sunlight. As the sun casts its rays on the mountain's summit, a magnificent array of colorful halos emerges, akin to gemstones embedded amidst the mountain range.
You can board a sightseeing bus from the entrance of the scenic area to Changping Valley and then proceed to other attractions like Shuangqiao Valley and Haizi Valley via wooden walkways. During your exploration, don't miss the unique features such as glaciers, waterfalls, and flower fields. Additionally, you have the option to embark on a hiking adventure to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Changping Valley. The 32-kilometer trail typically requires around 8 hours to complete.
How to Get to Mount Siguniang
The distance from Chengdu to Mount Siguniang is 220 kilometers, and the journey by car takes around 4 hours. If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a high-speed train bound for Xiaojin County from either Chengdu Railway Station or Chengdu East Railway Station. Upon reaching Xiaojin County, you can then transfer to a local bus or take a taxi to the Mount Siguniang Scenic Area.
Most Recommended Route to See the Top attractions around Chengdu
Visitors typically spend 1-3 days exploring Chengdu and its nearby attractions such as Chengdu city center, the Giant Panda Base, Leshan, and Dujiangyan, among other top-notch sights. However, to truly delve into the essence of this captivating destination, it is highly recommended to allocate 4-7 days for your dream Chengdu trip.
2-Day Chengdu Tour
Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People's Park, Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, Wenshu Monastery, Chengdu Museum, Tianfu Square
Day 1: Spend delightful moments with adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, experience the leisurely urban atmosphere at People's Park, and immerse yourself in the legendary Three Kingdoms era at Wuhou Shrine. Stroll through the quaint streets of Jinli Ancient Street.
Day 2: Experience the tranquility of well-preserved temples, admire the towering cityscape from the skyscrapers of IFS, and delve into Chengdu's legendary history at the museum.
2 Days Classic Chengdu Tour: Meet Old & Modern Chengdu2 Days Chengdu Leisure Tour with Leshan Giant Buddha2 Days Chengdu Tour with Dujiangyan & Mount Qingcheng World Heritage Site2 Day Dujiangyan Panda Volunteer Tour & Mount Qingcheng Kung Fu Lesson2 Days Wolong Panda Volunteer Tour - From Chengdu City to Wild Panda Habitat
4-Day Chengdu and Mount Emei Tour
Attractions: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, People's Park, Kuanzhai Alley, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei Scenic Area, Golden Summit
Day 1: Upon arrival in Chengdu, freely explore the city, discover panda souvenirs at the corner souvenir shops, watch Sichuan Opera face-changing performances at the Grand Theater, or indulge in local cuisine.
Day 2: Enjoy a day trip to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha. Look up at the colossal 71-meter tall sitting Buddha and explore every part of it by walking along the plank road.
Day 3: Focus on exploring the highlights of Mount Emei: listen to the bell tolls at Baoguo Temple, take a leisurely stroll on the Golden Summit, explore Buddhist architecture and traditions, and admire the panoramic views of Mount Emei and its surroundings. If weather permits, you may be fortunate enough to witness the splendid spectacle of the sea of clouds.
Day 4: Visit the Giant Panda Base, fulfill your panda dreams, and spend the morning with these adorable creatures. Then experience the "slow life" and "new life" of Chengdu by visiting People's Park and Kuanzhai Alley like a local.
5-Day Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou Tour
Day 1: Arrive in Chengdu and explore the city center.
Day 2: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, sip tea at a teahouse in People's Park, and wander through Jinli Ancient Street to experience the unique flavors of Chengdu.
Day 3: Explore the iconic landscapes of Huanglong National Park, where you'll encounter colorful lakes in hues of white, blue, green, or turquoise.
Day 4: Discover the enchanting scenery of Jiuzhaigou Valley. Visit the azure lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant forests, and lush meadows set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Day 5: Bid farewell to Jiuzhaigou and Chengdu as you prepare for departure.
Related: Chengdu Itineraries: How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Chengdu
Explore Chengdu & Pandas with Local Based Asia Odyssey Travel
Headquartered in China with a branch office in Chengdu, Asia Odyssey Travel is dedicated to providing the best service and ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience for those looking to explore Chengdu. Our local team offers a range of carefully designed tours, including classic Chengdu tours, Chengdu Food Tours, Chengdu Day Trips, Best Panda Tours, Panda Volunteer tours, Mount Siguniang Tours, Leshan Giant Buddha Tours, Mount Emei Tours, and Jiuzhaigou Tours to meet your needs and desires. Whether you prefer flexible private tours or cost-effective that don't compromise on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has got you covered to ensure a pleasant holiday during your Chengdu tour.
If you want to extend your Chengdu tour into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China tour packages from Chengdu. Our professional travel consultants are always ready to help you customize your Chengdu tour at the most favorable local prices. Contact us now to start planning your dream Chengdu trip!
When you're planning your ideal trip to Chengdu, I hope the following links will be helpful to you:
How to Plan A Chengdu Tour: Useful Chengdu Planning Guide
Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu - Chengdu Attractions & Places to Visit
Chengdu Itineraries: How to Spend 1 Day, 2 Days, 3 Days, 4 Days in Chengdu
Best Time to Visit Chengdu: Seasonal, Monthly Weather & Climate Guide
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Facts, Attractions & Route)
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