2 Days Chengdu Chongqing Tour: Pandas & Mountain City

Meet your guide early in your hotel lobby and head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (Chengdu Panda Base), just 17 kilometers from the city center. Arriving early is ideal, as pandas are most active in the morning. Home to the world’s largest population of captive giant pandas, this base houses over 100 pandas of all ages. Watch them play, eat, climb, and nap, and in autumn, marvel at newborn cubs in the Sunshine and Moonlight Nursery Houses. Get to know the famed panda "stars", such as Hua Hua, a national favorite, and Zhi Ma, who inspired the panda mascot of the World University Games. Don’t miss the adorable red pandas at the Red Panda Playgrounds, which are rarer than their giant counterparts. The base is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with sightings of species like the Red-billed Leiothrix and Black-throated Tit. If interested, visit the Chengdu Giant Panda Museum, which offers fascinating insights into panda conservation (free entry, but reservations are required; closed on Mondays).

After lunch, 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.

Next, visit the 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.

End your day on 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.

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Chengdu.

In this morning, you will take the high speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing (about 1-2 hours’ 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.

After the tour, your Chengdu Chongqing Tour concludes. Your guide and driver will escort you to the airport/train station, or Chaotianmen Port in Chongqing for your onward flight/high-speed train, or Yangtze River cruise to your next destination. Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your China tour! We are always here to assist you and look forward to seeing you again for your next trip to China/Asia!