Western Sichuan Tours | 15+ Best Western Sichuan Tours

• 

  1. When is the best time to visit pandas in China?

  

  The best time of year to visit pandas in China is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the bamboo is in bloom. Spring (March-May) has pleasant temperatures, and pandas are more active during this time. In the fall, you can see baby pandas that were born in the summer.

  Moreover, the best time to see the Giant Pandas is during their meal times or play times. Pandas love cool weather, so early morning before 9 o'clock is a suitable time to watch them when they are more active. For instance, you can observe their playtime from 10:30 am to 11:00 am and their lunchtime from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.

• 

  2. Can I hold a panda cub or feed a panda? Can I volunteer with pandas?

  

  In general, pandas are not aggressive animals. However, mother pandas can become defensive when protecting their cubs, especially during the first few months after birth. Male pandas also spar with each other during mating season. Although pandas are often assumed to be docile, they have been known to attack humans, presumably out of irritation rather than aggression.

  Direct contact with pandas is not allowed since 2018. Holding panda cubs would interfere with their care, bonding with handlers, and increase the risk of disease transmission. Additionally, feeding and interacting with pandas is left to panda keepers for the safety of both the pandas and visitors.

  However, it is possible to participate in a panda volunteer tour at certain conservation centers in China. Opportunities are limited, and you can contact a tour operator to book the service ahead of time.

• 

  3. How to get to Chengdu?

  

  Chengdu, as one of the main transportation hubs in Western China, is quite accessible from both domestic and international locations.

  By Air:

  Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is one of the busiest airports in China and provides numerous domestic and international flights. It connects Chengdu with many major cities worldwide, including direct flights from New York, London, Paris, Frankfurt, Sydney, and many others. It also offers numerous flights to other cities within China like Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian, Guilin, Hangzhou, Kunming, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Wuhan, Xiamen, Guiyang, Chongqing…

  By Train:

  Chengdu is well connected with China's high-speed rail network. You can reach Chengdu by high-speed trains from various cities across China such as Xian (3-4 hours), Chongqing (1.5-2 hours), Guiyang (3.5-4.5 hours), Kunming (6-6.5 hours), Shanghai (12.5-14.5 hours), etc.

• 

  4. What is the best time of year to visit Chengdu?

  

  Chengdu is a year-round destination, each season offering a unique perspective of the city.

  Spring (March - June): The weather is comfortable and warm, making it a great time to visit the outdoor attractions like Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and People’s Park.

  Summer (June - September): While the city can get hot, it's also the perfect time to escape to the surrounding mountains like Mount Qingcheng and Mount Emei for cooler temperatures. The lush green landscapes are a sight to behold during this time.

  Autumn (September - November): Autumn offers pleasant weather, not too hot nor too cold. It's also the time for the harvest season, which means food festivals and other cultural events.

  Winter (December - February): Chengdu doesn't have harsh winters, and snow is rare. It's the best time to enjoy Chengdu's hotpot and other spicy cuisine. Also, indoor attractions like the Jinsha Site Museum and the Wuhou Memorial Temple can be comfortably explored.

  While Chengdu is suitable for visiting all year round, the specific activities and attractions you wish to experience could depend on the season. Always check the local weather and festival schedules while planning your visit to make the most out of your trip.

• 

  5. What are some of the top attractions in Chengdu?

  

  Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: A must-visit to see and learn about the conservation of giant pandas.

  Jinli Ancient Street: A lively area offering traditional Chinese goods, food, and tea houses.

  Wuhou Memorial Temple: A peaceful memorial dedicated to the emperor of the Shu Kingdom, Liu Bei.

  Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley): Ancient streets blending traditional architecture with modern amenities.

  Du Fu Thatched Cottage: A tranquil park and museum dedicated to the beloved poet, Du Fu.

  Sichuan Cuisine Museum: An interactive museum focused on Sichuan cuisine.

  People's Park: A popular local spot for relaxation and cultural activities.

  Chunxi Road: The city's main shopping district.

  Wenshu Monastery: Chengdu's largest and best-preserved Buddhist temple.

  Tianfu Square: The city's largest public square, marked by a large Mao Zedong statue.

• 

  6. What dishes are typically included in a Chengdu Food Tour?

  

  Chengdu Food Tours often feature a variety of traditional Sichuan dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, Sichuan Hotpot, Dan Dan Noodles, Sichuan dumplings in spicy sauce, and various types of street food like Sichuan pancakes and skewers.

• 

  7. How can I get to the Leshan Giant Buddha from Chengdu?

  

  You can reach Leshan  from Chengdu by train or private car. The journey by train takes approximately 50 mins, while a car journey can take around 2 hours.

• 

  8. How many days do you need in Jiuzhaigou?

  

  Typically, most travelers spend one day exploring Huanglong National Park and another day visiting Jiuzhai Valley, making for a 2-3 day trip in Jiuzhaigou.

  The classic One-day itinerary in Jiuzhaigou Valley like: Within one day, it's important to make the most of the tourist bus and wake up early to avoid long queues. Start by taking a tourist bus to Long Lake and tour Zechawa Valley from north to south. Then, head to Nuorilang Waterfall, the symbol of Jiuzhaigou Valley, before taking a tourist bus to Swan Sea and touring Rize Valley from north to south. Finally, make your way to Shuzheng Valley. While it's easy to take a bus within the scenic area to save time and energy, make sure not to miss the highlights of the whole valley, such as Nuorilang Waterfall, Five-color Pond, Long Lake, Five-flower Lake, Panda Lake, and Mirror Lake. Check: 5 Days Jiuzhaigou Valley & Panda Tour from Chengdu by Flight >>

• 

  9. When is the best time to visit Jiuzhaigou?

  

  The peak season for visiting Jiuzhaigou is typically from April to November. Specifically, September, October, and November are the best months to visit as the park is in a beautiful autumn state, with comfortable weather and vibrant colors that are a feast for the eyes.

See More Western Sichuan Tours FAQs