Top 10 Things to Do in Chengdu, China

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province in Southwest China, is a city that beautifully blends rich history, vibrant culture, and modern charm. Known for its leisurely lifestyle, spicy cuisine, and adorable giant pandas, Chengdu offers a myriad of attractions and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are the top 10 things to do in Chengdu, each offering a unique glimpse into the heart of this fascinating city.

1. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

No visit to Chengdu is complete without seeing its most famous residents – the giant pandas. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a world-renowned facility dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas. Located just 10 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, the base provides a natural habitat for over 100 giant pandas. Visitors can observe these gentle giants as they play, eat bamboo, and nap in a peaceful setting.

The best time to visit is in the morning when pandas are most active. Don’t miss the nursery, where you can see baby pandas, and the Giant Panda Museum, which offers insights into the conservation efforts and the biology of these adorable creatures.

2. Explore Jinli Ancient Street

Step back in time with a visit to Jinli Ancient Street, a lively and picturesque pedestrian street that dates back over 1,800 years. This historical street, located near the Wuhou Shrine, is lined with traditional-style buildings, shops, teahouses, and restaurants. Jinli is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, especially at night when red lanterns illuminate the street.

Visitors can enjoy local snacks like Sichuan hotpot, buy traditional handicrafts, and watch folk performances, including Sichuan opera and shadow puppetry. It’s a fantastic place to experience the cultural heritage and local life of Chengdu.

3. Wander Through the Wuhou Shrine

Adjacent to Jinli Ancient Street is the Wuhou Shrine, a temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a revered military strategist and statesman from the Three Kingdoms period. The shrine complex, which also honors Emperor Liu Bei and other notable figures of the Shu Kingdom, features beautiful gardens, ancient trees, and historical relics.

Stroll through the serene courtyards and pavilions, and explore the museum exhibits that provide a deep dive into the history and culture of the Three Kingdoms era. The Wuhou Shrine offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city and a chance to reflect on China’s rich history.

4. Experience the Leshan Giant Buddha

A short trip from Chengdu, the Leshan Giant Buddha is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive ancient sculptures in the world. Carved into a cliff at the confluence of three rivers, this 71-meter tall statue of Maitreya Buddha was completed in the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) and remains the largest stone Buddha in the world.

Visitors can admire the Buddha from several vantage points, including a boat ride on the river and a climb up the adjacent hill. The surrounding area also offers beautiful scenery and ancient temples, making it a worthwhile day trip from Chengdu.

5. Savor Sichuan Cuisine

Chengdu is the birthplace of Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and liberal use of Sichuan peppercorns, which create a unique numbing and spicy sensation. Food lovers will be in heaven here, with countless opportunities to sample authentic Sichuan dishes.

Don’t miss local favorites like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Dan Dan Noodles. For a quintessential Chengdu experience, try a traditional Sichuan hotpot, where diners cook various meats, vegetables, and noodles in a bubbling pot of spicy broth. Head to popular eateries like Chen Mapo Tofu, Huangcheng Laoma, and the many hotpot restaurants scattered throughout the city.

6. Visit Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Immerse yourself in the world of ancient Chinese poetry at Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a museum and memorial dedicated to Du Fu, one of China’s greatest poets. The site, located along the picturesque Huanhua Stream, includes a reconstruction of the humble thatched cottage where Du Fu lived during the Tang Dynasty, as well as beautiful gardens, pavilions, and exhibition halls.

Stroll through the tranquil grounds, enjoy the serene ponds and bamboo groves, and learn about Du Fu’s life and literary contributions. The site offers a peaceful retreat and a deeper understanding of Chinese literature and culture.

7. Explore the Chengdu Museum

For a comprehensive overview of Chengdu’s history and culture, a visit to the Chengdu Museum is a must. Located in the city center near Tianfu Square, this modern museum features a vast collection of artifacts, from ancient relics and traditional costumes to contemporary art and cultural exhibits.

The museum’s interactive displays and multimedia presentations make history come alive, offering insights into Chengdu’s development over the centuries. Highlights include the prehistoric Sanxingdui artifacts, exquisite porcelain, and detailed dioramas depicting ancient Chengdu life.

8. Relax at a Traditional Teahouse

Chengdu’s leisurely lifestyle is best experienced at one of its traditional teahouses. Teahouses are an integral part of Chengdu’s culture, serving as social hubs where locals gather to chat, play mahjong, and sip fragrant tea. The most famous teahouse is Heming Teahouse in People’s Park, which has been serving tea for over a century.

Visitors can relax in the teahouse’s serene garden, enjoy a variety of teas, and even experience ear cleaning, a unique local custom. Other notable teahouses include Shunxing Old Teahouse and Yuelai Teahouse, each offering a cozy ambiance and a taste of Chengdu’s slow-paced life.

9. Hike in Qingcheng Mountain

Nature lovers will appreciate a trip to Qingcheng Mountain, one of China’s most famous Taoist mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located about 70 kilometers from Chengdu, Qingcheng Mountain is known for its lush greenery, ancient temples, and scenic hiking trails.

The mountain is divided into two sections: Front Mountain and Back Mountain. The Front Mountain is more developed and features important Taoist sites like Jianfu Palace and Tianshi Cave. The Back Mountain offers more challenging hikes and serene natural landscapes. A visit to Qingcheng Mountain provides a refreshing escape from the city and an opportunity to connect with nature and Taoist spirituality.

10. Discover the Jinsha Site Museum

The Jinsha Site Museum is an archaeological site and museum that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Shu civilization. Discovered in 2001, the Jinsha site dates back over 3,000 years and has yielded numerous artifacts, including gold masks, jade ornaments, and ivory carvings.

The museum is built around the excavation site and features modern exhibition halls that showcase the treasures unearthed here. Visitors can explore the indoor galleries and outdoor archaeological park, learning about the mysterious culture that once thrived in the region. The Jinsha Site Museum is a testament to Chengdu’s rich historical heritage and its importance as a cultural center in ancient China.

Travel visa for China

A Visa is typically required for most foreign travelers to visit Chengdu, China. However, there are some exceptions and specific visa policies that might apply:

1. Tourist Visa (L Visa): Most tourists need to apply for an L visa before traveling to China. This requires a completed application form, a passport valid for at least six months, a recent passport-sized photo, and supporting documents such as flight itineraries and hotel bookings.
2. Transit Visa Exemption: Chengdu offers a 144-hour visa-free transit policy for citizens of certain countries. This allows travelers to stay in Chengdu and certain other cities in China for up to 144 hours (six days) without a visa, provided they meet specific criteria:
   • They must be transiting through Chengdu to a third country (not returning to the country they came from).
   • They must have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country.
   • They must enter and exit through specific ports of entry.
3. Visa-Free Travel for Certain Nationalities: Citizens of certain countries may be eligible for visa-free travel to China under specific agreements. For example, Singaporean, Bruneian, and Japanese citizens can enter China visa-free for up to 15 days for tourism, business, or visiting friends and relatives.
4. Group Tour Visa Waivers: Sometimes, group tours arranged by travel agencies in certain countries may be eligible for visa waivers under specific agreements between China and those countries.
5. It is important to check the latest visa requirements and policies with the Chinese embassy or visit: https://visaexpress.com/visa-for-china-from-us/  before planning your trip, as regulations can change. Additionally, travelers should ensure they have all necessary documentation and meet all entry requirements before departing for China.

Conclusion

Chengdu is a city that seamlessly blends the past and present, offering visitors a unique blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re admiring giant pandas, savoring spicy Sichuan cuisine, or exploring ancient temples and museums, Chengdu has something for everyone. Embrace the city’s leisurely pace, immerse yourself in its rich heritage, and discover the many charms that make Chengdu a must-visit destination in China.