Enjoy an abundance of beautiful parklands, visit ancient monuments, see rare giant pandas and try zingy local food at the Sichuan province’s exciting capital.
Chengdu is home to over 14 million people, but with its relaxed atmosphere, plenty of green space and the rich Chengdu Plain, the city is true to its nickname “The Land of Milk and Honey”. See endangered giant pandas, explore ancient religious sites, lose yourself in the bustle of the city and escape to Chengdu’s numerous parks.
Begin your day in Chengdu with a traditional breakfast of steamed buns and breakfast noodles. Set out to explore the city’s range of intriguing museums and ancient temples. Visit Sichuan Provincial Museum, Jinsha Site Museum and Jinli Ancient Street to understand the region’s history and flair. Wuhou, Wenshu and Qingyang temples offer a fascinating glimpse of this ancient city’s Buddhist and Taoist roots. Kids will enjoy the Happy Valley amusement park in Huanlegu and the water park in the New Century Global Centre, one of the largest buildings in the world.
Join the locals in enjoying Chengdu’s public spaces. Tianfu Square is located in the city centre above the metro hub and features a towering statue of Chairman Mao. See calligraphy writers painting with water on the pavement at People’s Park (Renmin Park). Enjoy a Sichuan tea from one of the park’s teahouses and join a game of mahjong. Huan Huaxi Park is a scenic location for tai chi.
Explore Greater Chengdu to find more parklands and historic areas. Visit the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Base (Xiongmao Jidi) at the base of the Futou Mountain to see rare giant pandas. Learn about older China in Luodai Ancient Town and Jiezi Old Town.
Reach Chengdu by plane to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport or by train from other major cities around China. Explore Chendgu with the city’s metro system, buses and taxis. Chengdu has a mild and humid climate. Visit in spring to experience the Lantern Festival in Tazishan Park. See the colourful Fire Dragon Festival of Huang Long Xi in the first weeks of the Chinese New Year.