The Ultimate Guide: What to Do in Chengdu for an Unforgettable Trip

Welcome to Chengdu, a captivating city where ancient traditions meet modern vibrancy! If you’re wondering what to do in Chengdu, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the best activities and hidden gems in the “Land of Abundance.” From adorable giant pandas and fiery Sichuan cuisine to serene temples and trendy arts districts, exploring what to do in Chengdu promises an adventure filled with unique experiences and unforgettable memories.

🔥 Top Attractions: What to Do in Chengdu

(Your trip isn’t complete without visiting these iconic spots!)

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Highlights: As the world’s largest panda conservation center, this is a must for any list of what to do in Chengdu. Watch China’s national treasures play, eat bamboo, and climb trees.

Tip: Arrive early! Gates open at 7:30 AM, and mornings are when pandas are most active. Enter through the South Gate and visit the cub villa first. To see the famous panda “Hua Hua,” you’ll need to queue up even earlier.

Kuan-Zhai Alley

Highlights: This area, consisting of Wide Alley, Narrow Alley, and Well Alley, preserves Chengdu’s Qing Dynasty architecture and layout.

Activities: Sip tea in traditional courtyards, watch Sichuan opera face-changing shows, and try ear cleaning—a unique Chengdu “slow life” experience. Note: Snacks and souvenirs here can be overpriced.

Wuhou Temple & Jinli Ancient Street

Wuhou Temple: The only shrine in China jointly dedicated to a ruler (Liu Bei) and his minister (Zhuge Liang). A must-see for history lovers.

Jinli Ancient Street: Located next to Wuhou Temple, it’s known as the “First Street of Western Shu.” The atmosphere is magical at night when red lanterns glow—perfect for photos and tasting local snacks.

🏮 Cultural Heritage & Leisurely Living

Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Highlights: Former home of the celebrated Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. Stroll through peaceful bamboo groves and rustic cottages in this elegant garden setting.

People’s Park

Highlights: The best place to experience Chengdu’s famous “slow life.”

Must-Try: Sip tea from a gaiwan (lidded bowl) at Heming Tea House, snack at Zhong Shui Jiao, and watch locals socializing, dancing, or playing cards.

Wenshu Monastery

Highlights: A serene,thousand-year-old Buddhist temple where you can enjoy tea and vegetarian meals. Don’t miss the famous “Imperial Court Pastries” and “Zhang Laowu Liangfen” near the entrance.

🛍️ Trendy Fashion & Artsy Spots

Taikoo Li & Chunxi Road

Highlights: Chengdu’s premier shopping district.

Taikoo Li: An open-air mall with international brands and architecture blending modern and traditional styles. Great for street photography—check out Fangsuo Bookstore.

Chunxi Road: A historic pedestrian street. Visit the IFS rooftop to snap a photo with the iconic “Wall-Climbing Panda” sculpture.

Dongjiao Memory

Highlights: A music-themed park transformed from an old factory, full of industrial charm. Popular with artists and photographers, it features cool cafes, bars, and art exhibitions.

Part Two: Classic Itineraries – Planning What to Do in Chengdu

Route 1: Classic 3-Day Chengdu Itinerary

(Perfect for first-time visitors)

Day 1: City Center Cultural Tour

Morning: People’s Park (tea tasting, ear cleaning) → Kuan-Zhai Alley (lunch at a local restaurant).

Afternoon: Wuhou Temple → Jinli Ancient Street (visit at dusk for beautiful lanterns).

Evening: Shop, see the night views, and enjoy hot pot near Chunxi Road/Taikoo Li.

Day 2: Giant Panda Adventure

Morning: Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (3–4 hours).

Afternoon: Wenshu Monastery (for local food) or Du Fu Thatched Cottage (for tranquility).

Evening: Watch a Sichuan Opera face-changing performance.

Day 3: Trendy Arts & Culinary Farewell

Morning: Explore and take photos at Dongjiao Memory.

Afternoon: Free time—visit the Sichuan Museum or go shopping.

Evening: Final Chengdu meal before departure.

Route 2: In-Depth 5-Day Chengdu Itinerary

(Includes nearby World Heritage sites)

Days 1–2: Follow the first two days of the 3-Day Itinerary.

Day 3: Dujiangyan & Qingcheng Mountain Day Trip

Dujiangyan: See the ancient irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mount Qingcheng: A Taoist mountain—choose the front mountain for cultural sites or the rear for nature.

Transport: High-speed train from Chengdu (≈30 mins).

Day 4: Leshan Giant Buddha Day Trip

High-speed train to Leshan (≈1 hour). View the giant Buddha by boat or from shore. Return to Chengdu in the evening.

Day 5: Relaxed Departure

Buy souvenirs (hotpot base, tea, etc.) and depart.

Part III: Chengdu Food Guide – What to Eat in Chengdu

Must-Try Dishes

Hot Pot: The soul of Chengdu cuisine! Choose “mild spice” or a “yin-yang pot” (half spicy, half mild). Recommended: Yu Shaoxia Hot Pot, Wuliguan Hot Pot.

Chuan Chuan Xiang: Skewers cooked in a spicy broth, priced per stick.

Sichuan Cuisine: Mapo Tofu, Twice-Cooked Pork, Kung Pao Chicken, Husband-Wife Lung Slices. Try Chen Mapo Tofu or Taolin Restaurant.

Snacks: Dandan Noodles, Zhong Shui Jiao Dumplings, Sweet Water Noodles. Visit Zhong Shui Jiao (People’s Park) or Jianshe Road Snack Street.

Specialties:

Rabbit Head: A local favorite, available in spicy or five-spice.

Brains: Often grilled or in spicy soup, with a soft texture.

Part IV: Practical Tips for Your Chengdu Trip

Accommodation Suggestions

Near Chunxi Road/Taikoo Li: Best for transport, shopping, and dining.

Near Kuan-Zhai Alley: Experience old Chengdu charm.

Near Wenshu Monastery: Quiet and budget-friendly.

Transportation

Within Chengdu: Use the subway—download the “Tianfu Tong” app or use Alipay/WeChat ride codes.

To Attractions: Most are reachable by subway/bus. Use the dedicated “scenic area shuttle bus” for the Panda Base.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov): Pleasant weather, perfect for exploring what to do in Chengdu outdoors.

Summer is hot/humid; winter is cold/foggy, but indoor activities and food are still enjoyable.

Souvenirs

Hotpot base

Pixian Doubanjiang (chili bean paste)

Shu Brocade/Embroidery

Panda-themed gifts

We hope this guide makes planning what to do in Chengdu easy and fun! Enjoy your journey and savor every moment—and every bite—in this incredible city.