Known as the “Land of Abundance,” Chengdu is one of the most popular tourist cities in China, blending ancient history, spicy Sichuan cuisine, and a laid-back lifestyle. If you’re planning a trip to Chengdu, here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss, along with practical tips on location, highlights, and ticket information.
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地)
-
Location: North suburb of Chengdu, about 10 km from downtown.
-
Highlights:
-
Home to China’s national treasure—the giant panda.
-
Visitors can watch pandas of all ages, from playful cubs to adult pandas.
-
The base also houses red pandas and other rare wildlife.
-
Best time to visit is in the morning (8:30–11:00), when pandas are most active.
-
-
Ticket Price: Around ¥55 per person.
-
Opening Hours: 7:30 am – 6:00 pm (last entry 5:00 pm).
2. Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠)
-
Location: Wuhou District, southwest of downtown Chengdu.
-
Highlights:
-
Famous historical site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the prime minister of Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms Period.
-
Contains rich cultural relics, ancient architecture, and lush gardens.
-
A must-visit for history lovers and fans of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
-
-
Ticket Price: ¥50 per person.
-
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:30 pm.
Wuhou Shrine
3. Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街)
-
Location: Next to Wuhou Shrine, making it convenient to visit both together.
-
Highlights:
-
A lively pedestrian street with traditional Sichuan-style architecture.
-
Famous for local snacks such as Sichuan noodles, spicy tofu, and sugar paintings.
-
A great place to buy souvenirs, folk handicrafts, and experience Chengdu’s nightlife.
-
-
Ticket Price: Free.
-
Opening Hours: Open all day, but best visited in the afternoon and evening when it’s most lively.
4. Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂)
-
Location: Qingyang District, west of Chengdu city center.
-
Highlights:
-
Former residence of Du Fu, one of China’s greatest poets of the Tang Dynasty.
-
The scenic park features traditional gardens, pavilions, and halls displaying Du Fu’s works.
-
A peaceful retreat for literature enthusiasts and those seeking a quiet stroll.
-
-
Ticket Price: ¥60 per person.
-
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Du Fu Thatched Cottage
5. Qingcheng Mountain (青城山)
-
Location: About 68 km from Chengdu, in Dujiangyan.
-
Highlights:
-
Known as one of the cradles of Taoism in China.
-
Famous for lush green forests, ancient Taoist temples, and refreshing hiking trails.
-
A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
-
Popular spots include Jianfu Palace, Shangqing Palace, and Laojun Pavilion.
-
-
Ticket Price: ¥80 per person.
-
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
6. Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰水利工程)
-
Location: Dujiangyan City, about 60 km from Chengdu.
-
Highlights:
-
An ancient irrigation project built over 2,000 years ago, still functioning today.
-
Showcases the wisdom of ancient Chinese engineering.
-
Key attractions include Fish Mouth Water-Dividing Dam, Flying Sand Weir, and Anlan Suspension Bridge.
-
-
Ticket Price: ¥90 per person.
-
Opening Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
7. People’s Park (人民公园)
-
Location: Central Chengdu, near Tianfu Square.
-
Highlights:
-
A perfect place to experience Chengdu’s leisurely lifestyle.
-
Visitors can watch locals play mahjong, drink tea, and enjoy traditional ear-cleaning services.
-
The famous Heming Teahouse is located inside the park.
-
-
Ticket Price: Free.
-
Opening Hours: 6:00 am – 10:00 pm.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chengdu
-
Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November (pleasant weather, less rain).
-
Transportation: Chengdu has a convenient metro system connecting major attractions. For trips to Dujiangyan or Qingcheng Mountain, high-speed trains are available.
-
Food to Try: Sichuan hotpot, mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, rabbit head, and Chengdu street snacks.
Conclusion
Chengdu is more than just pandas—it’s a city where ancient history, natural beauty, and local lifestyle meet. Whether you’re exploring temples, tasting spicy food, or hiking in the mountains, Chengdu promises an unforgettable journey.
