Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and is recognized for its world-renowned giant panda. The city is filled with UNESCO heritage sites, rich food culture, and technological hubs, and Chengdu is a city that effortlessly integrates its traditions and innovation, which means Chengdu is a prime travel destination in 2025. It doesn’t matter if you are a history buff, nature person, or foodie; Chengdu has something for everyone. In this article, I flex on the most fascinating attractions Chengdu offers so you can have the perfect itinerary for visiting this enchanting city.
What Are the Top Things to Do in Chengdu?
Experience the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is an exceptional attraction for animal and wildlife lovers and conservations as it compasses all aspects of wildlife in the surrounding area. This facility is known and recognized all over the globe, especially for the preservation of the giant panda and other endangered animals. It is situated at the 10-kilometer mark from Chengdu. Patrons of the center are able to view the pandas in their natural habitats, observe the cubs playing in the nursery, and learn about advanced breeding and breeding conservation methods employed at the center. The site also has conservational red panda habitats and a museum on the biology of giant pandas and the challenges faced in wildlife conservation. Be sure to arrive early in the morning to witness the pandas most engaged during snack and playtime. This will help you make the most of your trip.
Leshan Giant Buddha has to be seen in person to appreciate how impressive it is
This UNESCO World Heritage Site, carved into a cliff face within Sichuan, China, during the Tang Dynasty in the 8th century, depicts a stone statue of a Buddha and is by far the largest of its kind, measuring around 233 feet in height. It is situated on the confluence of the Min, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers, where it was believed to assist in calming the turbulent water. Because of its size, it is a majestic sight that serves both practical and spiritual purposes. The entire statue, including the 1,021 coiled hair buns and its perfectly symmetrical posture, can be analyzed in incredible detail, and some several trails and platforms provide panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
Sichuan Cuisine Experienced at Local Eateries
The use of garlic, pepper, and numbing Sichuan peppercorn make Sichuan cuisine unique, and delicacies like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Twice-Cooked Pork showcase Sichuan’s rich culture and diversify the ways and techniques through which it is cooked. With a focus in authenticity, these local restaurants allow tourists to taste Mapo Tofu and other iconic meals but also chance cuisine from other parts of China. From enjoying informal street vendors’ hot pot danishes To eating in fine restaurants, patrons of fine dining will be greeted with the explosive and incredible tastes of Sichuan.
What Are the Must-See Places to Visit in Chengdu?
Taking a Walk on Jinli Street
Jinli Street is among the earliest commercial streets in Chengdu and is a captivating mix of history, culture, and modern development. Famous for its unique Sichuan styles, this street is well endowed with several local shops dealing in crafts, souvenirs, and snacks for shoppers who wish to have more than just a visual experience. The red lanterns that light up in the evening hours further add to the old charm of the place, making it even more appealing to visitors. In Chengdu, this street is a must-visit for experiencing the local heritage and various performances like shadow puppetry and Sichuan opera.
Explore Wuhou Temple and Its Historical Significances
Known for its association with Zhuge Liang, the revered strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, and Liu Bei, the king of Shu Han, Wuhou Temple is located in Chengdu and is a historical site. The temple is an excellent example of classical Chinese architecture constructed during the Tang Dynasty. It has a beautifully designed compound with intricate red walls, green gardens, and calligraphy plaques that commend Zhuge Liang’s wisdom. It contains several pieces of Shu Han statues and other valuable relics from the critical period of Chinese history. Because of its existence, it preserves and commemorates the culture and history of the Three Kingdoms period of China, making it one of the most significant places within the Wuhou Temple.
Unwind at Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Chengdu, in China, is home to the historic site Du Fu Thatched Cottage, dedicated to the legendary Chinese poet Du Fu of the Tang Dynasty. This tranquil site features a reproduction Du Fu’s original cottage set in the middle of beautiful bamboo forests, quiet gardens, and calm ponds. There are also displays of Du Fu’s exhibit of poetry, manuscripts, and various artifacts, providing insightful information on how he contributed to literature. The area’s calm atmosphere serves as an excellent zone for relaxation and thought, drawing in history lovers and nature enthusiasts looking for peace simultaneously.
What Attractions Are Near Chengdu?
For a different activity, try visiting the Luodai Ancient Town.
The town preserves essential features from the Qing Dynasty while incorporating elements of Hakka Culture, and the Town is famous for its splendid, distinctly structured Kejia cuisine. Incorporating these cuisines makes the town a geological hotspot for tourists who wish to experience the city’s culture. A few known sites of interest are the major Hakka Guild Halls, which have detailed stone and wooden carvings. In addition, throughout the year, the town organizes effervescent festivals that give insight into the town’s culture.
Visit the Jinsha Site Museum
Next to Chengdu city is a national-level archaeological and cultural location that exhibits various Shin artifacts over 3000 years old and a Jinzi civilization well-preserved digging area where visitors can see remains of housing complexes, altars, and funeral locations. Most treasures, including jade, bronze items, and gold masks belonging to ancient Sichuan culture, are in the exhibition hall. The Golden Sunbird is an icon in China that showcases pride and appreciation of the nation’s cultural mark, becoming one of the key displays in Jinsha. Along with knowledgeable displays, a calm park, and the museum itself, Jinsha offers a rich blend of history and nature.
Emei Mountain Attractions: Things To Do and Places To Visit
Emei Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, making it a top destination for Buddhist pilgrimage and a prime location for day trips. With its astounding natural beauty bestowing upon richly diverse culture and heritage, guests can explore the region’s forests, sculptured shrines, and lively Tibetan macaques. Combining hiking trails, cable cars, and shuttles, tourists can reach the summit that offers the best panoramic views often associated with a mystical sea of clouds. If time permits, the 71-meter-tall Leshan Giant Buddha nearby is an impressive sculpture carved on the cliffs that enhances the trip’s experience while reflecting Mount Emei’s historical and spiritual significance.
What Are the Best Recommended Chengdu Tours?
Combining Private Tours with Chengdu’s Major Attractions
Travelers can access their ideal experience through private tours in Chengdu. Guides can draft flexible itineraries to suit the client’s needs best; clients are often recommended to visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where they can learn about conservation efforts and see pandas in an environment that resembles their habitat. Most clients will capture local culture by stopping at People’s Park, which has tea houses, calligraphy stalls, and traditional performances. Typically, private tours also include a cooking class or a tasting of Sichuan hotpots, which allows travelers to appreciate the culinary traditions of Chengdu. Tour packages do have packages that enable visitors to popular malls and streets such as Jinli Ancient Street and Wuhou Shrine, as well as the Day Trip to Leshan, featuring Leshan Giant Buddha.
Group Excursions to Explore Sichuan
Sichuan’s group excursions combine culture, history, and nature in a single package. Some notable routes are the Juzhaigou Valley and Mount Emei. Juzhaigou Valley is an alpine region famous for its Jiuzhaigou Valley, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Chengdu offers tours of the panda research base and the lively Jinli Ancient Street. Groups also appreciate excursions around the Leshan Giant Buddha, which go deeper into the region’s significant spiritful history. Many operators design group packages with varying degrees of customization to suit individual travel interests and take particular note of the authentic Sichuan cuisine and cultural context.
Tours Featuring Sichuan Cuisine
Sichuan cuisine is famous for its bold taste and signature mala sensation, experienced in Sichuan peppercorn and chili pepper. The kung fu of food in the region is best captured in food tours which usually include stops to relax and feast on local dishes from successful cooking competitions, exploring active markets, and going to classrooms with experienced chefs who teach how to prepare signature dishes like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and Dan Dan Noodles. Popular tours frequently take participants to authentic restaurants and street food joints in Chengdu Jinli Ancient Street or the Wide and Narrow Alleys, where most visitors will try street delicacies. These programs undoubtedly capture the region’s culinary stories by giving a detailed account of the Sichuan region’s advanced cooking methods, rich in fresh indigenous ingredients and cultural tales encapsulated in the meals.
How Can I Plan My Chengdu Itinerary?
Recommended 3-Day Chengdu Itinerary
Day 1: Discover the Major Features of the City.
Begin by visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you will be able to see pandas being taken care of in their natural environment. You can then head to Wenshu Monastery, a beautifully designed Buddhist temple with a significant cultural heritage. You may want to try some traditional local food at one of the restaurants for lunch. Afterward, visit Jinli Ancient Street, which has antique shops and restaurants that sell local snacks and handicrafts. Finally, have dinner while watching a Sichuan Opera with a famous face-changing performance.
Day 2: Embrace Local Culture and Food
Start with the trip to the ancient Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its scenic beauty and engineering marvel. After that, return to Chengdu to participate in a Sichuan cooking class and learn how to prepare local dishes like Kung Pao chicken and Mapo tofu. In the evening, visit the Wide and Narrow Alleys, an excellent place for street food and entertainment.
3rd Day: Emei Mountain Or Leshan Giant Budhha
As one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist sites, Emei Mountain is peaceful and has hiking trails and monasteries, while the colossal 71-meter Leshan Giant Buddha is carved into a cliff side. Both offer unmatched experiences while genuinely immersing yourself in the culture. Return to Chengdu City for dinner in a traditional hotpot restaurant in the evening.
This itinerary guarantees that Chengdu will be unforgettable for you with its nature, culture, hotpot, and other foods in just 3 days.
Popular Sites To Be Seen During Your Stay in Chengdu
1. Chengdu Panda Base
While in Chengdu, a research facility which is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas is a must go to location as tourists get the chance to see junior and adult pandas along with various other species and learn about conservation progress that is made by the facility staff.
2. Ancient Jinli Street
The whole section of Sichuan Province is well known for its ancient roads. This street is also very popular with its diverse shops, local art, and mouthwatering delicacies, so do not miss it!
3. Wuhou Shi Shrine
The period of the legendary Three Kingdoms era is honored through this shrine that is dedicated to Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei. The site is equipped with beautiful natural features where you can enjoy everything surrounded by it.
4. Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alleys) People’s Park
With a notable blend of historical and modern Chengdu, these alleys are filled with traditional buildings, new-age cafes, and cultural performances, providing a great atmosphere to relax in the city’s beauty.
An excellent place on the city where to experience everyday Chengdu life, this park is perfect for having a meal at a local tea house, boating, or even doing tai chi with other locals or watching it dance.
These important attractions capture what Chengdu is all about and give visitors a different taste of its wildlife, history, and contemporary surroundings.
Advice on Making the Most of Your Visit to Chengdu
1. Take Note of Seasonal Weather Conditions
As far as I know, Chengdu has an overcast and humid climate but a relatively mild climate. Spring and autumn are the most preferable times to visit due to the mild temperatures and reduced chance of rainfall. Have your layers and umbrella ready.
Try Traditional Local Food
Chengdu is renowned for its Sichuan cuisine and is known as the UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Try the famous hot pot, mapo tofu, and dan dan noodles. Give the local food streets a chance like Jinli Ancient Street.
2. Use of Public Transport
The metro system in Chengdu is very effective and interconnected, making it very simple to get around the city. There’s no shortage of taxis, but try to avoid using them during peak traffic times.
3. Practice Local Culture
To really appreciate Chengdu’s relaxed pace of life, visit one of the traditional tea houses located in People’s Park. To better appreciate the local culture, engage with locals in tai chi or mahjong.
4. Set Aside Days for Other Attractions
Beautiful places can be visited outside of Chengdu such as the Giant Buddha in Leshan and Mount Qingcheng. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are well worth spending a day or two.
By following these tips, you will surely have a great time in Chengdu while making the most of what the city offers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the top 3 attractions around Chengdu that I should visit in 2025?
A: The top 3 attractions around Chengdu that you should consider for your 2025 itinerary are the Chengdu Panda Base, Tianfu Square, and the Shu Brocade and Embroidery Museum. These spots are rich in Chengdu culture and provide insight into the region’s long history.
Q: Can you tell me about the Chengdu Panda Base?
A: The Chengdu Panda Base, also known as the Giant Panda Base, is a major tourist attraction located on the outskirts of Chengdu. It is dedicated to the conservation of giant pandas and offers visitors the chance to see these beloved animals in a naturalistic habitat while learning about their importance in Chengdu’s culture.
Q: What can I expect to see in Tianfu Square?
A: Tianfu Square is a central hub in Chengdu city, known for its beautiful landscaping, large fountains, and impressive monuments. It’s a great place to sightsee and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chengdu, making it one of the best places to visit Chengdu.
Q: How can I explore Chengdu’s rich history and culture?
A: To explore Chengdu’s rich history and culture, you can visit several museums, including the Chengdu Museum and the Shu Brocade and Embroidery Museum. These museums showcase national key cultural relics protection and provide insight into the ancient King of Shu and local craftsmanship.
Q: What are some popular pedestrian streets to visit in Chengdu?
A: Some popular pedestrian streets in Chengdu include Jinli Old Street and Kuanzhai Alleys. These areas are perfect for strolling, shopping, and sampling local cuisine, offering a glimpse into the city’s traditional architecture and Chengdu folk culture.
Q: Is the New Century Global Center worth visiting?
A: Yes, the New Century Global Center is a significant tourist destination in Chengdu. It is one of the largest buildings in the world and features shopping, entertainment, and various dining options. Visitors often enjoy its unique architectural style and vibrant atmosphere.
Q: What should I know before visiting the Chengdu Panda Base?
A: Before visiting the Chengdu Panda Base, it’s advisable to check their opening hours and ticketing information. The base is best visited early in the morning when the pandas are most active. It’s also recommended to plan your visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Q: How do I contact you for more information about Chengdu attractions?
A: You can contact us through our website or customer service for more information about Chengdu attractions. We can help you plan your itinerary and suggest the best places to see in Chengdu that match your interests.
Q: Are there any tours that cover the best sites in Chengdu?
A: Yes, there are numerous guided tours available that cover the best tourist spots in Chengdu, including the Panda Base, Tianfu Square, and other significant sites. These tours often provide insightful commentary about Chengdu’s history and culture, making them a great option for travelers to Chengdu.