Top 15 Things to Do in Chengdu: Pandas, Hotpot, and More

Are you planning a trip to Chengdu but aren’t sure what the top things to do are? Discover the top 15 attractions and activities in this ultimate guide. From popular experiences in downtown Chengdu, like watching lovely pandas in Panda Base and savoring authentic hot pot, to day trips to nearby attractions, like Sanxingdui Museum and Jiuzhaigou Valley, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for an unforgettable Chengdu adventure.

Besides, recommended itineraries with these top experiences and practical travel tips are also listed for your reference.

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• At a Glance
• City Exploration
• Day Trips & Excursions
• Recommended Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Travel with China Xian Tour

 

Top Things to Do in Chengdu At a Glance

Top Things	Time Needed	Average Cost	Best For	Category
Observe Pandas at Chengdu Research Base	3-4 h	CNY 52	First-time visitors, families, animal lovers	Must-See Classics
Savor Sichuan Hot Pot & Cuisine	1.5-2.5 h	CNY 80-200	Every tourist	Local Food
Experience Local Lifestyle at People’s Park	2-3 h	Free admission; Tea: CNY  15-30; ear picking: CNY  30-60	Those wanting to experience the Chengdu pace of life	Local Lifestyle
Watch Sichuan Opera and Face-Changing Performances	1.5-2 h	CNY 150 +	Cultural lovers, families	History & Culture
Explore Wuhou Shrine & Jinli Street	2-3 h	CNY 50	Three Kingdoms enthusiasts, photographers	History & Culture
Tour Wenshu Monastery	1.5-3 h	Free admission; tea or vegetarian meal: CNY  18–35	Visitors seeking tranquility and local culture	History & Culture
Discover Kuanzhai Alley	1-1.5 h	Free admission; snacks: CNY  10–30 each	First-time visitors, photographers	History & Culture
Experience Chengdu Nightlife	3-5 h	CNY 50-200	Bar-goers, music lovers	Local Lifestyle
Go Shopping	1.5-4 h	Varies	Shoppers and souvenir hunters	Local Lifestyle
Unveil the Mysteries of Sanxingdui	4-7 h	CNY 200-400, including tickets and transportation	history and culture enthusiasts	History & Culture
Marvel at the Dujiangyan Irrigation System	3-5 h	CNY 200-400, including tickets and transportation	Engineering enthusiasts	History & Culture
Discover Taoist Culture on Mount Qingcheng	Full day	CNY 200-500, including tickets and transportation	Taoist culture lovers	Nature & Mountains
Admire the Leshan Giant Buddha	Full day	CNY 300-600, including tickets and transportation	Tourists who prefer a visual feast	Nature & Mountains
Explore Mount Emei	1-2 days	CNY 500-1,000 +, including tickets and transportation	Culture and nature lovers	Nature & Mountains
Jiuzhaigou & Huanglong National Parks	2-3 days	CNY 560–1,200+, including tickets and transportation	Nature lovers, photographers	Nature & Mountains

City Exploration

1. Observe Lovely Giant Pandas in Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

When it comes to top things to do in Chengdu, watch lovely pandas in Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding definitely ranks top. Covering a vast area, the base offers a semi-natural outdoor living area with bamboo forests, grass lawns and pools for pandas. Here, you will see the cute pandas eating bamboo, sleeping and playing from just a few meters. It will heal your heart. If you visit during September – October, it is also possible to encounter the baby pandas.

Besides the pandas, there are also various animals inside the base, like red pandas, golden snub-nosed monkeys, swans, etc.

2. Savor Authentic Hot Pot and Sichuan Cuisine

Hotpot is one of the most famous Chinese foods and the spicy hot pot in Chengdu is well-known all over China. Its broth is made with lots of local peppers and spices. If you cannot eat spicy food, most restaurant also offer a split pot with both spicy and non-spicy soup. All kinds of foods can be cooked in hotpot like meat, vegetables, and seafood, so you will enjoy a hearty meal. About the dipping sauce, the mixture of sesame oil, minced garlic and sesame paste is recommended.

As one of China’s Eight Cuisines, Sichuan Cuisine is also unmissable. When it comes to Sichuan Cuisine, most travelers assume that it is extremely spicy. But in fact, it features various flavors, from numbing and spicy to savory-sweet and mild. So you can also enjoy a meal that suits your taste.

If you are fond of spicy food, the classic dishes, like Mapo Tofu and Twice-cooked Pork, deliver the signature numbing-spicy kick. Salty and fresh Boiled Cabbage in Supreme Broth and Zhang Cha Duck are not spicy at all and suitable for all travelers. The dishes preferred by most foreigners include the Kung Pao Chicken and Shredded Pork with Garlic Sauce, which offers immense flavor with just a mild tingle of heat.

3. Experience a Laid-Back Local Life in People’s Park

Chengdu is known for its slow-paced life. If you want to experience the authentic local life, People’s Park is undoubtedly the top destination. You can see the locals savoring a cup of tea meanwhile chatting with family or friends or playing chess leisurely under lush tress in Heming Tea House. Just join the locals and enjoy a relaxing time.

Another folk experience preferred by most international travelers is ear picking. Different from the medical procedure, it is a unique form of relaxation. The practitioner will use tools like feather brushes to gently clean and stimulate the outer ear canal, just like a real-life ASMR. It is surprisingly soothing and relaxing. If you’d like to try it yourself, practitioners are easy to find around the tea house.

4. Amaze at Sichuan Opera and Face-Changing Show

For every first-time visitor, one of the top things to do in Chengdu is to watch a Sichuan Opera and Face-Changing show. Though the lyrics is hard to understand, it will still offer you a visual feast.

Actors change their masks in the blink of an eye in the performance. Even from just a few meters away, spectator have no idea about how the actor make it. Their skills, costumes, and performance will definitely amaze you.

Recommended places: Shufeng Yayu Theater, Sichuan Opera Theatre of Sichuan Province, local tea houses, Kuanzhai Alley

5. Admire Ancient Architecture at Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Street

Wuhou Shrine is a memorial to the famous chancellor Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period. This historical site features ancient architecture with grey tiles and red walls and classic garden with towering cypress trees and stone tablets, creating a tranquil atmosphere. For visitors, it is an ideal photography spots.

Afterwards, head to the nearby Jinli Streets, an antique commercial street with a drama stage, wooden houses, red lanterns, snack stalls and souvenirs shops. It is more charming after the red lanterns are illuminated at night. Just wander around to feel its traditional atmosphere, sample some local snacks or buy some souvenirs you are interested in.

Tips: Lighting time of Jinli Street: Nov. – Mar.: around 18:00; April – October: around 19:00

6. Observe the Local Religious Scene at Wenshu Monastery

Wenshu Monastery is the best-preserved wooden architecture complex of the Qing Dynasty in Chengdu. In this Buddhist temple, you will find six halls along the central axis and see lots of locals worshiping and burning incense. Many families visit specially to pray for their children’s academic success here, which is said to be especially effective.

Besides, the Xiangyuan Garden offers a serene escape into Zen life. Visitors can savor a cup of covered tea, copy scriptures and taste the delicious vegetarian dishes here.

7. Explore Old Chengdu in Kuanzhai Alley

Consisting of three paralleled old alleys, Kuanzhai Alley treats you with traditional residential houses with a sloping roof, a gray-brick facade and hanging red lanterns and take you back to old Chengdu. The landscape is even more enchanting after lanterns light up the lanes at night, creating a highly photogenic setting.

Take your time to explore the alleys and try to discover some exquisitely designed bars or art galleries hidden in the courtyards.

Note: It is not advised to enjoy a meal here, as most are overpriced. The Kuixinglou Street is only about 5 minutes’ walk and is packed with plenty of restaurants. Sample some authentic local dishes here, like maocai, sweet water noodles and spicy Sichuan skewers.

8. Experience Exciting Chengdu Nightlife

You won’t run out of fun things to do in Chengdu, even at night. Diverse nightlife can be experienced. One of the unmissable highlights is the Tower of Life, an iconic night landmark. This free, surreal centerpiece features six bamboo-inspired columns cascading water from top to bottom under color-shifting lights.​

Wander along the Jin River from Jiuyan Bridge to Anshun Bridge to see the reflections of neon lights of bars and restaurants on both banks on the water surface. It will be enjoyable to sit down at a riverside seat, order a beer and listen to a live performance.

Yulin Road is another popular nightlife spot famous as one of Chengdu’s most vibrant neighborhoods for independent music. Here, dozens of small bars tuck closely together in short streets and narrow alley. If the music of a bar sounds good or the atmosphere feels right, just step inside and and see what awaits.

Want to experience a more authentic local nightlife? Enjoy a late-night meal at a nearby roadside stall to taste the barbecue or skewers hot pot just like a local.

9. Join the Busy Shopping Scene

Chengdu has two commercial blocks that are famous across the country, Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li. There’re high-end shopping malls and fun little stores to explore. You can find everything from luxuries, fashion brands to souvenirs. And over 180 duty-free shops gather here.

Another highlight is the giant sculpture of a panda climbing the wall on the top floor of IFS Shopping Mall. Taking a photo with the panda is a top thing to do in Chengdu for most travelers.

Beyond the City: Day Trips & Excursions from Chengdu

10. Unveil the Mysterious Civilization in Sanxingdui Museum

The museum attracts tourists with its unique Sanxingdui Civilization from 3,000-5,000 years ago, which is different from any civilization you have seen in any museum around the world.

A large collection of relics from the mysterious civilization are displayed. Its striking artifacts, like masks with elongated eyes, a three-meter-tall bronze sacred tree, and a gold scepter, all leave a deep impression on each tourist. Looking at these sophisticated and majestic exhibits, you will wonder how they were cast. You can also see professionals restoring the cultural relics in the Cultural Relics Protection Center.

11. Marvel at the Wisdom of Ancient People at Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Far from being just a heritage site, Dujiangyan Irrigation System is a living project that has been in use for 2,000 years. How does it work? The Flying Sand Weir spills overflow and uses centrifugal force to throw sediment away, as if it is doing self-cleaning. And a low stone embankment divides the river into an outer river for flood discharge and an inner river for irrigation.

During the visit, just hike along the waterfront to watch the waves closely and climb up the mountain for a panoramic view. You will be amazed at the stunning views and the ingenuity of the local people in history.

12. Learn about Taoism in Qingcheng Mountain

 

If you travel to Dujiangyan, it is also recommended to pay a visit to Qingcheng Mountain, as they are only about 15 km apart. What makes it worth visiting is the perfect integration of immersive Taoist cultural experience with gorgeous views.

After passing the mountain gate, the stone-paved roads will be shaded by the forests, the sound of running streams echoes from hillside, and the air is faint with incense and damp moss. Climbing up along the way, you will discover several ancient Taoist palaces hidden in the forests. It is also possible to encounter the priests in dark robes. After exploring, refuel with authentic vegetarian dish here.

13. Admire Leshan Giant Buddha

Ticket Price: CNY 80 for mountain climbing, CNY 70 for a boat tour

Time Needed: 2.5–3.5h for land route, 40 – 60 minutes for a boat tour

Leshan Giant Buddha is not a Buddha enshrined in a temple, but a huge 71-meter-tall stone statue carved into the cliff with three rivers converging under his feet. It has been listed as a world cultural and natural heritage by UNESCO.

For visitors, you can first look at the outline of the Buddha’s head from the Fotou Square. Then, walk downwards to the viewing platform of Buddha’s feet along the plank road built on the cliffs. After reaching, look up to marvel at the giant statue towering into sky, which will definitely impress you. For tourists who are fear of heights, a boat ride is available for you to have a panoramic view from the water.

14. Experience Buddhist Culture in Mount Emei

The highlight of Mount Emei is its high altitude of 3,000 meters, sea of clouds and the temples on the cliffside. As you hike up the mountain, you can stop by many Buddhist sites like the Golden Summit, Baoguo Temple, and Qingyin Pavilion .

On the highest Golden Summit stands a golden statue of Samantabhadra. Its golden surface reflects sunlight from each angle, creating an awe-inspiring sight. At the Sheshen Cliff Viewing Platform, take in the vast sea of clouds and mountains in the distance.

15. Lose Yourself in the Spectacular Natural Scenery in Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong National Park

Both scenic areas are located in Ngawa Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture and are considered two of the most gorgeous sites in Sichuan.

Jiuzhaigou feasts your eyes with abundant landscapes of alpine lakes, calcified waterfalls, dense virgin forests, and Tibetan villages. The lake water here is crystal clear and presents different colors with the changes of seasons and weather. Stroll along the lakeside boardwalk to fully immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery.

Reputed as the “Heavenly Lake on Earth”, Huanglong is famous for its numerous colorful calcified lakes. During the exploration, you will feel like ascending a huge natural staircase. The color of lakes shift from pale yellow and mint green to cobalt blue and emerald green and the forests changes from broadleaf-conifer forests to meadows.

Recommended Chengdu Itineraries with Top Things to Do

For tourists with 3 – 4 days for a Chengdu tour, it is more recommended to focus on the top things to do in the downtown area. If you have 5 – 7 days, extend the trip to nearby cities to enrich your travel experience.

 

• Urban Exploration Tour Itinerary:

Day 1: People’s Park – Sichuan Opera

Day 2: Panda Research Base – Sanxingdui Museum

Day 3: Sichuan Museum – Wuhou Shrine – Jinli Street

Day 4: Wenshu Monastery – Dufu Thatched Cottage

• Chengdu In-depth Tour with Side Trips

Day 1: Arrival

Day 2: Panda Research Base – Wenshu Monastery – People’s Park – Kuanzhai Alley

Day 3: Leshan Giant Buddha

Day 4: Mount Emei

Day 5: Huanglong National Park

Day 6: Jiuzhaigou Valley

Day 7: Departure

Practical Travel Tips For a Chengdu Trip

• Transportation:If you travel around in the downtown area, subway is the most convenient way and most attractions can be reached by metro. For a side trip to other cities, high-speed train is the fastest and most reliable option.
• Best time to visit: March – June and September – November are the most recommended periods for pleasant weather and charming scenery.
• Where to stay:For convenience, the areas near Tianfu Square, Luomashi Metro Station and Wenshu Monastery are more recommended. They are close to main attractions and offer varieties of hotel options.
• Cultural etiquette: When visiting religious sites like Wenshu Monastery and Mount Emei, please note that your clothing should cover your shoulders and knees. Photography of Buddha statues and use of flashlight are prohibited inside the hall.
• Health: Remember to inform of the server in advance if you can not eat spicy food. Take some antidiarrheal and gastrointestinal medicines in case of discomfort.

Enjoy a Worry-free Chengdu Trip with China Xian Tour

For tourists who want to experience these top things to do in Chengdu in a worry-free way, a reasonable arrangement will be important. But as an international traveler, it may be a hassle for you to plan a trip by yourself.

China Xian Tour is experienced in customizing a trip based on tourists’ needs and is pleased to offer help. Just tell our travel consultant the attractions and experiences you are interested in, and she will craft a bespoke itinerary for you. Also, we will provide 1-to-1 support service for 24 hours each day from you contact us to the end of your safe journey back home. Feel free to contact us at any time.