The Best Things To do in Chengdu: Attractions, Hotels & Food Recommendation
Chengdu boasts both bustling commercial districts and serene, culturally rich historical streets, as well as modern landmarks like the Chengdu Tianfu International Financial Center. It's safe to say that the city's attractions cover most of the classic highlights of urban tourism. Here are some must-visit attractions in Chengdu selected for you, making it easier to plan your trip!
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Popular Chengdu Attractions
Things to do in Chengdu | Kuanzhai Alley
Kuanzhai Alley is a popular tourist attraction in downtown Chengdu, consisting of three historic lanes: Wide Alley (Kuan Xiangzi), Narrow Alley (Zhai Xiangzi), and Well Alley (Jing Xiangzi). These alleys preserve century-old architecture and serve as a testament to Chengdu’s ancient culture.
- 📍Address: Kuanzhai Alley, Jinhe Road Intersection, Qingyang District, Chengdu
- 🚆Transportation: Take Chengdu Metro Line 4 to Kuanzhai Alley Station, or get off at People’s Park Station on Line 2. Both options provide easy access to the area.
Reviews of Kuanzhai Alley
4.6/5
857 reviews
5/5
We are always searching for a state of being, a state untouched by the passage of time, undiminished by worldly passion. On the road, we found it. It's a perpetually youthful spirit—not youthful in appearance, but youthful in soul, a youth that maintains a constant curiosity and love for the world. When we shoulder our packs and embark on unknown journeys, each departure is a rebirth. We witness the ever-changing light and shadow at sunrise, the vastness of the starry sky, the smiles and kindness of strangers—moments that bring tears to our eyes. Not because of sadness, but because of profound emotion, for we finally understand that the beauty of life lies not in what we possess, but in what we experience. On the road, we shed all pretense and defenses, facing the world with our most authentic selves. We no longer dwell on gains and losses, no longer cling to outcomes, but savor every scene, every encounter. This youthfulness is a love for life, a yearning for freedom, and courage in the face of the unknown. We are forever young because we are forever on the road, forever moved to tears.
4/5
Perfect for a leisurely stroll, sampling street snacks, and experiencing Chengdu’s culture. We bought some of the tea pastry and tea leaves and shop for some panda souvenirs there. We have our lunch in one of the Sichuan cuisine restaurant in the narrow alley which the food is pretty good. There is a cat souvenir shop named Mao Mao Yao which sells lovely handmade ceramic cat product. We bought some fridge magnets before going back to our hotel.
5/5
It feels like an ancient city that has been renovated to be modern. There are beautifully decorated restaurants and cafes, each competing to create unique gimmicks to attract customers. The prices are only slightly higher than usual, despite being in a popular location.
4/5
There’s lots to see and do — I enjoyed people-watching. It was very crowded, but definitely a must-do when in Chengdu.
5/5
I booked a hotel 10 minutes away
I come here almost every day
I find something new every time
Things to do in Chengdu | Wuhou Shrine Museum
Wuhou Shrine is one of the top ten attractions in Chengdu and the only temple in China dedicated to both a ruler and his subjects. Covering an area of 37,000 square meters, it primarily commemorates Liu Bei, Emperor of the Shu Han Kingdom, his chancellor Zhuge Liang, as well as other loyal officials and brave generals of Shu. The shrine displays numerous statues of figures from the Three Kingdoms period and precious historical materials, making it a must-visit pilgrimage site for tourists interested in Three Kingdoms history.
- 📍Address: No. 231, Wuhou Shrine Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu
- 🚆Transportation: Take Chengdu Metro Line 3 to Gaoshengqiao Station, and walk about 10 minutes from Exit D.
Things to do in Chengdu | Jinli Ancient Street
Stretching approximately 550 meters, the street is lined with antique-style buildings that reflect the architectural charm of the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican period. It preserves rich Sichuan folk culture and offers more than just shopping opportunities. Here, you can:
- Watch famous Sichuan Opera face-changing performances,
- Savor authentic local delicacies such as bean curd with beef, buckwheat noodles, and stinky tofu,
- Browse shops of traditional artisans for unique souvenirs like clay sculptures, sugar paintings, rice grain engravings, Shu embroidery, and Sichuan lacquerware.
Jinli Ancient Street is one of the oldest shopping streets in Chengdu, with a history spanning over 1,800 years. It is part of the Wuhou Shrine complex, so visitors planning to explore Wuhou Shrine should set aside some time to discover this ancient street.
- 📍Address: No. 231, Wuhou Shrine Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu
- 🚆Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 or 5 to Gaoshengqiao Station, then walk about 18 minutes.
Reviews of Jinli Asian Street
4.6/5
678 reviews
5/5
We are always searching for beauty, believing it lies hidden in some distant landscape, waiting to be discovered. But as we embark on our journeys, traversing path after path, we gradually realize that beauty has always been around us; we simply haven't taken the time to appreciate it. Those unexpected moments that touch us on our travels, the warmth and kindness we feel in unfamiliar surroundings, the companionship and encouragement we receive in moments of loneliness—they may not have glamorous appearances, but they possess the most moving power. We begin to learn to feel the world with a tender heart, to discover the beauty that has been overlooked. We understand that beauty isn't placed somewhere, but rather engraved in our hearts. The emotions and growth we gain on our journeys become the most precious treasures in our lives. They make us stronger and gentler, allowing us to maintain our yearning and pursuit of beauty even when facing life's storms.
5/5
We are always searching for beauty, believing it lies hidden in some distant landscape, waiting to be discovered. But as we embark on our journeys, traversing path after path, we gradually realize that beauty has always been around us; we simply haven't taken the time to appreciate it. Those unexpected moments that touch us on our travels, the warmth and kindness we feel in unfamiliar surroundings, the companionship and encouragement we receive in moments of loneliness—they may not have glamorous appearances, but they possess the most moving power. We begin to learn to feel the world with a tender heart, to discover the beauty that has been overlooked. We understand that beauty isn't placed somewhere, but rather engraved in our hearts. The emotions and growth we gain on our journeys become the most precious treasures in our lives. They make us stronger and gentler, allowing us to maintain our yearning and pursuit of beauty even when facing life's storms.
5/5
Jinli Ancient Street in Chengdu, China, is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends rich history with vibrant culture. Dating back over 1,800 years to the Qin Dynasty, Jinli was once a bustling hub for brocade trading, earning it the title "First Street of the Shu Kingdom." Restored in 2004 to reflect the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty, the 550-meter-long pedestrian street is adorned with traditional wooden structures, upturned eaves, and intricate carvings.
5/5
Jinli Street is a charming blend of ancient culture and vibrant street life nestled in the heart of Chengdu. Walking through its lantern-lit alleys feels like stepping back in time, with beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, traditional teahouses, and artisan shops at every turn. The aroma of Sichuan street food fills the air—try the spicy skewers, sweet rice cakes, and dumplings for an unforgettable taste!
5/5
I have been to Jinli countless times, but this is the first time I comment on it.
Compared to other tourist attractions, which charge dozens or even hundreds of tickets, I personally think that Jinli in Chengdu is doing well, after all, it is still free for tourists to visit...
Compared to several months ago, Jinli appeared in front of me tonight with a brand new look. It shows its unique attitude, especially stable and calm...
Several new artistic singing bars have opened. Since I was in a hurry to go home with my children to sleep, I would go in to listen to the pleasant songs and enjoy the tranquility of the downtown area...
Things to do in Chengdu | Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Located by the Huanhua Stream in the western suburbs of Chengdu, Du Fu Thatched Cottage is the former residence of Du Fu, the renowned Tang Dynasty poet revered as the "Sage of Poetry." Du Fu lived here for four years, during which he composed over 200 celebrated poems, making the cottage a sacred site in Chinese literary history. The site experienced prolonged periods of neglect but was restored and preserved through the efforts of his followers. After multiple expansions and renovations, it eventually evolved into its current architectural style and layout.
- 📍Address: No. 37, Qinghua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu
- 🚆Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Caotang North Road Station, then walk about 15 minutes.
Reviews of Du Fu Rhatched Cottage
4.7/5
10251 reviews
5/5
We often believe that the best way to solve problems is to have more choices. So we desperately accumulate wealth, trying to use the power of choice to combat life's uncertainties. However, when the sheer number of choices becomes suffocating, we lose the courage to even begin. Life is not just about the present struggles, but also about poetry and distant horizons. The true meaning of travel is not exercise, but about moving your soul to find the springtime of life. Sometimes, buying a bag can't solve the problem; try backpacking. This is the wisdom of subtraction, a return to the essence of life. When you only carry the most basic necessities and bravely embark on the path you are destined to take, you will find that what people truly need is actually quite little. Don't be afraid of the unknown road ahead, don't worry about the darkness; wherever you are destined to go, there is light, no matter how late. This light is the abundance you find in a minimalist life, the tranquility that arises in your heart after letting go of attachments. When you are truly on the road, you will understand that the greatest strength is not possessing everything, but being able to let go of everything and travel light.
5/5
We often pause before others' choices, frowning, shaking our heads, even sighing softly. We forget that we've never truly entered their world. Sometimes, we don't understand their chosen path because we haven't seen the scenery they've witnessed. He once pitched a tent alone in a storm, listening to thunder crash overhead, only to see the clouds part at dawn, scattering golden rays. In that moment, he understood that the beauty of life lies not in avoiding the storm, but in being able to look up after weathering it. Travel is such a confrontation with oneself, allowing us to rediscover ourselves amidst extreme solitude and grandeur. Only when we personally experience those awe-inspiring moments will we understand that their choices weren't impulsive, but rather an echo from the depths of their soul. We will eventually understand that everyone's path is a unique landscape, and we are merely belated spectators.
5/5
Some say youth is a state of mind, not an age. On the road, we finally understand the profound meaning of this statement. When we walk on unfamiliar land, feeling different winds and sunshine, our hearts soften and open up. We are no longer bound by past experiences, no longer afraid of the uncertainty of the future, but live in the present, feeling the beauty of every moment. We see the magnificence of mountains and rivers, the gentleness of waterways, and the smiles on people's faces; these scenes bring tears to our eyes. Not because we are fragile, but because we have finally rediscovered that sense of wonder in life. On the road, we learn to listen, to wait, and to find the extraordinary in the ordinary. We are no longer in a hurry, but enjoy the scenery at every step. This youthfulness is a reverence for life, a love for nature, and a rediscovery of ourselves. We are forever young because we are forever on the road, forever moved to tears.
5/5
I attended a Tang poetry class at Du Fu Thatched Cottage, which gave me a deeper understanding of Tang Dynasty poets. The environment was serene and tranquil.
5/5
You don’t need to know who Du Fu is to enjoy this place. The peaceful surroundings, charming little waterfalls, and relaxing atmosphere make it a nice escape. Overall, a fun place to visit for a short break while in Chengdu.
Things to do in Chengdu | Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Located in the suburbs of Chengdu, here, you can observe the daily lives of rare animals such as giant pandas, peacocks, and black-necked cranes. Highly recommended experiences include:
- Visiting the newborn panda cub nursery to catch a glimpse of adorable baby pandas;
- Watching the delightful feeding sessions as pandas enjoy their bamboo meals;
- Learning about their habitats and enjoying an in-depth educational journey into the world of pandas.
the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of China's most important institutions for giant panda conservation and research. This non-profit organization is dedicated to the study, breeding, protection, and educational tourism of endangered wildlife. 🐼
- 📍Address: No. 1375, Panda Avenue, Outside North, Chenghua District, Chengdu
- 🚆Transportation: Take Metro Line 3 to Panda Avenue Station, then transfer to Bus D025 to reach the base.
Reviews of Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
4.6/5
24828 reviews
5/5
The pandas are huge! The place is clean and spacious. The pandas are so cute! It's easy to get there.
5/5
The pandas are very, very, very, cute. 🐼 Definitely go right when it opens at 7:30am because a) pandas don’t like the heat as much as we do and b) it’s very crowded. I recommend skipping the panda observatories (sun ☀️, moon 🌙 ) close to the entrance of the park and taking the $3-4 shuttle all the way to the star ⭐️ panda observatory at the highest point of the park- it’s significantly less crowded and you will not be battling the crowds for your photos.
5/5
Lots of pandas, fun, recommended!
5/5
Even though I was only watching one type of animal, the pandas, it was really fun. There were some difficulties moving around due to the narrow passageways here and there, but it didn't hinder the viewing experience. I highly recommend booking the morning session!!
5/5
We went around 7:30 am (when the park opens). The queue was not too long, and we were let in swiftly. Remember your passport. You have to walk for a while (maybe 30 minutes) but eventually you will find some panda exhibitions where they are active. We watched 2 pandas wrestling for a long time, as well as others eating, relaxing and roaming around. There are also red pandas which are cool to see, also fairly up close.
Things to do in Chengdu | Jiuzhaigou National Park
Jiuzhaigou Valley, located in the Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture near Chengdu, is a national scenic area and nature reserve listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site! This stunning destination is named after the nine Tibetan villages scattered throughout the valley. The main scenic area of Jiuzhaigou is shaped like a "Y," consisting of three primary valleys: Shuzheng Valley, Rize Valley, and Zechawa Valley, with a total length of over 50 kilometers.
- 📍Address: Zhangza Town, Jiuzhaigou County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture
- 🚆Transportation: Take a direct bus from Chengdu's Xinnanmen Station to Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, or travel by joining a guided tour or hiring a private vehicle.
Reviews of Jiuzhaigou National Park
4.8/5
18808 reviews5/5
Today I visited the left line and the lower part of the park. It's wonderful!!!
5/5
Only one thing I can say: SPECTACULAR!!
5/5
Best Place to Relax
5/5
This uniquely beautiful place is a must-see! It's recommended to allocate two days to the park.
4/5
Unparalleled beauty. There are some amazing spots with few crowds but several that are ruined by all the people.
Best Time to Visit Chengdu
Source from Unsplash
Period | Climate Features | Avg. Temperature (℃) | Avg. Rainfall (mm) | Recommended Activities & Places |
The best time to visit Chengdu is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant weather, the most beautiful scenery, and a highly comfortable travel experience.
- Spring (March - May): Pleasant weather with blooming flowers throughout the city. Recommended for leisurely trips to the Panda Base, Mount Qingcheng, and Kuanzhai Alley.
- Summer (June - August): Hot and humid days; advisable to plan early morning outings, evening activities, or private trips to cooler mountain areas like Xiling Snow Mountain.
- Autumn (September - November): The best season for travel. Recommended for in-depth cultural tours: Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, and Dujiangyan.
- Winter (December - February): Damp and chilly weather, perfect for hot springs and hearty hot pot meals. Also ideal for experiencing traditional tea house culture and Sichuan opera.
Chengdu Food Recommendation
What to Eat in Chengdu | Dragon Wonton
Source from Zhihu
Dragon Wonton comes in a wide variety of flavors, with the red chili oil version being the most popular among locals. For tourists who prefer milder options, the seafood or clear broth versions are also excellent choices!
What to Eat in Chengdu | Chuanchuan Xiang (Skewer Hot Pot)
Source from Wenxiaobai
Chuanchuan Xiang is one of Chengdu’s famous local snacks, often described as a "portable hot pot." It is a variation of traditional hot pot and an upgraded version of spicy malatang. When enjoying Chuanchuan Xiang, each customer can personally select their favorite ingredients, skewer them on bamboo sticks, and then cook them in a pot of boiling broth, similar to hot pot. The difference is that customers can directly eat the food off the skewers, dipping them into a variety of sauces for extra flavor.
What to Eat in Chengdu | Sweet Water Noodles
Source from Zhihu
Sweet Water Noodles is one of Chengdu’s iconic dishes, renowned for its unique texture and sweet aftertaste. Despite the thick and sturdy appearance of the noodles, they are surprisingly smooth, soft, and chewy. Topped with crushed peanuts and the aroma of Sichuan pepper, the flavor is mildly sweet with a hint of spiciness that leaves a lasting impression! This dish is often described as the "manly man" of Chengdu snacks due to its bold, chewy noodles.
What to Eat in Chengdu | Couple's Sliced Beef in Chili Sauce
Source from Thermomix
Couple's Sliced Beef in Chili Sauce is a famous cold appetizer in Sichuan cuisine, known for its spicy and numbing flavor. Made primarily with thinly sliced beef offal such as head meat, heart, tongue, tripe, and beef, it is seasoned with Sichuan pepper, chili oil, crushed peanuts, and cilantro. The dish is tender, smooth, and bursting with spicy and aromatic flavors, making it irresistible. It’s a must-try for those who enjoy beef offal!
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What to Buy in Chengdu Must-Have Souvenirs & Products
What to Buy in Chengdu | Sichuan Pepper & Chili Condiments
You can't take the hotpot home, but you can take its soul. Look for high-quality Sichuan peppercorns (hua jiao), both the red and the rare "green ma" variety, chili bean paste (Douban Jiang), and pre-made hotpot base mixes. These are essential for recreating Chengdu's iconic flavors at home.
What to Buy in Chengdu | Sichuan Embroidery (Shu Embroidery)
One of China's four great embroidery styles, Shu embroidery is famous for its vibrant colors, delicate patterns, and soft texture. Common items include silk scarves, handkerchiefs, framed art, and elegant apparel. It's a beautiful and cultural gift.
What to Buy in Chengdu | Bamboo Products
Sichuan is famous for its bamboo. Traditional crafts include woven baskets, tea trays, and even furniture. For a more portable souvenir, look for intricate bamboo weaving artwork or small items like bookmarks and ornaments.
What to Buy in Chengdu | Tea (Especially Jasmine Tea & Junshan Maojian)
Sichuan is a major tea-growing region. Jasmine tea (mo li hua cha) is a classic, where green tea is scented with fresh jasmine flowers. Also look for Zhuyeqing (Bamboo Leaf Green) or Mengding Ganlu from the famous Mengding Mountain. The tea markets are an experience in themselves.
What to Buy in Chengdu | Pu'erh Tea Cakes
While from Yunnan, Chengdu's tea markets are a fantastic place to buy and learn about Pu'erh. The humid climate of Chengdu is actually considered ideal for storing and aging this fermented tea.
Where to Shop in Chengdu: The Best Markets & Streets
Source from Unsplash
Things to do in Chengdu | Jinli Ancient Street & Kuanzhai Alley
- What it is: The most famous tourist streets, beautifully restored.
- What to buy: Perfect for one-stop souvenir shopping. You'll find all the classic items here: embroidery, bamboo crafts, calligraphy, local snacks, and tea. Prices are higher, but the atmosphere and convenience are unmatched.
Things to do in Chengdu | Chunxi Road / Taikoo Li
- What it is: The ultra-modern, bustling heart of Chengdu shopping.
- What to buy: This is for international brands, luxury goods, trendy Chinese designers, and modern concept stores. It's not for traditional souvenirs but for experiencing Chengdu's vibrant, contemporary consumer culture.
Things to do in Chengdu | Sichuan Province Antique & Craft Market
(Often called Song Xian Qiao Antique Market)
- What it is: A huge, multi-floor market dedicated to art, antiques, and crafts.
- What to buy: This is the best place for serious shoppers. You'll find high-quality Shu embroidery, Tibetan handicrafts, calligraphy supplies, ceramics, jade, and fascinating Cultural Revolution memorabilia (be aware of export restrictions for real antiques).
Things to do in Chengdu | Wenshu Monastery Tea House & Market
- What it is: The tea house inside the peaceful Wenshu Monastery is a classic Chengdu experience. Surrounding the monastery are shops selling Buddhist items, incense, and traditional crafts.
- What to buy: Tea sets, incense, prayer beads, and a moment of tranquility.
Things to do in Chengdu | Giant Panda Merch
- Where to buy: The gift shops at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding are the obvious choice. You'll find everything from high-quality plush toys to t-shirts, mugs, and books. The proceeds often support conservation efforts.
- Payment: While major stores accept credit cards, Alipay and WeChat Pay are ubiquitous in China. Have one of these apps set up for the smoothest experience. Cash is also widely accepted.
- Tax Refunds: Tourists are eligible for VAT refunds on certain purchases made in designated stores. Look for the "Tax Free" sign and ask the staff for the required paperwork.
Chengdu Hotel Recommendation
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