8 Things to Do in Chengdu: A Journey Through a City of Pandas, Spice, and Culture

Chengdu welcomed us with a skyline that towered above, yet it's the quiet strength of its most famous residents, the pandas, are what captured our hearts. Arriving here after a long 10-hour train ride from Dali, the city's rhythm feels enormous yet intimate, a balance between the old and new, the peaceful and the bustling.

This sprawling metropolis, home to nearly 21 million people, gives space for both tradition and evolution to coexist, wrapped in the aroma of Sichuan spices and the playful footprints of pandas.

Join us as we explore our choices of things to do in Chengdu, blending nature, culture, and unforgettable flavors.

Top Things to Do in Chengdu: Essential Experiences for Every Traveler

1. Meet the Pandas at Chengdu Research Base

It's nearly impossible not to put this at number 1, as just doing this sole activity would make the whole trip to Chengdu worth it 🤣 (in our opinion, that is).

Stepping into the Chengdu Panda Base feels like entering a sanctuary dedicated to resilience and tenderness. Founded in 1987 with just six rescued pandas, this conservation center has grown to nurture nearly 200 pandas today, turning the periphery of the city into a haven for these gentle creatures. Their reputation as "lazy" animals feels less like indolence and more like a carefully preserved energy-saving strategy, a reminder of nature's subtle wisdom in survival.

Book tickets in advance for a discount!

We traced the panda villas, each designed as a cozy retreat, and watched cubs playfully biting and cuddling. Despite the heat pushing many pandas indoors during the afternoon, spotting them outside on a bamboo climb felt like a rare gift. They munch endlessly on bamboo, their main diet, which offers surprisingly little energy, much like us savoring our favorite comfort food but craving more vitality.

A giant panda lounges amid lush greenery, lazily munching on bamboo and leaning against wooden logs in its outdoor enclosure. — *Our lives are complete now that we've seen the giant pandas.*

The Chengdu Panda Base is also home to other endangered animals, such as the delightful red pandas, bringing a layered experience to our visit. For more insights on red pandas, you might appreciate our previous encounter in Pu'er where their playful antics left a mark on us:

We recommend visiting early in the morning to catch the pandas at their most active and often outdoors. Learning about their fast metabolism, their gentle natures, and the strict rules protecting them from harm deepened our respect for this fragile species. It’s clear that here, the panda is not just a creature but a symbol woven into the city's identity.

Oh, and don't miss the bizarre, yet beautiful bamboo tower further into the park near the Western gate.

A striking modern architectural structure with a spiral form crafted from sleek vertical metal slats rises boldly against a clear blue sky—an iconic visual often featured in lists of things to do in Chengdu, the lively Chinese city renowned for Sichuan cuisine and giant pandas. — *Ever seen a tower in the form of bamboo?*

Other Tips:

We found the easiest thing to do was take the metro to Panda Avenue metro station (熊猫大道), visit the HiPanda stand right outside the station and pay for everything there. For 59 RMB per person, you receive round-trip bus transportation that brings you the rest of the way to the Chengdu Panda Base and a ticket into the panda base.

2. Wander Through Ancient and Bustling Streets

Chengdu's streets silently narrate stories of centuries past, vibrant with the hum of modern life. Wenshuyuan Street and the adjacent Wenshu Yuan Monastery offer serene moments where spirituality and history blend seamlessly. The monastery’s calm courtyard invites reflection, while the street’s teahouses feel like a gentle nod to simpler times, where conversations flow as slowly as the afternoon light.

Nearby, the trio of Wide Alley, Narrow Alley, and Well Alley (Kuan Xiangzi, Zhai Xiangzi, Jing Xiangzi) show a different facet of Chengdu's soul. These interconnected lanes buzz with shoppers and food vendors, yet retain an atmosphere of intimacy. Sampling street snacks here is like tasting history itself, each bite accompanied by the echoes of footsteps past. These alleys are not just places to visit but spaces to linger, letting the spirit of the city seep into your bones.

For a unique walking tour that also lets you experience a bit of Buddhism along the way, check out this tour.

The pedestrian shopping streets, such as Chunxi Road, shimmer with neon lights and lively shops. This blend of traditional and contemporary Chengdu can stir unexpected yearnings, to shop, to taste, and to simply be part of the city pulse. Experiencing the energy here is both exhilarating and grounding, reminding us how urban life can still hold moments of joy and discovery.

We stayed on Chunxi Road and loved being in the thick of all the action both day and night. At night, many stores even have performers in the shop windows. Where else in the world can you see that?

Two men with backpacks smile in a bustling Chengdu city plaza, surrounded by glass skyscrapers, a whimsical panda sculpture, and vibrant mural art—an inviting scene for travelers seeking things to do in Chengdu, including exploring local Sichuan cuisine and soaking up the city's modern, lively atmosphere.

Nighttime view of a bustling Chengdu city square featuring an illuminated clock tower, neon-lit storefronts, and a prominent statue on a pedestal; crowds stroll along the paved street, possibly after savoring Sichuan cuisine or, as suggested in lists of things to do in Chengdu, visiting the city’s famous panda sanctuary. — *Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street chaos at night!*

3. Savor Sichuan Cuisine: The Beat of Chengdu’s Soul

The food in Chengdu is more than sustenance, it’s an expression of place, history, and feeling. Our first introduction to dan dan noodles (担担面, dàn dàn miàn) was a quiet revelation: simple yet complex, blending minced meat, scallions, and the hallmark Sichuan peppercorn (花椒, huā jiāo) that tingles your tongue with a unique numbing spice called "ma" (麻). Together with the fiery "la" (辣), this characteristic heat builds layers of flavor that linger long after the meal.

Other dishes, like Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐, má pó dòu fu) and Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁, gōng bǎo jī dīng), carry stories as rich as their tastes. Mapo Tofu, named after a woman marked by smallpox scars whose cooking transcended hardship, arrives at the table with a comforting heat and meaty richness. Kung Pao Chicken, created for a Qing dynasty governor, fills the air with smoky, spicy allure. These dishes invite us to taste the past, one bite at a time.

Restaurant recommendation:

Our favorite place to eat both Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken was at Chen's Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐). While it is very much on the tourist trail and there are a few branches, the food, flavors, and ambiance are very much worth the visit.

A steaming bowl of spicy tofu stew topped with fresh green onions sits in a black pot on a wooden trivet, showcasing the bold culinary culture of Chengdu; a wooden spoon rests nearby with colorful drinks blurred in the background. — *Mapo Tofu, in all its spicy, creamy glory.*

Chengdu's hot pot (火锅, huǒ guō) culture awaits us in our next city where it is even more famous (Chongqing, which used to be a part of Sichuan province), but the meals here already tell tales of fiery passion and communal sharing. We found ourselves returning to favorite spots, craving those warming, numbing spices that feel like a bridge to the city’s heart.

Whether trying rabbit head delicacies (兔头, tù tóu) or sipping bubble tea (珍珠奶茶, zhēn zhū nǎi chá) at bustling teahouses, the flavors of Chengdu create a mosaic of sensation and memory.

For a legendary food tour in Chengdu, all done by tuktuk, look no further than this one.

4. Experience the Sichuan Opera: A Window to Local Culture

To witness Sichuan opera in Chengdu is to step into a world where tradition meets theatrical magic. This art form, known for its dramatic face-changing and vivid performances, encapsulates the city's cultural depth. It’s more than entertainment, it’s a living narrative wrapped in elaborate costumes, bright faces, and stories that have traveled generations.

The opera experience feels like a portal, a moment where the everyday dissolves into colorful storytelling. Watching these performances amid a crowd that vibrates with appreciation reminds us that culture, like flavor, has the power to connect and transform. It’s a must for those seeking to grasp Chengdu beyond its streets and cuisine.

I went here with my mom in 2013, so we gave it a miss this time around, and even if you don't understand the opera (nobody will understand the opera anyway 😘), you will experience something to remember!

We are avid fans of GetYourGuide for booking tours, and this is the best way to book an opera experience:

Performers in vibrant costumes pose on stage with pink floral props, reflecting Chengdu’s lively spirit and famous opera culture. — *A Sichuan opera is always perplexing, but a wonderful evening.*

5. Discover Leshan Giant Buddha: A Majestic (and Manageable) Day Trip

Just a train ride away lies Leshan, home to the imposing Giant Buddha carved directly into a cliff face. Sitting at the confluence of three rivers, this 71-meter-tall statue is the largest stone Buddha in the world and radiates a silent grandeur. It even has 7-meter-tall ears. Seeing it from the river on a boat offers a perspective of scale and serenity hard to capture on foot.

The surrounding natural beauty, combined with the Buddha’s calm presence, invites reflection on how human effort and nature intertwine. Though part of the statue undergoes refurbishment, its serene gaze remains unmoved by time or tourists.

The Leshan Giant Buddha, an impressive stone statue carved into a red cliff, stands majestically near Chengdu. Surrounded by lush green trees and set beneath a clear blue sky, the ancient figure highlights the area’s rich cultural heritage and serene landscape.

This trip to Leshan feels less like a tourist visit and more like a pilgrimage, a chance to pause and absorb a different scale of history and spirituality. It reminds us that there are moments when larger-than-life art connects deeply to the human experience. If you venture to Leshan, pairing the visit with local Sichuan food in the area enriches the day even more, offering comfort after hours of exploration.

Leshan Giant Buddha Tips:

How to get to Leshan and the Giant Buddha:

To get to Leshan, you can head to Chengdu East (or South) Railway Station and take one of the regular trains from there. To plan your journey in advance, book train tickets from Trip.com. You will then need to take a taxi from Leshan railway station to the Buddha. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the tours below to arrange a transfer from Chengdu directly to the Buddha.

How to experience the buddha:

Once you are in Leshan, you can either experience the Giant Buddha by hiking the height of the Buddha (down and up again) or from a 30 minute boat-ride.

For hiking: The first time I came to Chengdu, my mom and I hiked it. You can either buy tickets there or utilize one of these tours:

For boating: You will find the ticket stand and boating docks close by the Buddha, although I recommend just asking around when you get there, as the dock was different from information we found online. Boats leave very regularly, and you'll get an unparalleled view from the decks of the boat. This is great for people who want to save a little energy.

Three men in life jackets stand on a boat deck, gazing over a tranquil river with the distant shoreline and lush greenery visible under a clear blue sky. They are enjoying the scenic beauty near Chengdu, a popular spot for tourists seeking things to do in Chengdu, such as visiting panda reserves and sampling Sichuan cuisine. — *We opted for the boat this time around.*

Leshan Giant Buddha statue carved into a cliffside near Chengdu, lush greenery and red railing on the left, a famous regional icon. — *The Giant Buddha from the top (when hiking) - admiring his 7 meter tall ears.*

6. Explore Nightlife and Community in Chengdu

Chengdu’s nightlife surprises with energetic yet welcoming spaces. Known as China’s most LGBTQ+-friendly city, it offers places where people can be themselves without hiding. We experienced this firsthand, finding way more bars and clubs than what I experienced back when I lived in Shanghai or Beijing.

These moments of night live music, dancing, and shared smiles highlight Chengdu’s growing community spirit. It’s an aspect of the city that sometimes goes unnoticed but feels vital to its character.

For those interested, our guides like this Gay Travel Guide to Chengdu reveal more about this inclusive side of the city.

Also, Chongqing has a great gay nightlife if you'd like to continue your gay adventures there.

A man in a black t-shirt and beige pants stands before a vibrant feather-patterned wall illuminated by a neon 'POSE CLUB' sign, reflecting the lively nightlife and inclusive spirit associated with Chengdu, where bold colors and expressive decor celebrate diversity. — *Striking a pose outside of Pose, one of Chengdu's gay nightclubs.*

7. Shopping and Modern Life: The New Century Global Center

For a taste of modern consumerism in Chengdu, the New Century Global Center stands as a colossal landmark, the world’s largest building by floor area. Housing shops, entertainment, and dining, it’s a spectacle of excess and convenience. Walking its enormous halls provokes a strange mix of awe and introspection about modern life and our desires.

Despite the temptation to buy everything in sight, this giant center stands in contrast to the traditional spaces we visited earlier. It’s a reminder of Chengdu’s layered personality: rooted in history yet forging ahead into the future.

8. Venture Beyond Chengdu: Day Trips and Nature Escapes

Chengdu’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring Sichuan’s breathtaking landscapes and neighboring cities. For spiritual seekers and hikers, Mount Emei (Emei Shan, 峨眉山) offers ancient temples and misty forest trails, just a short train ride away. Nature lovers shouldn’t miss Jiuzhaigou National Park (九寨沟), famous for its turquoise lakes and dramatic waterfalls—plan for an overnight trip to fully enjoy its beauty.

If you crave urban adventure, Chongqing is only 2.5 hours away by high-speed train. This viral cyberpunk city dazzles with its own spicy cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and unique hillside architecture. Each destination adds a new layer to your Sichuan journey, whether you’re chasing mountain sunrises or city lights.

Visitors ascend wide stone steps to a golden, multi-faced Buddhist statue atop elephants on Emei Mountain, a top thing to do in Chengdu. — *On top of Emei Shan.*

Women in Chengdu stand outside, each holding a tall wooden baton upright; a building rises in the background. — *Praying ladies on top of Emei Shan.*

A brightly illuminated traditional-style building complex in Chongqing glows at night, adorned with neon Chinese signs. Modern high-rises tower in the background. — *Get ready for some cyberpunk action in Chongqing!*

Is Chengdu Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. 100%.

Chengdu is a city that seamlessly blends ancient heritage with a vibrant, modern spirit. Whether you’re drawn by its world-famous pandas, lively food scene, or laid-back atmosphere, Chengdu offers experiences that stay with you long after you leave.

It’s not just about ticking off sights; it’s about immersing yourself in a culture that balances tradition and innovation, offering a sense of connection and relaxation that’s rare in China’s megacities like Shanghai and Beijing. If you’re seeking a destination that’s both dynamic and restorative, Chengdu is well worth your time.

Where to Stay in Chengdu

Chengdu has a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels in historic neighborhoods to modern high-rises in the city center.

For a more local experience, consider staying near Wide and Narrow Alleys or in a traditional courtyard-style guesthouse. These areas offer charming architecture and easy access to tea houses, street food, and cultural sights.

If you want to be close to the action, Chunxi Road is lively and convenient. This is where we stayed, and we appreciated being in the midst of all the action for the few days we were in Chengdu.

Book where we stayed!

No matter your budget, you’ll find a spot that feels welcoming and connected to the city’s pulse.

Two men stand side by side at a Chengdu subway station, one holding a camera and the other snapping a selfie, both reflected in a glass wall. Visible signage in Chinese and English marks the location in Chengdu. — *A good place to base yourself in Chunxi Road.*

How to Get to Chengdu

Getting to Chengdu is straightforward, with multiple options depending on your starting point and travel style.

By Train:
Chengdu is a major rail hub, connected by high-speed trains to cities like Chongqing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. Booking tickets in advance through Trip.com ensures the best prices and English support.

Book trains to Chengdu on Trip.com

By Air:
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) offers direct flights from most major Chinese cities and international destinations. Flights are frequent and convenient, making Chengdu easily accessible from anywhere. We have used Skyscanner for this purpose years.

Tip:
High-speed trains are often more comfortable and scenic than flying for regional travel, and let you see more of Sichuan’s countryside along the way.

A bustling crowd moves through the vast, modern railway station in Chengdu, featuring high ceilings, bright lighting, and large electronic display boards overhead. Travelers carry luggage as they navigate wide open spaces. — *The massive Chengdu East Railway Station.*

How to Get Around Chengdu

Getting around Chengdu is easy and efficient. The city’s metro system is modern and covers most major attractions, including the Panda Base and Chunxi Road. You can pay for the metro tickets by WeChat and AliPay (or cash).

For shorter distances, walking is enjoyable in historic districts and parks. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like DiDi are widely available and reliable.

Biking is also popular, with shared bikes found throughout the city, perfect for exploring riverside paths or quieter neighborhoods. Local buses connect most areas, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try a tuk-tuk or shared minivan for a local touch.

However you choose to move, exploring Chengdu is part of the adventure.

Final Thoughts on Chengdu’s Charm

Chengdu invites us to slow down, to appreciate the dance of quiet and chaos, history and change. From watching pandas nap under the sun to savoring spicy dishes that leave us smiling and sweating, the city offers a blend of experiences that feel personal and profound.

Its spacious streets feel surprisingly human, even with millions living within. The stories etched in its food, arts, and landmarks coax us to connect with ourselves and this place. Chengdu is not just a city; it’s a space to reflect on identity, resilience, and joy.

If you want to learn more about traveling in China or explore other stories, check out our comprehensive China Travel Guides for practical tips and inspiration.

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