ChengDu city guide


Overview

ChengDu (成都) is the capital city of SiChuan province in south-west China. Known for its spicy cuisine, relaxed lifestyle, and panda conservation centers, ChengDu offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Top Attractions

  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地) - Chéngdū Dàxióngmāo Fányù Yánjiū Jīdì
  • Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) - Jǐnlǐ Gǔjiē
  • Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) - Wǔhóu Cí
  • Qingcheng Mountain (青城山) - Qīngchéng Shān
  • Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰) - Dūjiāngyàn
  • Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi
  • Sichuan Opera and Face Changing Show (川剧变脸) - Chuānjù Biànliǎn
  • Chengdu People's Park (成都人民公园) - Chéngdū Rénmín Gōngyuán
  • Chunxi Road (春熙路) - Chūnxī Lù
  • Song Xian Qiao Antique Market (宋庆龄故居松仙桥古玩市场) - Sòng Qìnglíng Gùjū Sōngxiānqiáo Gǔwàn Shìchǎng
  • Wenshu Monastery (文殊院) - Wénshū Yuàn
  • Mt. Emei (峨眉山) - Éméi Shān (Day trip from Chengdu)

Dining Experiences

  • Hot Pot (火锅) - Huǒguō
  • Sichuan Cuisine (川菜) - Chuāncài
  • Tea Houses (茶馆) - Cháguǎn
  • Huangcheng Laoma (Old Master Huang's Restaurant) (黄城老妈) - Huángchéng Lǎomā
  • Yulin Life Plaza Food Street (玉林生活广场美食街) - Yùlín Shēnghuó Guǎngchǎng Měishí Jiē
  • Long Chaoshou Restaurant (Dragon's Wonton Restaurant) (龙抄手) - Lóng Chāoshǒu

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Chunxi Road Shopping District (春熙路购物区) - Chūnxī Lù Gòuwù Qū
  • Taikoo Li (太古里) - Tàigǔlǐ
  • IFS (International Finance Square) (国际金融中心) - Guójì Jīnróng Zhōngxīn
  • Sichuan Opera and Tea Culture Show (川剧茶艺表演) - Chuānjù Cháyì Biǎoyǎn
  • Chengdu Global Center (成都环球中心) - Chéngdū Huánqiú Zhōngxīn
  • Chengdu IFS Ice Fountain (IFS冰雪奇缘) - IFS Bīngxuě Qíyuán
  • Chengdu New Century Global Center (成都世纪环球中心) - Chéngdū Shìjì Huánqiú Zhōngxīn
  • Tianfu New Area (天府新区) - Tiānfǔ Xīn Qū

    • . Tianfu New Area is a rapidly developing region known for its modern architecture, innovative industries, and urban planning.

Nightlife and Entertainment

  • Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Alley) (宽窄巷子) - Kuānzhǎi Xiàngzi
  • Jiuyanqiao Bar Street (九眼桥酒吧街) - Jiǔyǎnqiáo Jiǔbā Jiē
  • Lan Kwai Fong Chengdu (成都兰桂坊) - Chéngdū Lánguìfāng
  • Heming Teahouse (Hemingway Bar) (海明茶馆) - Hǎimíng Cháguǎn
  • Chengdu Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li (成都远洋太古里) - Chéngdū Yuǎnyáng Tàigǔlǐ

Practical Tips

  • Transportation: Use the Chengdu metro system, buses, or taxis for getting around.
  • Language: Mandarin is the primary language; learn some basic phrases.
  • Weather: Chengdu has a mild climate, but prepare for occasional rain, especially in summer.
  • Currency: Use local currency (Renminbi).
  • Panda Visits: Plan your visit to the panda base early in the morning for the best panda viewing.
  • Respect Local Customs: Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and tea culture of Chengdu.

Hidden Gems

  • Chengdu Culture Park (成都文化公园) - Chéngdū Wénhuà Gōngyuán
  • Chengdu Panda Asian Food Festival (成都国际熊猫美食节) - Chéngdū Guójì Xióngmāo Měishí Jié
  • Anshun Bridge Night Market (安顺廊桥夜市) - Ānshùn Lángqiáo Yèshì

Enjoy exploring Chengdu's rich culture, delicious cuisine, and the adorable giant pandas!

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in southwest China, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and relaxed lifestyle. Here's a guide for tourists visiting Chengdu:

Cultural and Historical Attractions:
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: One of the most popular attractions in Chengdu, this conservation center allows visitors to observe giant pandas in a semi-natural habitat.

Jinli Ancient Street: Located next to Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street is a bustling pedestrian street lined with traditional Sichuan-style buildings, shops, teahouses, and street food stalls.

Wuhou Shrine: Dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, and Liu Bei, the emperor of the Shu Kingdom, Wuhou Shrine is a historic complex with beautiful gardens and ancient architecture.

Du Fu Thatched Cottage: This museum and park commemorates the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu and features reconstructions of his former residence and gardens.

Culinary Delights:
Sichuan Cuisine: Chengdu is renowned for its spicy and flavorful Sichuan cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try local specialties like mapo tofu, hot pot, and dandan noodles.

Hot Pot: Chengdu's hot pot is famous nationwide. Enjoy a communal dining experience where you cook various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients in a bubbling pot of spicy broth.

Natural Beauty:
Mount Qingcheng: Located about an hour's drive from Chengdu, Mount Qingcheng is one of the birthplaces of Taoism and offers picturesque hiking trails, ancient temples, and serene scenery.

Jiuzhaigou Valley: While it's a bit further from Chengdu (requiring a flight or long bus ride), Jiuzhaigou Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and colorful forests.

Modern Attractions:
Chengdu Research Base of Tianfu Giant Panda Breeding: In addition to the Giant Panda Breeding Base, this newer facility focuses on breeding and research for giant pandas and other endangered species.

Sichuan Opera: Experience traditional Sichuan opera performances featuring colorful costumes, face-changing (bian lian) techniques, acrobatics, and puppet shows.

Practical Tips:
Transportation: Chengdu has an efficient public transportation system, including a subway and buses. Taxis and ride-hailing services like DiDi are also readily available.

Weather: Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. It's advisable to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

Language: While Mandarin is the official language, the local dialect in Chengdu is Sichuanese. English may not be widely spoken outside of tourist areas, so consider learning a few basic phrases or carrying a translation app.

Chengdu offers a blend of cultural heritage, culinary delights, and natural beauty, making it an enticing destination for travelers seeking an authentic Chinese experience. Whether you're exploring historic sites, savoring spicy cuisine, or marveling at the region's natural wonders, Chengdu is sure to leave a lasting impression.

SiChuan map

Related Videos

 

Featured Videos

Hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge-ous 虎跳峡, YunNan province
Hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge-ous 虎跳峡, YunNan province
Join Tim and Glo at the world's deepest river gorge. Count on two days for this hike, with a stay at a half-way guest house (book ahead). Tiger Leaping Gorge, HǔTiào Xiá, lies about 100 kilometers (62 miles) north-west of LiJiang and is also 'near' Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (YuLong XueShan) and ShangRi-La (XiangGeLiLa; real name : Zuong DiAn). Wonderful, beautiful place, awesome video ...
XiZhou ancient town, near DaLi in YunNan province
XiZhou ancient town, near DaLi in YunNan province
With Sun Kissed Bucket List ... XiZhou Ancient Town Visitor Guide XiZhou Ancient Town is a gem of Yunnan Province, located approximately 20 kilometers from Dali’s old town. Nestled along the shores of the serene Erhai Lake, XiZhou offers a unique blend of rich Bai culture, stunning ancient architecture, and a tranquil environment, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a more intimate and traditional experience. Overview Location: XiZhou is situated within the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture and is renowned for its well-preserved Bai minority culture. Famous For: Traditional Bai houses, ancient courtyards, folk performances, unique local cuisine, and vibrant markets. Getting There From Dali: You can take a bus or taxi from Dali Old Town (20-30 minutes). From Kunming: XiZhou is about a 5-hour drive from Kunming. Buses to Dali are available, and from Dali, you can take local transportation to XiZhou. Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). Top Attractions in XiZhou Yan Family Courtyard (Yan Jia Da Yuan): The most famous ancient residence in XiZhou, showcasing traditional Bai architecture with beautiful wood carvings, white-washed walls, and murals. Bai Minority Culture and Houses: Explore over 150 well-preserved traditional Bai houses with intricate designs and courtyards. XiZhou Morning Market: A bustling market full of fresh produce, traditional snacks, and local crafts. Arrive early (7 AM – 9 AM) to experience the market at its liveliest. Erhai Lake: A stunning lake where you can walk, cycle, or take boat rides to enjoy the natural beauty. Shuanglang Town: A trendy nearby town famous for its artistic vibe and boutique guesthouses. A perfect day trip from XiZhou. Cultural Experiences Bai Minority Dress and Dance: Experience colorful traditional Bai clothing and catch performances of traditional dances during festivals or market days. Tea Culture at XiZhou: Enjoy traditional tea-tasting experiences in local homes or guesthouses. Local Delicacies XiZhou Baba (喜洲粑粑): A crispy, savory (or sweet) flatbread made from wheat flour. Try it fresh from street vendors. Dali Cheese (Rushan, 乳扇): A Bai specialty cheese, often grilled or fried, that you can find throughout the town. Erhai Fish: Fresh fish dishes prepared from the lake's bounty, best enjoyed at lakeside restaurants. Rose Petal Cake (玫瑰饼): A delicate pastry filled with rose petal jam. This treat is especially famous in XiZhou, where roses are grown locally. Its fragrant sweetness makes it a popular souvenir. Where to Stay Local Homestays: Family-run guesthouses, often in traditional Bai homes, offering an intimate experience of Bai culture. Boutique Hotels: For more luxury, boutique hotels combine modern amenities with traditional architecture. Tips for Visitors Language: Most people speak the local Bai dialect, but Mandarin Chinese is sufficient for communication. English is not widely spoken. Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and ask permission before photographing people. Shopping: Support local artisans by purchasing handmade textiles, embroidery, and silverware from the markets. Nearby Attractions Dali Old Town: A larger, more developed town known for its old city walls, temples, and lively atmosphere. Cangshan Mountain: Offers hiking trails, cable cars, and panoramic views of Erhai Lake and Dali’s landscape. Conclusion XiZhou Ancient Town is an ideal destination for those wanting to immerse themselves in authentic Bai culture, ancient architecture, and the peaceful lakeside environment of Yunnan. Whether you're exploring ancient homes, tasting local delicacies, or enjoying the beauty of Erhai Lake, XiZhou provides a rich cultural experience in a relaxed setting.
The APEC 2014 Beijing Fireworks Gala 北京亚太会议烟火晚会
The APEC 2014 Beijing Fireworks Gala 北京亚太会议烟火晚会
Great cultural performances plus a dazzling fireworks show at the Olympic Park ... The Artistic World Gymnastics 2014, NanNing, GuangXi : Opening and team finals Peng Cheng and Zhang Hao, Exhibition Gala 2014, Cup of China
The 2010 Asian Games closing gala – best songs
The 2010 Asian Games closing gala – best songs
A selection of beautiful performances from the 16th Asian Games held in GuangZhou, provincial capital of GuangDong ... Sing Sing So - Indonesia Mongolia Sakura - Japan Yue Guang Guang - China Kazakhstan Happy Journey Mongani by Gupta Tanya & Ravi Tripathi Sunshine Again
Pandas !
Pandas !
Dong village in GuiZhou province – XiaSi Ancient Town
Dong village in GuiZhou province – XiaSi Ancient Town
With Beautiful China ... XiaSi Ancient Town - Dong Village Travel Guide History Attractions Activities Food Transportation Tips History of XiaSi Ancient Town XiaSi Ancient Town, located in the Dong Village of GuiZhou Province, is a historic town that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Dong ethnic group. With a history dating back over 800 years, XiaSi is renowned for its traditional Dong architecture, unique drum towers, and wind and rain bridges. The town's preservation of ancient customs and traditions provides a living snapshot of Dong culture that has been passed down through generations. Top Attractions in XiaSi Ancient Town 1. Drum Tower The Drum Tower is the symbol of the Dong people and serves as the heart of the village. It is a traditional wooden structure used for gatherings and ceremonies. The intricate carvings and unique architecture make it a must-see. 2. Wind and Rain Bridge The Wind and Rain Bridge, also known as the Flower Bridge, is an iconic piece of Dong architecture. It serves not only as a bridge but also as a place for villagers to rest and socialize, sheltered from the elements. 3. Dong Opera Stage The open-air Dong Opera Stage is a cultural gem where traditional Dong performances are held. Visitors can experience the rich storytelling and music that characterize Dong opera. 4. Dong Residential Houses Stroll through the village to see the traditional stilted wooden houses of the Dong people. These homes are built using ancient techniques and showcase the unique architectural style of the Dong community. Activities to Enjoy 1. Participate in a Dong Dance Join the locals in a traditional Dong dance. The Dong people are known for their vibrant dance and music, often performed in the village square or around the Drum Tower. 2. Explore Local Handicrafts Visit local workshops to see artisans creating traditional Dong handicrafts, including embroidery, silver jewelry, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase these items as souvenirs. 3. Attend a Dong Wedding Ceremony If you're lucky, you might witness a traditional Dong wedding ceremony. These ceremonies are colorful and vibrant, featuring music, dance, and traditional rituals. Local Food & Delicacies 1. Dong Rice Wine Dong rice wine is a traditional beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet flavor and is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations. 2. Sour Fish Soup This is a popular dish among the Dong people, made with fresh fish, pickled vegetables, and spices. The soup has a distinctive sour and spicy flavor. 3. Glutinous Rice Cakes Glutinous rice cakes are a traditional snack in Dong cuisine. They are often filled with sweet or savory ingredients and steamed to perfection. How to Get There By Bus From Guiyang, the capital of GuiZhou, you can take a long-distance bus to Liping County, followed by a local bus to XiaSi. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours. By Train Take a train to Kaili, a nearby city in GuiZhou. From Kaili, buses are available to Liping County and then to XiaSi Ancient Town. By Car If you prefer driving, renting a car from Guiyang or Kaili is an option. The roads to XiaSi are scenic but can be narrow and winding, so drive with caution. Travel Tips for XiaSi Ancient Town Learn a few basic phrases in the Dong language to connect better with locals. They appreciate the effort! Respect local customs and traditions, especially during ceremonies and cultural events. Bring comfortable walking shoes as you will be exploring on foot, often on uneven paths. Plan your visit during one of the Dong festivals, such as the Dong New Year, to experience the vibrant local culture.
BeiHai Park 北海公园, BeiJing 北京 : ten scenes
BeiHai Park 北海公园, BeiJing 北京 : ten scenes
Filmed in October 2010
What lies ahead for US – China relations ?
What lies ahead for US – China relations ?
With professor Ken Hammond ... Bonus film ...
DIY chiseled stone cooking pot
DIY chiseled stone cooking pot
Awesome craftsmanship ... Bonus film - a beautiful wood bowl ... And - pack basket plus hot, sweet and sour potato noodles ...

Tag search ?