Best Places to Visit in Chengdu: LTL’s Local Guide
Planning a trip to Chengdu?
Great choice, Chengdu is one of our favourite cities in China!
As one of China’s most laid-back major cities, Chengdu is famous for its teahouses, spicy Sichuan cuisine, historic streets, and lively nightlife. But there’s much more to discover beyond the giant pandas!
Whether you’re interested in traditional Chinese culture, local food, hidden cafés, or the city’s modern skyline, Chengdu has something for everyone.
At LTL, we love helping students explore the city beyond the classroom.
Here are our recommendations for the best places to visit in Chengdu, from famous tourist attractions to local neighbourhoods worth exploring.
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Kuanzhai Alleys 宽窄巷子
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || People’s Park (人民公园)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Yulin Neighborhood (玉林)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Dongjiao Memory (东郊记忆)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Chengdu Twin Towers and Jiaozi Park (交子公园)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || SKP Chengdu and New Century (成都SKP / 环球中心)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Luxelakes (麓湖)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li (春熙路 / 太古里)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Wenshu Monastery (文殊院)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂)
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Jiuyan Bridge and Lan Kwai Fong (九眼桥 / 兰桂坊)
BONUS || Things to Do in Chengdu
Best Things To Do In Chengdu || Our Chengdu Itinerary
1. Kuanzhai Alleys (宽窄巷子)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 4 to Kuanzhai Xiangzi Station (宽窄巷子站), Exit B, then walk for approximately 3 minutes.
Kuanzhai Alleys, also known as Wide and Narrow Alleys, is one of Chengdu’s most famous historical areas.
Its traditional courtyard buildings, cobblestone lanes, and lively shops offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
It’s a great place to try traditional Sichuan snacks, browse souvenir shops, and take photos of the charming architecture.
You’ll also find artisan cafés, galleries, and independent shops in the surrounding area, particularly along nearby Kuixinglou Street.
2. Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街)
How to get there: Take line 10 to Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) Exit A2, then walk to Jinli.
Jinli Ancient Street is one of Chengdu’s best-known tourist attractions, located right next to Wuhou Shrine. With traditional-style buildings, red lanterns, street food stalls, and souvenir shops, it’s a great place to experience the charm of old Chengdu.
Here are three things to do during your visit:
- Try local snacks: Explore the food stalls and sample Sichuan specialties and traditional Chinese treats.
- Enjoy cultural performances: Depending on the schedule, you may catch traditional performances and other cultural shows.
- Explore the streets: Admire the architecture, browse the shops, and take photos along the picturesque lanes.
LTL tip: Visit in the evening! Once the lanterns light up, Jinli takes on a completely different atmosphere. It’s also a great opportunity to enjoy street food while exploring the lively streets.
3. People’s Park (人民公园)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to People’s Park Station (人民公园站), Exit J, then follow the signs to the park.
If you want to experience Chengdu’s famous laid-back lifestyle, People’s Park is a must-visit.
Opened in 1911, this central city park is where locals come to meet friends, drink tea, play mahjong, and enjoy a break from their busy routines.
One of the park’s highlights is Heming Teahouse (鹤鸣茶社), where you can sit on a traditional bamboo chair and enjoy a cup of Chinese tea.
You can also look for the park’s famous marriage market (pictured), where parents display information about their unmarried children in the hope of finding suitable partners for them.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into contemporary Chinese dating and marriage culture.
LTL tip: Don’t rush your visit. Order some tea, find a seat, and spend a little time watching everyday life unfold around you. It’s one of the best ways to experience Chengdu like a local.
4. Yulin Neighborhood (玉林)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 8 to Fangcao Street Station (芳草街站), Exit D, then walk for approximately 5 minutes.
Yulin is one of Chengdu’s most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its independent cafés, local restaurants, creative shops, and relaxed atmosphere.
It’s a great place to wander around, sample Sichuan food, and discover a side of the city that feels less touristy.
During the day, you can explore its small shops and cozy cafés. In the evening, the neighborhood becomes a popular gathering place, with bars, music, and plenty of spots to meet friends.
A few places worth checking out are CARPARK, HandBell Coffee, and BellaBella.
LTL tip: Leave some time to explore without a strict plan. Yulin is all about discovering little cafés, interesting streets, and local hangouts along the way.
5. Dongjiao Memory (东郊记忆)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 8 to Dongjiao Memory Station (东郊记忆站), Exit B1.
Dongjiao Memory is a creative and cultural park built on the site of a former industrial complex in eastern Chengdu.
Today, its old factory buildings, industrial architecture, and contemporary art spaces create a unique mix of old and new.
The area is home to cafés, shops, creative studios, music venues, and spaces for exhibitions and cultural events.
It’s particularly popular with people interested in photography, art, and alternative urban spaces.
LTL tip: Keep an eye out for temporary exhibitions, pop-up events, and live performances. Depending on when you visit, you might discover something beyond the usual sightseeing experience.
6. Chengdu Twin Towers and Jiaozi Park (交子公园)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Financial City Station (金融城站), then walk towards Jiaozi Park and the Twin Towers.
Want to see Chengdu’s modern side? Head to the Financial City district, where contemporary skyscrapers, green spaces, and impressive architecture create a striking contrast with the city’s historic neighborhoods.
The Twin Towers are among the area’s most recognizable landmarks, famous for their colourful LED displays after dark. Nearby, Jiaozi Park offers lakeside paths, landscaped green spaces, and views of the surrounding skyline.
It’s an excellent area for an evening stroll, relaxing outdoors, or taking photos of Chengdu’s modern cityscape.
LTL tip: Arrive around sunset and walk through Jiaozi Park before heading towards the Twin Towers after dark. This way, you can enjoy both the park in daylight and the illuminated skyline in the evening.
7. SKP Chengdu and New Century Global Center (成都SKP / 环球中心)
How to get there: Chengdu SKP is accessible from Jincheng Plaza Station (锦城广场站), served by Metro Line 18. Check the route to each complex before setting off.
For a different kind of Chengdu experience, explore the city’s impressive shopping and entertainment destinations.
New Century Global Center is an enormous shopping and entertainment complex featuring shops, restaurants, a cinema, and an indoor water park. Its sheer size makes it a destination in its own right.
SKP Chengdu is a luxury shopping complex known for its contemporary architecture, designer brands, and distinctive outdoor spaces. But one of its biggest attractions isn’t the shopping: it’s the Tower of Vitality (生机之塔), a spectacular bamboo-inspired fountain that has gone viral on social media.
The installation features six towering structures inspired by bamboo, with cascading water, mist, and colorful LED lights that transform the space after dark.
The combination of water and changing lights creates a futuristic, almost otherworldly atmosphere, making it one of Chengdu’s most photogenic spots.
LTL tip: Visit after sunset to see the bamboo fountain illuminated in different colors. Don’t forget your camera, this is a great place to take photos and videos.
8. Luxelakes (麓湖)
How to get there: Take line 1, exit at 麓湖, exit A
Located in southern Chengdu, Luxelakes is a modern lakeside destination that combines nature, contemporary architecture, art, and lifestyle spaces.
The area features scenic waterfronts, cafés, restaurants, and creative venues, making it a lovely place to escape the bustle of the city.
You can take a leisurely walk by the water, explore distinctive architectural spaces, or spend a relaxing afternoon at a lakeside café.
Depending on the time of your visit, you may also find cultural events, exhibitions, and other creative activities.
LTL tip: Allow plenty of time to explore the area rather than treating it as a quick stop. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for somewhere different from Chengdu’s busy downtown streets.
9. Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li (春熙路 / 太古里)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 or Line 3 to Chunxi Road Station (春熙路站).
Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li are two of Chengdu’s most popular shopping and lifestyle destinations, located next to each other in the city center.
Chunxi Road is a bustling pedestrian shopping street filled with fashion stores, shopping malls, restaurants, and local snack shops. It’s also famous for the giant panda sculpture climbing the side of the IFS shopping mall, one of Chengdu’s most recognizable photo spots.
Taikoo Li offers a different atmosphere, combining luxury brands, stylish boutiques, cafés, and restaurants with traditional Sichuan-inspired architectural elements and open-air walkways.
Together, the two areas offer a great introduction to Chengdu’s contemporary lifestyle, from international fashion brands to local dining spots.
LTL tip: Visit in the late afternoon or evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere, explore the shops, and grab something to eat. Don’t forget to look for the famous panda on the IFS building!
10. Wenshu Monastery (文殊院)
How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Wenshu Monastery Station (文殊院站), Exit K.
Wenshu Monastery is one of Chengdu’s best-known Buddhist temples and a peaceful escape from the city’s busy streets.
Its traditional architecture, beautiful courtyards, incense-filled halls, and Buddhist statues make it an excellent place to discover the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Beyond the temple itself, the surrounding neighborhood is worth exploring.
You’ll find vegetarian restaurants, traditional snacks, tea shops, and small stores selling Buddhist-inspired items.
LTL tip: Take your time exploring the courtyards and nearby streets. If you enjoy tea and vegetarian food, the area around the monastery is a great place to slow down and experience another side of Chengdu.
11. Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠)
How to get there: Take line 10, exit 武侯祠 A2
Wuhou Shrine is one of Chengdu’s most important historical attractions.
Surrounded by traditional buildings, red walls, ancient trees, and peaceful gardens, the shrine offers a fascinating introduction to one of the most celebrated periods in Chinese history.
Whether you’re interested in Chinese history, architecture, or simply enjoying a beautiful historical setting, Wuhou Shrine is well worth a visit.
LTL tip: Combine your visit with Jinli Ancient Street, located right next door. You can explore the historical site during the day and then enjoy Jinli’s food stalls, shops, and lantern-lit streets in the evening.
12. Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂)
How to get there: Take Chengdu Metro Line 13 to 杜甫草堂(地铁站)
Du Fu Thatched Cottage is a peaceful historical site dedicated to Du Fu, one of China’s most celebrated poets from the Tang Dynasty.
The grounds feature traditional-style buildings, bamboo groves, tranquil gardens, and beautiful ponds.
It’s a lovely place to take a break from the busy city while discovering more about Chinese literature and history.
Even if you aren’t familiar with classical Chinese poetry, the site’s architecture and peaceful surroundings make it worth exploring.
LTL tip: Visit when you have a few hours to spare. Wander through the gardens, admire the traditional buildings, and enjoy the quieter atmosphere.
13. Jiuyan Bridge and Lan Kwai Fong (九眼桥 / 兰桂坊)
How to get there: Take line 13 exit at 九眼桥.
When the sun goes down, Jiuyan Bridge is one of the places to visit for a different perspective on Chengdu.
Located along the Jinjiang River, the area is known for its historic bridge, riverside views, and illuminated buildings.
Just nearby, Lan Kwai Fong is a popular nightlife district filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s a lively place to meet friends, enjoy drinks, and experience the city’s nightlife.
Whether you prefer a relaxed walk by the river or a night out, this area offers both options within easy reach of each other.
LTL tip: Start with a walk along the river around sunset, then head to Lan Kwai Fong if you’re in the mood for drinks, music, and a night out.
BONUS || Things to Do in Chengdu
So now we know the best places to go in Chengdu, but what about the best things to do to accompany these?
Here’s a bonus list of things that Chengdu does great, all written by locals living in Chengdu!
1. Enjoy a Cup of Tea in a Traditional Chengdu Teahouse
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss in Chengdu, it’s enjoying a cup of tea in a traditional Chinese teahouse!
Tea culture is an important part of local life, and Chengdu is famous for its relaxed lifestyle.
Locals love spending hours in teahouses chatting with friends, playing mahjong, reading the newspaper, or simply enjoying a slow afternoon. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s laid-back atmosphere and see how locals enjoy their everyday lives.
On a sunny day: Heming Teahouse (鹤鸣茶社)
Located inside People’s Park, Heming Teahouse is one of Chengdu’s most famous traditional teahouses.
Surrounded by trees and greenery, it’s the perfect place to sit outdoors, sip tea, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the park. If you’re lucky, you might even spot locals playing mahjong or enjoying a traditional ear-cleaning service!
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to People’s Park Station (人民公园), Exit B, and walk for approximately 3 minutes.
On a rainy day: Daqi Teahouse (大旗茶馆)
If the weather isn’t on your side, Daqi Teahouse is a great alternative.
Located near Kuanzhai Alleys (宽窄巷子), this spacious indoor teahouse offers a different way to experience Chengdu’s tea culture. You can enjoy a cup of tea while watching traditional performances and soaking up the atmosphere without worrying about the weather.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Tonghuimen Station (通惠门), Exit C, and walk for approximately 7 minutes.
2. Watch a Sichuan Opera Performance
Watching a Sichuan Opera (川剧) performance is a must-do when visiting Chengdu!
Sichuan Opera is one of the region’s most distinctive traditional art forms, famous for its colorful costumes, expressive acting, comedy, and spectacular tricks.
One of the most famous is bian lian (变脸), or face-changing, where performers switch between different masks in the blink of an eye!
There are several places in Chengdu where you can enjoy a Sichuan Opera show, including Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街), where you can combine a performance with a stroll through traditional-style streets, local snacks, and beautiful evening lights.
A convenient option near LTL: Baijia Ban (百家班)
If you’re looking for an entertaining show that’s easy to fit into your schedule, Baijia Ban is a great option close to LTL Chengdu.
The performance lasts around one hour, and ticket prices may vary throughout the year. Even if you don’t speak much Chinese, you can still enjoy the show! The performances are full of visual tricks, humour, music, and impressive stage skills, so you don’t need to understand every word to have a good time.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 2 to Chunxi Road Station (春熙路), Exit C, and then walk for 13 minutes. Or Line 3 exit Second People’s Hospital (市二医院）exit A and then walk for 10 minutes.
3. Take a Night Boat Tour on the Jinjiang River
Want to see Chengdu from a different perspective?
Take a boat tour along the Jinjiang River (锦江) and admire the city’s beautiful lights after dark!
As night falls, the riverbanks light up, creating a beautiful view of Chengdu’s modern skyline alongside traditional-style architecture.
A boat ride is a relaxing way to enjoy the city at night, take photos, and experience a different side of Chengdu away from the busy streets.
How to book: You can book your tickets directly through the WeChat mini program 夜游锦江 (Jinjiang River Night Cruise). Simply search for the name in WeChat to find the mini program and check the available departure times and ticket prices.
4. Explore Chengdu’s Night Markets
One of the best ways to experience Chengdu’s local life is by visiting a night market! As evening falls, the streets come alive with food stalls, sizzling skewers, local snacks, drinks, and plenty of people.
It’s the perfect place to try Sichuan street food, discover new flavours, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
If you want to experience Chengdu after dark like a local, here are two night markets worth visiting.
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Fuqin Night Market (抚琴夜市)
Fuqin is a popular spot for street food lovers, with plenty of stalls selling local snacks and affordable bites.
Wander through the streets, follow the delicious smells, and try a few different dishes along the way. It’s a great place to experience the everyday food culture of Chengdu!
How to get there: Take Metro Line 5 to Fuqin Station (抚琴), Exit B1.
Sanselu Night Market (三色路夜市)
Sanselu Night Market is another great option for an evening food adventure. Come hungry and explore the different stalls offering street food, snacks, and drinks. It’s a fun place to walk around with friends, sample different dishes, and enjoy Chengdu’s lively nighttime atmosphere.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 6 to Jinshi Road Station (金石路), Exit E2, and walk for approximately 10 minutes.
5. Enjoy Live Music in Yulin
If you’re looking for a fun way to spend an evening in Chengdu, head to Yulin (玉林), one of the city’s most lively neighbourhoods.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, trendy bars, and lively nightlife, Yulin is a great place to discover Chengdu’s local music scene.
The neighborhood has plenty of bars featuring live music, with different styles and atmospheres to choose from.
The best part?
You don’t need to plan too much in advance! Take a walk along Yulin West Road (玉林西路), explore the different venues, and choose a bar that catches your eye. Whether you prefer a cozy spot for a drink or a lively place to enjoy a live band, there’s plenty to discover.
How to get there: Head to Yulin West Road (玉林西路) and explore the surrounding streets on foot.
6. Visit the Giant Pandas
You can’t visit Chengdu without seeing its most famous residents: giant pandas!
Chengdu is one of the best places in the world to see these adorable animals, and visiting a panda base is a must for any trip to the city.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地)
Located in the northern part of Chengdu, this research and conservation center is home to giant pandas, red pandas (and even monkeys). The base is quite large, so allow a few hours to explore the different areas. It’s a great experience for animal lovers and one of Chengdu’s most iconic attractions!
How to get there:
- Tourist bus: Take a tourist shuttle bus from Chunxi Road (春熙路) directly to the Panda Base. You can check schedules and book tickets through the WeChat mini program 景区直通车.
- Metro and bus: Take Metro Line 3 to Junqu Zongyiyuan Station (军区总医院), Exit B, and then take Bus 409 to the Panda Base.
Our tip: Go early in the morning, when pandas are generally more active and likely to be eating or playing.
Later in the day, they often spend more time sleeping, so an early start gives you a better chance of seeing them at their best!
7. Try Sichuan Hot Pot (火锅)
If there’s one dish you absolutely have to try in Chengdu, it’s hot pot!
Famous for its bold flavors and spicy broth, Sichuan hot pot is an essential part of the local food culture and a fun dining experience to share with friends.
A pot of bubbling broth is placed in the middle of the table, and you cook a variety of ingredients yourself, including thinly sliced meat, vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and noodles.
The most traditional Sichuan version features a spicy broth packed with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, which create the characteristic numbing and spicy sensation known as málà (麻辣).
Not a fan of spicy food? Don’t worry! Many restaurants offer a split pot with both spicy and non-spicy broth, so everyone can enjoy the experience.
Our recommendation: If you want to try authentic Sichuan hot pot in Chengdu, we recommend Yuanli Hot Pot (园里火锅)!
7 Days in Chengdu: A Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 | Day Trip from Chengdu: Exploring Dujiangyan (都江堰)
Located about an hour from Chengdu, Dujiangyan is a fantastic destination for a day trip.
Famous for its ancient irrigation system, charming old town, and beautiful riverside scenery, it offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and photo opportunities.
The best part? You can explore many of its main attractions on foot, making it an easy and enjoyable day trip from Chengdu.
Stop 1: Take a Selfie with the Giant Panda at Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场)
Start your day with a morning train from Chengdu to Lidui Park Railway Station (离堆公园站).
Just a short walk from the station, you’ll find Yangtianwo Square, famous for its enormous selfie-taking panda sculpture!
The giant panda lies on its back holding a smartphone, making it one of Dujiangyan’s most popular photo spots.
It’s the perfect place to take some fun pictures before continuing your day exploring the area.
How to get there: Take a morning train from Chengdu to Lidui Park Railway Station (离堆公园站). Yangtianwo Square is within walking distance of the station.
Stop 2: Explore Guanxian Ancient City (灌县古城)
After taking your photos with the giant panda at Yangtianwo Square, head to Guanxian Ancient City, a historic district just a short walk away.
Wander through its traditional-style streets, browse the local shops, and stop for some Sichuan snacks or a cup of tea.
It’s a lovely place to experience the local atmosphere and discover more of Dujiangyan on foot.
Don’t miss Xuanhua Gate (宣化门), one of the area’s landmarks, and continue towards South Bridge (南桥), which is especially beautiful after dark when its lights illuminate the river.
How to get there: From Yangtianwo Square (仰天窝广场), walk towards Guanxian Ancient City. You can explore the area on foot and continue to South Bridge.
Stop 3: Visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰景区)
After exploring Guanxian Ancient City and taking a stroll across South Bridge, continue to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area (都江堰景区), about a 10-minute walk away.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an extraordinary irrigation system built over 2,000 years ago. Still functioning today, it has played a crucial role in managing the Min River’s waters and irrigating the Chengdu Plain for centuries.
Walk across the bridges, admire the river and surrounding mountains, and discover how this remarkable engineering achievement works.
It’s a great opportunity to learn about ancient Chinese history while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
How to get there: From Guanxian Ancient City, walk for approximately 10 minutes to the entrance of Dujiangyan Scenic Area.
Our tip: Allow a few hours to explore the scenic area, as there are several viewpoints, bridges, and historic structures to discover.
Stop 4: Stroll Along Wenmiaoshan Street (文庙山街)
Wenmiaoshan Street is a charming street in Dujiangyan, known for its nostalgic atmosphere, traditional architecture, and unique local character.
Take your time wandering around, exploring the small shops, and taking photos of the street’s distinctive details. It’s a lovely spot to slow down and discover a different side of the city.
Our tip: Keep your camera ready! The street has plenty of interesting corners and photo opportunities.
Stop 5: See South Bridge at Night (南桥夜景)
As evening approaches, head to South Bridge (南桥), one of Dujiangyan’s most iconic landmarks.
The bridge is particularly beautiful after dark, when its traditional architecture lights up and reflects on the flowing Min River below.
The surrounding area becomes lively in the evening, with visitors strolling along the riverbanks and enjoying local food.
It’s the perfect place to end your day trip, take some memorable photos, and experience Dujiangyan’s atmosphere at night.
Our tip: Visit after sunset to enjoy the illuminated bridge at its best!
Day 2 | Qingcheng Mountain (青城山)
If you love nature, hiking, and Chinese culture, Qingcheng Mountain is a must-visit destination near Chengdu.
Located around 1–1.5 hours from the city, it is one of the birthplaces of Taoism and is famous for its lush green forests, ancient temples, peaceful trails, and misty mountain scenery.
How to Get There: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Qingchengshan Railway Station (青城山站).
From there, local shuttle buses or taxis can take you to the mountain entrance. Check the train schedule and transport options in advance.
Day 3 | Visit Leshan and Its Giant Buddha (乐山大佛)
Located about 1–2 hours from Chengdu, Leshan is a fantastic destination for a day trip, especially if you’re interested in Chinese history, culture, and impressive landmarks. The city is most famous for the Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛), an enormous stone statue carved into a cliff overlooking the river.
Built during the Tang Dynasty and standing 71 meters tall, the Giant Buddha is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world.
It took almost a century to complete and was designed to help protect boats navigating the waters where three rivers meet. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sichuan’s most remarkable attractions.
What to See and Do
Leshan Giant Buddha (乐山大佛): Get up close to this incredible statue by exploring the scenic area on foot. You can admire the Buddha from above or follow the steep staircase down the cliff for a closer view of its enormous feet. Be prepared for queues, especially during holidays!
Boat Tour: If you want to appreciate the Buddha’s full size, consider taking a boat trip on the river. From the water, you can see the entire statue at once, making it an excellent option for photos.
How to Get There
By high-speed train: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站) or Chengdu South Railway Station (成都南站) to Leshan Railway Station (乐山站).
From Leshan Railway Station to the Giant Buddha:
By bus: Take Bus 3, Bus 605, or the K1 bus towards the scenic area. Bus 3 and Bus 605 cost approximately ¥2 and take around 35–45 minutes.
By taxi or DiDi: A taxi or ride-hailing car takes approximately 20–25 minutes and costs around ¥25–40, depending on traffic and your pick-up point.
Day 4 | Discover the Ancient Shu Civilization at Sanxingdui (三星堆)
If you’re fascinated by ancient history and archaeology, Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆博物馆) is a must-visit destination near Chengdu.
Located in Guanghan, around an hour from the city, the museum showcases remarkable discoveries from the ancient Shu civilization, which flourished in Sichuan thousands of years ago.
Sanxingdui is famous for its unusual bronze masks, enormous bronze figures, gold artifacts, and intricate objects that reveal a civilization very different from those found in other parts of ancient China.
Some of the discoveries are so distinctive that visiting the museum feels like stepping into another world.
What to See and Do
Explore the museum’s impressive collections: Discover ancient bronze masks, sculptures, jade objects, and gold artifacts that offer a glimpse into the beliefs and artistic achievements of the ancient Shu people.
See the iconic bronze masks: With their exaggerated eyes and distinctive features, these are among Sanxingdui’s most recognizable discoveries.
Learn about the archaeological discoveries: The exhibitions explain the history of the site and the significance of the artifacts found there, making this a fascinating visit even if you’re not an archaeology expert.
How to Get There
By high-speed train: Take a train from Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站) to Guanghan North Railway Station (广汉北站). From there, take a taxi or DiDi to the museum, which is a short drive away.
By direct tourist bus: You can also check for direct tourist buses departing from central Chengdu, including the Chunxi Road (春熙路) area. This can be a convenient option if you prefer not to change transport.
Our Tip: Book your tickets in advance through the museum’s official WeChat channel. Bring the original passport, and allow around 3–4 hours to explore the museum without rushing.
Day 5 | Wander Through Huanglongxi Ancient Town (黄龙溪古镇)
If you’d like to experience the charm of a traditional Chinese water town, Huanglongxi Ancient Town is a lovely day trip from Chengdu.
Located around 30–40 km south of the city, this historic town is known for its stone-paved streets, traditional architecture, ancient temples, and riverside scenery.
Take your time wandering through the narrow lanes, browsing small shops, and stopping at a traditional teahouse.
The town’s old buildings and bridges create a picturesque atmosphere, making it a great place to take photos and enjoy a slower pace away from the busy city.
What to See and Do
Explore the ancient streets: Wander along the traditional lanes lined with old-style buildings, local shops, and snack stalls.
Visit the ancient temples: Discover historic temples such as Gulong Temple (古龙寺) and enjoy the town’s traditional architecture.
Relax by the river: Take a stroll along the waterfront, admire the old bridges, or enjoy a cup of tea at a riverside teahouse.
How to Get There
By direct bus: Take a direct bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station (新南门车站) in Chengdu to Huanglongxi Ancient Town.
By metro and bus: Take Chengdu Metro Line 5 to Huilong Station (回龙站), then transfer to Bus S18 to reach Huanglongxi Ancient Town.
Day 6 | Explore Luodai Ancient Town (洛带古镇)
Located on the outskirts of Chengdu, Luodai Ancient Town is a charming destination known for its traditional architecture, historic streets, and strong Hakka cultural heritage.
It is one of the largest Hakka settlements in the Chengdu area, offering a glimpse into the traditions and history of this community.
Take a stroll through the old streets, admire the traditional buildings, and explore the town’s distinctive guild halls, which reflect its Hakka roots.
Along the way, you’ll find plenty of local food stalls, small shops, and places to stop for a snack.
What to See and Do
Walk along the old streets: Explore the traditional lanes, browse local shops, and admire the historic architecture.
Visit the Hakka Guild Halls: Discover historic buildings such as the Guangdong Guild Hall (广东会馆), which reflect the heritage of Hakka communities who settled in the area.
Try local snacks: Sample Sichuan street food and Hakka-inspired specialties while exploring the town.
Explore the surrounding area: If you have extra time, visit nearby attractions or enjoy a more relaxed walk beyond the busiest streets.
How to Get There
By metro and bus: Take Chengdu Metro Line 4 to Xihe Station (西河站), then transfer to a local bus or take a taxi or DiDi to Luodai Ancient Town.
By taxi or DiDi: You can also travel directly from central Chengdu. The journey time depends on your starting point and traffic conditions.
Day 7 | Take a Trip to Chongqing (重庆)
If you want to experience one of China’s most fascinating and futuristic cities, Chongqing (重庆) is well worth a visit from Chengdu.
Famous for its mountain landscape, towering skyscrapers, winding roads, and spicy hot pot, Chongqing is unlike anywhere else in China.
Its unique combination of traditional neighborhoods and futuristic architecture makes it a favorite destination for travelers and photography enthusiasts.
What to See and Do
This probably deserves it’s own post in itself, but to summarise…
Hongya Cave (洪崖洞): One of Chongqing’s most iconic landmarks, this multi-level complex of traditional-style buildings is especially beautiful at night when its lights illuminate the hillside. Visit the surrounding bridges and riverfront for great photo opportunities.
Liziba Station (李子坝站): See the famous metro station where a train passes directly through a residential building. It’s one of the city’s most unusual sights and a popular photo spot.
Jiefangbei (解放碑): Explore Chongqing’s busy downtown shopping district, filled with shopping malls, restaurants, and street food stalls.
Eighteen Steps (十八梯): Wander through this historic hillside neighborhood, where traditional architecture, narrow stairways, shops, and cafés offer a glimpse of old Chongqing.
Take a Yangtze River cruise: Enjoy views of the city’s illuminated skyline from the water, particularly after sunset.
Try Chongqing hot pot (重庆火锅): Known for its bold, spicy flavors, Chongqing hot pot is a must-try local specialty. If you prefer something milder, ask for a less spicy broth.
How to Get There
By high-speed train: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu East Railway Station (成都东站) to Chongqing. Trains arrive at different stations, including Chongqing North (重庆北站) and Shapingba (沙坪坝站), depending on the service. The journey usually takes around 1–2 hours, so check the train schedule and arrival station when booking.
Getting around Chongqing: The city’s metro system is convenient for reaching many major attractions, although the mountainous terrain can make some journeys less straightforward than they appear on a map. Taxis and DiDi are also useful for reaching destinations farther from metro stations.
