Day 1: Explore 溶洞旅游 the City’s History and Eateries
Start your day in the city’s historical center, the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi). The restored Qing Dynasty-era alleys are filled with shops selling traditional handicrafts, street vendors selling delicious local snacks, and quaint teahouses, making it the perfect spot for a morning stroll. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Sichuanese snack, spicy rabbit head (la tiaozi), at one of the street vendors!
In the afternoon, head to Jinli Ancient Street. Known as the “First Street of the Shu Kingdom,” Jinli is another beautifully preserved historic area of Chengdu. The street is lined with traditional architecture, souvenir shops, and food stalls serving up Sichuanese dishes like mapo tofu and dan dan noodles.
End your first day of exploration with a visit to the 猫咪旅游 People’s Park in the heart of Chengdu. You can take a leisurely stroll through the park or join a group of locals for some tai chi. Make sure to also visit the Heming Teahouse, an iconic Chengdu institution where you can relax and sip tea while listening to traditional Sichuanese music.
Day 2: Nature and Cuisine
Start your second day by visiting the panda bears at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The center is located just outside Chengdu and is home to over 100 pandas. You can watch them play and eat bamboo, and even have the opportunity to cuddle with a baby panda (for a fee, of course).
In the evening, visit one of the city’s hot pot restaurants for dinner. Hot pot is a popular Sichuanese dish where you cook raw meat, vegetables, and noodles in a pot of boiling broth at your table. Try Chuan Chuan Xiang, a popular hot pot chain that has locations throughout the city. Make sure to try the spicy broth options!
Day 3: Temples and Parks
Start your final day with a visit to the Wenshu Monastery, a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the heart of Chengdu. The temple is surrounded by peaceful gardens and teahouses where you can relax and sample some delicious Sichuanese tea.
In the afternoon, head to the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a museum and park dedicated to the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. The park is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city and showcases the simple lifestyle of the poet and his family.
End your trip with a visit to the Qingyang Palace, one of the oldest Taoist temples in China. The temple complex dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is decorated with wonderful murals and sculptures. You can attend a Taoist ceremony or simply stroll around the peaceful gardens.
Chengdu is a city with a rich heritage and delicious cuisine. By following this three-day itinerary, you’ll have the chance to visit some of the city’s most memorable sites and try some of the best food around. Happy travels!
