Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in southwest China, is a city rich in culture, history, and unforgettable culinary experiences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food, ancient traditions, or nature adventures, Chengdu has something for everyone. In this 4-day, 3-night itinerary, we’ll explore the best sights, activities, and hidden gems that will make your trip to Chengdu truly unforgettable.
Day 1: Arrival and Immersing Yourself in the Culture of Chengdu
Morning:
After arriving in Chengdu, the first thing you’ll notice is the city’s blend of modernity and tradition. Start your day by heading straight to your hotel and dropping off your luggage. Some hotels that is recommended would be the Shangri-La ChenDu, Grand Hyatt Hotel or the Minyoun Chengdu Dongda Hotel! You can book them here at Trip.com!
Late Morning:
Your first stop should be the Wuhou Shrine, one of Chengdu’s most famous historical landmarks. The shrine is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the famous military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. The serene temple and beautiful gardens offer a peaceful environment where you can learn about Chinese history and the story of this revered figure.
- Tip: Don’t forget to check out the adjacent Jinli Ancient Street. It’s a charming, traditional pedestrian street lined with local shops selling Sichuan snacks, tea, and handicrafts. This is also a great place to pick up souvenirs and experience the local culture.
Lunch:
Sichuan cuisine is famous for its bold flavors, especially its spicy and numbing ingredients. You can’t visit Chengdu without trying a hot pot meal. The local hot pot features a boiling broth of chilies and Sichuan peppercorns, and you’ll have the chance to dip in various meats, vegetables, and noodles. One of the best places for an authentic hot pot experience is Shu Jiu Xiang, located near Wuhou Shrine.
Afternoon:
Next, head to The Sichuan Opera to enjoy a face-changing performance, which is a part of traditional Sichuan culture. The show is a spectacular display of costume changes and mask swaps that happens in mere seconds. It’s a must-see performance to get a taste of Chengdu’s theatrical arts.
- Tip: You can get your tickets here at Klook!
Evening:
Take a relaxing stroll along the Chunxi Road shopping district. This area is bustling with activity, and you’ll find everything from high-end shops to local eateries. It’s the perfect place to experience Chengdu’s night vibe, with neon lights and lively street scenes.
- Dinner Suggestion: Try some Sichuan-style dumplings at Lao Ma Tou, a well-known spot for dumplings that are drenched in a spicy, tangy sauce. Pair it with a glass of Sichuan tea, which is a great way to unwind after your first day in the city.
Day 2: Pandas, Sichuan Food, and Traditional Architecture
Morning:
No trip to Chengdu is complete without a visit to the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The best time to see pandas is in the early morning when they’re most active. You’ll be able to watch the playful baby pandas rolling around, eating bamboo, and interacting with each other. The panda reserve is one of the largest and most successful in China, and it offers an incredible opportunity to see these adorable creatures up close.
- Tip: Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and consider visiting on a weekday to escape the weekend crowds. You can book your tickets here at Klook!
Lunch:
For lunch, enjoy a delicious meal at Chengdu Panda Base Café, which offers snacks and meals with a great view of the pandas. It’s a fun spot to refuel before heading to your next destination.
Afternoon:
After spending the morning with the pandas, immerse yourself in the culinary culture of Chengdu with a visit to the Sichuan Food Museum. This museum is a must-visit for food lovers who want to understand the unique flavors and history behind Sichuan cuisine. It’s a vibrant, interactive museum that walks you through the origins of iconic dishes like Mapo Tofu, Kung Pao Chicken, and the infamous Sichuan Hotpot.
The museum also offers hands-on cooking workshops where you can learn how to make traditional Sichuan dishes. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of the food culture that defines Chengdu.
In addition, there is unlimited food tasting where they prepare traditional Si-Chuan food and snacks for everyone to savour. The sichuan style dumplings are extremely delicious and is highly recommended for everyone to try when you are there. Check it out and book your tickets here at Klook Now!
- Tip: Don’t miss the Spice Exhibit where you can learn about Sichuan peppercorns and other spices that are essential in creating the bold flavors that characterize Sichuan cuisine.
Evening:
For a cultural immersion, head to Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley), a historic area in Chengdu filled with traditional architecture and vibrant local shops. This district features a mix of ancient homes, modern cafés, and street performers. The contrast between old and new makes it an exciting place to explore at night.
- Dinner Suggestion: Enjoy some Sichuan-style noodles or mapo tofu, a famous dish made with tofu and minced meat in a spicy and savory sauce, at a local restaurant like Chen Mapo Tofu.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Morning:
Take a day trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Qingcheng, located just outside of Chengdu. Known for its lush greenery, ancient Taoist temples, and peaceful atmosphere, Mount Qingcheng offers scenic hiking trails that allow you to explore both nature and spirituality. You can take a cable car or hike up to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Taoist temples scattered along the trails. The most famous is Zhenguo Temple, which is known for its rich cultural history and stunning architecture.
Lunch:
On the way down from Mount Qingcheng, stop by one of the local eateries for a traditional Sichuan hotpot or a simple yet satisfying noodle dish. The mountain area is known for its deliciously fresh ingredients and local specialties.
Afternoon:
After your visit to Mount Qingcheng, head to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is an ancient irrigation project that still functions today. The system was created over 2,000 years ago by the famous engineer Li Bing, and it’s an engineering marvel that helped turn the Chengdu Plain into one of China’s most fertile agricultural regions.
Explore the Dujiangyan Dam, Fulong Temple, and the Lidui Park. The park offers beautiful walking paths and spots to sit and enjoy the natural beauty.
Evening:
Return to Chengdu and relax with a soothing foot massage at one of the local spas. Chengdu is famous for its massage parlors, and after a day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than unwinding with a traditional foot rub or body massage.
- Dinner Suggestion: For your final night, indulge in a Sichuan-style BBQ at Huo Gui Guo, a popular restaurant where you can try skewered meats and vegetables grilled to perfection, often dipped in spicy sauces.
Day 4: Explore local lifestyle before Departure
Morning:
If you have some time left before your flight, consider a relaxing walk through People’s Park, a serene park right in the heart of Chengdu. Here, you can sit by the lake, enjoy a cup of tea at a lakeside teahouse. The tea house is a MUST-VISIT if you want to experience Chengdu’s tea culture. (would recommend the sichuan tea paired with green tea!)
You can also browse the “Matchmaking Corner” which is another highlight of the People’s park. Parents, and grandparents post advertisements looking for potential spouses for their unmarried children. These ads typically include details about the person’s age, education, job, and other personal traits. It’s an interesting slice of Chinese culture and offers a fun, unusual but very interesting experience.
Conclusion: Why Chengdu Should Be on Your Travel List
From the majestic pandas and ancient temples to the spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine and the serene landscapes of Mount Qingcheng, Chengdu is a city that blends history, culture, and modernity in a way few places can. This 4-day itinerary gives you a great introduction to the highlights of the city and surrounding areas, but there’s so much more to discover if you have the time.
Whether you’re seeking an adventure in nature, a deep dive into ancient Chinese culture, or simply want to indulge in the best food China has to offer, Chengdu will not disappoint.
- TIP: You can also extend your travel to Chong Qing which is just a 2 hour+ train ride away. Another whole new city is waiting for you to be discovered! Book your train tickets eaisily here at Trip.com!
