Chengdu, China-5-day-itinerary

Chengdu Itinerary: A 5-Day Exploration of Pandas & Sichuan Flavors

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Chengdu, Shangri-La Hotel Chengdu
  • Mid-Range: Chengdu Wanda Reign Hotel, Hilton Chengdu
  • Budget: Chengdu Hi Chun Hotel, Chengdu Shuncheng Guesthouse

Things to Know:

  • Visa: Most nationalities require a visa for China. Apply in advance.
  • Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY). Credit cards are accepted at major establishments but carry cash for smaller shops and markets.
  • Language: Mandarin Chinese. Download a translation app for ease of communication.
  • Transportation: Chengdu has an efficient metro system, taxis are readily available, and Didi (Chinese ride-hailing app) is popular.

Transportation Tips:

  • Purchase a Chengdu Metro Card for easy travel on the subway.
  • Negotiate fares with taxi drivers before starting your journey.
  • Download Didi for convenient and affordable rides.

Day 1: Pandas & Ancient Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (reservations recommended!). Witness adorable pandas playing, eating bamboo, and napping.

  • Afternoon: Explore Wuhou Shrine, a complex dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a revered strategist from the Three Kingdoms period. Admire ancient architecture and serene gardens.

  • Evening: Enjoy authentic Sichuan hotpot at Shu Daxia (蜀大侠) for a fiery and flavorful culinary experience.

Day 2: Temple Serenity & Tea Culture

  • Morning: Visit Qingyang Palace, a Daoist temple with intricate carvings and peaceful courtyards.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the art of tea at a traditional teahouse like Heming Teahouse. Learn about different tea varieties and enjoy a calming ceremony.
  • Evening: Stroll through Jinli Ancient Street, browse local crafts, and sample street food delicacies like skewered meats and spicy noodles.

Day 3: History & Nature Escape

  • Morning: Explore the Jinsha Site Museum, showcasing artifacts from an ancient Shu civilization settlement dating back 3,000 years.

  • Afternoon: Hike or bike through Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site and impressive feat of engineering dating back to the Qin Dynasty.

  • Evening: Indulge in Sichuan cuisine with a modern twist at Yu Zhi Lan (鱼之蓝).

Day 4: Modern Chengdu & Artistic Flair

  • Morning: Visit the Taikoo Li district, a vibrant shopping and entertainment complex with stylish boutiques, international restaurants, and art installations.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Chengdu Museum, showcasing the city’s history, culture, and art.

  • Evening: Attend a Sichuan Opera performance at the Sichuan Opera House for a unique cultural experience featuring acrobats, masks, and traditional music.

Day 5: Farewell Feast & Last Minute Shopping

  • Morning: Visit Chunxi Road, Chengdu’s main shopping street, for souvenirs like silk scarves, tea sets, and panda-themed gifts.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a final Sichuan meal at Chen Mapo Tofu, famous for its signature spicy tofu dish.
  • Evening: Depart from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU).

Additional Tips:

  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “how much?” (duōshao qián?).
  • Be prepared for spicy food! Sichuan cuisine is known for its chili peppers.
  • Download a VPN app to access blocked websites and social media platforms in China.

Enjoy your adventure in Chengdu!