Chengdu China 6 Day Itinerary

6-Day Chengdu Itinerary: A Taste of Sichuan

This itinerary combines the best of Chengdu’s cultural attractions with its natural beauty and culinary delights. It’s designed for a traveler interested in experiencing both the bustling city and the serene countryside.

Day 1: Arrival & Pandas!

  • Morning: Arrive at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU).

    • Things to know:
      • Chengdu is known as the “Home of Pandas” for its renowned panda breeding and research center.
      • Be prepared for a potential language barrier. Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps.

  • Transportation:

    • Take a taxi (around ¥30-40) or the airport bus (around ¥10, check schedules for frequent departures) to your hotel in Chengdu city.

  • Things to do & see:

    • Settle into your accommodation at The Temple House Hotel (a luxurious option with a unique blend of traditional and modern design)
    • Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: This is a must-do for any Chengdu traveler!
    • Explore Jinli Ancient Street: Enjoy traditional Sichuan architecture, street food, and local crafts.

  • Food:

    • Have dinner at Chen Mapo Tofu, a classic Chengdu dish. Be sure to try the spicy dan dan noodles and the mapo tofu (they’re famous for it!). Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and maximize your time.

Day 2: History & Tranquility

  • Morning: Explore the Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to the ancient strategist Zhuge Liang.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and learn about its impressive history and engineering.

  • Evening: Take a relaxing stroll through Jinli Ancient Street and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Have dinner at a restaurant with a view, like The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu, which offers traditional Sichuan cuisine with a modern twist.

Food:

  • Sample spicy Sichuan snacks at the street stalls near Dujiangyan (think spicy skewers, noodles, and regional snacks!).
  • Enjoy a delicious Sichuan hotpot dinner for a truly authentic culinary experience.

Day 3: Sichuan Delights & Panda Encounters

  • Morning: Visit the Panda Breeding Base, but focus on the activities and experiences offered there.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, focusing on the panda exhibits and learning about their conservation efforts.

Food:

  • Try a local Chengdu restaurant like Yu’s Family Kitchen (known for its spicy Sichuan dishes) or Lao Ma’s Spicy Chicken.
  • Enjoy a traditional Sichuan tea ceremony in the evening for a relaxing cultural experience.

Day 4: A Day Trip to Heaven

  • Activity: Take a day trip to Qingcheng Mountain, known for its Taoist temples and serene landscapes.
  • Things to know:
    • Book your tour in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

Transportation:

  • Hire a driver or take a guided tour to get around the Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.

Day 5: Exploring the City Walls & Ancient Charm

  • Enjoy a relaxing walk or bike ride along the ancient city walls, which are a great place to get a sense of the history and culture of Chengdu.
  • Take in the views from one of the towers, like the Wuhou Temple Pagoda.

Day 6: Departure & Farewell

  • Enjoy a final Sichuan breakfast before visiting the Chengdu Panda Breeding Research Base for a deeper understanding of their conservation efforts.
  • Explore the Panda Avenue, a charming street with restaurants and shops, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Chengdu.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi) for a glimpse into the city’s past.

Food:

  • Enjoy spicy Sichuan snacks like dan dan noodles, spicy rabbit head, or a bowl of spicy hot pot at Qingcheng Mountain.

Things to consider:

  • Weather: Be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, from humid summers to mild winters. Pack accordingly.

  • Accommodation:

    • Consider staying in the Wuhou District, known for its historical sites and convenient location.

Day 4: Exploring the City’s Past & Present

  • Visit the Sichuan Museum (or other museums like the Jinsha Site Museum) to explore the rich history of the region.
  • Explore the ancient Chengdu streets, but consider the crowds and plan for a less intense experience.

Transportation:

  • Consider taking a taxi or ride-sharing service for a comfortable journey back to the city.

Day 5: A Day in Chengdu’s History

  • Take a break from the spice and explore the cultural side of Chengdu, like the Wenshu Monastery or the ancient Jinli district.
  • Enjoy a traditional tea house experience, trying different types of tea and learning about the tea-drinking culture.

Transportation:

  • Consider taking a bus or taxi back to your hotel, as it’s important to be comfortable** after a day exploring ancient history**.

  • Consider booking a tour for the entire duration of your stay.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Traditional Sichuan cuisine, such as Kung Pao Chicken at Chen Mapo Tofu, is a must-try. Enjoy local dishes like mapo tofu and dan dan noodles, but be prepared for spicy flavors!**

Transportation:

  • Take advantage of the convenient public transportation system in Chengdu to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

  • Things to do:

    • Visit the ancient temples of Chengdu, including the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.

Day 6: Farewell & Memories

  • Enjoy a final, delicious meal (perhaps spicy hotpot) before heading home.

Food & Drink:

Enjoy a final breakfast in Chengdu and savor the city’s unique culinary offerings.

Other:

  • Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base.
  • Consider a local market for authentic experiences and fresh produce.
  • Book your trip ahead of time to avoid disappointment and secure the best deals.

Transportation:

  • Consider taking a taxi or ride-sharing service back to the airport.

Day Trip Ideas:

  • Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, which is dedicated to the conservation of these adorable creatures.

  • Explore the historical and cultural significance of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

  • Enjoy a delicious Sichuan breakfast before heading home.

Other Things to Consider:

  • Language: Download a translation app, as English isn’t widely spoken outside tourist areas. Consider learning basic Mandarin phrases for navigating the city.
  • Currency: China uses the yuan (RMB). Money changers are readily available in Chengdu, but it’s best to exchange enough for your journey and use ATMs for larger amounts.**

Other Considerations:

  • Carry a small dictionary or phrasebook.
  • Research the type of food you’d like to try beforehand.

Let me know if you’d like me to suggest some specific restaurants or activities in Chengdu. I can provide information on:

  • Traditional tea houses: I can recommend some with unique experiences and delicious tea options.
  • Local cuisine recommendations: Want to explore the variety of Sichuan food? I can help!

Let me know if you have any other preferences for your itinerary, like:

  • Specific interests: Are there any particular types of food, temples, or activities in Chengdu that appeal to you?
  • Budget: Knowing your budget will help me suggest accommodation and transportation options.