Chengdu’s Must-See Attractions: A First-Timer’s Guide

As the heart of Sichuan Province, Chengdu offers an intoxicating mix of ancient teahouse culture, fiery cuisine, and adorable giant pandas. This Chengdu travel guide highlights 10 essential stops that showcase the city’s unique personality—from thousand-year-old temples to bustling food streets.

1. Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子)

Why visit: Step into old Chengdu at this beautifully preserved Qing dynasty neighborhood.

• Wide Alley (Kuan Xiangzi): Traditional courtyard homes turned into artisan shops
• Narrow Alley (Zhai Xiangzi): Boutique cafés and souvenir stalls
• Well Alley (Jing Xiangzi): Photo ops with vintage wall murals

Pro tip: Arrive by 9 AM to sip gaiwan tea (¥20) in peace before crowds arrive. The morning light is perfect for photography.

2. Chengdu Panda Base (大熊猫繁育研究基地)

Why visit: The world’s most accessible panda encounter.

• Best viewing: 8-10 AM when pandas are most active
• Don’t miss: Nursery area with playful cubs (July-September)
• Save energy: Take the shuttle (¥10) between enclosures

Insider knowledge: The “retirement home” area houses elder pandas—less crowded and just as charming.

3. Wuhou Temple (武侯祠)

Why visit: China’s only combined shrine to both a ruler (Liu Bei) and his strategist (Zhuge Liang).

• Key sights: Red-walled passageways, ancient cypress trees
• Hidden gem: The tranquil Huiling Mausoleum in back
• Perfect pairing: Visit with adjacent Jinli Street (below)

Cultural note: Look for couplets praising Zhuge Liang’s loyalty—still revered today.

4. Jinli Ancient Street (锦里)

Why visit: A living postcard of Sichuan’s food culture.

• Must-try snacks:
  • Dandan mian (担担面, ¥15): Nutty, spicy noodles
  • San da pao (三大炮, ¥10): Sticky rice balls tossed in红糖
  • Bingfen (冰粉, ¥8): Iced jelly with fruity toppings

Evening magic: Lanterns illuminate the street after dark—ideal for romantic strolls.

5. Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂)

Why visit: Walk in the footsteps of China’s “Poet Sage.”

• Recreated scenes: The Tang dynasty hut where Du Fu wrote 240 poems
• Best seasons: Spring blossoms or autumn foliage
• Unexpected highlight: Excellent calligraphy exhibits

Poetic touch: Bring a notebook—the bamboo groves inspire reflection.

6. Chunxi Road & Taikoo Li (春熙路/太古里)

Why visit: Where Chengdu’s past and future collide.

• Iconic photo spot: The climbing panda sculpture at IFS
• Foodie bonus: Hidden hotpot joints in alleyways
• Local secret: Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li’s nighttime light shows

Shopping tip: Look for Shu embroidery accessories—lighter than ceramics for luggage.

7. People’s Park (人民公园)

Why visit: The ultimate Chengdu microcosm.

• Must-do: Tea at Heming Teahouse (¥20-30)
• Quirky sights: Blind date corner (weekends), ear cleaners (¥30)
• Unexpected activity: Rent a paddleboat (¥50/hour)

Local hack: Buy a fan (¥15) from vendors—essential in summer.

8. Wenshu Monastery (文殊院)

Why visit: A spiritual oasis with Sichuan’s best vegetarian cuisine.

• Free incense: Offered at entrance for prayers
• Food highlight: Mushroom “meat” dishes at the monastery restaurant
• Souvenir idea: Handmade Buddhist bracelets (¥20-50)

Etiquette note: Dress modestly (no shorts/sleeveless tops).

9. Jiuyanqiao (九眼桥)

Why visit: Chengdu’s answer to the Seine riverside.

• Best experience: Sunset cocktails at Erma Bar (贰麻酒馆)
• Photo tip: The bridge lights up at 7:30 PM sharp
• Alternative: Live Sichuan opera at nearby Shufeng Yayun

Safety note: Stick to well-lit areas if exploring late.

10. Jinsha Site Museum (金沙遗址博物馆)

Why visit: See the “Chinese Tutankhamun” artifacts.

• Star exhibit: The 3,000-year-old Golden Sun Bird
• Cool feature: Air-conditioned underground excavation site
• Time saver: English audio guides (¥20)

Pro move: Combine with a Sichuan Museum visit for full historical context.

Chengdu Travel Guide Tips

Getting around:

• Use Didi (China’s Uber) for taxis (¥9起步价)
• Metro Lines 2/3/4 serve most attractions

Food precautions:

• Request wei la (微辣) for “mild spicy”
• Carry tissues—many small eateries don’t provide napkins

Money saving:

• Bundle tickets: Some sites offer joint passes
• Tea is cheaper than coffee (¥15 vs ¥30)

Cultural musts:

• Learn xièxie (谢谢, thank you)
• Accept tea refills with two fingers tapping the table

Final Thought

This Chengdu travel guide proves the city offers far more than just hotpot (though that’s divine too). Whether you’re watching pandas somersault, tracing ancient poetry, or bargaining for silk scarves, Chengdu’s magic lies in its ability to be both vibrantly modern and deeply traditional—all while making you feel right at home.

Now, grab your camera and an empty stomach—adventure awaits among these teahouse-dotted streets.