Chengdu, the thriving capital city of Sichuan province, is increasingly becoming a top tourist destination in China for holidaymakers. The fact that nearly 80% of Sichuan’s Giant Panda population lives here puts Sichuan’s capital on the tourism map. But Chengdu attractions do not just end there! The city is also known for its stunning natural scenery, historical and cultural sites, hot and spicy Sichuan food, and Sichuan opera!
Located on the fertile Chengdu Plain, this city is called the “Land of Abundance”. This global city, an important economic, financial, commercial, and educational center, astonishes you with its pleasing laid-back vibe! The fall is the best time to enjoy sightseeing in Chengdu. Book cheap flights to Chengdu with iEagle and go through our quick list of the best things to do in Chengdu.
Snap pictures of the cute pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding:
Giant Panda Research Base, situated about 25 km from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, is undoubtedly the prime tourist attraction in Chengdu. Giant Pandas, the national symbol of China and one of the rarest animals in the world, are called ‘living fossils’ by zoologists. Utilizing the rare opportunity to watch these happy white-and-black creatures is the best thing to do in Chengdu. This Giant Panda Breeding Research Base is home to more than 100 giant pandas as well as other creatures like red pandas, cranes, etc. You can also visit Dujiangyan Panda Center or Bifengxia Giant Panda Base to see the giant pandas.
Climb the Mount Qingcheng:
If you are seeking peace in the lap of nature, then going to Mount Qingcheng is the best thing to do in Chengdu. Dubbed ‘the most peaceful and secluded mountain under heaven’, this scenic mountain features many peaks and is covered in thick evergreen forests throughout the year. Get lost in the verdant beauty surrounding you! This mountain is also one of the most important centers for Taoism in China and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore several historical and cultural sites like Jianfu Palace, Tianshi Cave, Shangqing Palace, etc. in the anterior part of the mountain.
Watch the impressive ‘Face Changing’ act of Sichuan Opera:
A trip to Chengdu is considered incomplete without attending a grand show of Sichuan opera at Sichuan Opera House located in Chengdu Cultural Park. Although every performance is impressive, the face-changing act is the highlight of Sichuan Opera! The way the performers seamlessly change their bright masks with just a flick of a traditional Chinese fan or cloak appears quite magical to the viewers. Enjoy different acts like fire breathing, shadow puppetry, etc. at Sichuan Opera House, one of the top Chengdu attractions and an important cultural destination.
A day trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha:
The 71-meter-tall and 24-meter-wide Leshan Giant Buddha is the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site! This popular Chengdu attraction is a unique marvel for being both a mountain and a sculpture, i.e., the mountain is a Buddha, and the Buddha is a mountain. Book a private tour and follow the lead of your guide who’ll take you to different lookout points that offer the best views of this colossal stone statue of Maitreya!
Evenings at Chengdu Tea Houses:
One of the classic things to do in Chengdu is to rejuvenate over a cup of tea at the popular tea houses. Enjoying tea while playing Mahjong is the favorite pastime of the locals. Tea houses are found pretty much everywhere in Chengdu, a place that best represents the tea culture of China! Try different types of Chinese tea at Heming Teahouse, Yuelai Teahouse, Suwei Chahao, Bamboo Leaf Teahouse, and at the tea houses in Baihuatan Park or near the riverbanks. If this is your first visit to China, check out our China travel tips!
