Things to do in Chengdu: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (Xiongmao Jidi), Chengdu
Overview: The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base is a world-renowned conservation center focused on protecting and breeding giant pandas.
History: Established to help save the giant panda species from extinction through scientific research and breeding programs.
Since When: Founded in 1987.
Review: Visitors adore the chance to see adorable pandas of all ages in a beautiful, natural setting.
When to Go: Visit in the morning when pandas are most active.
How to Go: Reachable by taxi, bus, or metro from Chengdu city center.
What to Do: Watch pandas eat and play, visit the panda museum, and explore the scenic gardens.
Free or Paid: Paid (entry ticket required).
Jinli Pedestrian Street, Chengdu
Overview: Jinli Pedestrian Street is a lively ancient-style street filled with shops, street food, and cultural performances.
History: Originally part of the area around the Wuhou Shrine, known for its history dating back to the Three Kingdoms period.
Since When: Renovated and reopened to the public in 2004.
Review: Tourists love its charming atmosphere, traditional architecture, and tasty local snacks.
When to Go: Best visited in the evening when the lights and crowds bring it to life.
How to Go: Located next to Wuhou Shrine, easily accessible by taxi or public bus.
What to Do: Shop for souvenirs, try Sichuan street food, and enjoy live performances.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu
Overview: The Chengdu Research Base is dedicated to panda conservation, research, and public education.
History: It was developed to replicate the natural habitat of pandas and to boost their survival rates.
Since When: Opened in 1987.
Review: Widely praised for its lush environment and the unforgettable experience of observing pandas up close.
When to Go: Morning is the best time to see pandas when they are most active and feeding.
How to Go: Easily reachable by bus, metro, or taxi from central Chengdu.
What to Do: Explore panda enclosures, visit the panda nursery, and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid (entrance fee applies).
China Discovery, Chengdu
Overview: China Discovery is a professional travel agency specializing in customized tours across China, especially in Chengdu and Sichuan.
History: Founded to offer personalized and in-depth travel experiences for international tourists.
Since When: Established in 2008.
Review: Travelers commend their excellent service, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itineraries.
When to Go: Available year-round depending on your travel schedule.
How to Go: Book online or visit their office in Chengdu for trip consultations.
What to Do: Plan and join custom-made tours, including panda visits, Sichuan cuisine experiences, and cultural tours.
Free or Paid: Paid (cost varies based on tour packages).
Leshan Giant Buddha, Chengdu
Overview: The Leshan Giant Buddha is the world’s largest and tallest stone Buddha statue, carved into a cliff face.
History: Constructed during the Tang Dynasty to calm the turbulent rivers and protect sailors.
Since When: Began in 713 AD and completed in 803 AD.
Review: Visitors are awe-struck by the immense scale and craftsmanship of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When to Go: Visit during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
How to Go: Accessible via high-speed train or bus from Chengdu to Leshan, followed by a short taxi ride.
What to Do: Climb the mountain to view the Buddha from above, or take a river cruise for the best view.
Free or Paid: Paid (entry ticket required).
Kuan Alley and Zhai Alley, Chengdu
Overview: Kuan Alley and Zhai Alley are historical pedestrian streets showcasing old Chengdu culture, architecture, and lifestyle.
History: Originally established during the Qing Dynasty as residential areas for soldiers and officials.
Since When: The alleys were restored and opened to the public in 2008 as a cultural tourism site.
Review: Visitors love the blend of traditional architecture, teahouses, boutiques, and local food stalls.
When to Go: Best to visit in the late afternoon or evening for a lively atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in downtown Chengdu, easily accessible by metro, bus, or taxi.
What to Do: Explore historic courtyards, shop for local crafts, and enjoy Sichuan snacks.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu
Overview: Kuanzhai Alley is a famous cultural and historical district with three parallel ancient streets.
History: Built during the Qing Dynasty to accommodate returning soldiers and civilians.
Since When: Restored and revitalized for tourism and culture promotion in 2008.
Review: Tourists praise its charming blend of old Chengdu architecture, cafes, and cultural exhibitions.
When to Go: Visit in the evening to experience traditional lanterns and vibrant nightlife.
How to Go: Reachable by Chengdu Metro Line 4 or by taxi.
What to Do: Wander through alleys, taste local cuisine, and enjoy street performances.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Chengdu
Overview: The Dujiangyan Irrigation System is an ancient water management project still in use today.
History: Built over 2,000 years ago during the Qin Dynasty to control floods and provide irrigation.
Since When: Completed around 256 BC.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the incredible engineering feat and scenic surroundings.
When to Go: Best during spring and autumn for comfortable weather.
How to Go: Accessible by train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan City, then a short bus or taxi ride.
What to Do: Visit the ancient irrigation structures, hike the surrounding hills, and enjoy cultural relics.
Free or Paid: Paid (entry fee required).
Mount Qingcheng, Chengdu
Overview: Mount Qingcheng is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the birthplaces of Taoism.
History: Revered as a Taoist spiritual center since the Eastern Han Dynasty.
Since When: Religious activity began around the 2nd century AD.
Review: Hikers and spiritual seekers enjoy its lush forests, serene temples, and peaceful trails.
When to Go: Ideal from March to November for mild and pleasant weather.
How to Go: Reachable by train to Qingchengshan Railway Station, followed by a short taxi or bus ride.
What to Do: Hike the scenic trails, visit Taoist temples, and ride the cable car for stunning views.
Free or Paid: Paid (entrance ticket required).
Wenshu Yuan Monastery, Chengdu
Overview: Wenshu Yuan Monastery is the best-preserved Buddhist temple complex in Chengdu.
History: Originally built during the Sui Dynasty and later rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty after a fire.
Since When: Reconstructed in the late 17th century.
Review: Visitors appreciate its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and traditional architecture.
When to Go: Visit year-round, preferably in the morning for a serene experience.
How to Go: Accessible via Chengdu Metro Line 1, Wenshu Monastery Station.
What to Do: Explore ancient halls, attend Buddhist ceremonies, and enjoy vegetarian meals.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with optional paid activities like temple blessings.
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Giant Panda Brood Area, Chengdu
Overview: This specialized section within the Chengdu Research Base focuses on caring for and breeding baby pandas.
History: Established as part of the panda conservation effort to increase the panda population through scientific breeding.
Since When: Functioning alongside the main research base since the early 2000s.
Review: Visitors are enchanted by the chance to see newborn and young pandas in a nurturing environment.
When to Go: Best to visit early in the morning when baby pandas are most active.
How to Go: Located within the Chengdu Research Base, accessible by taxi, bus, or metro.
What to Do: Observe panda cubs, learn about panda breeding, and visit the panda nursery.
Free or Paid: Paid (included in the base’s entrance ticket).