Chengdu 成都: Pandas, Spicy Food, and Ancient Streets

Where Tradition Meets Innovation in Sichuan’s Capital

Welcome to Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province and a city that perfectly embodies the laid-back lifestyle of southwest China. As a first-time visitor, prepare to be charmed by tree-lined streets, mouth-watering spicy cuisine, adorable giant pandas, and a unique culture that beautifully balances ancient traditions with modern vibrancy.

Explore Chengdu with:

• Expedia
• Hotels.com
• Trip.com

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Start your Chengdu adventure at the world-famous Panda Base. Here, you can observe these beloved creatures in a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment. Watch them munch on bamboo, play with each other, and if you’re lucky, you might even see baby pandas in the nursery.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Visit early in the morning (around 8-10 am) when the pandas are most active and feeding. Don’t forget your camera!

Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街)

For a taste of old Chengdu, wander down Jinli Ancient Street. This pedestrian street is lined with traditional-style buildings housing shops, restaurants, and tea houses. It’s the perfect place to sample local snacks, buy souvenirs, and soak in the atmosphere of old Sichuan.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Visit in the evening when the street is lit up with red lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere.

Tianfu Square (天府广场)

At the center of Chengdu lies Tianfu Square, dominated by a large statue of Chairman Mao. This expansive plaza showcases the city’s modern face, surrounded by skyscrapers and shopping centers. It’s also a transport hub, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Visit the square at night to see the impressive musical fountain show.

Getting Around the City

Chengdu boasts an efficient metro system that connects most major attractions. Buses and taxis are also readily available for areas not covered by the metro.

💡 First-Timer Tip: Download the Chengdu Metro app for easy navigation. It has an English interface and works offline.

A Spicy Culinary Adventure

Chengdu is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, and for good reason. Sichuan cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and liberal use of spices, particularly the numbing Sichuan peppercorn.

Must-Try Local Dishes:

1. Sichuan Hotpot (四川火锅): A communal dining experience where you cook various ingredients in a spicy broth.

2. Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐): Soft tofu in a spicy sauce with minced meat.

   

3. Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁): Diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts and vegetables.

4. Dan Dan Noodles (担担面): Spicy noodles topped with minced pork and peanut sauce.

💡 First-Timer Tip: If you’re not used to spicy food, start mild and work your way up. Most restaurants can adjust the spice level on request.

Shopping: Traditional Crafts to Modern Malls

• Chunxi Road (春熙路): The main shopping street in Chengdu, offering a mix of international brands and local shops.
• Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li: An open-plan shopping area blending modern architecture with restored Qing dynasty buildings.
• Songxian Qiao Antique Market (送仙桥古玩市场): For traditional crafts, antiques, and curios.

Cultural Experiences

• Wuhou Temple (武侯祠): A peaceful oasis dedicated to the Shu Kingdom’s strategist Zhuge Liang.

• Sichuan Opera (川剧变脸): Enjoy a performance featuring the famous ‘face-changing’ act.

  

• People’s Park: Join locals for tea, mahjong, and even matchmaking at the ‘marriage market’.

📝 Final Tips for First-Timers

1. Language: English is less common than in cities like Shanghai or Beijing. A translation app can be helpful.
2. Teahouse Culture : Experience Chengdu’s famous teahouse culture at least once during your visit.
3. Pace of Life: Chengdu is known for its relaxed lifestyle. Embrace the slower pace and enjoy!
4. Spice Tolerance: Build up your spice tolerance gradually to fully enjoy Sichuan cuisine.

Chengdu is a city that marches to its own beat, where ancient traditions and modern life coexist in harmony.