Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a city rich in history, culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a nature lover, Chengdu has something special for you. This 3-day Chengdu itinerary will help you explore the city’s vibrant culture, traditional temples, iconic landmarks, and of course, its famous giant pandas. From ancient temples to bustling streets, here’s everything you need to know for a memorable trip to Chengdu.
Day 1: Exploring Chengdu’s Local Culture and Cuisine
10:00 AM – People’s Park
Start your journey with a relaxing visit to People’s Park (人民公园), one of the oldest and most popular parks in Chengdu. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, this park is a great place to observe locals engaging in leisure activities. Don’t miss the Heming Teahouse (鹤鸣茶社), where you can sip traditional Chinese tea and watch the locals play chess or practice tai chi. The park is also home to some local snacks that you can try, offering a perfect introduction to Chengdu’s culinary culture.
11:30 AM – Kuixing Tower Street
Next, head to Kuixing Tower Street (奎星楼街) where Chengdu locals love to dine. This area is packed with a variety of street food stalls and eateries that offer authentic Chengdu delicacies. Try some Sichuan-style hotpot, spicy noodles, and dumplings – the food here is delicious and affordable.
12:00 PM – Wide and Narrow Alleys
Kuanzhai Xiangzi (宽窄巷子) is a vibrant historical street in Chengdu. With its blend of traditional Sichuan architecture and modern-day commercialism, it offers a taste of the Chinese fashion trend, featuring trendy shops, cafes, and cultural spots. While wandering the alleys, be sure to check out some of the nearby art streets for a deeper look at Chengdu’s creative scene.
3:00 PM – Chengdu Museum
Learn about the city’s rich history at the Chengdu Museum (成都博物馆), a fantastic place to dive deep into the region’s past. The museum’s exhibits are both informative and visually engaging, providing a perfect balance between art, history, and culture.
6:30 PM – Yulin
Finish your first day by heading to Yulin (玉林), a lively neighborhood known for its vibrant street life. It’s the perfect place to experience Chengdu’s authentic local vibe. Enjoy a hearty Sichuan dinner at one of the many restaurants here, and be sure to try hotpot, a spicy, flavorful dish that’s a Chengdu specialty. Afterward, take a stroll through the lively streets or relax at a local pub for some Chengdu-style nightlife.
Day 2: Panda Watching and Spiritual Exploration
7:30 AM – Giant Panda Base
Start early with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (大熊猫基地), home to the world’s most beloved national treasure – the giant panda. Be sure to arrive early to catch a glimpse of Hua Hua, one of the famous pandas. For the best experience, enter through the South Gate, which leads you directly to the panda’s home.
12:30 PM – Wenshu Monastery
Next, visit Wenshu Monastery (文殊院), the most popular Buddhist temple in Chengdu, famous for its serene atmosphere and beautiful architecture. This temple is believed to bring good luck, especially for those seeking success in their studies. While there, enjoy a peaceful vegetarian meal at the Xiangyuan Restaurant (香园), which offers delicious Buddhist-inspired dishes.
4:00 PM – Chunxi Road, Taikoo Li, and Daci Temple
Afterward, head to Chunxi Road (春熙路) and Taikoo Li, Chengdu’s bustling shopping district. Here you can shop for local products and explore the commercial side of the city. Don’t forget to stop by Daci Temple (大慈寺) for a quick visit, where you can light incense and make wishes for good fortune.
7:00 PM – Wangping Street
Dinner time calls for a visit to Wangping Street (望平街), a popular area for Chengdu locals to gather and enjoy food. Here, you’ll find both trendy restaurants and casual street food stalls offering dishes like Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) and Mapo Tofu (麻辣豆腐). After dinner, take a walk along the river and explore the night market for a relaxing end to the evening.
9:00 PM – Jiu Yan Bridge
Cap off your day by heading to Jiu Yan Bridge (九眼桥), an iconic location to enjoy Chengdu’s vibrant nightlife. From here, you can see stunning night views of the city, enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, or grab a drink at a nearby bar.
Day 3: Exploring Chengdu’s Ancient Wonders and Cultural Heritage
8:30 AM – Sanxingdui
Start your final day with a trip to the Sanxingdui Museum (三星堆), one of the most significant archaeological sites in China. This site holds many ancient treasures, including bronze sculptures, jade, and gold artifacts. You can take a direct shuttle bus from Chunxi Road to the museum, making it easy to access.
1:30 PM – Du Fu Thatched Cottage
After Sanxingdui, take a 20-minute taxi ride to Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂), the former residence of the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. This peaceful location offers a glimpse into the life of one of China’s greatest poets and serves as a symbol of Chinese cultural heritage.
4:00 PM – Wuhou Shrine
Next, visit the Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠), a significant historical site dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the famous strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. Explore the beautifully preserved architecture and learn about the history of the Three Kingdoms era.
6:30 PM – Jinli Ancient Street
Wrap up your Chengdu trip with a visit to Jinli Ancient Street (锦里). Here, you can shop for traditional handicrafts, sample more local snacks, and enjoy the street’s lively atmosphere. When the lanterns light up in the evening, the atmosphere becomes magical.
8:20 PM – Departure
End your trip with a relaxed evening, leaving Chengdu with unforgettable memories of its rich culture, history, and cuisine.