15 Best Things to Do in Chengdu for First-Time Visitors

At first, Chengdu might seem like a stopover for pandas or a gateway to other parts of China, but spending a few days here quickly proves otherwise. 

The city has a slow rhythm, shaped by tea culture, long park afternoons, and a food scene that is considered one of the best in the country. And can we talk about contrasts for a moment?

You can go from visiting temples and incense-filled courtyards to modern shopping malls and neon-lit towers in the same day. Traditional experiences or historic alleys sit next to 24-hour luxury spas and advanced skyscrapers.

Food is another defining part of the experience. While Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold, spicy flavors, the variety of options means there’s something for everyone, even if you don’t handle spice well.

This guide covers a mix of well-known highlights and more personal recommendations based on my time in the city. No matter if you’re planning a short stop or a longer stay, these are the best things to do in Chengdu to get a well-rounded experience of what the city has to offer.

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1. Visit Chengdu’s most beautiful temples

Chengdu has several temples that reflect its long history and religious traditions. Visiting at least one gives a different perspective compared to the city’s modern areas.

One of the most well-known sites is the Wuhou Shrine (成都武侯祠博物馆). It is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous strategist from the Three Kingdoms period, and is set within a large complex of halls, gardens, and statues. You can easily spend 2-3 hours at the temple.

If you want to enjoy the Wuhou Shrine in a peaceful way, I recommend coming at the opening time to avoid the big crowds. The admission ticket is 50 RMB per person, and bring your passport!

Wenshu Yuan Monastery (文殊院) is one of my favorite spots in the city. Surrounded by a beautiful park, this Buddhist monastery feels calm and authentic. Another plus is that it’s completely free to visit.

If you’re looking for a more “spiritual” experience when you visit Chengdu, then head to Zhaojue Temple (昭觉寺). It is larger and less touristy, with a more local atmosphere. You’ll find traditional architecture, incense-filled courtyards, and fewer crowds compared to central sites.

Please note: I’ve included location and attraction names in Chinese throughout this guide so you can easily find them on Amap. English names don’t always work and can sometimes lead to the wrong location, especially for less popular spots.

2. Relax in Chengdu’s parks

Despite the incredible amount of skyscrapers and modern installations, Chengdu preserves a green soul where you can relax. Park hopping is probably one of the most fun activities in Chengdu, as the city really has 4 seasons and each comes with its unique moments. 

People’s Park (人民公园) is probably the most popular in Chengdu. In the park, you will also find the most famous tea house in Chengdu, a lot of ear cleaners, and an “analog” version of dating apps, where people hang their listing looking for their soul sister.

Baihuatan Park (百花潭公园) and Culture Park (文化公园) are two small parks connected by a picturesque bridge. To be honest, I liked these two even more than People’s Park, because of its aesthetics. This is also the best place to see the cherry blossoms in spring.

3. Wander through old streets and historic alleys

Despite its incredible modern side, Chengdu still has a few streets that will make you travel back in time. Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) and Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子景区) are the most famous ancient streets where all the tourists go for a taste of Old China.

Jinli Ancient Street is probably the most popular due to its proximity to the Wuhou Temple. This long pedestrian street is packed with small shops and boutiques selling any sort of goods, from local snacks to skincare to tea.

A similar experience can also be found in Kuanzhai Alley, two parallel streets that are extremely popular for seeing the traditional Chinese architecture. It is very common to see tourists dressed up in traditional Chinese attire to take photos with the beautiful surroundings. 

That said, many of these streets are highly curated and geared toward tourism. The traditional-style architecture often houses chain stores and souvenir shops. While the setting is beautiful, it doesn’t have a lot of historical charm, as you would expect from an ancient street.

4. Discover Chengdu’s food scene

Chengdu is known as one of China’s top food destinations, especially for its bold and spicy Sichuan cuisine. The flavors are defined by garlic, chili, and the numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorn.

If spicy food isn’t for you, it’s still manageable. Despite spending a lot of time in countries with some of the spiciest cuisines, I still can’t tolerate even mildly spicy food, but I managed fine in Chengdu. You can ask for bu la (no spicy), and the staff will usually guide you toward non-spicy options.

Some of the most common dishes to try include mapo tofu (tofu in a spicy, oily sauce with minced meat), kung pao chicken (chicken with peanuts and chili), and Sichuan hot pot, where you cook meat and vegetables in a simmering, spicy broth at your table. 

Another local favorite is dan dan noodles, typically served with minced pork, chili oil, and preserved vegetables. This was one of my go-to dishes, as you can easily get it without the chilli oil.

When it comes to restaurants, Mind (漫得食堂) sits at the top of my favorites. This Michelin-awarded restaurant is small, simple, and delicious. Most staff speak English, so you can easily discuss spice levels, restrictions, and allergies.

Chunyangguan Yuxiang Paigu Noodle on Jixiang Street (纯阳馆鱼香排骨面) is a must for Dan Dan noodles, and the number of locals at the restaurant will surely confirm that. If you are looking for a vegan alternative, Su Shan Mian (素山素面) is the place to be.

When visiting Jixiang Street, make sure you stop by Arbor Gelato to try some amazing gelato flavors. And you don’t have to take my word for it, as the Gelateria won an award as the best ice cream in China. 

If Jixiang Street feels too commercial, head to Xiangxiang Alley (香香巷) instead. This narrow alley is lined with small eateries, cafés, and street food-style spots, making it a good place to try a few different things in one area.

5. Admire Anshun Bridge

Anshun Bridge (安顺廊桥) is one of the most well-known examples of old Chengdu architecture. Often called “the bridge that lights up gold at night,” it dates back to the 17th century.

An earlier version of the bridge was mentioned by Marco Polo, who is represented on one side of the structure. The bridge was later heavily damaged in a flood and rebuilt in 2003. Today, the bridge houses a well-known restaurant, though it can still be crossed without visiting it.

One of the must-dos in Chengdu is taking a night cruise to see the bridge illuminated and experience a quieter side of the otherwise lively city. You will find a pier right in front of the Shangri-La Hotel, and the prices start from 10 USD for a 40-minute ride.

6. Experience traditional ear cleaning

Chengdu is a city with a strong culture and history, and this shows in everyday life. One of the most unique things to do in Chengdu is ear cleaning. Yes, it might sound a bit weird, but it’s one of the experiences the city is known for.

Around the city, especially near popular spots like Anshun Bridge, People’s Park, and busy commercial streets, you’ll often see ear cleaners clicking their metal tools to attract attention. 

The experience can feel unusual: not painful, but slightly uncomfortable. At the same time, it can be oddly satisfying, especially once it’s over.

If this sounds like too “weird” an experience in Chendu, you can opt for a more traditional foot or full-body massage instead.

7. Sip tea in Chengdu’s iconic teahouses

The city is famous for its slow pace, and one of the best things to do in Chengdu is to take advantage of this lifestyle & relax in one of the many tea houses. Listing them all would be impossible, so I narrowed it down to my favorites.

Located inside People’s Park, Heming Tea House (鹤鸣茶社) is probably the most famous tea house in the city. It’s a lively cafe, where people gather to chat, play games, and enjoy tea in a simple setting. If your time in Chengdu is limited, this should be your first stop.

Pengzhen Guanyinge Teahouse (观音阁老茶馆) is over a century old and has kept its authentic character, with worn wooden structures, old furniture, and traditional coal stoves. The atmosphere is raw and unpolished, and it’s certainly worth a detour.

Qi Huo Tea (沏嚯茶) offers a different type of experience. The space is filled with flowers from spring to autumn and feels like a quiet oasis in a residential area. It is built in a classical Asian style and has a more curated atmosphere. Another spot worth a detour!

If you are a coffee lover, the Chengdu coffee scene is steadily growing and has plenty of options. One of my favorite experiences is Luna (咖啡甜品), where coffee is served in an iced cup stored at -86 degrees. The area around Luna has a high concentration of coffee shops that are worth checking out.

8. Explore Chengdu after dark

Chengdu has a very different atmosphere at night, with many of its landmarks lit up and the city feeling more lively. It’s a good time to walk around and see a more modern side of the city.

One of the most popular spots is Anshun Bridge. The bridge is especially known for its golden illumination in the evening, and the surrounding river area has a mix of restaurants, bars, and walking paths.

For a more modern skyline, head to Chengdu Twin Towers (成都金融城双子塔). These towers often display large LED light shows across their facades, which change colors and patterns throughout the night. It usually starts shortly after sunset.

My recommendation is to take a spot on the bridge in front of the towers to have a privileged view of the sights. I am not sure what the name of the bridge is, but you can put ‘双子塔夜景打卡点’ on Amap to find it.

The Tower of Vitality (生机之塔) is an installation of six, 26–39 meter high bamboo-shaped, water-cascading pillars. The fountains light up with the colors of the rainbow, and it’s one of the most popular spots in the city, so be prepared for crowds.

Right in front of the installation, the huge Global Shopping Center (环球购物中心B馆(东门)) is another site you don’t want to miss. You can easily combine the Chengdu Twin Towers with the Tower of Vitality and the Global Shopping Center.

9. Explore Chengdu’s museums

Chengdu has a surprisingly rich museum scene, mixing ancient history, modern art, and unique niche experiences. If you are looking for a slower and more cultural side of the city, visiting a few museums is a great way to balance your Chengdu itinerary.

The Jinsha Site Museum (金沙遗址博物馆(暂停开放)) is one of the most important museums in the city. Built on an actual archaeological site, it showcases the ancient Shu civilization with gold, jade, and ivory relics, with the famous Golden Sun Bird as the highlight. 

The Chengdu Museum (成都博物馆) is located in the city center near Tianfu Square. This is a great introduction to Chengdu’s history and culture. The exhibitions are spread across several floors, covering everything from ancient history to local traditions.

The Sichuan Art Museum (成都美术馆) is a good stop if you enjoy modern and contemporary Chinese art. The exhibitions change regularly, so each visit can feel different. It’s quiet, central, and easy to combine with other attractions.

A different kind of experience can be tried at the Sichuan Cuisine Museum (中国·川菜文化体验馆). Here you learn about Sichuan food culture, and you can even join cooking classes. It’s both educational and very interactive.

10. Watch a traditional Sichuan opera performance

Watching Sichuan opera is one of the more unique cultural experiences in Chengdu. Chinese opera and theater are quite different from what you might expect in Europe or the West, but it’s still one of the top things to try while in the city.

Across the city, there are several theaters hosting regular performances. You usually don’t need to book in advance. Walk-ins are common, and if a show has just started, you may only need to wait a short time for the next one.

During the performance, expect a mix of traditional dance, colorful costumes, music, and “shadow play.” One of the highlights is bian lian (face-changing), where performers switch masks in a matter of seconds. Also, you don’t need to speak Chinese to understand the performance.

We watched a show inside People’s Park, just in front of Heming Tea House, but you’ll also find performances in areas like Jinli Ancient Street and Kuanzhai Alley. Prices range between 50 and 100 RMB, depending on the venue. Tea is often available during the show, but it’s optional.

11. Enjoy a Sichuan show dinner

For a more immersive experience, consider booking a Sichuan show dinner. We booked this experience, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable activities in Chengdu.

The experience starts before dinner. We opted for the full setup with traditional Hanfu clothing and makeup, which was a lot of fun. The makeup part was a bit challenging, as no one spoke English, but Google Translate saved the day.

Dinner is served as a multi-course set menu focused on Sichuan cuisine. The presentation is more refined than in a typical restaurant, with each dish carefully plated. Between courses, there are live performances, so the evening naturally alternates between dining and entertainment.

We saw a mix of traditional dance, music, and theatrical acts, with dramatic lighting and stage design. The performances are split into short segments, which keeps the experience engaging. Elements similar to Sichuan opera, including the well-known face-changing, are part of the show.

Prices vary depending on the package, but you will find all the details and options here.

Personally, we found that this experience covers a lot in one go. You get elements of Sichuan opera, the chance to wear traditional attire, and a good introduction to local cuisine. If you’re short on time in Chengdu, this can replace several separate activities.

12. Go shopping

Chengdu offers a mix of modern shopping malls, local markets, and busy commercial areas. Whether you’re looking for international brands or small local finds, there are plenty of options across the city.

The area of Tianfu Square (天府广场) is probably a good starting point. This historical square is one of the most famous in the city, and there are hundreds of shops and an underground mall with even more options. From clothing to technology, you have it all. 

If you want to take your shopping day to the next level, then you have to go to the Global Shopping Center (环球购物中心B馆(东门)). This is the biggest mall in Chengdu and spans approximately 1.76 million square meters, making it the largest individual building in Asia and the world by floor area.

Looking for more affordable options? You will love Kowloon Plaza (成都九龙广场) and Hehuachi Market (荷花金池市场).

You can also download the Taobao app on your phone and order some packages to your hotel before your arrival (just make sure you contact them on WeChat to give a heads up!).

13. Unwind in a 24-hour luxury spa

Spa is not something I usually recommend in travel guides, but Chengdu is an exception. After a long flight, it can be one of the best ways to reset and ease into the city.

We arrived early in the morning and decided to spend a few hours at Cheersum Spa, and it turned out to be a great choice. Located inside a luxury hotel, the spa is spread across multiple floors, each dedicated to different treatments and relaxation areas.

During your stay, you get access to a freshly prepared breakfast, snack and fruit buffets, and unlimited soft drinks. You can also purchase a package with lunch and dinner, but we were leaving shortly after midday, so we skipped that option.

We paid 35 USD per person for the basic package with breakfast. As explained, additional meals together with extras like massage, spa treatments, or PlayStation time will add to your costs.

Please note! Cheersum Spa is the name you will see all around social media. However, if you are looking for the location on Amap, use Qianshen Holiday Hotel (浅深(成都店)) instead.

An alternative is Fufu Tang Spa, which offers a more local experience and slightly lower prices. Both are good options, so it mostly depends on your location and preference.

14. See pandas up close

Chengdu is the gateway to China’s panda conservation efforts, and one of the best places to observe these animals in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地).

Located about 10 km from the city center, the base is designed as a large park with bamboo forests, lakes, etc. It focuses on breeding, research, and conservation, but it’s also accessible for visitors, with well-maintained paths and viewing areas. 

The best time to visit is early in the morning, ideally right after opening. This is when pandas are most active, usually eating bamboo or moving around their enclosures. Later in the day, you can probably spot them sleeping instead.

A less crowded alternative is the Dujiangyan Panda Base (都江堰中华大熊猫苑), located further from the city. It is quieter and more relaxed, but there are fewer pandas, so sightings can be more limited. If you’re interested in a more in-depth experience, there are also volunteer programs.

Personally, I chose not to visit. Despite how it’s presented, it still felt quite similar to a zoo to me. You don’t completely miss out, though. Pandas are everywhere in Chengdu. You’ll see them on buses, billboards, statues, souvenir shops, and even on car lights (yes, seriously).

15. Take a day trip from Chengdu

Chengdu is well-connected to several interesting places that can be visited on a day trip. If you have extra time, it’s worth leaving the city to see a different side of the region.

One of the most popular options is the Leshan Giant Buddha. This massive stone statue is carved into a cliff face and overlooks the river. It’s a UNESCO-listed site and one of the largest Buddha statues in the world.

Leshan and Chengdu are connected by a high-speed train, and tickets can be booked on Trip.com. It takes less than one hour to reach Leshan Railway Station. From there, it’s about a 30–40 minute ride to the scenic area entrance by taxi or by taking bus 3/605.

Another great option is the Dujiangyan. You can start with Zhongshuge bookstore (钟书阁) located on the second floor of Rongchuangmao Mall (融创茂(西南门)). This bookstore was on my bucket list for ages, but I have to say that social media vs. reality hit me hard.

Next, you can head to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area (都江堰景区). This UNESCO-listed site is famous for its ancient irrigation system still in use today. The area is green, peaceful, and perfect for a long walk. Finish your day with so-called “blue tears” (都江堰).

You could also start with Dujiangyan Panda Base (都江堰中华大熊猫苑), which requires an early visit, so that you would have a long and exhausting day.

We opted for Dujiangyan (without the Panda Base), started at midday from Chengdu, and rented a driver for a full day. It ended up quite costly, so Didi is certainly a cheaper option, but at least we didn’t need to deal with the logistics of these trips.

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