Chengdu, China, is full of cute pandas, spicy food, pretty streets, and fun local spots to explore!
This list of 20 exciting things to do in Chengdu will give you ideas for your trip, whether you choose to experience everything or just want to pick a few. The best part? Chengdu is surprisingly affordable, so you can enjoy it a lot without spending too much!
Pro Tip: Check how you can spend 48 Hours in Xi’An here, too!
1. Visit Dujiangyan Panda Valley
Dujiangyan Panda Valley is a great spot to see these adorable pandas up close. It’s not as crowded as the more popular panda bases, so it feels a lot more peaceful. You can book your visit to Dujiangyan Panda Valley here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
Pro Tip: Try to visit on a weekday when it’s less busy so you’ll get to see more pandas and take a selfie with the famous panda statue!
2. Explore Daoming Bamboo Craft Village
This village is such a hidden gem! It’s famous for its beautiful bamboo architecture and slow-paced rural charm. Walk around, snap pics of the traditional buildings, and learn about local crafts made from bamboo!
3. Hop on the Jinjiang Cruise
Enjoy the city all lit up at night as you float along the river, you’ll pass old bridges, modern buildings, and colorful lights that make everything feel dreamy. It’s a relaxing ride that blends history and city life, and it’s such a great way to see the vibe of Chengdu. Book the Jinjiang Cruise here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
4. Eat at Dangdang Home Cooking
If you’re craving a cozy meal, Dangdang Home Cooking is the place to go! The food tastes just like something a local would cook at home, warm, comforting, and full of flavor.
5. Visit Chongzhou Poultice Pond Museum
Chongzhou Poultice Pond Museum showcases everything from ancient Chinese. There are also traditional Chinese folk musicians who perform there. It’s a quiet place where you can slow down, learn something new, and take in a slice of Chengdu’s rich past.
6. Stop by Daci Temple
Right in the middle of the city, Daci Temple is a peaceful Buddhist temple that’s perfect for a quick break from the busy streets and nearby malls. You’ll find beautiful details, the soft scent of incense in the air, and a calm, quiet vibe that feels like a little escape.
7. Shop at Taikoo Li
Taikoo Li is a cool open-air shopping spot where modern style meets traditional Sichuan architecture. Even if you don’t plan to shop, it’s still a great place to stroll around, people-watch, and snap some aesthetic photos!
8. Visit Fangsuo Bookstore
Bookworms, this one’s for you! Fangsuo Bookstore is more than just a bookstore, it’s an experience! The space is beautiful, filled with books, and art.
9. Explore Eastern Suburb Memory
Eastern Suburb Memory is filled with trendy fashion brands, art galleries, museums, shops, boutiques, bars, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a chill afternoon just walking around, taking photos, and drinking a coffee. Perfect for a relaxed day out with creative vibes all around!
10. Rent a Chinese Costume
Wearing a traditional Hanfu is a fun way to experience Chinese culture and feel a bit of ancient history. Rental shops have comfy styles for everyone, women, men, and kids, plus scenic spots and cute photo backdrops nearby. Rent your Hanfu costume here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
11. Eat at Haidilao Hotpot
Haidilao is a hotpot favorite for a reason! The service is amazing! They’ll even give you aprons, and the spicy broth is so satisfying. The whole experience is just fun from start to finish!
12. Drink Coffee at Yinshuicun Coffee
Yinshuicun Coffee is perfect if you need a little break while exploring Chengdu. Cozy, artsy, and full of character, plus the drinks are really good!
13. Book a Han Culture Dining Experience
This dining experience mixes Hanfu, traditional music and dance, and beautifully presented Sichuan dishes. It’s like enjoying a meal and a cultural show all in one, and definitely a fun and unique way to experience ancient China. Book it here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
14. Drink Tea at YinShanXiuXing Tea House
If you love tea, YinShanXiuXing Tea House is a good choice! Their green tea is super clear, fresh, and just really good. A nice, peaceful place to sip and relax!
15. Go to a Vintage Shop
Chengdu has some cool shops with unique clothes, accessories, hats, and more. If you’re into vintage shopping, definitely add this to your things to do while in Chengdu!
16. Join a Half-Day Tour
On this half-day tour, take a fun cooking class where you’ll make real Sichuan dishes from scratch. You’ll also visit a local spice market to learn about the bold flavors behind the food. It’s the perfect mix of culture and cuisine! Book the half-day tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
17. Visit Jincheng Lake
A peaceful escape outside the city center, Jincheng Lake is a calm spot for a morning jog, bike ride, or just relaxing by the water with some snacks.
18. Go to Chengdu Global Centre
Chengdu Global Centre is one of the biggest buildings in Asia! It has shops, restaurants, and even fun spots to explore inside. You could easily spend the whole day here!
19. Join a Food Tour
Join an original five-oil hotpot and learn how it’s made by a local chef. You’ll visit street restaurants and learn about Chengdu’s flavorful hotpot culture! Book this food tour here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
20. Explore SKP
SKP is the biggest sunken mall in Asia. It’s full of luxury brands and cool high-tech stores that are perfect for shopping. And, don’t miss The Tower of Life while you’re there! It lights up beautifully at night and makes the perfect photo spot!
Whether you’re here for the pandas, the food, the shopping, or the chill vibes, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Chengdu. Again, you don’t have to do it all, just pick the ones that match your style and go from there!