Chengdu Attractions
9 must-see attractions — from world-famous landmarks to local gems
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding Giant Panda Breeding Base
Nowhere else in the world can you see so many giant pandas in one place—newborn pink cubs, baby pandas just a few months old, and adult giant pandas eating bamboo and playing. This is Chengdu’s most unique experience.
Wide and Narrow Alleys Kuanzhai Alleys
Kuan-Zhai Alley is Chengdu’s most photogenic historic street. The West Sichuan residential style, with its blue-gray bricks and dark-gray tiles, makes for stunning photos. But remember: just take photos and check in here; head to neighboring Kuixinglou Street for dining and shopping.
Sanxingdui Museum Sanxingdui Museum
This is Sanxingdui—the Chinese artifacts that look least like typical Chinese artifacts you’ve ever seen. The visual impact of the Bronze Sacred Tree and the Masks with Protruding Eyes transcends any description. An 18-minute high-speed rail ride from Chengdu takes you back 3,000 years to encounter a China you’ve never known.
Wuhou Temple Wuhou Shrine
If you’re interested in the history of the Three Kingdoms, the Wuhou Temple is a must-visit. Liu Bei’s tomb (Hui Ling) is also located here. A photographer’s paradise—the red walls and bamboo shadows form one of Chengdu’s most iconic backdrops for photos.
Du Fu Thatched Cottage Du Fu Thatched Cottage
If you love classical Chinese poetry, Du Fu’s Grass Hall is a must-visit pilgrimage site. The famous lines, “If only I had ten thousand spacious houses to shelter all the impoverished scholars under heaven and bring joy to their faces,” were written right here. Even if you’re not a poetry enthusiast, the garden alone is worth a visit—with its red walls, bamboo groves, thatched cottages, and babbling brooks, it is one of the most poetic places in Chengdu.
Chengdu Museum Chengdu Museum
This free National First-Class Museum is far more fascinating than many paid attractions. The Qin and Han Dynasty stone rhinoceros and the storytelling figurines are true national treasures. The observation deck on the top floor overlooks Tianfu Square and serves as the best starting point for exploring Chengdu.
Dujiangyan Dujiangyan Irrigation System
This is one of the greatest wonders in the history of human engineering—a project built over 2,000 years ago that still irrigates 10 million mu of fertile farmland today. Witnessing the Min River being precisely diverted with your own eyes will fill you with awe for the wisdom of ancient Chinese people. Dujiangyan is the very reason Chengdu has become the “Land of Abundance.”
Night cruise on the Jinjiang River Jinjiang Night Cruise
Chengdu is two different cities by night and by day. Taking a boat ride to view the Jinjiang River’s night scenery, with lights reflecting on the water’s surface and the vibrant lights of Lan Kwai Fong intertwining with the ancient charm of Hejiang Pavilion—this is the quintessential way to experience Chengdu’s nightlife.
Teahouse & Face-Changing Performance Tea House & Face Changing Opera
Face-changing is the soul of Sichuan Opera, and watching it while sipping gaiwan tea in a teahouse is the most authentic Chengdu experience. In a single evening, you can experience both Chengdu’s “slow” pace (tea culture) and its “fast” pace (the speed of face-changing).