Chengdu, China-2-day-itinerary
Day 1:
Morning
8:00 AM - Arrival and Check-in
Arrive at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel. Check-in to the Ibis Chengdu Mianyang Road hotel, a comfortable and affordable option in the heart of the city.
9:00 AM - The Wide and Narrow Alleys
Start your day exploring the charming streets of the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan-Xiang-Zi). This historic district is filled with traditional shops, restaurants, and tea houses. Take a stroll down the narrow alleys and discover local artisans at work.
11:00 AM - Wenshou Temple
Visit the beautiful Wenshou Temple, a serene oasis in the midst of bustling Chengdu. Explore the temple grounds and admire the stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and peaceful atmosphere.
Lunch
12:30 PM - Jinli Street
Head to Jinli Street for lunch at one of the many local restaurants. Try some traditional Sichuan cuisine like Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, or Boiled Fish in Chili Oil at a restaurant like Chengdu Restaurant.
Afternoon
2:00 PM - Jinli Street Market
Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant market stalls on Jinli Street. Browse local handicrafts, try some street food, and soak up the lively atmosphere of this popular tourist destination.
4:00 PM - People’s Park
Visit the beautiful People’s Park, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Chengdu. Take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoy the scenery, and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
Dinner
7:00 PM - Wide and Narrow Alleys
Return to the Wide and Narrow Alleys for dinner at one of the many local restaurants. Try some traditional Sichuan cuisine or explore other regional specialties like Tibetan or Qinghai cuisine.
Day 2:
Morning
8:00 AM - Panda Breeding Research Base
Visit the renowned Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a world-class facility dedicated to the conservation and research of giant pandas. Learn about these amazing animals, see them up close, and support their protection.
11:00 AM - Jinsha Site Museum
Head to the Jinsha Site Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Shu Kingdom (221 BC-1184 AD). Explore the museum exhibits, admire the artifacts, and learn about the rich heritage of Chengdu.
Lunch
12:30 PM - Wide and Narrow Alleys
Return to the Wide and Narrow Alleys for lunch at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Sichuan cuisine or explore other regional specialties like Tibetan or Qinghai cuisine.
Afternoon
2:00 PM - Chengdu Museum of Science and Technology
Visit the Chengdu Museum of Science and Technology, which features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational displays. Explore the museum’s many exhibits and learn about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) concepts in an engaging and hands-on way.
5:00 PM - Return to Hotel
Return to your hotel for some rest and relaxation before departing Chengdu.
Things to Know
- Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language of China. While many locals speak basic English, it’s still a good idea to learn a few key phrases like "" (nǐ hǎo) - hello, "" (xiè xiè) - thank you, and "" (huì yīng le) - I don’t understand.
- Currency: The Chinese yuan (RMB) is the local currency. You can exchange your money at banks, hotels, or currency exchange offices.
- Weather: Chengdu has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Be prepared for hot summers and mild winters.
- Tipping: Tipping is not customary in China, but it’s appreciated for exceptional service.
Transportation
- Airport: Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) is located about 17 kilometers from the city center.
- Metro: The Chengdu Metro system has several lines that cover much of the city. You can buy a metro card or use your hotel’s transportation service to get around.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Tips
- Respect local customs: China is a country with rich cultural heritage and traditions. Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples or historic sites.
- Learn basic Chinese: Learning some basic Chinese phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience in Chengdu.
- Stay hydrated: Chengdu’s climate can be hot and humid, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Accommodation
- Hotel: The Ibis Chengdu Mianyang Road hotel is a comfortable and affordable option in the heart of the city. You can also consider other hotels like the Grand Mercure Chengdu or the Sheraton Chengdu.
- Hostel: If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying at a hostel like the Chengdu Hostel or the Sichuan Backpackers Hostel.
Food
- Local cuisine: Try some traditional Sichuan cuisine like Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, or Boiled Fish in Chili Oil.
- Street food: Explore the street food options on Jinli Street and try some local specialties like skewers or noodles.