Chengdu, China-3-day-itinerary

August 5, 2024

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Chengdu

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Start the day at the iconic [Wuhou Temple] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wuhou_Temple), a Taoist temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the famous strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. Take a moment to admire the beautiful garden and architecture.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Visit the nearby [Wide and Narrow Alleys] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wide_and_Narrow_Alleys), a historic district with charming shops, teahouses, and restaurants.

Head to the trendy [Tianfu Square] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tianfu_Square) for lunch. Try some Sichuan hot pot or local street food at one of the many vendors.

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Visit the [Chengdu Museum] (https://www.cdmuseum.com/en/index.html), which showcases the city’s history, culture, and art.
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Take a stroll through the beautiful [People’s Park] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People%27s_Park), a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

For dinner, head to the popular [Kuanzhai Alley] (https://www.kuanzhai.com/en/index.html) for some delicious Sichuan cuisine. Try their signature mapo tofu or dan dan noodles!

Day 2: Jinli Street and Surroundings

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Visit the historic [Jinli Street] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jinli_Street), a vibrant street filled with traditional shops, restaurants, and teahouses.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the nearby [Wide and Narrow Alleys] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wide_and_Narrow_Alleys) for more shopping and dining options.

Grab lunch at one of the many food stalls or restaurants on Jinli Street. Try some local specialties like boiled fish in chili oil or twice-cooked pork!

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the [Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding] (https://www.panda.org.cn/), a world-renowned conservation center for giant pandas.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Take a leisurely walk along the scenic [Qingyang River] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qingyang_River) and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

For dinner, head to the trendy [Taikooli] (https://www.taikooli.com/en/index.html) for some upscale dining options. Try their signature Sichuan hot pot or other local specialties!

Day 3: Leshan Giant Buddha and Surroundings

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Visit the iconic [Leshan Giant Buddha] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leshan_Giant_Buddha), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a massive 71-meter-tall stone statue of Maitreya.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the nearby [Mount Lingyun] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Lingyun), a scenic spot with beautiful gardens and walking trails.

Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants or food stalls near the Leshan Giant Buddha. Try some local specialties like steamed fish in chili oil or noodles!

2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Visit the [Mount Emei] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_Emei), a sacred mountain with stunning scenery and hiking trails.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Return to Chengdu for some last-minute shopping or relaxation.

Where to Stay

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu (https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/properties/chengdu) offers upscale accommodations and top-notch service.
Mid-range: The Grand Hyatt Chengdu (https://chengdu.grand.hyatt.com/) provides comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
Budget: The Ibis Chengdu (https://ibis.chengduhotel.info/) is an affordable option with clean and cozy rooms.

Taxis: Widely available, but be sure to negotiate the fare in advance.
Subway: Chengdu has a convenient subway system with multiple lines. Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-9 am and 5-7 pm).
Bus: An affordable option for shorter journeys.

Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but many locals speak some English. Learn basic phrases like “hello” (nǐ hǎo), “thank you” (xiè xiè), and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ).
Weather: Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters.
Safety: Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Chengdu’s Food Culture: Try some of the city’s famous dishes like mapo tofu, twice-cooked pork, or boiled fish in chili oil.
Tea Houses: Visit one of the many traditional tea houses for a relaxing cup of tea and some local snacks.
Night Markets: Explore the vibrant night markets for shopping, dining, and entertainment options.