Chengdu China 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Downtown Chengdu

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start the day at Jinli Street, a historic pedestrian shopping street filled with traditional Sichuan architecture, souvenirs, and local snacks.
  • 10:30 AM: Visit the nearby Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan Xiang Jie and Zhai Xiang Jie), two adjacent streets that showcase the city’s history and cultural heritage.

Lunch

  • Head to Jinli Restaurant for a traditional Sichuan lunch. Try their signature dish, Mapo Tofu, or other local specialties like Kung Pao Chicken or Twice-Cooked Pork.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Chengdu Museum of Natural History (located near Jinli Street) to learn about the region’s natural history and unique wildlife.
  • 3:30 PM: Explore the nearby People’s Park, a beautiful green space perfect for relaxation or people-watching.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at MingXuan Restaurant, known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine. Try their spicy hot pot or other local favorites like Dan Dan Noodles or Twice-Cooked Pork.

Day 2: Panda Research and Cultural Experiences

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a world-renowned conservation center that’s home to over 100 giant pandas. Take a guided tour and learn about these amazing animals.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby Qingyang Temple, one of China’s four most famous Taoist temples.

Lunch

  • Have lunch at Qingyin Restaurant, located near the temple, for a traditional Sichuan meal with a focus on local ingredients and recipes.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Jinsha Museum, which showcases the history of ancient Shu culture (1046-256 BC). The museum features an impressive collection of artifacts and relics.
  • 3:30 PM: Explore the nearby Jinsha site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the remnants of an ancient city.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Dongpo Restaurant, known for its authentic Shu cuisine. Try their famous Dongpo pork or other local specialties like Twice-Cooked Pork or Sichuan Hot Pot.

Day 3: Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Leshan, where you’ll visit the world’s largest stone Buddha statue (71 meters tall). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located near the confluence of three rivers.
  • 12:30 PM: Have lunch at Leshan Restaurant, which serves local Sichuan cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and meat.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM: Take a scenic drive up Mount Emei (3,767 meters), one of China’s four sacred Buddhist mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views from the top.
  • 4:00 PM: Visit the nearby Wannian Temple, which features stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Dinner

  • Enjoy dinner at Mount Emei Restaurant, known for its authentic Sichuan cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and recipes.

Day 4: Last Day in Chengdu

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan Xiang Jie and Zhai Xiang Jie) one last time to shop for souvenirs or try some local snacks.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, a lively shopping street filled with traditional Sichuan architecture.

Lunch

  • Have lunch at Jinli Restaurant, where you can enjoy a farewell meal of Mapo Tofu or other local specialties.

Things to Know

  • Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Many locals speak some English, but it’s still helpful to learn basic phrases like "" (nǐ hǎo) for hello and "" (xiè xiè) for thank you.
  • Currency: The Renminbi (RMB) is China’s currency. You can exchange your money at banks or use ATMs to withdraw RMB.
  • Weather: Chengdu has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summer is hot and humid, while winter is cool and dry.

Transportation

  • Metro: The metro system in Chengdu is convenient and efficient. Buy a rechargeable card for easy travel.
  • Bus: Buses are another option, but be prepared to deal with traffic congestion.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use licensed taxis to avoid scams.

Tips

  • Respect local customs: China has strict rules around photography and behavior in temples and other cultural sites. Be respectful of these guidelines.
  • Try local food: Chengdu is famous for its Sichuan cuisine. Be adventurous and try new dishes like Mapo Tofu, Twice-Cooked Pork, or Kung Pao Chicken.
  • Haggle at markets: When shopping at markets or from street vendors, haggling is a common practice. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.

Accommodation

  • Hotel options: Chengdu has a wide range of hotels to suit all budgets and preferences. Consider staying in the city center for easy access to attractions.
  • Guesthouses: For a more local experience, consider staying at a guesthouse or hostel.

Enjoy your trip to Chengdu!