Chengdu Attractions
9 Must-See Attractions — From World-Class Landmarks to Local Hidden Gems
Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base 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 pandas eating bamboo and playing. This is Chengdu’s most unforgettable experience.
Kuan-Zhai Alley 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 vertical eyes defies description. An 18-minute high-speed rail ride from Chengdu takes you back 3,000 years to 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 prime spot for photos—the red walls framed by bamboo shadows—is one of Chengdu’s most iconic backdrops.
Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage Du Fu Thatched Cottage
If you love classical Chinese poetry, Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage is a must-visit pilgrimage site. The famous lines, “If only I had ten thousand spacious houses to shelter all the poor scholars under heaven and bring joy to their faces,” were written right here. Even if you’re not a poetry fan, the cottage’s gardens are worth a visit—with their red walls, bamboo groves, thatched huts, and babbling brooks, it’s one of Chengdu’s most poetic spots.
Chengdu Museum Chengdu Museum
A free National First-Class Museum that’s far more fascinating than many paid attractions. The Qin and Han Dynasty stone rhinoceros and the “Rapping Figurine” are true national treasures. The observation deck on the top floor overlooks Tianfu Square and is the best starting point for exploring Chengdu.
Dujiangyan Dujiangyan Irrigation System
This is one of the greatest marvels in the history of human engineering—a project built over 2,000 years ago that still irrigates 10 million mu of fertile farmland today. When you witness the Min River being precisely diverted with your own eyes, you’ll be filled with awe at 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 like two different cities by day and by night. Take a boat ride to see the night view of the Jinjiang River, where lights and shadows are reflected on the water’s surface, and the lights of Lan Kwai Fong blend with the ancient charm of Hejiang Pavilion—this is the quintessential way to experience Chengdu’s nightlife.
Teahouses & Face-Changing Performances Tea House & Face Changing Opera
Face-changing is the soul of Sichuan Opera. Sipping gaiwan tea in a teahouse while watching a face-changing performance—this 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).