Chengdu, China: More Than Just Pandas

Chengdu, the capital of China's Sichuan province, is a charming city with endless attractions beyond its famous pandas. Let's explore some of the top things to see and do in Chengdu on your next trip to China.

Meet the Pandas

Of course, no trip to Chengdu is complete without meeting the city's famous residents - giant pandas! The Chengdu Panda Base is home to over 100 pandas and its research aims to help boost global panda populations. Spend a few hours here hand-feeding babies through the "pandas on loan" program. Don't forget to book your visit in advance, as slots fill up quickly. You'll return with plenty of cute panda photos to share.

Wander Through People's Park

After your panda cuddles, stroll through Chengdu's iconic People's Park. Take your time wandering the ponds and paths, pausing to watch elderly locals practice tai chi or mahjong. This is the beating cultural heart of the city. As evening falls, street performers take to the stage for shows of music, dancing and acrobatics. Don't miss the nightly dance party where locals cut loose to pop songs - it's strangely mesmerizing to watch!

Experience Traditional Teahouses

No visit to Chengdu is complete without relaxing in a traditional teahouse. Steep Mountain Tea is one of the most picturesque, filled with flowers, folk art and soothing guzheng music. While away an afternoon drinking freshly brewed pu'er tea and nibbling xiao long bao (soup dumplings). For a local experience, head to a neighborhood teahouse where aging men play chess and mahjong. You may be the only foreigner, but the welcoming staff will make you feel at home.

Wander Narrow Lanes of Old Town

Weave your way through the alleys of Chengdu's Old Town, past lively market stalls, centuries-old courtyard homes, and hidden temples. Pop into any shop selling zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) to sample this specialty. As night falls, lanterns light your way down the alleys, past restaurants with tempting scents drifting out. Don't forget to stop for spicy hot pot - it's a specialty that warms both body and soul on a chilly evening.

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