Must-See Highlights for Every Traveler

• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

More than a “网红 spot,” this world-renowned sanctuary is a global leader in panda conservation, breeding science, and habitat restoration. Wander through dense bamboo forests that closely mirror the pandas’ natural mountain habitats, where you’ll witness these gentle giants thriving in their element: adults lounging on sunlit slopes munching crisp fresh shoots, sub-adults play-fighting in the green grass, and tiny cubs in the nursery—pink and fragile at birth, growing into fluffy bundles of energy under round-the-clock dedicated expert care. It’s a heartfelt glimpse into wildlife preservation efforts, letting you connect deeply with China’s beloved national treasures in a setting focused on their health, happiness, and natural behavior, not just quick photos or superficial encounters.

• Wuhou Temple & Three Kingdoms Museum

A cornerstone of Chengdu’s historical soul, this ancient temple isn’t just for history buffs—it’s a living tribute to China’s legendary Three Kingdoms era. Dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the revered strategist, the temple’s serene gardens are dotted with stone statues of heroes, their inscriptions telling tales of loyalty, wisdom, and battlefield glory. Inside, halls display ancient weaponry, calligraphy, and murals that bring the era’s dramas to life. Adjacent to the temple, the Three Kingdoms Museum deepens the experience with artifacts like bronze coins, pottery, and interactive exhibits that let you step into the shoes of ancient warriors and scholars. It’s a journey through time that feels both educational and immersive.

• Dujiangyan Irrigation System & Mt. Qingcheng

A masterpiece of ancient engineering, Dujiangyan isn’t just a 景点 —it’s a testament to human ingenuity that still sustains the Sichuan Basin after 2,000 years. Built by Qin Dynasty governor Li Bing, this system tames the Min River using clever natural principles: no dams, just curved weirs and diversion channels that balance flood control with irrigation, making Chengdu the “Land of Abundance.” Walk along the river to trace its design, where locals still rely on its waters for farming and daily life. Pair your visit with nearby Mt. Qingcheng, a misty Taoist sacred mountain draped in lush forests. Hike its stone paths past ancient temples, gushing waterfalls, and serene pavilions, where the air smells of pine and incense—a perfect blend of history and nature that feels far from the crowds.

• Heming Teahouse (in People’s Park)

Skip the busy alleys and step into Chengdu’s cherished “slow life” at this century-old teahouse, a beloved gathering spot among locals for generations. Tucked in the heart of People’s Park, it’s where silver-haired elders gather daily to sip fragrant jasmine tea from delicate porcelain cups, clack mahjong tiles with laughter, and chat for hours—no rush, no fanfare, just pure relaxation. Pull up a worn bamboo chair, order a steaming pot of tea, and watch life unfold: musicians play soulful folk tunes on erhu, street artists sketch vivid portraits, and vendors weave through tables selling roasted sunflower seeds and warm sweet potatoes. It’s not a “must-take photo” spot, but a genuine window into authentic Chengdu life, where time slows to a gentle pace and community bonds thrive in every shared moment.

• Sichuan Museum

A treasure trove of regional history and art, this museum showcases Chengdu’s rich cultural depth far beyond the surface. Explore curated galleries dedicated to Sichuan’s ancient Shu Kingdom, with intricate bronze masks and artifacts that reveal a thriving civilization dating back 3,000 years. Admire delicate Sichuan Brocade—silken fabrics woven with vibrant motifs, a craft perfected over millennia—and exhibits on local folk art, from pottery to paper-cutting. Don’t miss the immersive Sichuan Opera section, where you can learn about the art of face-changing, not just watch it, through costumes, makeup tools, and historical recordings. It’s a quiet, thoughtful space to truly understand the deep roots of Chengdu’s culture.

Chengdu Lingers to Charm You