Chengdu
成都
See the pandas (they're actually amazing), then escape to real Sichuan
New Tier 1
Fixable with Tips
Overview
Welcome Rhynade.
The Problem
- •The city itself is generic and polluted with no character
- •The 'laid-back teahouse culture' is now mostly staged for tourists
- •Jinli and Kuanzhai Alley are fake ancient streets selling overpriced souvenirs
- •City center Sichuan food is dumbed down for mass tourism
- •Most visitors never leave to see the incredible surroundings
The Fix
Solution:
1-2 days for pandas (worth it!), then use Chengdu as base for Sichuan's wonders
→ From mediocre city to gateway to pandas AND China's most stunning nature
Booking tip: Stay near the airport or train station for easy escapes
With Car
4.5
Without Car
3.5
Worth Seeing If You're Here
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Go at 7:30am opening - see 100+ pandas actually being active, not sleeping
Jiuzhaigou Valley (九寨沟)
8 hours north - fairytale lakes and waterfalls that make Avatar look boring
Western Sichuan (川西)
Tibetan plateau with snow mountains, grasslands, and real culture
Mount Emei
Sacred Buddhist mountain with actual pilgrims, not tourists
Leshan Giant Buddha
71-meter carved Buddha, impressive despite the crowds
Local Tips
- →Panda Base at 7:30am opening is magical - they're active and playful
- →Jiuzhaigou requires 2-3 days minimum, book accommodation in advance
- →Western Sichuan needs altitude preparation - take it slow
- →Rent a car for Western Sichuan, join tours for Jiuzhaigou
- →Real Sichuan food is in Fly Restaurant (苍蝇馆子) - tiny local places
Ratings
3.5
Family Trip
3.0
Solo Travel
3.5
Food Scene
4.5
Attractions
3.0
Value3.0/5
Authenticity4.0/5
Getting There
From Shanghai:3 hours by flight
From Beijing:3 hours by flight
Best Time to Visit
Apr
May
Sep
Oct