10 Best Things to Do When You're Visiting Chengdu

As a Malaysian, the first thing that came to mind when I thought of Chengdu was pandas and spicy hotpot—but the city turned out to be so much more. Unlike the fast-paced energy of cities like Singapore or even Kuala Lumpur, Chengdu has a slower, more relaxed rhythm. Locals sip tea in leafy courtyards, mahjong tiles clack in back alleys, and there's a soft buzz in the air that makes it feel both ancient and effortlessly cool. The Chengdu weather was mild when I visited, perfect for lazy strolls and food-hopping without breaking a sweat.

Malaysians will feel right at home diving into Chengdu’s vibrant food scene, exploring teahouses, checking out trendy shopping streets, and even pampering themselves with a traditional Chinese massage or hot spring spa. Plus, the cost of dining and experiences here is refreshingly affordable, especially with our ringgit. There are plenty of charming places to stay in Chengdu, whether you prefer modern boutique hotels or cosy stays near cultural hubs. So, if you’re wondering what to do in Chengdu, here are some must-try experiences that made my trip unforgettable.

1. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base

My heart basically melted the moment I saw a baby panda roll off a bamboo slide. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, it wasn’t just about snapping cute photos—it was watching pandas nap, munch bamboo, and clumsily tumble around in their natural habitat. Calm, peaceful, and surprisingly emotional.

📖 About the Panda Base

A globally recognized sanctuary for giant pandas, this research center focuses on conservation, breeding, and education—all while letting visitors enjoy adorable close-up encounters.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Morning (8–10 AM) when pandas are most active

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Absolutely! Great for all ages

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Go early to avoid the heat and crowds
• ✔️ Bring a zoom lens or binoculars for better panda views
• ✔️ Don’t skip the red panda and swan lake areas

2. Explore Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street

Wandering through Wuhou Shrine felt like stepping into a time capsule. I strolled under ancient cypress trees, past stone carvings and red-walled courtyards paying tribute to Three Kingdoms heroes. Right next door? The buzzing Jinli Street, where I snacked on spicy rabbit heads (yes, really), watched shadow puppets, and browsed quirky souvenirs.

📖 About Wuhou Shrine & Jinli Street

This duo offers a blend of historic reverence and street charm—pay respects at Chengdu’s most famous shrine, then eat, shop, and people-watch next door.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Late afternoon for cooler weather and evening lights

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Yes, great for history buffs and snackers alike

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Try the sticky rice balls and Sichuan-style duck neck
• ✔️ Bring cash—some stalls don’t take cards
• ✔️ Visit the calligraphy shops tucked into side alleys

3. See the Leshan Giant Buddha

When I finally stood before the Leshan Giant Buddha, I felt like an ant. Towering at 71 meters tall, carved straight into a cliff face, the statue looked out calmly over the river as boats drifted below. It’s humbling, serene, and utterly majestic.

📖 About Leshan Giant Buddha

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the largest stone Buddha in the world—over 1,300 years old and still watching over Chengdu’s rivers.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Weekdays, early morning or late afternoon

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Yes, though stairs are steep for the elderly

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Choose the boat tour for the best full-body photo
• ✔️ Wear sunblock and bring water—it's a lot of walking
• ✔️ Pair it with a stop at nearby Emei Mountain if you have time

4. Play Mahjong in a Local Teahouse

On a quiet afternoon, I wandered into a teahouse tucked inside People’s Park. Locals were deep into mahjong games, slapping tiles with practiced ease while sipping jasmine tea from lidded cups. One uncle gestured for me to join and, despite not knowing the rules, I laughed, watched, and felt like part of the family.

📖 What Makes This Experience Special?

Chengdu’s teahouse culture isn’t just about tea—it’s where neighbors gather, gossip flows, and time slows. A mahjong match adds to the fun.

📅 Best Time to Do It:

Midday or late afternoon

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Best for adults and older teens

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Don’t rush—people linger here for hours
• ✔️ Sit by the window for people-watching
• ✔️ Try ear cleaning—it’s a uniquely Chengdu experience

5. Try Sichuan Hotpot—If You Dare

My first bite of Chengdu hotpot? Fiery, fragrant, and unforgettable. The broth was red with chili and floating Sichuan peppercorns. I dipped in beef slices, tofu skin, lotus root—my mouth went numb, my forehead glistened, and I was hooked. Hotpot here is a social event, a spice test, and a full-on feast.

📖 What Makes This Experience Special?

Sichuan hotpot is the boldest in China—flavored with “mala” (numb-spicy) ingredients and shared over laughter, sweat, and endless refills.

📅 Best Time to Do It:

Dinner or late-night

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Yes, especially if you request a non-spicy broth

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Order a “yuanyang” pot (spicy + clear broth)
• ✔️ Dip in sesame oil + garlic to tone down the heat
• ✔️ Finish with ice jelly or mung bean soup

6. Stroll Through Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan Zhai Xiangzi)

I lost track of time wandering Kuan Zhai Alley. One minute I was inside a stylish boutique, the next sipping bubble tea beside a Qing-dynasty wall. The alleys were alive with street musicians, hanfu rental shops, and artisan snacks. The vibe? Charming yet trendy, historic yet hip.

📖 About Kuan Zhai Alleys

This restored historic block showcases old Chengdu architecture with a modern twist—perfect for shopping, photos, and snacking.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Late afternoon into evening

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes!

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Try sugar art candy and “bobo chicken” skewers
• ✔️ Rent hanfu for photos in the alleys
• ✔️ Come in the evening when lanterns light up

7. Hike Around Mount Qingcheng

I spent a misty morning hiking Mount Qingcheng, one of China’s Taoist holy mountains. The stone paths wound past temples and waterfalls, all under a canopy of ancient trees. With every step, I felt more peaceful—like nature and spirit were quietly holding hands.

📖 About Mount Qingcheng

A scenic, sacred mountain known for its lush beauty and Taoist culture—less crowded than other famous ranges, but just as rewarding.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Spring and fall for cooler weather

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

Yes, with cable cars and moderate trails

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Bring a light raincoat—it’s often misty
• ✔️ Combine with Dujiangyan Irrigation System visit
• ✔️ Stop at Taoist temples along the way

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8. Chill at Anshun Lang Bridge at Night

As the sun dipped below the skyline, I found myself crossing the Anshun Lang Bridge, where golden lights reflected off the Jin River and locals danced along the promenade. The rooftop bar above the bridge offered a gorgeous view, and my cocktail came with a side of live jazz. Pure Chengdu vibes.

📖 What Makes This Spot Special?

A beautifully lit bridge-restaurant complex, Lang Bridge is a romantic nightlife spot with river views and local flavor.

📅 Best Time to Go:

After sunset

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly:

More suited for adults and couples

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Grab a riverside seat upstairs
• ✔️ Try a local rice wine cocktail
• ✔️ Come during the weekend for live performances

9. Shop and Snack Your Way Through Chunxi Road

If shopping’s your thing, Chunxi Road is where it’s at. Big brands, local streetwear, bubble tea chains, and snack stalls—it's modern Chengdu at its busiest. I grabbed a spicy fried bun, browsed cosmetics, and people-watched my way down the avenue.

📖 About Chunxi Road

Chengdu’s premier shopping street, packed with malls, boutiques, and local food stalls. It’s loud, lively, and full of flavor.

📅 Best Time to Visit:

Evening for lights and crowd

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly: Yes!

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Try the famous Zhongshuiji (Chengdu dumplings)
• ✔️ Explore the hidden alley behind IFS for hipster finds
• ✔️ Avoid weekends if you hate crowds

10. Celebrate Lantern Festival at Jinli Street in Chengdu

The moment I stepped onto Jinli Ancient Street during the Lantern Festival, it felt like stepping into a dreamscape. Thousands of glowing lanterns floated above me—dragons, lotus flowers, rabbits, and mythical creatures lighting up the night sky. The scent of grilled skewers and sweet tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) filled the air. Families were taking selfies under the giant lantern arches, while kids chased each other with handmade rabbit lanterns. A traditional Sichuan opera performance kicked off on a nearby stage—complete with fiery face-changing stunts and drum beats that echoed through the alleys. I sipped hot plum tea, warmed by both the drink and the festive energy around me.

📖 What Makes This Festival Special?

Held on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, the Lantern Festival marks the end of Chinese New Year celebrations. In Chengdu, it’s a sensory feast of lights, folk performances, riddles, and traditional snacks, deeply tied to local heritage and family gatherings.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Is It Family-Friendly?

Yes! There are kid-friendly activities, wide walking paths, and cultural shows for all ages. It's a great night out for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✔️ Arrive before sunset to catch the lanterns lighting up in real time
• ✔️ Wear layers—it gets chilly at night
• ✔️ Don’t miss the lantern riddle booths for a fun local tradition

Explore Chengdu Now!

Chengdu has a way of settling into your soul—with its slow pace, rich flavors, and warm, welcoming vibe. It’s not just the pandas or the spicy hotpot (though those help); it’s the quiet moments in a teahouse, the buzz of Jinli Street at night, and the way locals truly savor life. Sure, the traffic can be a bit hectic, especially during rush hour, but honestly, once you’re sitting in a park with a cup of jasmine tea, it all fades away. The city’s charm sneaks up on you in the best way. If you're browsing flights to Chengdu, you're already halfway there. And with so many stylish and cozy hotels in Chengdu, it's easy to find the right place to stay. Now’s a great time to plan—there are amazing discounts on flights and hotels in Chengdu right now. Can’t wait for you to experience it all. Safe travels, friend!