8 Incredible Places to Visit in and Around Chengdu--China's City of Pandas, Hotpot, and Heritage

SHANGHAI,June 2, 2025/PRNewswire/ -- Once a hidden gem, Chengdu—the capital ofChina'sSichuanprovince— is fast becoming one of the country's most talked-about destinations. With an alluring blend of ancient tradition, fiery cuisine, and natural beauty (often showcased on social media), it's no surprise that the city is a rising favourite, with pre-summer bookings up over 180%.

A notable rise in domestic and international flight routes, including greater connectivity via major hubs such asShanghaiandBeijing, is making the vibrant city more accessible than ever. 

And as travellers seek deeper, more immersive experiences beyond the bustling megacities,Chengdu, the City of Gastronomy designated by UNESCO, is emerging as the perfect counterpoint—rich in culture yet refreshingly laid-back.

For visitors looking to explore the city's most iconic experiences, here are a few highlights that stand out:

1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

No visit toChengduis complete without meeting its most famous residents. The research base offers a rare opportunity to see giant pandas and red pandas in a carefully designed environment that mirrors their natural habitat. Enjoy an intimate experience with over 100 giant pandas and meet celebrity pandas Hua Hua and Qi Yi. The best viewing spots are Villas 1 and 2, where you can watch these majestic creatures play and snack on their favourite snack, bamboo. An unmissable experience is the panda cub enclosure, where you can observe 3-month-old cubs play, nap, and explore their surroundings. Make sure to visit in the morning when the pandas are most active and adorable. Find out more here:Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

2.Margo Manor Hotpot

Spice is a way of life inSichuanprovince, and nowhere is it more memorably served than at Margo Manor. This impressive hotpot restaurant blends stunning architecture, performance, and fierySichuanflavours into one unforgettable dining experience. It's a must for lovers of bold cuisine, local flair and spicy flavours.

3. Taikoo Li Chengdu

Blending ancient Chinese architecture with modern luxury storefronts creates a cosmopolitan cool. This open-air shopping and lifestyle complex in the city's heart is a case study in howChengduembraces the modern without losing its soul. Expect designer brands likeAlexander McQueen, Gucci and Versace among cutting-edge galleries, and some of the city's best cafés and cocktail bars, including %Arabica and Wang De Chuan Tea Company. Shoppers can also enjoy tax-free benefits at the nearbyIFS(International Finance Square)—a convenient bonus for international travellers looking to indulge and conveniently process their tax refunds immediately after shopping at participating stores.

4. Chuancai Museum

Located in the northwest suburb ofChengdu, this interactive museum is the first of its kind inChina. Visitors explore the history ofSichuancooking with a sensory overload. Take in the smell ofSichuan'sfamous peppercorn, an intoxicating, earthy perfume scent like no other. Or dive in and sample deliciousSichuandelicacies, including Sichuan-style stuffed pancake, northern Sichuan-style jelly, Tofu pudding, and dumplings. Not only will you observe the local gastronomic history, but you can also enjoy the museum through taste and smell, sampling famous local foods. Guests can even try their hand at preparing local dishes alongside expert chefs, who will take you on a culinary journey ofSichuanprovince. Find out more here:Sichuan Cuisine Museum.   

5. Chengdu Peoples Park

Chengdu Renmin Parkis an essential stop for a taste of local life. This urban oasis allows visitors to experience the laid-back nature of the city from locals practising tai chi, families enjoying tea in open-air pavilions, and street musicians playing traditional instruments. Be sure to stop and sip onChengdu'sfamous jasmine tea, or even try the local tradition of ear-cleaning. A soothing experience that's part cultural curiosity, part wellness ritual.

Side Trips Beyond the City

Thanks toChengdu'swell-developedhigh-speed railand domestic flight network, getting away from the city is easy and rewarding. Here are three must-see attractions, perfect for a day or weekend trip:

6. Jiuzhaigou Valley

On the edge of the Tibetan Plateau are the Min Mountains, which include the nature conservation site Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its crystal-clear lakes and lush wooded mountains.Jiuzhaigouis a nature lover's dream. Spring sees the landscape in full bloom, making it a wonderful escape for hikers, photographers and anyone seeking peace in nature.

7. Mount Emei

Mount Emei, one ofChina'sFour Sacred Buddhist Mountains, offers spiritual tranquillity and dramatic mountain views. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is ideal for those up for a challenge; scaling its ancient stone stairways will ensure you're standing on a sea of clouds, overlooking a breathtaking vista. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along its cliffside monasteries and potentially encounter the monkeys that inhabit the mountain.

8. Leshan Giant Buddha

Just a short train ride fromChengdu, this 71-metre-high stone Buddha statue, carved over a millennium ago, is the largest of its kind in the world. Viewed byboator from a hillside path, it's a staggering testament to ancient ingenuity and faith.

More aboutChengdu: The International City of Intangible Cultural Heritage

Chengduisn't just a side trip—it's becoming the main event with its unique pace of life and an abundance of experiences in and around the city!

The return of the biennialChengdu International Intangible Cultural Heritage Festival(ICH) from 28 May to 3 June is adding to the city's allure. The ICH Festival is a vibrant celebration of traditional arts, music and heritage, and further highlights the cultural pull of the vibrantSichuanprovince and the uniqueness ofChengdu. This year's festivities were organised in partnership with Trip.com Group. 

As part of the continued celebrations, Trip.Best Awards were also handed out: Trip.com's AI-curated, expert-reviewed rankings, which spotlight the city's must-see attractions, restaurants and hotels. For example, on theTrip.BestChengdulist, local attractions includeWuhou Shrine,SichuanOperashow andChengdu Museumor find the besthotels inChengdu.  

During the evening award show, guests were captivated by an eye-catching drone light show which stylishly told the history ofChinaandChengdu, while lively folk music and dances added to the atmosphere.

Chengduis part of a growing wave of cities benefiting fromChina'sbroader inbound tourism push. New visa-free policies, expanded rail connections, and digital-friendly travel tools make multi-city trips acrossChinaeven more seamless. If you find yourself transiting inChina, travellers can benefit from some amazing express tours – a free half-day layover tour designed to allow travellers to explore the charm and traditions ofShanghaiorBeijing. Find out more on the Trip.com website:Beijing Express&Shanghai Express.

For more travel inspiration, check out theTrip.BestAsia100list or dive straight intoTrip.BestChengdulist and start planning your trip toChina.

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SOURCE Trip.com