Located in Sichuan, Southwest China, this Chengdu travel guide explores a city where old traditions and modern life come together. Life here moves at a slower, more relaxed pace, perfect for enjoying a cup of tea and taking it all in. As the capital of Sichuan Province and home to over 16 million people, Chengdu is known for much more than spicy hotpot and cute pandas, it’s also one of the most comfortable and livable cities in China. Before you come, here are 7 things to know before visiting Chengdu.
A City of Deep History and Culture
Any complete Chengdu travel guide must highlight the city’s rich history, which spans over 2,000 years. It was once the center of the ancient Shu Kingdom and played a key role in Chinese history. Today, you can still see its rich past at places like Wuhou Shrine, Qingyang Palace, and the peaceful Wenshu Monastery. You can also walk through the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuan Zhai Xiangzi) to experience life during the Qing Dynasty, with traditional teahouses, old-style homes, and tasty street snacks.
👉 Check out our guide to must-see attractions in Chengdu for more places to explore. In addition, Don’t miss these must-visit museums in Chengdu.
The Home of the Giant Panda
Chengdu is famous for being the home of giant pandas, one of China’s national symbols. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, millions of people visit each year to see pandas eat, sleep, and play. The city works hard to protect these animals, making it a great place for animal lovers. Want to see more nature? Try a day trip around Chengdu to places like Mount Qingcheng or the Leshan Giant Buddha.
A Culinary Paradise
One of the highlights of any Chengdu travel guide is its unforgettable food scene. Chengdu is known around the world for its food, especially its spicy Sichuan dishes. It’s a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the home of famous meals like mapo tofu, dandan noodles, and Sichuan hotpot. The food is bold, flavorful, and often uses mala, a spice that makes your mouth tingle.
Not sure where to start? Here are 7 must-eat dishes in Chengdu that every visitor should try at least once.
Looking for something a bit more off the beaten path? Discover where Anthony Bourdain ate in Chengdu and follow in his foodie footsteps.
Curious about which places might not live up to the hype? Check out this honest review of 5 local Chengdu restaurants that are a bit overrated.
Craving something different from Sichuan spice? Explore Chengdu’s international food scene with our guide to Italian restaurants in Chengdu. Or if you’re more of a late riser, don’t miss where to brunch in Chengdu for cozy weekend favorites.
Whether you’re dining in a fancy restaurant or eating street food, you’re in for a tasty experience. Want to enjoy local food events? Check out the Chengdu Events Calendar for food festivals, markets, and more.
Relaxed, Friendly, and Fun
Chengdu is known for its relaxed way of life. While many big cities in China are fast-paced, Chengdu is calm and easygoing. People here enjoy simple things, like drinking tea in teahouses, playing mahjong in the park, or walking through green spaces like People’s Park. For budget-friendly ways to enjoy the city, explore these cheap things to do in Chengdu. To make your trip picture-perfect, don’t miss these Instagrammable spots in Chengdu.
It’s also a great city for families. If you’re visiting or living here with kids, there are tons of fun activities for children in Chengdu to explore. From educational outings to amusement centers, there’s something for every age. During the hot summer months, cool off in one of Chengdu’s outdoor swimming pools, or on rainy days, try one of these indoor activities for families in Chengdu.
Because of this laid-back lifestyle, Chengdu is seen as one of the best cities to live in. Many young people, artists, and entrepreneurs are choosing to move here and make it their home. Thinking about staying longer? Take a look at our 2025 Guide for Foreigners in China.
A Modern, Connected Hub
Even though life in Chengdu is relaxed, it’s still a modern and well-connected city. It has a big subway system, high-speed trains, and an international airport with flights to cities around the world. Chengdu is also a growing center for technology and innovation, sometimes called “China’s Silicon Valley West.”
If you’re new to the city, it’s easy to get started. Whether you need housing, a SIM card, a job, or want to meet other expats, our New Expat Guide explains it all, from transport to mobile payments. You can also learn how to find what you’re looking for in Chengdu, our mini program makes it easy to find everything you need.
👉 Need to open a bank account? Here’s how to open a bank account in Chengdu.
👉Need to sort out your visa? Here’s a list of visa application centres and contact details in Chengdu.
Healthcare and Support
Any practical Chengdu travel guide should also include information about healthcare. Chengdu has many good hospitals and clinics, including places with English-speaking doctors. For peace of mind, check out our guide to healthcare, hospitals, and clinics in Chengdu, it lists the best options for expats.
Need to pick up medicine but not sure how to ask for it? Our handy guide to helpful Western medicines in Chinese can help you find what you need at local pharmacies.
🌟 Pro Tip: Even picking up a few local phrases can go a long way. Check out our Survival Sichuanese guide to help you navigate Chengdu like a local, from ordering food to making new friends.
📲 Download the Chengdu-Expat+ Mini Program
Make your time in Chengdu easier with the Chengdu-Expat+ Mini Program app. Find the best places to eat, events, jobs, housing, hospitals, and more, all in one place.
So, whether you’re here for a weekend of sightseeing, a few months of adventure, or a long-term stay, Chengdu welcomes you with warmth, spice, and a distinctive sense of ease. From giant pandas to ancient temples, spicy food to soft rain, there’s something unforgettable around every corner.
