If you’re living in Chengdu or planning to move here, navigating daily life can be a challenge, especially if you don’t speak Chinese. That’s exactly why we’ve created a range of tools and resources to help make your life in Chengdu easier.

Over the past few years, we’ve worked hard to build a platform to support the international community. From our website and Mini-Program to our WeChat accounts, Pocket Guide, and social media, we aim to keep you up-to-date with everything happening in the city.

With over 1 million yearly visitors, www.Chengdu-Expat.com is the most visited English-language lifestyle website in Chengdu. It’s mobile-friendly and packed with listings, dining recommendations, nightlife spots, travel ideas, and essential information for daily life in Chengdu.

NEW: ChengduExpat iOS App — Everything You Need, in Your Pocket

Check out the ChengduExpat iOS App, your all-in-one guide to living in Chengdu. Available on the App Store.

Whether you’re searching for great food, want to explore events, or need answers fast, the app brings together everything from our site and Mini-Program in one sleek, easy-to-use interface. It’s designed for internationals in Chengdu, so no Chinese required.

Why download the ChengduExpat App?

• Discover top restaurants, cafés, bars, hospitals, gyms, and more

• Stay updated with the latest events, gigs, markets, and festivals

• Read articles on visas, housing, banking, travel, and everyday tips

• Use smart search to find what you need instantly

• Save your favourites for easy access anytime

• Clean, intuitive design built with expats in mind

Available now on iOS. Search “ChengduExpat+” in the App Store or click here.

Use the ChengduExpat+ Mini-Program on the Go

Prefer using WeChat? The ChengduExpat+ Mini-Program is still here for you. It holds over 2000 articles, 1300+ locations, and a frequently updated events section — all in one place.

The ChengduExpat+ Mini-Program really has it all at your fingertips.

Find our Mini-Program by scanning the QR code below:

When you open the ChengduExpat+ Mini-Program, it will open on the main Home screen. Here you will find the latest articles that have been posted, along with Most Read, Places, Events, Useful info, and more. On this page, you will find upcoming Events and newly added Locations. At the bottom of the main home page, you will find our Restaurants, Nightlife, Bar, Coffee & Tea, Travel and My Searches.

Find What You Need While Living in Chengdu

The best feature of our Mini-Program is the handy “Search” function.
Just type what you’re looking for (like you would on Google), and relevant results will appear instantly. It’s fast, intuitive, and all your searches get saved under My Searches for easy access later.

The post How to Find what you’re Looking for in Chengdu appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Check out our local Chengdu travel guide to culture, food, and pandas below. Discover top sights, local tips, and must-know info for travelers, expats, and food lovers!

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.

What’s the Weather Like in Chengdu?

Chengdu has a mild, humid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and often rainy, while winters are cold and damp, but rarely see snow. One thing to note is that air pollution can be a concern in winter, when coal is burned for heating across China. During this time, air quality can reach PM2.5 levels over 150.

Here’s how to stay safe during winter pollution in Chengdu. We recommend checking daily air quality with the Smart Air app or the American Consulate, wearing a good mask outdoors, and using an air purifier indoors.

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, this expat guide article 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.

Need to register your stay as a foreigner? Here’s how to register at the local police station in Chengdu.

Healthcare and Support

Any practical Chengdu travel guide should also include information about healthcare. Chengdu has several good hospitals and clinics with English-speaking services. 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 or iOS App

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.

The post Chengdu Travel Guide 2026: Useful Information and Top Places to Visit appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Daily Life Related

1. Cancel the Accounts
2. Cancel Phone SIM Card
3. Off-lease Procedure
4. Transfer Money to your Foreign Account
5. Cancel Broadband
6.Get the Contacts
7. Pet Affairs
8. Bucket List

Administrative Procedures 
9. Recommendation Letter
10. Employment Separation Certificate
11. Work Permit Cancellation Certificate
12. Apply for T Visa
13. Non-criminal Record
14. Withdraw Social Insurance
15. Withdraw Housing Fund
16. Handle Individual Income Tax
17. Personal Income Tax Payment Certificate

 

1) Cancel the Accounts

Your Chinese phone number is crucial for accessing apps like Alipay or WeChat linked to your bank.

Failing to cancel the accounts linked with your number before departing from China may run into problems, especially if it is associated with your passport number.

If the phone bill remains unpaid for an extended period (6 months), the number might be reassigned, and others could potentially access your accounts.

So it’s necessary to unbind your phone number from all associated applications and services or cancel the accounts linked to the number.*For SkyRemit, you can add your email as an additional sign-in method in the account settings first and unbind your phone number with the assistance of customer support.

2) Cancel Phone SIM Card

Decide if you want to keep your Chinese phone number active.

Keep the phone number

Downgrade to the cheapest plan that will keep your account active (China Mobile is about 18 CNY per month).

Keeping your phone number allows you to continue using services associated with it, such as Alipay and banking apps, even after departing from China.

You can simply switch your phone to airplane mode and connect to Wi-Fi when necessary, eliminating the need for a mobile data plan.

Using SkyRemit requires access to Chinese banking apps and services like WeChat or Alipay, which may need your phone number for verification.

Cancel the phone number

If you have settled all matters before departure, including the remittance of your salary, you can choose to cancel your mobile phone number.

The materials required for cancelling a mobile phone number may vary by city, it is recommended that you contact the customer service of the relevant telecom operatorsto clarify the requirements before visiting a local telecommunications business hall.

The customer service numbers are as follows:

China Mobile: 10086

China Unicom: 10010

China Telecom: 10000

*If the SIM card is not cancelled, it will continue to be charged by the Chinese provider. In addition, after 90 days, the provider will take back the number and blacklist you. This will cause problems for you to apply for a new SIM card later.

3) Off-lease Procedure

Before leaving China, foreigners need to communicate with the landlord to handle the rental deposit or get reimbursement of housing subsidies from your company. Due to the visa time, it is better to plan in advance.

4) Transferring Funds Out of China

Worried about missing bank visits before leaving?

Concerned about accessing RMB after you’re gone?

Use SkyRemit to transfer RMB overseas anytime – before departure or after you’ve left – 100% online. Eliminate last-minute bank runs!

Simple 3-Step Setup (Better Complete in China):

1.  Sign up on SkyRemit

2.  Upload documents (one-time):

• Valid passport & work permit

• Income tax payment records(Approval grants long-term transfer access)

3.  Initiate a transfer• Supports 195+ destinations & 43+ currencies

Scan to Check and Sign Up

Why Choose SkyRemit?

1. 24/7 Accessibility

• Transfers 365 days/year – no Chinese holiday restrictions

2.  Competitive Rates

• Uses XE.com mid-mark

3.  Fast Delivery• 80% transfers in 24-48hrs; select currencies in 30min4. Fully Licensed

5) Cancel Broadband

For all broadband services, if you no longer use them, need to bring your passport and internet device to the business hall to cancel your account before leaving China.

Otherwise, there will be further fees incurred. If you do not actively cancel your account, you will bear the expenses incurred.

6) Get the Contacts

Collect the email addresses and phone numbers of those you wish to stay in touch with, especially close friends and professional contacts. Make sure they have your contact information as well.

This is important because if you ever need to deactivate WeChat or if it becomes unusable due to regulatory changes in the future, you’ll still have a way to reach out to your friends.

For any former supervisors or managers, and anyone who could serve as a reference for a job, obtain their contact details and ensure they have yours too. This will be beneficial for maintaining professional relationships and networking.

7) Pet Affairs

If you decide to leave China with your pet, you need to prepare the following:

1. Booking Flight Tickets

Before purchasing flight tickets, confirm with the airline whether the desired flight has pet-in-cabin or oxygen-supply cargo hold spaces. Currently, pet tickets can only be confirmed by calling customer service.

After confirming the suitable flight, it is recommended to buy the tickets as soon as possible due to limited spots, especially during peak travel seasons. It is advisable to purchase pet tickets at least two months in advance for more options.

2. Preparation of Vaccination Certificate

More than one month before departure, ensure your pet’s rabies vaccine is valid within one year; if it is about to expire, it is recommended to get a booster shot one month before takeoff.

Veterinarians recommend waiting at least one month after vaccination before undertaking long flights.

3. Animal Health Certificate Issued by Customs (Valid for 5 Days)

Sample of the certificate

If you prefer not to go through the hassle, you can entrust a pet exit service agency through online forums, social media groups, or pet adoption websites such as RED, Xian Yu or related WeChat official accounts.

One month before departure, call the local customs hotline 12360 to inquire about the process, required documents, time, and location for handling (which may vary slightly by region).

*Note, the customs hotline does not offer English services.

If you decide not to take your pet with you when leaving China, there are several options for finding a new home for your pet.

1.  Friends or relatives

Find a new loving home for your pet by contacting friends, family, or colleagues who may be willing to adopt.

2.  Online Platforms 

Utilize online forums, social media groups, or pet adoption websites such as RED, Xian Yu or related WeChat official accounts to find potential adopters.

8) Bucket List

Dive into your bucket list of activities you’ve always dreamed of experiencing in China but never found the time for.

Whether it’s walking along the Great Wall, exploring the historic Forbidden City, or tasting authentic street food in bustling markets, countless adventures are waiting for you.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in cultural festivals, traditional tea ceremonies, and ancient temples.

These unique experiences offer a glimpse into a rich heritage and lifestyle that you won’t easily find outside of China. Enjoy every moment and create unforgettable memories.

9) Recommendation Letter 

Sample of recommendation letter

In the following conditions, you may need a recommendation letter.

a. Work or Study: If foreigners are working or studying in Chinese companies or schools, and need recommendation letters to apply for work or study opportunities in other countries, then recommendation letters may be necessary

.b. Visa Application: In some cases, foreigners may need recommendation letters as part of the visa application process, especially when applying for work or student visas.

c. Professional Certification: Certain professional fields may require foreigners to continue working in related jobs after leaving China, and in such cases, recommendation letters may be needed to prove their professional capabilities and experience.

d. Personal Development: Recommendation letters can sometimes be part of personal development, such as applying for scholarships, attending professional conferences, or engaging in academic exchanges.

e. Other Specific Purposes: In some specific situations, such as applying for certain specific projects or opportunities, recommendation letters may be required.

There are strict regulations on the content of the recommendation letter, such as the job position, working time, and signature and seal of recommender or official seal.

10) Employment Separation Certificate 

Sample of employment separation certificate

Before leaving a company in China, you should ask for a certificate of separation or work experience from the company.

This certificate should have your name, passport number, job dates, job title, company contact info, and the company’s stamp.

If you want to work in China again or need a work permit, this certificate is very important. Following the Labor Contract Law, the company must give the employee a separation certificate.

As you might need a notarized work certificate when applying for jobs or permanent residency in another country in the future, it’s also a good idea to get this certificate notarized.

11) Work Permit Cancellation Certificate

Sample of work permit cancellation certificate

There are two situations:

a. If your last working day is on or close to the work permit’s expiration date(e.g., within 3 days of the expiration date), you don’t need to cancel the work permit (because cancellation must be done a few days before you leave).

b. If there is a long gap between your last working day and the work permit’s expiration(e.g., more than 30 days), you must cancel the work permit and get a cancellation certificate from the Bureau of Foreign Experts Affairs.

If you return to China in a short period and apply for a domestic work permit transfer, this certificate must be provided.

Work Permit Cancellation Materials:

① Application for cancellation of work permit

② Termination certificate or termination certificate

③ Non-meeting Commitment (if applicable, can be submitted to complete the application online)

12) Apply for T Visa

Sample of T visa

After obtaining the work permit cancellation certificate, you can apply for a stay visa from the exit and entry department of the Public Security Bureau, and the duration of the stay visa will be determined based on the specific circumstances, usually 30 days.

13

Non-Criminal Record

Sample of non-criminal record

Obtaining a certificate of non-criminal record typically requires the applicant’s presence. If you have already left China, the materials needed for agent handling will be more complicated.

Foreigners in China usually need to meet the following conditions and requirements when applying for a certificate of no criminal record:

a. Residence Time Requirement: The cumulative residence in China must reach 180 days (inclusive) or more.

b. Personal application material needed on site (taking Shenzhen as an example):

①Original passport

②Temporary residence registration form

Sample of temporary residence registration form 临时住宿登记表样本

③application form (fill and sign on site)

*Please note that many foreigners do not update their records after renewing their residence permits or changing their addresses, which leads to discontinuous residence periods in the system and makes it impossible to process a certificate of no criminal record.

请注意，不少人每次在更新居留许可或变更地址后并未更新填表，导致系统里的居住时间不连续而无法办理无犯罪证明。

c. Application Department: An application should be submitted to the immigration administration department at or above the county level where the applicant resides.

3. 申请部门：应向居住地的县级以上出入境管理局提出申请。

d. Processing Time: Generally, it takes 5-10 working days to complete the process.4. 办理时间：一般情况下，办理时长为5-10个工作日办结。

If you have left China, materials needed for agent:

① The Chinese visa page of passport and residence period, must be authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or consulate.

② Temporary Accommodation registration form.

③ The power of attorney, must be certified by the Chinese Embassy or consulate.

Suppose the certificate is to be used abroad. In that case, obtaining two to three notarized copies of the certificate from a notary office after receiving it is recommended to be prepared for unforeseen needs.

14

Withdraw Social Insurance

Please be aware that you can only apply for social security surrender once the company has stopped your payments. 

Generally, if the social security for the current month has been paid, the company can only stop the payments in the last few days of the month. Therefore, please plan your time carefully.

Offline Social Security Bureau window application:(taking Shenzhen as an example)

Documents needed of withdrawing Social Insurance:

① Passport

② A bank card issued in China’s Mainland

③ Work permit cancellation certificate or separation certificate

④ Financial social security card, no need if not available

⑤ Social insurance relationship settlement application form (signed by the insured, such as the unit agent, need to stamp official seal if company handled it instead of.) 

The application form is as follows:

Q: How much money can I claim back?

A: You can log in to the personal social security system account to inquire, or to the Social Security Bureau front window to inquire. Any part paid by an individual can apply for withdrawal.

15) Withdraw Housing Fund

If your company has purchased the housing fund for you, you can withdraw the balance of all the housing fund before leaving.

For housing fund withdrawal, you can apply online or offline. It is recommended to apply offline, as online applications do not have the option of departure withdrawal and usually take several months to receive.

Online Apply: You can try searching for ‘公积金提取’ on Alipay, but if that doesn’t work out, we recommend going offline to handle it.

Offline application for the withdrawal of housing fund material (taking Shenzhen as an example):

① Original passport

② Original Housing fund card (if no, use other Chinese bank cards instead)③ Housing Fund Withdrawal business personal authorization, commitment letter (fill in bank window site)

16) Handle Individual Income Tax

Individuals in China are responsible for personal income tax. Before leaving, verify your tax records to ensure your employer has fully withheld and paid the corresponding personal income tax for you.

If there’s a shortfall, coordinate with your employer to settle it promptly to avoid late fees, penalties, and credit damage in China. Seeking help from a tax professional or service is advisable.

If your taxpayer status changes before departure: a resident becomes a non-resident, or a non-resident becomes a resident, resulting in a discrepancy between the tax paid and the tax payable, in this case, you need to go to the tax Bureau for a tax refund before departure.

If you are a resident taxpayer and you have used the eight eligible subsidy policies to refund the tax in the following year, you need to prepare relevant information before leaving the country.

If you have used the qualified rent subsidy, you need to collect the rent invoice, lease contract and other information before leaving the country, to handle the personal settlement from March to June of the following year. Provide supporting documents to the tax office.

17) Personal Income Tax Payment Certificate

Sample of the certificate

To comply with tax obligations in your home country or a third country where you may work, it’s advisable to secure documentation of your income and tax payments from your employment in China before you leave.

This proof of tax payment can be essential for demonstrating compliance with tax laws in other jurisdictions.

 

The post The 2026 Essential Checklist for Expats Leaving China for Good appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Looking to take the next step in your career in China? The 2026 Chengdu Job Fair for Foreigners is just around the corner, and this year’s event is set to be bigger and more exciting than ever. Hosted by the Chengdu Science and Technology Bureau in collaboration with the Foreign Experts Affairs Bureau of Chengdu, this annual event brings together top employers and international talent in a dynamic, welcoming, and professional setting.

Whether you are seeking full-time roles, internships, or valuable networking opportunities, the Chengdu Job Fair for Foreigners offers a great chance to connect directly with recruiters and hiring managers from some of the region’s most respected organizations.

Since its launch in 2016, the Chengdu Job Fair for Foreigners has grown into a key platform for connecting international professionals with employers in Chengdu across a wide range of industries.

What makes this event stand out is its strong government support and dedicated focus on international recruitment. It provides a unique opportunity for global talent to meet leading employers face to face. With more than 50 companies offering over 300 positions, attendees can explore opportunities in industries such as technology, education, digital media, corporate services, and manufacturing. There is particularly strong demand for foreign professionals, including teachers, engineers, marketing specialists, and software developers. The event is designed to create a relaxed yet professional atmosphere where meaningful conversations and valuable connections can happen naturally.

You can expect an impressive lineup of employers, from innovative startups to well-established organizations. Past exhibitors have included international schools, technology companies, manufacturing firms, and language training centers, all actively looking to hire foreign talent.

Job Sectors

• Information Technology (IT)

• Education & Training

• Digital Media & Cultural Creativity

• International Trade

• Corporate Support Services

• Advanced Manufacturing

Whether you are a recent graduate, an experienced professional, or considering a career change, you will find a variety of opportunities suited to your background and career goals.

Register Now

Do not miss this once-a-year opportunity to take your career to the next level. Join us at the 2026 Chengdu Job Fair for Foreigners and connect with employers eager to meet international talent like you.

Saturday, April 25
From 10am to 16:30pm

Venue:

Times Wellness Resort Chengdu, 3F

安逸·安得天馨Wellness Resort 三楼

Address:

No. 6, Changshou Road, Wuhou District, Chengdu City

四川省成都市武侯区长寿路6号附6号

The post 2026 Chengdu Job Fair for Foreigners appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

The winners are in! A huge thank you to everyone who voted in this year’s Chengdu-Expat Awards. After 1 month of nominations, voting and the judging – we can finally reveal who you chose to celebrate this year in the city!

Just like last year, 30% of the vote was decided by judges from Chengdu’s international community. The panel had all been in Chengdu for more than 5 years, and run their own projects int he city.

The majority of the vote of course went to you. A big thank you to the 10.000+ people who make up the very fabric of Chengdu’s complicated weave to take the time to vote. The people that keep the restaurants, hotels, bars and community doors open daily.

And wow Chengdu, you like to party! Over 220 people came out to celebrate the city’s best and brightest on a night of glitz and glamour, at the W Chengdu’s SPARK rooftop bar. They walked the red carpet, heard the judges announcing the winners, and enjoyed the live band.

So, who did you chose?

Best Newcomer

[Brave Kitchen]

 •

Runners up:

Best Hotel

[Grand ParcVue Hotel Residence Chengdu]

Runners up:

Best Nightclub

[Berlin Room]

 Runners up:

Bamboo

Butterfly

Best Bar

[Wild West Taproom]

 Runners up:

Best Restaurant

[Mesos]

Runners up:

FIELDS Concord

TIVANO | Upper House

Best Brunch

[FIELDS Concord]

 Runners up:

Best Pizza

[Gli Azzurri]

Runners up:

Gli Azzurri

Pizza Corner

Best Burger

[Blue Frog]

Runners up:

Best Restaurant for Delivery

[GILI’S]

 •

Runners up:

Hospitality of the Year

[Matthias | Mesos]

Runners up:

Sue | GILI’S

Lily | FIELDS Concord

Runners up: Mini World Cup & ESCAPE

Best Sporting Community

[CIBA (Chengdu International Badminton Association)]

•

Runners up: CIFL (Chengdu Int’l Football League) & Pitch Please Ladies Football Cl

Congratulations to everyone & thank you for your support!

A Big Thank You to our Title Sponsors 

The Chengdu-Expat Awards are a really great way to say thank you to the hard working people in Chengdu, that make it such a wonderful city to live.

This wouldn’t be possible without our amazing sponsors, Wuliangye. Thank you for your support.

The post The Best of Chengdu – 2025 Chengdu-Expat Awards Winners appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

• Big news for Chengdu dwellers: Line 13 (Phase 1, which runs Southeast-Northwest) and Line 30 (Phase 1, which runs West-East) were officially launched on December 15th, 2025.

• With these new extensions, Chengdu’s metro network now contains more than 750 kilometers, cementing its status as one of China’s longest city-wide rail networks.

Source: 成都地铁

Will you use the new Metro Lines extensions or which other one are you waiting for?

Let us know in the comments below!

The post Chengdu Metro Lines 13 and 30 Officially Open appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Zikoland started with two French friends and food enthusiasts — chef Ziko and his partner Yohan back in 2017. Their idea was straightforward: remove the middlemen, partner directly with top importers, and offer premium products at prices that won’t make you tear up.

Basically: top-notch restaurant-grade quality products at flash-sale prices, delivered to your door.

Ziko Kitchen

Gourmet finds

 Wagyu beef, ribeyes, dry-aged steak, short rib, skirt steak, beef patties, mince, osso buco, veal, and bone marrow.

 From Sausages to imported cheeses, hams and ready-made cordon bleu or French-style dry saussisons – all are for quick and easy prep at home.

  Premium Poultry – whole turkey, Capon, Long Gang yellow chicken, pigeon, mullard duck

  Ready-to-Eat Dishes – couscous, Italian pastas, beef lasagna, parmentier, smoked brisket, chicken in foie gras sauce and more!

Seafood – king salmon,caviar, king crab legs, red crab meat, scampi XL, scallops, yellowfin tuna, sushi-grade fish, halibut, smoked salmon, oysters, mussels, squid, and bottarga.

Selected French & Italian Cheese – Gapon, tomme de Savoie, brie, made-on-demand burrata, comté, Petit Pont-l’Évêque, livarot, gruyére, Brillat-Savarin.

How To Shop

Simple: WeChat!

Join a WeChat group
Add Chef Ziko below to get started

⇣

Daily flash sales happen inside the members-only groups. You’ll get flyers with pricing for combo packs and single items, plus occasional lotteries with freebies from Ziko Kitchen.See something you want? Just order in the group or message the service account. Sales run for only 2–4 hours, so when time’s up, orders close.

---

Readers’ Perks

Try your first order now

The post Ziko Kitchen: The WeChat Foodies Community for All appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

More decorations and costumes are popping up in supermarkets and convenience stores in Chengdu, but Taobao 淘宝 of course is still king if you want to take first prize at the costume party. Here’s where to get fanged in the city:

Physical Stores

Sam’s Club, Metro, Carrefour, Ito Yokado, Auchan, Walmart and even shops like 7Eleven, Family Mart, Lawson, Miniso have accessories and often Halloween candy this year. You can find your nearest hypermarket by scanning the ChengduExpat+ Mini Program below, then use the search function.

Hehuachi Wholesale Market 金荷花

Located not too far from the North Train Station, this multi purpose market is considered as Chengdu’s “offline Taobao”, having tons of clothing options, from traditional Chinese style to more avante-guarde items. WARNING: this is not a small market, so requires some dedication, but they have many womens, mens and childrens items.

Address:

Beizhan Dongyi Rd. No. 18, Jinniu District 金牛区北站东一路18号

700m walk from Line 1 Renmin North Station Exit B1

Sichuan Conservatory Of Music or Shaanxi Street

For Costume Hire

Both of these Chengdu streets are located in the city centre and are chock full of costumes for hire – with prices ranging from 50-300RMB a day – don’t be afraid to bargain. Most of the costumes can even be bought for keeps if you don’t want to return it.

They don’t have a very spooky selection, but if you’re looking for Monkey King/Hanfu/cloak combos, this is the place.

1) Shi’er South Street 十二南街

Right by the Sichuan Conservatory of Music, on Shiernan street has lot’s of traditional Chinese costumes, and lots of sequinned dance clothes. It’s also a great place to snap up a sparkly dress for your company’s Chinese New Year party, if you find yourself in a bind.

Address: Shi’er nan Street, near the Sichuan Conservatory of Music 武侯区十二南街 (在四川音乐学院的附近）Some of the costume hire shops on 十二南街

2) Shaanxi Street 陕西街

This street south of Tianfu Square is home to several tailors, and several costume shops. Lots of fun dresses and accessories to spice-up any kind of party…

Address: Shaanxi Street (southwest of Tianfu Square) 青羊区陕西街

In between Line 1 Jinjiang Hotel/ Tianfu Square stops.

Ole’ Supermarket

Don’t feel like going to specific places just for Halloween? Ole’ supermarket in Chengdu is located in Taikoo Li and MIXC, it is easy for you to buy holiday decors while shopping here.

Addresses:

1.Taikoo Li: M053, B1,No.8 Shamao Street, Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li, Jinjiang District
太古里店：锦江区中纱帽街8号远洋太里M053号商铺
2.MIXC: B106,B1,No.8 Shuangqing Road, MIXCity
万象城店：成华区双庆路8号成都万象城B1层B106号商铺

Ito Yokado

Ito is a Japanese supermarket selling candy and some Halloween accessories. They also have pumpkins and other autumn squashs, which would be great for a halloween display.

Addresses：

1.Wanda Plaza Branch: East 2rd Ring Road, Jinjiang District

万达店: 锦江区二环路东五段万达广场

2.Shuangnan Branch: 1~4F, No.6, Yidu Road, Wuhou District

双楠店: 武侯区二环路西一段逸都路6号1-4楼

3.Gao Xin Branch: Shihao plaza, Jiannan Avenue, Gaoxin District

高新店: 剑南大道花荫路口世豪广场

4.Chunxi Branch: No.8, Zhengke Jia Alley, Jinjiang District

春熙店: 锦江区正科甲巷8号

METRO Supermarket

METRO is an American style wholesale supermarket – you need to be a member, but you can easily sign up at the entrance by scanning a QR code. Also, METRO have a great range of Halloween candy, decorations and a few costume accessories.

Addresses:

1. Qingjiang Middle Rd, Qingyang District 青羊区清江中路1号

2. B1 No.1033 Second Tianfu Street, Gaoxin District 高新区天府二街1033号B1

3. B1 No.789 Shangshahepu Street, Jinjiang District 锦江区上沙河铺街789号B1

and more

Toy R Us

​Toys R Us has a great range of children’s costumes and Halloween accessories.

Addresses:

5F, Mix City, No.8 Shuangqing Road, Chenghua District

成华区双庆路8号华润万象城5楼

LG2, IFS Chengdu, No.1 3rd Section Hongxing Road

红星路三段1号成都国际金融中心LG2层

4F, CapitaMall, No.183 Jiaoda Road, Jinniu District
金牛区交大路183号凯德广场2期4楼

Global Center 3F, Gaoxin District

高新区新世界环球中心3层

4F, Ufun Mall, No.300, Jiaozi Dadao, Wuhou District

武侯区交子大道300号悠方购物中心4F

and many more!

7-Eleven, FamilyMart…

7-Eleven and Family Mart are other 24-hours convenient stores, that are located in many of the inner city neighbourhoods. Bigger stores sell some face paint, accessories, small decorations and candy. They provide Halloween special desserts and decors.

Taobao

www.taobao.com

At www.taobao.com or taobao APP, you can buy everything you’ve ever needed or wanted. If you’re running short of time, you can select stores that are based in Chengdu to make sure your costume or pumpkin lanterns are delivered on time.

The post Where to Buy Halloween Costumes in Chengdu appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

• Passengers can now use not only UnionPay cards but also overseas-issued VISA, Mastercard, and American Express cards, without extra costs involved.

Fares are automatically calculated and deducted according to standard rules, and payment is done automatically — no app, no cash, no need to speak Chinese. Just tap your card at the metro gates across the network and go!These cards also work seamlessly at ticket vending machines for purchasing single-journey tickets, adding another layer of convenience.

This makes Chengdu only the third city in the Chinese mainland (after Beijing and Shanghai) that provides this ‘tap and ride’ service using both domestic and international bank cards.

This comes after years of China having their own very separate debit/credit card and e-payment ecosystem, totally separate from global banking systems (operated by Visa, Mastercard etc.) in the majority of Western countries.

In the last few years, China has made moves to make visiting and living in China a little easier for international guests, with an easing of visa restrictions, and allowing international cards to be linked to WeChat and Alipay. These are very welcome changes!

The post Use Foreign Bank Cards to Ride the Chengdu Metro appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Looking for a place to shoot hoops in Chengdu? Whether you’re a local or an expat, the city offers plenty of options.Many residential communities and universities also have well-maintained courts open to the public (sometimes for a small fee). Grab your sneakers and join pickup games, train solo, or book a court with friends. This guide highlights the best spots across Chengdu to enjoy basketball year-round—rain or shine!

KD Quansu Sports Basketball Park KD全速体育篮球公园

 

Address:

Top Floor, SM City,Chengdu

成都市 SM 购物广场顶层

Tel.:

19183960902

Time：

9:00-22:00

XDARK Park Basketball 德瑞克篮球公园

Address:

Chenghua District, Chengdu, No.2, Zhaojue Temple Henglu Road

成都市成华区昭觉寺横路2号

Tel:

18583705225

Time:

Monday-Friday: 9:30-22:00

Weekend: 9:00-22:00

Matime Basketball Gymnasium 每时篮球馆

 

Address: 

6F, Hengda Xijin City Commercial Plaza No. 123 Yingbin Avenue Chengdu

迎宾大道123号恒大西锦城商业广场6F

Tel.:

028-61983798

Time:

9:00-22:00

Rongde Basketball Gymnasium 荣德篮球馆

Address:

Qingyang District, Chengdu, No.99, Qingxi East Road

成都市青羊区清溪东路99号

Tel:

028-67136069

Time:

13:00-22:00

Do you know any other good places? 

Let us know in the comments!

Check out other sports venues in Chengdu:

Where to Play Soccer in Chengdu

Table Tennis Clubs in Chengdu

Where to Play Badminton in Chengdu

Chengdu Indoor Swimming Pools

Outdoor Swimming Pools in & around Chengdu

The post Where to Play Basketball in Chengdu appeared first on Chengdu Expat.