Chengdu China 2 Day Itinerary

Chengdu, China: A 2-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1:

Morning:

  • Breakfast at Yuhuangyuan Vegetarian Restaurant (玉皇园素食餐厅), known for its delicious and diverse vegetarian options.
  • Start your day with a visit to the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (成都大熊猫繁育研究基地). It’s home to over 100 giant pandas.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Jinli Street (锦利街), a touristy but vibrant area with numerous restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine. Don’t miss the famous Chengdu Hot Pot (成都火锅).
  • Explore the ancient Shu-han style architectures, local snacks, and shops at Jinli Street.
  • Visit the Wenshu Monastery (文殊院), a Buddhist temple with beautiful gardens and architecture.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Daci Monastery Snack Street (大慈寺小吃街), where you can taste various local street foods like Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡� ry) and Sichuan Noodles.
  • Enjoy a traditional Sichuan Opera performance at Chunxi Road (春熙路) or Shu Feng Ya Yun Theatre (书风雅云剧场).

Night:

  • Stay at the centrally located and highly rated The Temple House (祠堂酒店), a boutique hotel that blends traditional architecture with modern amenities.

Day 2:

Morning:

  • Breakfast at the hotel or try local breakfast at a street vendor near your accommodation.
  • Visit the Du Fu Thatched Cottage (赡藏ду夫居), a museum and garden dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch at Nanxiang Mian Xian Xiao Long Bao (南翔民生小笼包), a branch of the popular Shanghai restaurant offering delicious xiao long bao.
  • Head to the modern and unique Chengdu Museum (成都博物馆) to learn about the region’s history and culture.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Xiao Ke Xuan (小可轩), a restaurant offering innovative Sichuan dishes with a contemporary twist.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Tianfu River (天府江) or explore the lively bars and clubs in the Kuanzhai Alley (宽巷子).

Things to Know:

  1. Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate, so pack accordingly.
  2. Mandarin is the official language, but many people also speak Sichuanese.
  3. Chengdu’s Metro system is extensive and easy to navigate.
  4. Haggling is not customary in restaurants or shops, but it’s common at street markets.
  5. Tip your waitstaff, as service charge may not be included in the bill.
  6. Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or historical sites.
  7. Don’t forget to try the famous Chengdu tea, known as Jincha (金茶).
  8. Always carry cash, as some shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.