Written and updated by Ruqin
Last updated: May 20, 2026
The first time I explored Chengdu properly, I realized the city reveals itself slowly. One moment you’re standing beside ancient temples wrapped in incense smoke, and the next you’re eating spicy noodles in a crowded alley while locals play mahjong nearby. That mix of calm history and everyday energy is what makes Chengdu memorable.
In this guide to the Top 10 Attractions in Chengdu, I’ll walk you through the places that are truly worth your time — from panda bases and historic streets to parks, temples, and local cultural spots visitors often remember most.
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Chengdu. Home to over 100 giant pandas, this facility offers a unique opportunity to see these adorable creatures up close.
How to get there: You can take bus numbers 87, 198, or 198A, or a taxi from downtown Chengdu. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 58 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Visiting the panda base in the early morning is advisable. This is when pandas are most active. You can watch them eating bamboo and playing. There’s also a museum where you can learn about panda conservation efforts.
2. Wuhou Shrine
Wuhou Shrine, also known as the Temple of Marquis Wu, is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period. The temple complex is a peaceful place, filled with ancient architecture and beautiful gardens.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 1, 57, 82, or 334 to Wuhouci Station. Alternatively, a taxi from the city center takes about 20 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 60 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Inside the shrine, you will find statues, inscriptions, and relics from the Three Kingdoms era. The serene environment offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
3. Jinli Ancient Street
Jinli Ancient Street is a bustling pedestrian street that showcases traditional Chinese architecture, local snacks, and crafts. It’s a great place to experience Chengdu’s vibrant street culture.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 1, 57, 82, or 334 to Jinli Street Station. You can also walk from Wuhou Shrine as it’s nearby.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Jinli Ancient Street.
Stroll through the street and sample local delicacies like dumplings and sugar paintings. The shops sell a variety of souvenirs, making it a perfect spot for shopping enthusiasts.
4. Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, is carved out of a cliff face overlooking the confluence of three rivers. This UNESCO World Heritage site is awe-inspiring.
How to get there: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu East Railway Station to Leshan, which takes about an hour. Then take a bus or taxi to the Buddha site.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 80 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
You can view the statue from the base, take a boat ride on the river for a different perspective, or climb the stairs to see it up close.
5. Dujiangyan Irrigation System
The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, built over 2,000 years ago, is an ancient marvel of engineering. It’s still in use today, controlling the waters of the Min River and irrigating the Chengdu Plain.
How to get there: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan City, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, take a bus or taxi to the site.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 90 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Explore the site and learn about its history and significance. The nearby Mount Qingcheng, known for its Taoist temples, is also worth a visit.
6. Chengdu People’s Park
Chengdu People’s Park is a lively public park in the heart of the city. It’s a great place to observe local life, with activities like tai chi, tea drinking, and dancing.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 5, 13, 43, or 78 to People’s Park Station. A taxi from downtown takes about 10 minutes.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Chengdu People’s Park.
Visit the park’s teahouses, paddle on the lake, or simply relax and watch the locals. It’s a fantastic place to experience the everyday life of Chengdu residents.
7. Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alleys)
Kuanzhai Alley, also known as Wide and Narrow Alleys, is a historical and cultural area. It consists of three parallel alleys showcasing traditional Sichuan architecture, local cuisine, and shops.
How to get there: Take metro line 4 to Kuanzhai Alley Station. You can also take bus numbers 5, 13, 43, or 78.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Kuanzhai Alley.
Wander through the alleys, enjoy the local snacks, and shop for unique souvenirs. The area is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for evening strolls.
8. Qingcheng Mountain
Qingcheng Mountain is one of the birthplaces of Taoism. It is known for its lush greenery, ancient temples, and serene environment. The mountain offers a perfect escape into nature.
How to get there: Take a high-speed train from Chengdu to Dujiangyan City, then a bus or taxi to the mountain.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 90 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Hike the trails, visit Taoist temples, and enjoy the scenic views. The mountain’s peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
9. Jinsha Site Museum
The Jinsha Site Museum is an archaeological museum built on the site of the Jinsha ruins. It showcases artifacts from the Shu Kingdom, dating back over 3,000 years.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 5, 7, 8, or 83 to the museum. A taxi from the city center takes about 20 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 80 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Explore the museum’s exhibits, including jade, gold, and bronze artifacts. The outdoor section features the actual excavation site, providing a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
10. Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Du Fu Thatched Cottage is a park and museum dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. The site includes a replica of Du Fu’s original cottage, beautiful gardens, and a museum.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 19, 35, 58, or 82 to the cottage. A taxi from the city center takes about 15 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 50 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Wander through the gardens, visit the poet’s cottage, and explore the museum. The site offers a peaceful and poetic atmosphere, perfect for literature lovers.
What I love most about Chengdu is that its attractions never feel disconnected from daily life. You can spend the morning watching pandas, then end the day in a quiet park drinking tea beside local families and retirees. The city moves slowly enough for you to actually enjoy these moments.
I hope this guide to the Top 10 Attractions in Chengdu helps you plan with more confidence and less stress. Leave room for unplanned stops too — some of Chengdu’s best memories happen between the famous sights.
About the Author
Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.
Further Reading
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Chengdu Wuhou Temple: Tickets, Map, Highlights and Travel Tips
How to Visit Jinli Ancient Street: Map, Food, Markets, Hotels & Tips
Leshan Giant Buddha: Tickets, Transport, Routes, Hotels & Tips
Dujiangyan Irrigation System: Map, Routes, Tickets and Travel Tips
Chengdu People’s Park: Things to Do, Map & Transport Guide
Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley: Map, Food, Shopping and Travel Tips
How to Visit Mount Qingcheng: Transportation, Highlights & Tips
Jinsha Site Museum Chengdu: Tickets, Highlights, Map & Tips
How to Visit Du Fu Thatched Cottage – Your Complete Guide
