Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is renowned for its rich culture, historical significance, and mouthwatering cuisine. If you’re visiting Chengdu for the first time, you’ll want to make the most of your trip by exploring its top attractions in Chengdu.
This “What are the Top Attractions to See in Chengdu?” guide will provide you with detailed information on the top attractions in Chengdu, including how to get there and entrance fees. So, let’s dive in and discover the best spots to visit in this vibrant city.
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. Sichuan Opera and Face Changing Show
Sichuan Opera is famous for its face-changing performances. This traditional art form involves actors changing their masks in a fraction of a second.
How to get there: The most popular venue is Shufeng Yayun Teahouse, located in Chengdu Culture Park. Take bus numbers 5, 13, 43, or 78 to the park.
Entrance fees: Ticket prices range from 100 RMB to 300 RMB, depending on the seating.
Enjoy an evening of cultural entertainment. The show also includes acrobatics, puppetry, and traditional music, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
9. 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.
10. Sichuan Museum
Sichuan Museum is the largest museum in Sichuan Province. It houses over 260,000 cultural relics, including pottery, paintings, and calligraphy.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 1, 19, 35, or 82 to the museum. A taxi from the city center takes about 15 minutes.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Sichuan Museum.
Explore the museum’s extensive collections. The exhibits offer a deep insight into Sichuan’s history and culture, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
11. Wenshu Monastery
Wenshu Monastery is a well-preserved Buddhist temple. It dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
How to get there: Take metro line 1 to Wenshu Monastery Station. You can also take bus numbers 16, 55, or 98.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Wenshu Monastery.
Stroll through the temple grounds, admire the ancient buildings, and relax in the peaceful gardens. The monastery also houses a teahouse where you can enjoy traditional tea.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. Huanglongxi Ancient Town
Huanglongxi Ancient Town is a picturesque water town with well-preserved ancient buildings. The town is known for its charming streets, traditional architecture, and scenic river views.
How to get there: Take a bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station in Chengdu, which takes about an hour.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Huanglongxi Ancient Town.
Stroll through the ancient streets, visit the temples, and enjoy the local snacks. The town’s traditional ambiance makes it a great day trip from Chengdu.
15. Anren Ancient Town
Anren Ancient Town is known for its well-preserved mansions and museums. The town offers a glimpse into the life of wealthy Chinese families during the Republic of China era.
How to get there: Take a bus from Chengdu’s Chadianzi Bus Station, which takes about 90 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee varies depending on the attractions you visit, but a combined ticket costs around 80 RMB.
Explore the ancient mansions, visit the Jianchuan Museum Cluster, and enjoy the town’s historical atmosphere. Anren is a great destination for history buffs.
16. Wangjianglou Park
Wangjianglou Park, also known as the River Viewing Tower Park, is dedicated to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Xue Tao. The park features beautiful gardens, bamboo groves, and historical buildings.
How to get there: Take bus numbers 35, 19, or 82 to the park. A taxi from downtown Chengdu takes about 15 minutes.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 20 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Stroll through the park, visit the poet’s tower, and enjoy the serene environment. The park is a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
17. Sichuan Science and Technology Museum
The Sichuan Science and Technology Museum is a modern museum offering interactive exhibits on science and technology. It’s a great place for families and science enthusiasts.
How to get there: Take metro line 1 to Tianfu Square Station. You can also take bus numbers 1, 16, or 99.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 30 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, watch educational shows, and engage in hands-on activities. The museum offers a fun and educational experience for all ages.
18. Chunxi Road
Chunxi Road is Chengdu’s most famous shopping street. It features a mix of modern malls, traditional shops, and street vendors, offering a diverse shopping experience.
How to get there: Take metro line 2 to Chunxi Road Station. You can also take bus numbers 3, 4, or 58.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to visit Chunxi Road.
Shop for international brands, local products, and delicious street food. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
19. Global Center
The Global Center is the world’s largest building by floor area. It houses a shopping mall, an indoor water park, hotels, and various entertainment facilities.
How to get there: Take metro line 1 to Jincheng Plaza Station. You can also take bus numbers 1, 48, or 91.
Entrance fees: There is no entrance fee to enter the Global Center, but individual attractions within may charge fees.
Explore the vast shopping mall, relax at the water park, and enjoy the various entertainment options. The Global Center offers a complete experience for visitors.
20. Happy Valley Chengdu
Happy Valley Chengdu is a large amusement park offering thrilling rides, shows, and entertainment for all ages. It’s a perfect destination for families and adventure seekers.
How to get there: Take metro line 2 to Happy Valley Station. You can also take bus numbers 92, 95, or 120.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee is around 200 RMB for adults. Children under 1.2 meters can enter for free.
Enjoy the exciting rides, watch live shows, and explore the themed areas. The amusement park provides a fun-filled day for visitors of all ages.
Chengdu is a city brimming with attractions that cater to all interests. From the famous Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to the bustling Jinli Ancient Street, there is something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or shopping, this “What are the Top Attractions to See in Chengdu” guide offers a diverse range of activities and sights. Remember to plan your visits according to the attraction’s opening hours and book tickets in advance when necessary. Enjoy your trip to Chengdu and make the most of its unique charm and vibrant atmosphere.
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