Chengdu: Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!

Your 2025 Chengdu travel guide is here! Whether it's your first time in Chengdu or you're looking for an in-depth experience of the city's charm, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip. Here's a selection of attractions, food, activities, and practical information to help you navigate Chengdu! --- ## **1. Recommended Attractions** 1. **Wuhou Shrine & Jinli Ancient Street** - Wuhou Shrine commemorates Zhuge Liang, the prime minister of the Shu Han state during the Three Kingdoms period. The red walls and bamboo shadows make it a perfect spot for photos. - Jinli Ancient Street, adjacent to Wuhou Shrine, is full of Sichuan charm and offers a wide variety of snacks and delicacies, such as Zhang Fei Beef and Bobo Chicken. 2. **Kuanzhai Alley** - Composed of Kuan Alley, Zhai Alley, and Jing Alley, Kuanzhai Alley blends the slow-paced life of old Chengdu with modern trends. It's ideal for shopping, tea, and hot pot. 3. **Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding** - Seeing giant pandas is a must-do in Chengdu! It's recommended to visit in the morning to see the pandas' adorable antics in their outdoor enclosures. 4. **Du Fu Thatched Cottage** - The former residence of the poet Du Fu during his stay in Chengdu, the cottage is full of poetic charm and the beauty of classical gardens. It's a tranquil oasis in the city. 5. **Qingcheng Mountain & Dujiangyan Irrigation System** - Qingcheng Mountain is famous for its serene beauty and is perfect for a relaxing getaway. Dujiangyan is an ancient marvel of water engineering, known as the "ancestor of world water conservancy culture." --- ## **2. Special Events and Exhibitions** 1. **2025 Chengdu Spring Sugar and Wine Fair** - Dates: March 25–27 - Venue: Western China International Expo City, Century City New International Convention and Exhibition Center - Highlights: 320,000 square meters of exhibition space, covering food, alcohol, seasonings, and more. Most tickets are free. 2. **Chengdu Museum Exhibitions** - **"Splendid Brocade City: Musical Chengdu of Harmony and Resonance"**: Featuring over 250 precious artifacts, including 88 national first-class relics. Free admission. - **"Return to Baker Street: Immersive Sherlock Holmes Detective Experience Exhibition"**: A realistic recreation of 19th-century streets and alleys. Tickets required. --- ## **3. Food Recommendations** 1. **Hot Pot** - Chengdu hot pot is a must-try. Recommended brands include Shu Da Xia, Da Long Yi, and Xiao Long Kan. 2. **Bobo Chicken** - Spicy and flavorful skewers. Authentic stalls can be found in Jinli and Kuanzhai Alley. 3. **Three Big Cannons & Dan Dan Noodles** - Three Big Cannons are glutinous rice balls drizzled with brown sugar syrup. Dan Dan Noodles are spicy and savory noodles. Both can be found in Jinli and Chunxi Road. 4. **Rabbit Head** - A Chengdu specialty, the rabbit head is tender and flavorful. It's recommended to try it at night markets or time-honored restaurants. --- ## **4. Practical Information** 1. **Transportation** - Chengdu's subway system is extensive. Downloading the "Tianfutong" app is recommended for easy access to buses and subways. - High-speed rail connects Chengdu to Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain, with a journey time of approximately 30 mins. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Chengdu!