City guide
Chengdu 成都
Pandas in the morning, hotpot at night, teahouse afternoons in between.
Best time to visit
March–June and September–November. Summers are humid; winter is grey but mild, and crowds thin out.
Getting around the city
- 01A modern metro links the panda base, downtown and both rail stations.
- 02Didi is inexpensive — most cross-town rides run ¥15–30 (≈$2–4).
- 03The old town core (Kuanzhai, People's Park) is walkable.
Top tips for first-time visitors
- 01Pandas are most active 8–10am — go to the base right at opening.
- 02Ask for 'wei la' (mild) hotpot unless you're confident with spice.
- 03Chengdu is the gateway to Jiuzhaigou and the Leshan Giant Buddha day trips.
Recommended attractions
Giant Panda Research Base
The world's most famous panda home — go early.
People's Park teahouses
Ear cleaning, mahjong and slow afternoons over tea.
Kuanzhai Alleys
Restored Qing-era lanes with snacks and crafts.
Jinli Street
Lantern-lit old street, best after dark.
