- destinations
- chengdu
For a city relatively unknown to the rest of the world, there is plenty to do, see and taste in Chengdu. Home to the internationally popular Great Panda, Chengdu is also famous for fiery hotpots, relaxing teahouses, Daoist temples and, more recently, an archeological mystery. For Chengdu hosts one of the most spectacular discoveries of the 20th century – Sanxingdui. It’s a puzzle that may never be solved. The array of gold-plated, bronze masks unearthed in the late 1980’s not only reveal the existence of a sophisticated society here 32 centuries ago, but also are some of the most beautiful art pieces of this period in the world.
In addition, Chengdu has pandas – did we mention them already? If you are looking for authenticity, look no further than Chengdu. Capital of landlocked Sichuan province, this historic city helped weave the fabric of China’s civilization. You may see a face-changer perform in a bustling tea house serving Sichuanese Eight Treasure tea, enjoy some of its famed gastronomy such as General Bao’s Chicken, or chance upon monks practicing taichi in the Temple of the Dark Ram, a founding bastion of Daoism. But for animal lovers, these of course come a distant second to Sichuan province’s one true star and VIP, the Panda.
chengdu HIGHLIGHTS
A selection a some of the many incredible experiences that await you
An early visit to the Pandas on a cloudy day was amazing, the bears were active and there were no crowds. Equally exciting was Sanxingdui, an extraordinary museum that should not be missed, and our two dinners among the best of the trip.
Custom Itineraries
Explore chengdu through the eyes of a local
Chengdu is a fun and cultured city that has much to offer and so we highly recommend making this city a part of your tour. If not on your first trip, then on the second when you explore more of western China, it is a must. And since Chengdu was named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, if you’re a foodie this is a must-eat destination.
We customize each of our itineraries based on your interests and traveling style. The itinerary below forms a base to start the conversation.
Luxury Accommodations
New investment in hotels flooded into Chengdu from 2013, providing a healthy new range of attractive accommodations to explore.
Learn More
Ritz Carlton
Located in the heart of the city on a site of what was once an imperial palace this new property seamlessly blends the luxury of Chengdu’s past with her present.
St. Regis
Centrally located in Chengdu’s business district the St. Regis provides their signature services in this upscale luxury property.
Temple House
A uniquely imagined property honouring the historic buildings of Chengdu with Bitieshi, a remarkable restored Qing dynasty courtyard as the inspiration for the design.
Waldorf Astoria
Soaring 52 stories, the Waldorf Astoria blends classic elegance and modern grandeur with inspirational environments and modern luxuries.
Your Personal Traveling Concierge
Our China Hosts
Our China Hosts are part of what makes us unique; they help explain our success for over twenty years. Our China Hosts have been hand selected and expertly trained to provide you with the most unforgettable journey. From seamlessly ensuring flawless logistics, to deepening your cultural immersion, to effecting last minute adjustments, in the words of a guest, they take a trip "from excellence to perfection". Before you travel with us, it's hard to imagine what a China Host brings to the party. After, it's hard to imagine traveling without one.
suggested guide: Rebecca (Luo Hong)
Fine Dining & Authentic Cuisine
Experience the finest in Chinese and Western cuisine
If you like spice you’re in for a treat. Chengdu is a foodie must destination. Try some of the provinces most famous dishes including Dan Dan Mian - one the most flavourful noodle dish you will find anywhere else in the world; La Zi Ji – chicken marinated in a sea of Sichuan peppers, garlic and ginger; and of course, the famous Huo Guo – or Sichuan Hot Pot.
Demographics
- Capital City of Sichuan Province
- Consists of 10 districts, 5 county-level cities and 5 counties
- Population: 14.43 million (2014)
- Literal Meaning of Chengdu: Turning into a Capital
- The birth place of paper money
Brief History
- 311 BCE - Chengdu is established
- 221 - Chengdu becomes the capital of the Shu dynasty
- 618-907 - Under the Tang Dynasty the city is known as Yizhou
- 960-1279 - Paper money is introduced under the Song dynasty. This concept quickly spreads throughout China and the world.
- 1368 – Chengdu becomes the capital of Sichuan province
- 1644 – Chengdu is destroyed after a massive raid by Zhang Xianzhong killing a massive part of the population. Tigers are said to roam the derelict city.
- 2006 – Wolong Nature Preserve Panda Sanctuary becomes a UNESCO World Heritage site
Geography
- Located at the western edge of the Sichuan Basin, sitting on the Chengdu plain and bordered by Longmen and Qionglai Mountains.
- Altitude: 450 – 720 metres (1,480 – 2,360 ft)
- Highest peak: 50m (1,600 ft)
- Main Rivers: Jin River, Fu River and Sha River
- Total area coverage: 12,390 km2 (4,780 m2)
Recommended Destinations
After your time spent exploring chengdu you may want to consider these other recommended destinations
Help Me Decide-
Beijing
The political, economic & intellectual heart of China for the last six hundred years, one of the most influential cities in the world.
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Lhasa
The capital of Tibet, hosting the iconic Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, is the transformative birthplace of Tibetan Buddhism.
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Lijiang
A colourful, eclectic & charming border town on the Tea and Horse Route, home to more than 10 ethnic minorities.
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Xi'an
China’s capital for 11 centuries boasts the Terracotta Warriors and a Muslim quarter that dates to the time of the Silk Road.
