9 day itinerary for Chengdu

Itinerary

Chengdu is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and, of course, the famous giant pandas. Here’s a delightful 9-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Chengdu has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Chengdu

• Morning: Arrive in Chengdu and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and relax after your journey.
• Afternoon: Head to Tianfu Square to get a feel for the city. You can admire the giant Mao Zedong statue and the surrounding architecture.
• Evening: Stroll through Jinli Ancient Street. This vibrant street is filled with shops, food stalls, and traditional architecture. Don’t forget to try some local snacks like spicy skewers and sweet rice cakes!

## Day 2: Panda Base and Cultural Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Arrive early to see the pandas during their most active hours. It’s an unforgettable experience!
• Afternoon: After the panda base, head to the Wuhou Shrine and Jinsha Site Museum to learn about the Three Kingdoms period and ancient Shu civilization.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Sichuan hot pot dinner. There are many great places, but Haidilao is a popular choice for its service and delicious food!

## Day 3: Leshan Giant Buddha

• Morning: Take a day trip to Leshan (about 2 hours from Chengdu). Visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can hike up to see the Buddha from different angles.
• Afternoon: Explore the surrounding area, including the beautiful river views and the nearby temples.
• Evening: Return to Chengdu and relax at your hotel or explore a local night market.

## Day 4: Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan

• Morning: Head to Mount Qingcheng, one of the birthplaces of Taoism. Enjoy a hike through the lush greenery and visit the ancient temples.
• Afternoon: After your hike, visit the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, another UNESCO site. It’s fascinating to see how this ancient engineering marvel still works today!
• Evening: Return to Chengdu and unwind. Perhaps catch a Sichuan opera performance, famous for its face-changing act!

## Day 5: Chengdu’s Tea Culture

• Morning: Visit a traditional teahouse in People’s Park. Enjoy a leisurely morning sipping tea and watching locals play mahjong or practice tai chi.
• Afternoon: Explore the Sichuan Museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture.
• Evening: Head to Kuan Zhai Alley, a historical area with shops and restaurants. Enjoy dinner here and soak in the lively atmosphere.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Jiuzhaigou Valley

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Jiuzhaigou Valley (note: this is a long day, so an early start is essential). This stunning national park is known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Spend the day hiking and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
• Evening: Return to Chengdu. You’ll be tired but exhilarated!

## Day 7: Chengdu’s Markets and Local Life

• Morning: Visit the Chunxi Road shopping district for some retail therapy. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs!
• Afternoon: Explore the Wenshu Monastery, a serene Buddhist temple where you can also enjoy some vegetarian food at the temple’s restaurant.
• Evening: Experience the local nightlife at Lan Kwai Fong or enjoy a quiet evening at a local bar.

## Day 8: Cultural Immersion

• Morning: Take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Sichuan dishes. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the local culture!
• Afternoon: Visit the Dufu Thatched Cottage, a beautiful park dedicated to the famous poet Dufu. It’s a peaceful place to reflect and enjoy nature.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant and try some more Sichuan specialties, like mapo tofu or kung pao chicken.

## Day 9: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a visit to a local market.
• Afternoon: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport. Take with you wonderful memories of Chengdu!

And there you have it! A delightful 9-day itinerary that balances culture, nature, and delicious food. Chengdu is a city that will surely capture your heart. Enjoy your trip! If you have any questions or need more details, feel free to ask!