8 Incredible Places to Visit in Chengdu: China’s City of Pandas, Hotpot, and Heritage

Once a hidden gem, Chengdu—the capital of China’s Sichuan province— is fast becoming one of the country’s most talked-about destinations. With an alluring blend of ancient tradition, fiery cuisine, and natural beauty (often showcased on social media), it’s no surprise that the city is a rising favourite, with pre-summer bookings up over 180%. (Photo: Trip.com) A notable rise in domestic and international flight routes, including greater connectivity via major hubs such as Shanghai and Beijing, is making the vibrant city more accessible than ever. And as travellers seek deeper, more immersive experiences beyond the bustling megacities, Chengdu, the City of Gastronomy designated by UNESCO, is emerging as the perfect counterpoint—rich in culture yet refreshingly laid-back. For visitors looking to explore the city’s most iconic experiences, here are a few highlights that stand out: 1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding No visit to Chengdu is complete without meeting its most famous residents. The research base offers a rare opportunity to see giant pandas and red pandas in a carefully designed environment that mirrors their natural habitat. Enjoy an intimate experience with over 100 giant pandas and meet celebrity pandas Hua Hua and Qi Yi. The best viewing spots are Villas 1 and 2, where you can watch these [...]