Top Attractions
Must-Visit
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding — See pandas up close
- Jiuzhaigou Valley — UNESCO World Heritage turquoise lakes
- Leshan Giant Buddha — 71-meter tall stone Buddha statue
Hidden Gems
- Dujiangyan — Ancient irrigation system still in use
- Mount Emei — Sacred Buddhist mountain with stunning views
Getting There
- By Air: Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU)
- By Train: High-speed rail from Beijing (8h), Shanghai (14h)
- Local Transport: Metro in Chengdu, buses and private cars for scenic areas
Must-Try Food
- Sichuan Hotpot — The famous spicy pot, try at Haidilao
- Mapo Tofu — Tofu in spicy chili oil with minced pork
- Dan Dan Noodles — Spicy noodle dish from street vendors
Culture & Tips
- Sichuan dialect is distinct from standard Mandarin
- Pandas are most active in the morning (before 10am)
- Spicy food is the norm — ask for "bu la" (not spicy) if needed