Embark on a captivating 3-day journey through Chengdu, a city that harmoniously blends modernity with rich cultural heritage. Begin your adventure at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you'll spend a delightful 3 hours observing these adorable ambassadors of Chinese wildlife. Next, delve into the region's storied past with a 2-hour visit to the Wuhou Shrine, an ancestral hall that pays homage to the heroes of the Three Kingdoms. Continue your historical exploration at Du Fu's Thatched Cottage, the former residence of one of China's most celebrated poets, for another insightful 2 hours. Day 2 invites you to the Jinsha Site Museum, a 2-hour journey through ancient civilization, followed by a stroll through the charming Kuanzhai Alley, a neighborhood that encapsulates the spirit of old Chengdu. Conclude the day with a 2-hour tour of the Chengdu Museum New Hall, a treasure trove of the city's history and culture. Your final day is a full-day excursion to the majestic Qingcheng Mountain, a monument of natural beauty and world cultural heritage, paired with the ingenious Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a marvel of ancient engineering. This itinerary promises a blend of adorable wildlife, profound history, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of Sichuan.
3 Days in Chengdu Itinerary: Day 1
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
Begin your Chengdu adventure with a visit to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a serene haven where you can spend about 3 hours marveling at the cuddly ambassadors of China. Nestled on North Panda Avenue, this facility is not just a popular tourist attraction but also a critical center for panda conservation. Witness these adorable creatures in a setting that mimics their natural habitat, and learn about the efforts to ensure their survival for generations to come.
Attraction Info
- No. 1375, North Panda Avenue, Chenghua District, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 3-5 hour
- Open from 01/01-02/08,8:00am-5:30pm;Closed all day on 02/09,Fri;Open from 02/10-02/29,8:00am-5:30pm;Open from 03/01-10/31,7:00am-5:30pm
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Wuhou Shrine
After your heartwarming encounter with the pandas, step into the realm of ancient Chinese warriors at the Wuhou Shrine. Located on Wuhouyu Street, this ancestral hall is dedicated to the heroes of the Three Kingdoms period. Spend 2 hours exploring the tranquil gardens and halls adorned with statues and stelae that pay homage to the legendary figures like Zhuge Liang and Liu Bei, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of Chengdu's martial history.
Attraction Info
- No. 231 Wuhouyu Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open from 9:00am-6:00pm
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Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum
Conclude your day with a poetic retreat to Du Fu's Thatched Cottage, a picturesque homage to one of China's most beloved poets. Situated on Qinghua Road, this historical site was once the residence of the Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu. As you wander through the bamboo-lined paths and traditional structures for about 2 hours, you'll feel the literary legacy that permeates the air, making it the perfect finale to your day of cultural exploration in Chengdu.
Attraction Info
- No.37, Qinghua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu 610072, China
- Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
- Open from 01/01-12/31,9:00am-6:00pm
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3 Days in Chengdu Itinerary: Day 2
Jinsha Site Museum
Begin your second day with a journey through time at the Jinsha Site Museum, a remarkable window into the ancient Shu civilization. Nestled at No. 2 Jinsha Site Road in Qingyang District, this museum offers a two-hour exploration of Chengdu's storied past. Marvel at the archaeological treasures and immerse yourself in the cultural exhibits that paint a vivid picture of life over 3,000 years ago. The museum's serene environment and well-curated displays make it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Attraction Info
- Chengdu Jinsha Site Museum, No. 2 Jinsha Site Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open from 01/01-02/07,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 03/01-06/30,Tue-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 07/01-08/31,9:00am-6:00pm;Open from 09/01-12/31,Tue-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm;Closed from 03/01-06/30,Mon;Closed from 09/01-12/31,Mon;Open from 02/08-02/25,9:00am-10:00pm;Open from 02/26-02/29,9:00am-6:00pm,During the period of cultural activities for the benefit of the public, the opening hours may be subject to changes. Please refer to the official real-time announcements from the museum for specific information.
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Kuanzhai Alley
Next, step into the bustling lanes of Kuanzhai Alley, a characteristic neighborhood that captures the essence of old Chengdu. Just a short distance from the Jinsha Site Museum, this lively area is perfect for a two-hour stroll. Here, you can experience the harmonious blend of traditional architecture and modern cafes, craft shops, and teahouses. Kuanzhai Alley is not just a place to see; it's a place to feel the pulse of Chengdu's rich cultural tapestry.
Attraction Info
- Kuanzhai Alley, Jinhe Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
- Open 24 hours
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Chengdu Museum
Conclude your day at the Chengdu Museum New Hall, located at No. 1 Xiaohe Street in Qingyang District. Dedicate two hours to wander through the vast collections that showcase the evolution of the city and the region. From ancient artifacts to contemporary art, the museum's exhibitions are thoughtfully designed to educate and inspire. Its modern architecture is a visual treat, complementing the wealth of knowledge housed within its walls. This museum is an essential stop to complete your understanding of Chengdu's multifaceted history.
Attraction Info
- No. 1 Xiaohe Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
- Open from 01/01-12/31,Tue-Thu, Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed from 01/01-12/31,Mon;Open from 01/01-12/31,Fri-Sat,9:00am-8:30pm;Open from 9:00am-6:30pm during Spring Festival;Closed during New Year's Eve,Closed on Mondays, but open on statutory holidays, short breaks, and golden weeks that include Mondays.
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3 Days in Chengdu Itinerary: Day 3
Qingcheng Mountain
Begin your final day with a serene escape to Qingcheng Mountain, a tranquil oasis steeped in history and natural beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, this mountain is not just a feast for the eyes but also a monument to ancient Taoist culture. Spend your day wandering through lush forests, exploring time-honored temples, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The mountain's easy accessibility from Dujiangyan City makes it a perfect starting point for a day of adventure and spiritual discovery.
Attraction Info
- Qingcheng Mountain Scenic Spot, southwest of Dujiangyan City, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
- Open from 05/01-09/30,8:30am-5:30pm;Open from 10/01-12/31,8:30am-5:00pm;Open from 01/01-04/30,8:30am-5:00pm
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Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Conclude your Chengdu journey with a visit to the remarkable Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an engineering marvel that has tamed the waters of the Minjiang River for over two millennia. This UNESCO-listed site showcases the ingenuity of ancient Chinese water management techniques that are still in use today. Dedicate your afternoon to exploring the intricate network of weirs, spillways, and channels that have made the Sichuan basin one of the most fertile and prosperous regions in China. It's a fitting tribute to the region's rich history and a testament to human ingenuity.
Attraction Info
- Park Road, Dujiangyan City, Chengdu
- Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
- Open from 03/01-11/14,8:00am-6:00pm;Open from 11/15-12/31,8:00am-5:30pm;Open from 01/01-02/29,8:00am-5:30pm
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Top Things to Do in Chengdu-2024
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is located in the northern suburbs of Chengdu, about 10 kilometers away from downtown Chengdu. The facility is famous for the protection and breeding of endangered wild animals that are unique to China. It simulates the natural habitat of the giant pandas, where there are lakes, lakes, streams, bamboo forests and lawns. The chance to come into close contact with the giant pandas is a highlight here. Visitors can have a close-up observation of the pandas' living conditions. There is also a "Panda Villa", which is a preserved area for the pandas to rest.
Wuhou Shrine commemorates Zhuge Liang, the prime minister of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms Period. When it was first constructed, it was adjacent to Liu Bei’s Han Zhao Lie Temple, but It was later incorporated into the Han Zhao Lie Temple during the Ming Dynasty and became a rare temple in China that commemorates both a ruler and his subordinates in the same compound. The cultural relics area is composed of the Huiling Mausoleum, Han Zhaolie Temple, Wuhou Temple, and Sanyi Temple. The main building is Wuhou Temple, which enshrines Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, and other heroes of the Shu-Han Kingdom. Chengdu's famous landscape "Red Wall and Shadows of Bamboo" is also in the scenic area. Do take some photos when you are there!
Qingcheng Mountain is dubbed as the "most quiet and secluded place in the world". It is the birthplace of Taoism and there are many Taoist temples to explore there. Qingcheng Mountain is divided into two mountain areas: Qingcheng Front Mountain and Qingcheng Back Mountain. They require separate tickets. The Front Mountain is where Taoist culture and cultural relics are concentrated. When visitors talk about “Qingcheng Mountain”, they often refer to the front mountain; Qingcheng Back Mountain is known for its natural scenery making it a good place for vacation and leisure.
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