How to Get Around Chengdu

Located in the southwest of China on the Sichuan Basin, Chengdu is one of the country's largest cities, with a total population of 10,597,000. While certainly a busy metropolitan area, Chengdu is also close to natural attractions. Chengdu enjoys an active nightlife, with dozens of pubs, restaurants and theaters open well into the late night.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get to Chengdu by air. The city is home to Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, a large terminal that sees over 16 million passengers every year. Beside direct intercontinental flights, the airport also offers connections to most major cities in mainland China. Take the train or a coach if you're traveling to nearby cities, but keep in mind that distances in China are big, and it may take several hours to reach your destination. If time is of the essence, then fly.
2. Walk around the city as much as possible. Chengdu is famous for its gardens and teahouses, many of which are hidden away in small streets that can only be found when exploring the city on foot.
3. Take a trip outside the city to get around the Wolong Giant Panda Nature Reserve, the largest panda reserve in the world and one of the most impressive sights in natural China. Aside from observing pandas up close (the reserve breeds pandas to later release them into the wild), you can also hike the surroundings all the way up Balang Mountain for a chance to see golden eagles and other birds flying about.
4. Shop on Chunxi Road, frequently referred to as the Paris Roadway for its many upscale boutiques and shopping centers. Bamboo arts and crafts, antiques and clothes are some of the must-have items for sale in the area.
5. Head to the Wuhou Memorial Temple to see the 398,277-square-foot construction created to honor Zhuge Liang. Clay sculptures and magnificent gardens give visitors a chance to enjoy the surroundings and relax after their hectic time in the city.

Tips & Warnings

• Hire a local guide to show you the neighboring attractions. Chengdu is the starting point for a series of cultural and historical tours. While it is possible to visit many of the regional sights on your own, hiring a local guide will be affordable and make the whole experience even more memorable.
• July and August are extremely hot and humid. Bring light clothes with you and be prepared to spend a lot of time indoors in air-conditioned rooms.