Welcome to Chengdu

Where is Chengdu?

Chengdu is the capital of southwestern China's Sichuan province and located in central Sichuan. The surrounding Chengdu Plain is known as the "Land of Abundance".

What is Chengdu’s climate like?

Venice has a Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are generally very hot, sunny and humid, whilst winters are cool and wet.

Chengdu enjoys a humid subtropical climate characterized by four distinct seasons.

Spring brings mild temperatures, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), along with occasional rainfall and fog. Summer is hot and humid, with temperatures averaging between 30°C (86°F) and 38°C (100°F). It is the rainiest season, featuring frequent showers and thunderstorms. The humidity can make the weather feel even hotter. Autumn is considered the most pleasant time in Chengdu, with mild and comfortable weather. Temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 30°C (86°F), and the season experiences less rainfall than summer. Winters are relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from 3°C (37°F) to 10°C (50°F). While snowfall is rare, the city may have occasional fog and overcast conditions.

What etiquette should I be aware of in Chengdu?

Chengdu welcomes millions of tourists from all over the world, and with all those people it’s important that certain rules are respected. Being courteous, using "please" (qǐng) and "thank you" (xièxiè), and showing respect towards elders or those in positions of authority are important. When visiting temples or other cultural sites, dress modestly and respectfully. Follow any rules or guidelines provided, such as removing your shoes when entering certain areas.

What is Chengdu cuisine like?

In one word – delicious! Chengdu cuisine is renowned for its bold and spicy flavors, as it is a part of Sichuan cuisine, one of the major culinary traditions in China. Here are some key features and dishes of Chengdu cuisine:

Spiciness: Chengdu cuisine is famous for its fiery and numbing flavors derived from the abundant use of Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and spicy condiments like doubanjiang (fermented broad bean paste). The numbing sensation combined with the heat of the spices creates a unique and addictive flavor profile.

Hot Pot: Chengdu is known for its hot pot culture. Sichuan-style hot pot involves a simmering pot of spicy broth where diners cook a variety of ingredients such as thinly sliced meats, vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms at the table. The broth is often rich and intensely flavored with Sichuan peppercorns and chili.

Mapo Tofu: Mapo Tofu is an iconic Sichuan dish that originated in Chengdu. It consists of soft tofu cooked in a spicy sauce with minced meat (typically pork or beef), chili bean paste, and Sichuan peppercorns. It is known for its bold flavors and numbing spiciness.

Kung Pao Chicken: Another famous dish from Chengdu is Kung Pao Chicken. It features diced chicken stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers. The dish offers a delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Dan Dan Noodles: Dan Dan Noodles are a popular street food in Chengdu. They consist of wheat noodles topped with a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and minced pork. The dish is often garnished with scallions and crushed peanuts.

Which airports serve Chengdu?

Tianfu International Airport is the city’s official airport and is located 60 Kilometres from the city center.

What are places of interest in Chengdu?

Chengdu offers several popular attractions worth exploring.

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is a must-visit, allowing visitors to see adorable pandas up close.

Jinli Ancient Street provides a glimpse into traditional Chengdu with its vibrant shops, teahouses, and street performances.

The Wuhou Memorial Temple honors a famous historical figure and features beautiful architecture and exhibits.

For nature enthusiasts, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System showcases an ancient engineering marvel, while the Leshan Giant Buddha impresses with its colossal stone sculpture. Mount Qingcheng offers picturesque landscapes and Taoist heritage, while the Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi) provide a charming atmosphere to wander through historic alleys, shops, and teahouses.

These attractions capture the essence of Chengdu's cultural, natural, and historical treasures.