Known as the Land of Abundance, Chengdu has been at the centre of everything in Sichuan Province since 400 BC.
Whether you are keen to sample authentic Chinese culture, explore the beautiful countryside or see the world-famous pandas, Chengdu is the #1 place to go.
With a city population of 14 million, it’s hard to imagine Chengdu is a place of tranquility but that’s just what you’ll find. The region is renowned for its incredible cuisine – and sipping traditional tea after enjoying an excursion to one of the many cultural hotspots will leave you feeling wonderfully relaxed.
Chengdu is an intoxicating blend of the modern and the ancient, with culture, history and gastronomic delights all jostling for prime position. Sandhills Travel provide bespoke tours of the region, offering tailored itineraries which take in the very best that Chengdu has to offer.
Gentle Giants and Stunning Sights
Although there are many reasons visitors may travel to Chengdu, the vast majority are interested in the pandas. These gentle giants are indigenous to the Sichuan Province and although much of their natural habitat has been destroyed by natural disasters, you can still see giant pandas easily.
Head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see these magnificent creatures up close and personal. You’ll enjoy fabulous photo opportunities at a facility which has been purpose-built to carry out scientific research and ensure the survival of the beloved species. Just outside the city limits you’ll find another giant, the Maitreya statue. 71 metres tall, the Leshan Giant Buddha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a remarkable example of artistry and architecture dating back to the Tang Dynasty.
Back in Chengdu city, you’ll find lots more culture waiting to be discovered. Wenshu Monastery is a hidden gem, tucked away in a residential neighbourhood but offering a glimpse at a Tang Dynasty holy building. All of the sightseeing may have left you with quite an appetite so the news that Chengdu is a foodie’s paradise will come as welcome news. It’s hard to beat Jinli Street for genuine Chinese cuisine, but make sure you try hot pot before you leave. A fiery type of broth, hot spot is warming and spicy and one of the most popular dishes in the country.
Experience the Real Chengdu
With so many places hidden off the beaten track, and so many tourist destinations in the city of Chengdu, it’s easy to miss out on the very best bits. Book a professional tour for your visit to the region and you can be sure that you won’t miss a thing.
From the awe of seeing giant pandas up close to the exquisite flavours of the food, Chengdu is a part of China which will never cease to surprise you.