Playful pandas, bamboo forests and aromatic hotpots: Why Chengdu belongs on your bucket list

Ask any local for the top must-do activity in Chengdu and they will likely suggest seeing China’s beloved national treasure – the giant panda – up close. Home to six panda conservation bases, including the renowned

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

and Wolong Shenshuping, Chengdu offers visitors the rare chance to observe these adorable creatures in habitats designed to mimic their natural surroundings.

Whether they are munching on bamboo or climbing trees, the playful pandas provide a heartwarming sight, giving you a unique glimpse into China’s dedication to wildlife preservation.

But pandas are only the beginning of Chengdu’s charm. For the adventurous traveller, the city has so much more to explore. So, pack your bags and prepare to experience the magic of Chengdu, starting with China’s cherished “black-and-white ambassadors”.

Journey through Chengdu’s ancient marvels: Dujiangyan and Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Step back in time at Dujiangyan, a Unesco World Heritage site and one of China’s oldest water management projects, built over 2,000 years ago. Designed by Li Bing and his son in 256BC, this remarkable system channels the Min River to control floods and irrigate the Chengdu Plain, transforming it into what the locals refer to as the “land of abundance”. According to locals, Dujiangyan stands as a testament to the engineering ingenuity and wisdom of ancient China.

Next, immerse yourself in the poetic ambiance of Du Fu’s thatched cottage, the serene retreat of the famous Tang Dynasty poet, Du Fu. It was here, in this humble home, that Du Fu composed many of his greatest works, capturing the essence of his era. The cottage offers a peaceful glimpse into traditional Chinese literature and the quiet beauty that inspired one of China’s most revered poets.

Visit these iconic sites to feel the pulse of Chengdu’s history and the cultural legacy that continues to shape China today.

Take a break, have some tea

In Chengdu, tea house gatherings are a cherished cultural tradition, where locals gather for not just a spot of tea, but also to relax, socialise, or catch up with friends over a game of cards or Chinese chess. Some tea houses feature live performances, including traditional music, storytelling, or Sichuan opera, adding an entertaining element to the experience.

For a classic tea experience, the Guanyin Pavilion Tea House, one of the city’s oldest, offers a serene glimpse into a slower, traditional Chengdu.

As the sun sets, take a stroll along Jin River to see Anshun Bridge come to life in a stunning mix of historic architecture and city lights. The bridge offers picturesque views and surrounding tea houses and eateries make for a perfect opportunity to have supper before ending your night in Chengdu.

For a more vibrant, modern experience, head to Chengdu Wangfujing. Popular with younger travellers, this shopping haven is filled with trendy boutiques, cafes and dining spots where you can dive into both global and local flavours. It’s a lively destination for shopping, socialising and soaking up the energy of modern Chengdu.

Get a taste of Chengdu 

Chengdu is known as the hotpot capital of China. Here, this beloved culinary tradition is taken to new heights with its bold flavours and vibrant spices.

Sichuan-style hotpot features a bubbling pot of rich, spicy broth, often infused with fragrant Sichuan peppercorns. Diners gather around the pot to cook an array of fresh ingredients, including tender meats, crisp vegetables and chewy noodles, all immersed in the flavourful broth.

Founded in Chengdu in 1994, Haidilao stands out as a favourite among the city’s many hotpot establishments.

Known within the community for its exceptional service and high-quality ingredients, Haidilao elevates the hotpot experience with a range of dipping sauces and handmade noodles prepared right before your eyes.

With its lively ambiance, which includes live shows such a face-changing act inspired by traditional Sichuan opera, Haidilao is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the authentic flavours of Chengdu’s famous hotpot.

Begin your Sichuan adventure at 30,000 feet

Sichuan Airlines has been delighting passengers with a taste of Sichuan’s culinary heritage as part of its in-flight dining. Known for its flavourful dishes, the airline also incorporates the region’s famous hotpot into its menu, letting travellers experience the essence of Chengdu before they land in the city itself.

Savour a hotpot-inspired meal onboard, with aromatic broths and fresh ingredients that capture the bold flavours of Sichuan.

Beyond the food, Sichuan Airlines’ panda-themed branding throughout the cabin, from pillows to blankets, adds a touch of Chengdu’s local culture. Friendly Sichuan-native crew members enhance the journey, making you feel at home even before you arrive.

From now till Nov 14, 2024, dine at any of the Haidilao outlets in Singapore and stand a chance to win a one-way ticket to Chengdu.