Chengdu is a city that people never want to leave once they’ve visited. It boasts rich Shu culture, world-renowned culinary traditions, a laid-back lifestyle, abundant local specialties, and excellent transportation. As one of the most popular travel destinations in China, it receives tens of millions of tourists each year.

Besides iconic scenic spots like Mount Emei and Leshan, Dujiangyan and Qingcheng Mountain, Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, and even the legendary Sichuan-Tibet Highway (Route 318), Chengdu offers many unique local experiences that visitors often overlook. Here are 10 must-do experiences in Chengdu that will make your trip unforgettable:

1. See the Giant Pandas

Pandas are China’s national treasure and most of them live in Sichuan. You can skip Wuhou Shrine or Qingyang Palace, but don’t miss the panda base! The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, located in northern Chengdu, is home to over 100 adorable pandas.

Why go: Witness China’s national treasure up close. After your visit, enjoy tea at Kuanzhai Alley and grab a cute panda plushie from the Panda House for your kids—they’ll love it!

2. Relax in a Teahouse

Chengdu has over 10,000 teahouses—literally a city steeped in tea! Whether for weekend leisure, social gatherings, or business meetings, Chengdu locals love their teahouses. You can choose riverside tea stands or upscale venues. Local favorites include Bamboo Leaf Green, Baitan Piaoxue, and chrysanthemum tea.

Why go: A cup of tea is the essence of Chengdu’s everyday life. If you haven’t visited a teahouse, you haven’t truly experienced Chengdu.

3. Watch Sichuan Opera

Sichuan Opera dates back to the Tang dynasty and is known for its vivid language, humor, and colorful performances. The face-changing act is one of its most famous features.

Why go: Opera, face-changing, and fire-spitting performances represent the soul of Sichuan culture. Enjoying a show while sipping tea is a unique cultural treat.

4. Eat Hotpot

Chengdu is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The streets are packed with over 3,000 hotpot restaurants like Xiaolongkan, Bashu Dazhaimen, Damao, and Huangcheng Laoma.

Why go: Dive into the rich, spicy, and aromatic flavors of Sichuan. Look for the longest line—that’s usually the tastiest!

5. Try Street Snacks

Chengdu is a paradise for food lovers. From Long Chao Shou (wontons), Lai Tangyuan (sweet rice balls), Zhong Dumplings, to Dan Dan Noodles and Egg Pancakes, you’ll find snacks from all over Sichuan.

Why go: While tourist spots like Jinli Street offer plenty of options, locals recommend hidden street stalls for authentic and budget-friendly bites. Where there’s a queue, there’s good food!

6. Explore Surroundings

Sichuan’s natural beauty is unparalleled. Near Chengdu, visit Qingcheng Mountain, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Leshan Giant Buddha, or climb Mount Emei.

Why go: These UNESCO sites offer a deep connection with nature and Chinese heritage.

7. Shop at Chunxi Road

Chunxi Road is Chengdu’s premier shopping district. It combines over a century of history with modern fashion malls and features Sun Yat-sen Plaza, fountains, cafes, and teahouses.

Why go: Chengdu has more shopping malls than any other city in western China. Get ready for a shopping spree!

8. Admire the Local Beauties

Thanks to its pleasant climate, Chengdu is known for producing beautiful women. Locals call “people-watching” da wang—an entertaining daily hobby.

Why go: Whether in Chunxi Road, Salt Market Street, or Taikoo Li, you’ll often spot fashionable young women. Locals joke: “Come to Chengdu and realize you got married too early!”

9. Play Mahjong

Mahjong is deeply embedded in Chengdu’s culture. There’s a popular story from the 2008 earthquake: even during tremors, some locals insisted on finishing their game.

Why go: It’s not just a game—it’s a lifestyle. Even if you don’t play, watching locals play mahjong is a fun cultural experience.

10. Get Your Ears Cleaned

Ear cleaning, or “Shu Er Lang”, is an indulgent Chengdu tradition. Specialists use professional tools to clean your ears—an experience both ticklish and oddly satisfying.

Why go: You’ll find these services in parks and teahouses like People’s Park or Wide & Narrow Alleys. Don’t miss this unique sensory pleasure!

Final Tip:
Chengdu’s relaxed way of life hides in these little joys. If you don’t try them—you haven’t truly visited Chengdu.