6-Day Adventure Itinerary in Chengdu

Thursday, October 5: Exploring Chengdu City

Start your adventure in Chengdu by exploring the vibrant city in the morning. Head to People's Park to witness locals practicing tai chi and enjoy a peaceful walk around the serene lake. In the afternoon, visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to get up close and personal with adorable pandas. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Jinli Ancient Street, filled with traditional architecture, local snacks, and unique handicrafts.

• People's Park: Admission is free, time spent approximately 2-3 hours
• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: Admission fee around $10, time spent approximately 3-4 hours
• Jinli Ancient Street: No admission fee, time spent approximately 2-3 hours

Friday, October 6: Mount Qingcheng

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Mount Qingcheng, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, hike the picturesque trails and explore the Taoist temples nestled within the lush greenery. After an energizing hike, indulge in a traditional vegetarian lunch at one of the local restaurants. Spend the afternoon exploring the mountain's serene beauty and enjoying breathtaking views. Head back to Chengdu in the evening.

• Mount Qingcheng admission fee: around $15, time spent approximately 6-8 hours
• Lunch: Estimated cost $15, time spent approximately 1-2 hours

Saturday, October 7: Jiuzhaigou Valley

Embark on a day trip to Jiuzhaigou Valley National Park, known for its stunning lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Discover the natural beauty of the park by hiking along well-maintained trails, visiting the colorful lakes, and admiring the picturesque waterfalls. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery. Return to Chengdu in the evening.

• Jiuzhaigou Valley admission fee: around $30, time spent approximately 10-12 hours
• Lunch: Estimated cost $10, time spent approximately 1 hour

Sunday, October 8: Chengdu's Sichuan Cuisine

Indulge in the culinary delights of Chengdu on this flavorful day. Start your morning with a visit to a local spice market, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and purchasing spices as souvenirs. In the afternoon, participate in a Sichuan cuisine cooking class, where you'll learn to prepare mouthwatering dishes such as Kung Pao chicken and Mapo tofu. In the evening, treat yourself to a hot pot dinner, enjoying a fun and interactive dining experience.

• Spice Market: Estimated cost for spices $10, time spent approximately 1-2 hours
• Cooking class: Estimated cost $50, time spent approximately 3-4 hours
• Hot pot dinner: Estimated cost $20, time spent approximately 2-3 hours

Monday, October 9: Leshan Giant Buddha

Embark on a day trip to Leshan to marvel at the giant Buddha statue, the largest stone Buddha in the world. In the morning, explore the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area and witness the impressive 71-meter tall statue carved into the cliffs. Take a boat ride to admire the Buddha from a different perspective. Enjoy a local lunch near the scenic area. Return to Chengdu in the evening.

• Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area: Admission fee around $10, time spent approximately 6-8 hours
• Boat ride: Estimated cost $10, time spent approximately 1 hour
• Lunch: Estimated cost $15, time spent approximately 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 10: Chengdu Exploration

Spend your last day in Chengdu exploring the city's hidden gems. In the morning, visit the Wenshu Monastery, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy a traditional tea ceremony at a nearby teahouse. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Jinjiang River and visit the Wide & Narrow Alleys, home to beautifully restored Qing Dynasty-style buildings, boutique shops, and local snacks. In the evening, indulge in a hot pot dinner to conclude your adventure in Chengdu.

• Wenshu Monastery: Admission is free, time spent approximately 1-2 hours
• Tea ceremony: Estimated cost $20, time spent approximately 1-2 hours
• Jinjiang River and Wide & Narrow Alleys: No admission fee, time spent approximately 2-3 hours
• Hot pot dinner: Estimated cost $20, time spent approximately 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you crave more adventure, consider venturing to the Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, sparkling lakes, and vast grasslands, this breathtaking destination offers stunning hiking opportunities. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient engineering marvel that still helps irrigate the surrounding farmlands. Locals also love exploring the vibrant Kuanzhai Alley, known for its traditional architecture, local snacks, and laid-back atmosphere.