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Chengdu is a relaxed, food-forward city in Sichuan province known for giant pandas, spicy cuisine, teahouse culture, and easy access to Tibetan and historic sites. Prepare for spicy food, busy streets, and a mix of modern life and traditional culture.
Visa / Entry Requirements
- Passport and visa: Most nationalities need a Chinese visa (Q, L, M, etc.). Apply via your nearest Chinese consulate or use visa agencies. Check for up-to-date e-visa or transit exemptions (24/72/144-hour) that may apply if passing through by air.
- Passport validity: Ensure at least 6 months validity and blank pages.
- COVID / health: Check current China entry health rules (testing, quarantines, health codes) before travel — these change frequently.
- Extensions / local registration: Foreigners staying in hotels are usually registered by the hotel; if staying in a private rental, you must register with the local police station within 24 hours.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Most comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and fewer mosquitoes.
- Winter (December–February): Cooler and drier; cheaper travel and fewer crowds, but hill areas can be cold.
- Summer (June–August): Hot and humid with rain; popular for holidays but also busiest.
- Festivals: Chinese New Year (dates vary) and Mid-Autumn Festival draw local celebrations—book ahead.
Safety Tips
- General safety: Chengdu is relatively safe for tourists; petty theft can occur—use usual precautions with belongings.
- Scams: Beware of tuk-tuk/taxi overcharging; use reputable ride-hailing apps (Didi) or official taxis (ask driver to use meter). Avoid strangers offering tours or “special” deals.
- Traffic: Crossing roads can be chaotic. Use crosswalks and wait for lights; watch bicycles, e-bikes, and scooters.
- Health: Sichuan cuisine is spicy and oily; if you have a sensitive stomach, request milder dishes and drink bottled water.
Local Customs & Culture
- Tea culture: Spending hours in a teahouse is common—expect relaxed, social atmospheres. Tipping is not required.
- Dining etiquette: Shared dishes are normal; use serving chopsticks if offered. Don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (taboo).
- Respectful behavior: Smile, be patient with language barriers, and accept that service styles differ from Western norms.
- Language: Mandarin is dominant; Sichuan dialect is local. Carry an address card in Chinese for hotels and attractions; translation apps help.
Currency & Payments
- Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY/RMB). Cash is accepted but less common in cities.
- Mobile payments: Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate. Many places accept foreign cards, but smaller vendors may not—set up a mobile payment solution or carry cash.
- ATMs and cards: Major banks’ ATMs accept international cards; notify your bank before travel to avoid blocks.
Transportation
- Airport: Chengdu Shuangliu International (CTU) and Chengdu Tianfu International (TFU) — TFU is newer; check which flight uses which airport.
- Metro: Fast, affordable metro network covering major spots. Use transit apps or metro maps.
- Taxis & ride-hailing: Official taxis are cheap; prefer Didi for reliability. Insist on meters or use the app to avoid overcharging.
- Intercity travel: High-speed trains link Chengdu to Chongqing, Xi’an, and beyond. Book in advance during peak seasons.
- Buses & bikes: Public buses and shared bikes/e-scooters are widespread; have a transit card or mobile payment ready.
Must-Know Tips & Local Insights
- Pandas: Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding early in the morning when pandas are most active. Consider alternative sites (Dujiangyan, Bifengxia) to avoid crowds.
- Food: Try hotpot, mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, and snacks in Jinli or Kuanzhai Xiangzi. If you can’t take spice, order “lao tian” (less spicy) or “bu la” (not spicy).
- Day trips: Mount Qingcheng, Dujiangyan Irrigation System, Leshan Giant Buddha, and nearby Tibetan areas (Kanding/Tagong) are excellent options.
- Accommodation: Stay in Jinjiang, Wuhou, or Qingyang districts for central access to dining and attractions.
- Connectivity: Buy a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi for reliable internet; some international sites/apps may be restricted—use a VPN if needed and allowed.
- Power & plugs: China uses Type A/C/I plugs and 220V; bring adaptors if needed.
- Cashbacks & bargaining: Markets and small shops may haggle; fixed-price stores typically do not.
Practical Reminders
- Carry a physical address in Chinese for your destination and hotel contact details.
- Keep copies of passport/visa; store digital scans securely.
- Learn basic phrases: hello (nǐ hǎo), thank you (xièxie), no spice (bú là).
- Respect panda viewing rules—no flash photography and keep a safe distance.
Enjoy Chengdu
Embrace the slow pace: sip tea, linger over meals, and explore both modern neighborhoods and nearby nature and heritage sites. With a little planning, Chengdu is welcoming and rich in culture, food, and memorable experiences.