Yes, typically you will need a visa to visit Chengdu. However, the 144-hour Visa-Free Transit policy is applied in the city, which allows travelers from certain countries to stay in Chengdu and other designated areas of Sichuan Province for up to 144 hours (6 days) without a visa, as long as they meet the eligibility criteria and have onward travel booked to a third country or region.

Below are some of the must-see attractions in or around Chengdu:
• Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding: A distinguished conservation and research center offering visitors the unique opportunity to observe giant pandas in their natural habitat.
• Leshan Giant Buddha: Carved into a cliff face near Leshan City of Sichuan Province, it is the largest stone Buddha statue and by far the tallest pre-modern statue in the world.
• Sanxingdui Museum: A renowned archaeological museum showcases artifacts and relics from the ancient Sanxingdui civilization, dating back over 3,000 years.
• Jinli Ancient Street: A vibrant pedestrian street adorned with traditional Sichuan-style architecture, teahouses, shops, and lively street food stalls.
• Wenshu Monastery: A well-preserved Buddhist monastery celebrated for its exquisite architecture, serene gardens, and peaceful ambiance.
• Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley): Ancient streets harmoniously blend traditional Sichuanese architecture with modern amenities.
• Chengdu Renmin Park: A beloved destination where locals gather for leisure activities, offering opportunities to enjoy traditional tea ceremonies and ear-cleaning services.

There are several places to see giant pandas in Chengdu, but the most popular destination is the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. With the largest number of pandas and a favorable location, this renowned facility is dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas, offering visitors the chance to observe both grown-up and baby pandas. Below is the comparisons of different places to see pandas in Chengdu:
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
– Pros: Largest number of pandas of all ages, expansive grounds, beautiful landscapes.
– Cons: Crowded with tourists, requires extensive walking.
Dujiangyan Panda Base
– Pros: About 30 giant pandas, offer science programs and English lectures, have volunteer program.
– Cons: Crowded with tour groups in the morning.
Dujiangyan Panda Valley
– Pros: Scenic with fewer visitors, opportunities to see pandas up close.
– Cons: Limited number of pandas (around 15) and age range.
Wolong Panda Reserve (Shenshuping Panda Base)
– Pros: Higher altitude with natural surroundings, fewer tourists, volunteer program.
– Cons: Long drive from Chengdu (about 2 hours).
Bifengxia Panda Base
– Pros: Less crowded, natural setting, volunteer program.
– Cons: Long drive from Chengdu (about 2.5 hours) 

The local cuisine in Chengdu is known for its spicy and flavorful Sichuan dishes. You can find these dishes at local restaurants, street food stalls, and specialized eateries throughout the city, especially in areas like Jinli Ancient Street, Kuanzhai Alley, and the Chunxi Road district.
• Hotpot: A spicy and flavorful Sichuan hotpot is a must-try.
• Mapo Tofu: Spicy tofu dish with minced meat and Sichuan peppercorns.
• Kung Pao Chicken: Stir-fried chicken with peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.
• Dan Dan Noodles: Noodles with a spicy, savory sauce.

Despite Chengdu’s reputation for spicy Sichuan cuisine, there are plenty of non-spicy options available. You can try dishes like “double flavor Pot” with one half of the pot being non-spicy, Mapo Tofu with reduced spice levels, or steamed dumplings and buns that are not typically spicy. Additionally, many restaurants can adjust the spice level according to your preference, so you can still enjoy Chengdu’s culinary delights without the heat.

In Chengdu, popular areas to stay include:
• Chunxi Road: Vibrant shopping and dining district, great for nightlife.
• Jinli Ancient Street: Traditional atmosphere with Sichuanese culture and food.
• Tianfu Square: Central location with easy access to attractions and transportation.
• Wuhou District: Historic area with temples and parks, known for its quiet charm.
Choose based on your preferences for convenience, local culture, or nightlife.

Yes, in Chengdu, you can experience Sichuan Opera performances with face-changing, learn Sichuan cuisine cooking, play mahjong at local teahouses or community centers, and taste traditional Chinese teas. These activities offer a unique immersion into Chengdu’s cultural heritage and culinary traditions.

Chengdu is well-connected by air, with Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) and the newly opened Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) serving numerous domestic and international flights. Direct flights link Chengdu with key Chinese cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, as well as international destinations including Los Angeles, Vancouver, Sydney, and Frankfurt.
Moreover, Chengdu is easily accessible via high-speed trains from major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.