Things to Do in Chengdu 2025 Travel Guide

Things to Do in Chengdu 2025

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is a city brimming with cultural treasures, natural beauty, and modern vibrance. From ancient temples and panda reserves to buzzing street markets and cutting-edge art galleries, Chengdu offers a dynamic blend of old and new that makes it a top destination for travelers in 2025.(Things to Do in Chengdu)

Whether you’re an avid foodie, history lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to explore somewhere off the beaten path, Chengdu has something for everyone.(Things to Do in Chengdu 2025)

But how do you make the most of your visit? What are the best things to do in Chengdu in 2025? Let’s dive into this comprehensive guide to explore the best of what Chengdu has to offer!

Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

No trip to Chengdu is complete without meeting its most famous residents: the giant pandas. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the best places in the world to see these adorable creatures up close in a semi-natural habitat. In 2025, expect even more advanced facilities and possibly new ways to experience these gentle giants, as the panda reserve continues to grow and enhance its visitor offerings.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning when the pandas are most active, and make sure to check out the breeding program to learn about panda conservation efforts.

Explore Wuhou Shrine & Jinli Ancient Street

To immerse yourself in Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage, head to Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street. Wuhou Shrine honors Zhuge Liang, a prominent military strategist from the Three Kingdoms period, while Jinli Ancient Street offers a glimpse into the city’s traditional architecture and lively street markets.

In 2025, these iconic spots will likely be enhanced with more interactive experiences, including cultural performances, traditional crafts, and unique local street foods.

Don’t Miss: The Sichuan Opera’s face-changing performance is a must-see in this area for a true taste of local artistry.

Take a Stroll Through People’s Park and Tea House

For a more laid-back experience, People’s Park is the place to be. This sprawling green space is the perfect spot to relax, people-watch, or enjoy a traditional cup of tea at one of the local tea houses. The park is particularly famous for its Sichuan-style tea ceremonies—a peaceful, immersive way to experience local culture. In 2025, People’s Park will likely feature more immersive attractions, making it even more of a cultural hub.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to try Sichuan tea eggs—a delicious, savory snack often served at tea houses!

Indulge in Sichuan Cuisine at Local Hotpot Restaurants

One of the main reasons people visit Chengdu is for its world-renowned Sichuan cuisine. The city’s spicy, flavorful food will awaken your taste buds in ways you never imagined. Hotpot is a quintessential experience, where you cook your own ingredients in a bubbling pot of spicy broth. In 2025, expect a wider variety of hotpot experiences—there are bound to be new, trendy spots offering innovative takes on this classic dish.

Insider Tip: If you’re new to Sichuan food, ask your server to tone down the spice level—Sichuan peppers and chili can be quite intense for first-timers!

Wander Through Wenshu Monastery

A peaceful retreat amidst the city’s hustle, Wenshu Monastery is one of Chengdu’s most important Buddhist sites. The monastery is home to beautiful architecture, serene gardens, and a collection of priceless artifacts. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or looking to explore the spiritual side of Chengdu, Wenshu Monastery in 2025 will remain a must-see destination.

Bonus: The monastery has a quaint teahouse where you can enjoy traditional tea and snacks while overlooking the temple grounds.

Discover Contemporary Art at Chengdu Museum and Sichuan Museum

For art lovers, Chengdu offers a growing contemporary art scene. The Chengdu Museum and Sichuan Museum showcase an impressive collection of both modern and ancient art, making them ideal spots to understand the evolution of Chinese culture through the lens of art. Both museums are expected to have even more interactive exhibitions by 2025, providing a richer experience for visitors.

Did You Know? Chengdu’s art scene is known for its unique blend of traditional Chinese art with modern, global influences. Don’t miss out on seeing local artists’ work!

Shop and Eat at Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li

No trip to Chengdu is complete without indulging in a bit of shopping and culinary exploration. Chunxi Road is the city’s main shopping street, where you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to quirky local shops. Nearby, Taikoo Li is a massive, ultra-modern shopping complex offering luxury brands, global retailers, and trendy cafes. In 2025, expect even more international brands to set up shop, along with new dining options.

Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of Sichuan snacks, make sure to stop by the local food stalls around Chunxi Road for some authentic treats like mapo tofu and dan dan noodles.

Hike Mount Qingcheng and Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System

For nature enthusiasts, a day trip to Mount Qingcheng and the Dujiangyan Irrigation System is highly recommended. Mount Qingcheng is one of the birthplaces of Taoism, offering serene hiking trails and ancient temples nestled among the mountains. The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient marvel of engineering, is still in operation today and provides valuable insights into China’s history.

Tip: If you’re visiting in 2025, there could be new eco-tourism experiences to explore, making the hiking trails even more immersive.

Experience Chengdu’s Nightlife and Local Bars

Chengdu’s nightlife is as lively as the city itself. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed evening in a cozy bar or ready to hit the dance floor, the city has something for every taste. In 2025, expect a booming craft beer scene, live music venues, and a growing number of rooftop bars with sweeping views of the skyline.

What’s New? In 2025, some of Chengdu’s top bars will likely incorporate local flavors into their cocktail menus, blending Sichuan’s iconic ingredients like chili and Sichuan peppercorns into creative drinks.

Attend Chengdu International Music and Arts Festival

In 2025, the Chengdu International Music and Arts Festival promises to be a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. This festival brings together world-class musicians, performers, and artists from all over the globe for a week of performances, exhibitions, and workshops. Whether you’re into classical music, jazz, or contemporary art, this festival is the perfect way to experience Chengdu’s vibrant arts scene.