Chengdu: day 6

Fly direct (1 hour 15 minute trip) to Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, famous for its pandas, charismatic teahouses and spicy cuisine.

Where to Stay

Chengdu, capital of Sichuan province, is famous for its pandas, charismatic teahouses and spicy cuisine.

Modern and compact, Chengdu doesn’t have much in the way of accommodation

• Sheraton Chengdu Lido Hotel – Well located and efficient, this is the best hotel in the city, but don’t be surprised if it feels much like a Sheraton anywhere else in the world.

What to Do

• Giant Panda Breeding Research Base – The highlight of Chengdu, this breeding center located 6 miles NE of the city, was inaugurated in 1987 has bred and raised over 27 rare giant panda cubs. Eventually the researchers would like to start releasing them into the wild. You can see about 20 red and 21 giant pandas chewing bamboo or sleeping – a very relaxed bunch!

• Du Fu’s Thatched Cottage – Celebrated Tang dynasty poet’s modest home from 759-764 AD. His poems and history of his life are on display

• Wenshu Temple – This Buddhist temple, circa 700 AD, is dedicated to Wenshu, God of Wisdom, often shown riding a blue lion.

• Sichuan Opera – Part musical, part comedy show, this performance featuring acrobatics and elaborate costumes is known for its famous Face Changing Dance. An actor changes characters by quickly removing a mask layer or adding makeup with the flash of a hand.