How to Plan Your All-Inclusive Private Day Tour of Chengdu Old Streets

Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan province in Southwest China, is a city that attracts tourists mainly because of its rich history, tasty cuisine, and adorable giant pandas. The city is famous for its old streets and ancient architecture that carry the tales of an ancient civilization. One of the best ways to explore these old streets is by taking an all-inclusive private day tour that takes you through the ancient architecture, shopping streets, and city top attractions. This article will guide you on how to plan your all-inclusive private day tour of Chengdu Old Streets.

Overview

The all-inclusive private day tour of Chengdu Old Streets is a personalized tour that takes you through the ancient streets of the city with an experienced guide. The tour starts from Wenshu Monastery, located in the northeast of Chengdu city, and takes you through Wenshufang Street, Jinli Street, Kuanzhai Alley, Wuhou Temple, and other city top attractions. The tour includes a visit to Wenshu Monastery, lunch in a local restaurant where you can taste the authentic Sichuan cuisine, and private hotel transport.

What’s Included

The all-inclusive private day tour of Chengdu Old Streets includes fuel surcharge, lunch, driver/guide, and private hotel transport. Alcoholic drinks are available to purchase, and personal expenses and gratuities are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Chengdu, and you can head directly to the meeting point or request a pickup. The pickup points are flexible, and you can choose your preferred pickup point. The tour starts at 9:00 AM and ends back at the meeting point.

Highlights of the Tour

The all-inclusive private day tour of Chengdu Old Streets takes about eight hours and includes the following highlights:

Explore Wenshu Monastery and Wenshufang Street

Wenshu Monastery is a famous Buddhist temple built during the Tang dynasty, with a history of over 1,300 years. The temple grounds cover an area of more than 12,000 square meters, and it houses 300 monks. The tour takes you through the temple and its surroundings, where you can appreciate the ancient architecture, Buddhist sculptures, and calligraphy exhibits. After your visit to the temple, you will stroll through the Wenshufang Street, which is famous for its ancient architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts.

Taste Authentic Sichuan Cuisine

Sichuan cuisine is famous for its rich flavor, aroma, and spiciness. During the tour, you will have lunch in a local restaurant where you can taste authentic Sichuan cuisine, such as mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and Sichuan hotpot. You will get a chance to appreciate the unique cooking methods and seasoning of Sichuan cuisine.

Experience Jinli Street and Kuanzhai Alley

Jinli Street is an ancient shopping street that dates back to the Han dynasty, about 2,000 years ago. The street is famous for its traditional architecture, local snacks, and handicrafts. Kuanzhai Alley is another ancient shopping street that dates back to the Qing dynasty, about 300 years ago. The street is famous for its well-preserved traditional houses, local snacks, and cultural exhibitions. During the tour, you will stroll through these two streets and experience the ancient Chengdu culture.

Visit Wuhou Temple and Other City Top Attractions

Wuhou Temple is a famous Taoist temple that honors Zhuge Liang, a famous strategist during the Three Kingdoms period, about 1,800 years ago. The temple grounds cover an area of over 37,000 square meters, and it houses more than 40,000 cultural relics. During the tour, you will visit the temple and appreciate the ancient architecture, cultural relics, and historical sculptures. You will also visit other city top attractions, such as Renmin Park and Tianfu Square.

Booking the Tour

To book the all-inclusive private day tour of Chengdu Old Streets, visit viator.com and book the tour here. The tour offers a memorable experience that takes you through the ancient streets of Chengdu, appreciated the ancient architecture, tasted authentic Sichuan cuisine, and experienced the Chengdu culture. Plan your tour today and enjoy a personalized Chengdu experience.

Chengdu: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Where is Chengdu located?

Chengdu is located in the southwestern part of China, in the Sichuan Province. It is geographically located at 30.5728° N, 104.0668° E.

2. What is the population of Chengdu?

As of 2021, the estimated population of Chengdu is over 16 million.

3. What is Chengdu famous for?

Chengdu is famous for many things, including its spicy cuisine, tea culture, pandas, and historical landmarks such as the Wuhou Shrine and the Jinsha Archaeological Site.

4. What is the best time to visit Chengdu?

The best time to visit Chengdu is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and comfortable. Avoid visiting during the summer months as it can get extremely hot and humid.

5. What is the local cuisine in Chengdu like?

Chengdu is known for its spicy Sichuan cuisine, which consists of dishes such as mapo tofu, hotpot, and kung pao chicken. The local cuisine is often characterized by its bold flavors and use of Sichuan peppercorn.

6. Where can I see pandas in Chengdu?

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Chengdu, where visitors can see pandas up close and learn more about conservation efforts for this endangered species.

7. Is Chengdu a safe city for tourists?

Chengdu is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, travelers should always take precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas and being aware of their surroundings.

8. What are some popular landmarks to visit in Chengdu?

Aside from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, some popular landmarks to visit in Chengdu include the Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, and the Leshan Giant Buddha.

9. What are some outdoor activities to do in Chengdu?

In addition to visiting the pandas, Chengdu has plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains, visiting the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and exploring the Qingcheng Mountain Scenic Area.

10. What is the transportation system like in Chengdu?

Chengdu has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and a metro system. The metro is the most convenient option for tourists as it covers most of the city’s major landmarks and attractions.

11. What is the currency used in Chengdu?

The currency used in Chengdu is the Chinese Yuan (CNY), also known as Renminbi (RMB). Money exchange can be done at banks and other authorized exchange bureaus throughout the city.

12. Do I need a visa to visit Chengdu?

Foreign visitors to China will need a valid visa to enter the country, although visa-free policies may apply for certain countries under specific circumstances. It is recommended to check with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.

13. What are some local customs and etiquette to be aware of in Chengdu?

When visiting Chengdu, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. For example, it is considered impolite to stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice, as this resembles incense sticks at a funeral. Additionally, it is the custom to remove one’s shoes before entering a home or temple.

14. What is the local language in Chengdu?

The local language in Chengdu is Sichuanese dialect of Mandarin Chinese. However, many locals speak some level of English, especially in tourist areas.

15. What are some cultural festivals and events in Chengdu?

Chengdu hosts many cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Spring Festival, the Chengdu International Panda Lantern Festival, the Chengdu International Automobile Exhibition, and the Chengdu Food and Culture Festival. It is recommended to check the local calendar for upcoming events.

Book Your Tour Now

Chengdu is a beautiful city with a rich cultural history, delicious cuisine, and plenty of attractions for tourists. Whether visiting for the pandas, the landmarks, or simply the food, Chengdu is a great destination for those looking to experience China’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. By understanding some basic information about the city, travelers can better prepare for their trip and make the most out of their stay.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chengdu

Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in China, is a city that offers a unique experience for tourists. From its spicy cuisine to its giant pandas, the city has something for everyone. In this guide, we will walk you through how to spend your time as a tourist in Chengdu and explore some of the city’s must-see attractions.

1. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base (Chengdu Panda Base)

No trip to Chengdu is complete without visiting the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, also known as the Chengdu Panda Base. The base is home to more than 100 pandas, and visitors can get up close and personal with these adorable creatures. You can watch them play, eat bamboo, and even hold a baby panda (for a fee).

2. Explore the Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha is a massive statue carved into a cliff facing the confluence of three rivers. At over 70 meters in height, it is the largest stone Buddha statue in the world. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river for impressive views of the statue, or climb the stairs to the top for a closer look. This impressive site is a must-see for any traveler to Chengdu.

3. Walk Around in Wide and Narrow Alley (Kuanzhai Xiangzi)

Located in the heart of Chengdu, the Wide and Narrow Alley is a renovated cultural district with traditional architecture, boutique shops, and plenty of tasty local food. It’s a great place to sip tea, admire the architecture, and relax in the laid-back atmosphere. Don’t forget to try some local snacks, such as spicy rabbit heads, hot pot, and steamed buns.

4. Enjoy the Sichuan Opera

Sichuan Opera is a traditional Chinese performance art that is characterized by its unique style of face-changing, fire-spitting, and acrobatics. The opera is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Chengdu. Some of the best places to catch a performance include the Shufeng Yayun Teahouse and the Sichuan Opera Museum.

5. Eat Sichuan Cuisine

Sichuan cuisine is renowned all over the world for its spicy and flavorful taste. Some of the most famous dishes include Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, and Dan Dan Noodles. You can find these dishes at almost every restaurant in Chengdu, but for the best taste, be sure to visit local eateries that specialize in traditional Sichuan cuisine.

6. Take a Relaxing Walk in People’s Park

Located in the city center, People’s Park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Chengdu. Take a stroll through the scenic gardens, watch locals dance or sing, play mahjong or chess, and even get your ears cleaned, a unique experience in the park.

7. Enjoy a Hot Spring Experience at Jiezi Ancient Town

Jiezi Ancient Town, located about 2 hours from Chengdu, is famous for its hot springs. Visitors can relax in natural hot springs ranging from 35°C to 46°C while taking in the beautiful scenery around them. In addition to the hot springs, the town also features traditional architecture, old streets, and a variety of local snacks.

8. Visit Qingcheng Mountain

Qingcheng Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 1.5 hours from Chengdu. The mountain is famous for its Taoist history and stunning scenery. Visitors can hike to the summit, visit Taoist temples, and take in the views from the top. The mountain is also home to several natural hot springs, making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

9. Explore the Jinsha Site Museum

The Jinsha Site Museum is an archaeological site museum located in the western part of Chengdu. The museum features exhibits showcasing the culture and history of the Shu civilization. Visitors can marvel at ancient artifacts, such as gold masks, jade sculptures, and bronze wares, and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

10. Shop at Chunxi Road

Chunxi Road is a bustling shopping street in the city center, with everything from high-end fashion to traditional souvenirs. Take your time strolling along the street, browsing the shops, and sampling some of the delicious street food. Chunxi Road is a great place to stock up on gifts for friends and family back home.

Book Your Tour Now

Chengdu is a city with a rich cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and delicious food. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Chengdu. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.