Is there a Chinese wall in Chengdu. Chengdu city is the capital of Sichuan province. When is the season. When is the best time to go

Chengdu is in the valley min river and is the capital sichuan.

In ancient times, Chengdu was known as an important political, trade and economic center. In the first centuries of our era, it was famous for its brocade, which was considered the best in the East. At that time, the city was called: Jincheng - "city of brocade". In the Song era, it was in Chengdu that the world's first paper money was printed. In addition, the city was the capital of China for some time.

Nowadays, Chengdu bears the title of the capital of Chinese traditional medicine: local healers use thousand-year-old recipes to treat hundreds of ailments. One of the notable features of the city is the unhurried way of life of its inhabitants, which you especially pay attention to after visiting Hong kong or Shanghai... Although in reality Chengdu is a very modern metropolis with developed industry and excellent infrastructure. In addition, the weather is wonderful here most of the year. Here, both sightseeing and educational recreation and active sports entertainment are equally possible. And a visit to Chengdu with the whole family is generally an ideal option: the kids will be delighted with the funny pandas, which can be watched by going to the local reserve.

Climate and weather

Chengdu has a subtropical monsoon climate. Typically, this region is warm and humid throughout the year, except for the winter months. The average annual temperature is +16 ° C. Another feature of the city is the constant fog. There are not very many sunny days a year.

Summers are very warm, temperatures rarely exceed +30 ° C, but it can be difficult to breathe in the city due to high humidity. Keep in mind that July is the rainy season that lasts until the end of August.

In winter, the mercury column does not drop below +3 ° C at night. But again, high humidity makes the weather less comfortable, and it's easy to catch a cold at this time.

It is best to plan your trip to Chengdu from March to June or from September to November, when the city is warm and there is relatively little rain.

Nature

The natural wealth of Chengdu attracts travelers as much as its historical sites. Although the city itself is located on a plain, 63 kilometers from it is located ora Qingchengshan, and 160 kilometers away - mount Emeishan... The mountains are famous sheer cliffs, roaring waterfalls, steep cliffs, evergreen forests, exotic flowers and bamboo thickets. Scenic views surround chaoyang lake in the suburb of Chengdu. But the main natural gift is undoubtedly the giant pandas, which can be seen at close range in several reserves in the region.

sights

The main attractions of Chengdu, for which, in fact, travelers come here include: qingyangong palace ("Palace of the Black Goat"), House-Museum of the poet Du Fu, Wuhoutsi Temple, Sichuan Provincial Museum, monasteries of Wenshu, Qinyangong, Baoguangs and the largest in the world buddha statue.

It is impossible not to visit the ancient Dujiangyan irrigation system, which was built during the Qin dynasty, in the 3rd century BC. This man-made miracle is still in effect and plays an important role in local agriculture. Dujiangyan Dam was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

If you want to know interesting Facts about the culture of the ancient kingdom of Chu, visit jinsha settlement in the western suburb of Chengdu. Here archaeologists have found more than 3 thousand artifacts of that era: items made of tortoiseshell and ivory, gold and jade jewelry, funerary ceramic vessels and much more. Also impressive graves of Sanxingdui 20 kilometers from the city. In the places of ancient burials of this mysterious civilization, amazing masks and sculptures were found, which are more than five thousand years old!

On south bank the Jinjiang River is an old wanjianlou Park, included in the list of attractions that Chengdu residents can be proud of. This park is dedicated to Xue Tao, the Chinese poet Tang Epahi. There are several types of bamboo growing in the park, so beloved by the poetess. And the main building of the park is an elegant pagoda in the style of the Ming era.

Nutrition

Of all the regional cuisines in China, Sichuan cuisine is perhaps the most popular in the country and in the world. It has received international accolades for its deep aroma, pungency and savory condiments. Chili peppers in Sichuan are just as popular as rice. But "flaming" dishes are far from the only difference in local cuisine.

The most celebrated local food is the everyday steaming hot pot, an extremely popular legume throughout the country ma Po curd, Gong bao ji ding (spicy chicken with peanuts), Ma la tang ("Numb tongue soup") and a simple but delicious meal Ji si liang mian ("Cold noodles").

Sichuan gastronomic delights can be enjoyed at numerous local restaurants. For example, a great hot pot is served by Huangcheng Laoma on Kintai Road. Shizilou and Tanyutou restaurants are also known for good local menus. However, Western cuisine in Chengdu is by no means taboo. The city has numerous European-style restaurants, including fast food outlets KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut... In short, no one will go hungry in Chengdu: even if you cannot get used to the spiciness of local dishes, there will always be an alternative that is more familiar to Europeans.

Residence

Chengdu is a city offering a wide range of hotels of various levels and price ranges. It is not at all necessary to spend huge sums of money here to live in comfort. Even youth hostels and guest houses guarantee decent living conditions for their guests. Hostel prices range from $ 10 to $ 25 per person, depending on location and amenities. Hostels such as Chengdu Sam "s Hostel and Guesthouse, Nature BC Hosteland Mr. Panda Hostel.

Accommodation in a 3 * hotel will cost a little more. The price for a double room starts from $ 45-50. From $ 80-90 per day will be required to rent a room in an excellent 4 * hotel with a beautiful view from the window, a swimming pool, a fitness center, restaurants and nightlife on the territory of the complex. 5 * hotels will give the atmosphere of luxury. To be fair, it should be noted that the prices for accommodation here are not as high as is usually the case in five-star hotels in Shanghai, Hong Kong or Beijing. For example, a standard room in Millennium Hotel 5 * will make the guest fork out $ 120 per day.

Entertainment and recreation

Chendo has a lot of fun and entertainment, from traditional teahouses to ultra-modern nightclubs.

In Chengdu, many people travel to see the giant pandas up close. These cute, hulking animals are kept at the Giant Panda Research Nursery, just 10 kilometers northeast of the city center. The center is open every day from 8:00 to 18:00, but it is better to come in the morning, when the pandas have breakfast. After the animals are full, they become completely lazy and it is almost impossible to see them in motion. For a fee, you can even take a picture with a panda, but this pleasure is not cheap - a little over $ 100.

Among connoisseurs of the tea ceremony, it is believed that Sichuan tea houses rank first in the world, and Chengdu tea houses, respectively, are the best in Sichuan. Tea houses are places for relaxation and communication. They play an important role in the life of the local population. Therefore, we advise you to be sure to visit an institution of this type at least once in order to join the millennial tradition.

High art lovers will appreciate the Sichuan Opera. This is a syncretic genre that involves a spectacular action in which "chhow" - clowns play an important role. Such plots of the opera as “rolling lamps”, “changing faces”, “spitting fire” are very interesting.

Nightlife is in full swing on the street Jingli (Jinli). There are countless teahouses, bars and pubs, making this street one of the most popular entertainment spots. The street is especially beautiful at sunset, when the sun slowly recedes over the horizon and red lights begin to light up.

Nightlife is also concentrated on busy streets such as Renmin South Road, Lihua Streetand Yangshi Street. There is everything for the connoisseur of entertainment: discos, karaoke, bowling alleys, VIP clubs. Among the popular establishments - Kakadu Club & Disco, Hongse Niandai Club, Meigaomei International Recreational Club.

Purchases

Chengdu is a great place to shop for original souvenirs, clothing, shoes and accessories. Moreover, the prices here are very affordable, and some goods are interesting just for inspection. Shopping in Chengdu is fun even if you don't plan on shopping.

A perfect example of a gift with local flavor is the famous brocade shu (Shu is one of the names of the Sichuan province). It boasts a 2000-year history: once only empresses wore brocade. Bamboo products are no less popular: coasters, chairs, vases, mats, and so on. Using special techniques, local craftsmen interweave bamboo and porcelain, creating unique products. You can find the widest assortment of tea in the shops of the city.

The most popular shops and markets are concentrated around the streets Zongfu Road, Chunxi Roadand Luomashi... Very cheap souvenirs and groceries can be bought at night markets near hotels Minshanand Jinjiang... Just do not forget to bargain - and the prices will pleasantly surprise you!

A lot of modern shopping centers, supermarkets, small shops are located in the area of \u200b\u200bthe Chunxi pedestrian street. This shopping street is more than a hundred years old, and shopping here will leave the most pleasant memories.

You will have to pay in the markets only in cash, while in stores you can also accept bank cards. ATM machines are ubiquitous, so withdrawing money will not be a problem.

Transport

Today, Chengdu has a well-established public transport system. Travelers can travel by bus, including sightseeing buses, metro, taxi and, of course, cycle rickshaws.

Perhaps this fact will seem strange, but the metro in huge and modern Chengdu was built only in 2010. Now the metro consists of two lines, one of which opened in September 2012. It is planned that 4 more lines will be built.

City buses follow more than 400 routes in all directions and take you to most attractions. The fare on a regular bus costs about $ 0.15, while on an air-conditioned bus it is twice as expensive. We recommend stocking up on small change for payment, since there are no conductors on the buses and no change is given.

For a comfortable ride around the city center and sightseeing, you can use the double-decker sightseeing bus. The price for a city tour is about $ 1.3. These buses run every half hour, and you can change from one flight to another five times. For $ 0.4 you can buy a ticket with the possibility of only one landing.

Taxi in Chengdu is a very popular form of transportation among tourists. Basically, taxi cars are Citroens, equipped with everything you need: modern meters, several cameras and even digital television. Passengers must wear seatbelts even in the back seat.

Cycle rickshaws here, as elsewhere in China, are a traditional tourist-oriented form of transport. The fare starts at $ 1, and, by the way, you can bargain with the driver.

Communication

Internet access is available in all hotels of the 3 * category and above, and even in some hostels. True, in the latter it is not always free. Internet cafes are common in all areas of the city, but you need a passport to access the network. Mobile communication is available and works great. Optionally, you can use roaming or purchase a local SIM card. The main operators are China Mobile and China Telecom.

It is advantageous to make local calls from public telephones that accept magnetic cards. You can buy them at newsagents, gas stations, hotels.

But it is better to call abroad from post or telegraph offices. You can also call from a hotel room, but the cost of such a call will be several times higher.

Safety

Chengdu can rightfully be considered a safe city. On the streets, nothing threatens the lives of travelers, even at night. However, during the day, you need to be vigilant in crowded places - parks, shopping centers, markets, public transport: there are clever pickpockets operating there. The only way to avoid trouble is to keep track of your belongings and keep all valuables in a safe at the hotel.

Drinking raw tap water is not recommended. Hotels usually have electric kettles or thermoses with boiled water. Also, be careful with local food: spicy foods can cause digestive problems, so it is advised to bring basic medication for an upset stomach.

While vacationing in Chengdu, try to follow the Chinese code of conduct and respect the local culture and traditions. It is customary for the Chinese to restrain emotions. On the other hand, talking loudly is not considered a shameful thing. It is not accepted to joke on political topics.

When visiting temples, remember that you cannot step on high rapids and photograph the interior. It is forbidden to smoke in public places (the offender will face an impressive fine).

When buying antiques and art objects, do not forget to take a permit from the seller to export the product from the country.

It is very useful to always have a business card with your name and address where you are staying in Chinese: they hardly speak English here, and with a business card, the chances of getting lost in a big city are small.

Chengdu city is located on the territory of a state (country) China, which in turn is located on the continent Asia.

Population of Chengdu city.

The population of Chengdu City is 7,123,000.

What time zone is Chengdu located in?

Chengdu city is located in the administrative time zone: UTC + 8. Thus, you can determine the time difference in Chengdu, relative to the time zone in your city.

Chengdu area code

Telephone area code of Chengdu: +57 28. To call Chengdu from a mobile phone, you need to dial the code: +57 28 and then directly the subscriber's number.

Official website of the city of Chengdu.

The website of the city of Chengdu, the official website of the city of Chengdu, or as it is also called the "Official website of the administration of the city of Chengdu": http://www.chengdu.gov.cn/.

Coat of arms of the city of Chengdu.

In the description of the city of Chengdu, the coat of arms of the city of Chengdu is presented, which is the distinctive sign of the city.

Subway in Chengdu city.

The Chengdu Subway is called the Chengdu Subway and is a public transportation means.

The passenger traffic of the Chengdu metro (Chengdu metro traffic) is 103.00 million people per year.

The number of subway lines in Chengdu city is 2 lines. The total number of metro stations in Chengdu is 37. The length of subway lines or the length of subway tracks is: 40.97 km.

Subway map (subway map) of Chengdu city.

Chengdu City (成都 chéngdū) is the capital of Sichuan province in southwestern China. With a population of nearly 15 million, it belongs to the ten largest cities in the country. Chengdu boasts ancient history, distinctive cuisine, traditional art and more.

Unfortunately, most of our tourists know this city little, although I can say for sure that it has places worth visiting. For travelers, Chengdu is interesting not only for its attractions, but also for the fact that it is easy to get from it to the many natural and man-made treasures of Sichuan. In addition, this is the homeland of the giant panda, and it is here that there is a unique reserve for breeding and protecting these cute animals.

Over the years of my life in China, I have visited many cities and beautiful places, but for some reason it was he who was remembered for his liveliness and warmth. Why go to Chengdu and what to do there, I will tell you more in this article.

How to get there

By plane

The most convenient way to get to Chengdu is by plane. Nearest international Airport Shuangliu (成都 双流 国际 机场) is located 20 km from the city and is one of the ten largest airports in China.

The largest number of flights, of course, is carried out by popular Chinese airlines, for example: Sichuan Airlines, Air China, Chengdu Airlines, China Southern, Hainan Airlines, China Eastern, etc. Domestic flights in China are very developed, and from Chengdu you can easily fly to almost any city in China.

As for international flights, most are made to Asian countries (, Japan, Korea, Maldives), there are also flights to Europe (,) and (), Canada (), Australia ().

Sichuan Airlines recently launched a Moswka-Chengdu flight. This is the only direct flight from Russia to the Sichuan province so far. Departure is carried out on even numbers from Sheremetyevo airport. Such a flight lasts 8 hours 30 minutes, and the air ticket price starts from $ 275 per person one way. In addition, there are many different options for departing from Moscow with transfers to Guangzhou, Beijing, Shanghai, etc. But, as I checked on flight booking sites, sometimes a direct flight is cheaper than a connecting flight. It is inconvenient to get from St. Petersburg, you will have to make two transfers, and it is unprofitable for the price (from $ 400 one way).

You can check and compare how to get there more profitably in the TravelAsk section.

How to get from the airport to the city

Bus

This is perhaps the easiest way to get to the city. There are five bus routes in total that will take you to the right places:

• Route 1 - to the city center (Mingshan hotel); from 06:00 to 22:00.
• Route 2 - to the main (northern) railway station; 06: 30-20: 00.
• Route 3 - to the South Railway Station; 07: 00-20: 00.
• Route 4 - Huayang Bus Station, through the city center (Exhibition Center); 08: 00-20: 00.
• Route 5 - Xipu Bus Station, via Chadianzi Bus Station; 08:00 - 20:00.

The fare is 1.5 - 2 dollars.

High Speed \u200b\u200bTrain (CRH)

You can quickly get to the city by high-speed train. But it goes only to the southern and eastern railway stations. The departure station is located under Terminal 2. The journey will cost only $ 2 and take 10-20 minutes.

Taxi

Of course, you can easily take a taxi near the airport, which will cost about $ 10 to the center of Chengdu and $ 15 to the northern railway station.

In addition, buses and trains run practically from the airport to other cities in the province and neighboring attractions.

By train

Given that the railway is the most popular way to travel around the country, Chengdu can be reached by train from almost any part of China. There are 3 passenger stations in the city:

• Chief (North Railway Station 火车 北 站),
• Eastern (East Railway Station 成都 东 站),
• South (South Railway Station 火车南站).

I marked the location of the stations on the map below.

Main Station (North Railway Station 火车 北 站）

The main (northern) station connects Sichuan province with major cities in the country. The main directions are Wuhan, Kunming, Guilin, Lanzhou, Changsha, Chongqing, Guangzhou. There are several trains per day from most of these cities, for example, from Beijing 5 trains a day, Xi'an - 11, Guangzhou - 4, Shanghai - 5, Kunming - 6. But the use of the railway has its drawbacks: due to large it takes a long time to travel and ticket prices are quite high. For example, the journey from Beijing to Chengdu will take about 28-30 hours, and a ticket in a reserved seat carriage will cost $ 70, a compartment for about $ 100. From Shanghai, a regular train takes about 36 hours, the price is the same, from Guangzhou - 30-40 hours, and a ticket will cost 80-120 dollars. So in terms of convenience, this option is clearly inferior to the flight, and the price does not always turn out to be more profitable.

How to get from the station to the city

The station is located near the center. From it you can easily reach the main places by metro, bus or taxi. There is North Railway Station (火车 北 站) subway station right next to the station, which is very convenient. The center of Chengdu is Tianfu Square (Tianfu Square 天эн 广场), you need to go to it only 4 stops by metro (it will take 10 minutes - the fastest and most convenient way) and get off at the station of the same name or use buses 16, 52, 55 ( 30-40 minutes). You will need to pay about 2-3 dollars for a taxi. In the photo below, the main square of the city.

East (East Railway Station 成都 东 站)

High-speed trains arrive at East Station from Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin, Hangzhou and several other cities. High-speed trains from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou take about 14 hours, but the cheapest ticket costs $ 133, so sometimes the plane will cost less. East Railway Station is also located next to the East Railway Station (成都 东 站) subway station on the second subway line, you need to drive 7 stops to the square. Also from here to the city center there are buses numbered 4, 47, 101, 104, the fare on the bus costs 0.3 dollars. A taxi to the city will cost about $ 4, and to the airport - $ 10.

South (South Railway Station 火车南站)

Chengdu South Station carries out passenger Transportation in the cities of Sichuan province: Emeishan, Leshan, Mianyang, Jianyou, Guangyuan, Nanchong, Suining, etc. It is located on the first subway line, at the South Railway Station (火车南站). Getting to the center is also easy: by buses, taxis and metro. Before central square the city can be reached by bus 16, in addition there are routes to other parts of the city.

By bus

Another way to get to Chengdu is by bus. But this is not the most convenient option, because it will take a long time to travel from popular Chinese cities, and moving in the vicinity of noisy and not always cultured Chinese may seem like a nightmare. In addition, there is very little information on the bus schedule on the Internet. Despite this, we can say that the bus system in Chengdu is very well developed; the city has several bus stations that connect it with neighboring cities of the province, as well as such large cities as Kunming, Nanjing, etc.

Most of the long distance intercity buses (, Lanzhou, Kunming, Chongqing, Ningbo) arrive at the North Bus Station (城北 客运站), which is next to the main railway station. How to get to the center from it is described above, the same methods are suitable if you come to this bus station.

Tourist buses from major Sichuan attractions such as Jiuzhaigou, Huanglong, Songpan, Leshan, Emeishan, Dujiangyan and others arrive at Xinnanmen Station (新 南门 汽车站) and Chadianzi (茶文子 客运站). How to get from them is written in another mine.

Prompt:

Chengdu - the time is now

Difference in hours:

Moscow - 5

Kazan - 5

Samara - 4

Yekaterinburg - 3

Novosibirsk - 1

Vladivostok 2

When is the season. When is the best time to go

Chengdu is not a resort city, so the season does not play a special role in its visit. Due to the fact that the city is surrounded by mountains, the climate in Chengdu is quite mild and pleasant. Here, winter is more like our spring with an average temperature of + 5-10 ° C, and snow and cold are rather an exception. I have been to Chengdu twice in winter, and I can say that it was comfortable for me to walk around the city, and the weather did not interfere with sightseeing at all. And what surprised me even more - at the end of January, some bushes, trees and even tulips bloomed in the parks.

In summer it is hot here, + 25-30 ° C, but it often rains. At the same time, due to the high humidity, it seems that the temperature is higher than it actually is.

Another feature of Chengdu is humid air, fogs and cloudy skies. It is said that it is due to such weather conditions that local girls have delicate white skin, and are considered the most beautiful in all of China.

As you understand, when to come to Chengdu is not at all important, but if, besides the city itself, you want to visit the natural attractions of Sichuan province, for example, Huanglong, Jiuzhaigou, Emeishan, Qingchengshan, then it is still better to come from April to November.

Chengdu - monthly weather

Prompt:

Chengdu - monthly weather

Districts. Where is the best place to live

In my opinion, it is best to stay closer to the city center in Chengdu for easy access to major tourist attractions, parks and restaurants. The most popular areas among tourists are the Qing Yang and Jin Jiang districts, which is where I advise you to choose a hotel. In terms of price, there won't be much difference, in any area you can find both cheap housing and super expensive. It's the same with food and shopping, prices are different and are determined by your personal preference. In China, you can always find budget options and not so much, and it does not depend on the region.

You can choose the best option on Booking - and - compare prices from different services. To deeply immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the city, you can rent an apartment or an apartment from locals, for more details see.

By the way, although there are only 9 districts in the city, 5 are considered internal, which I will briefly describe below.

• Qing Yang (青羊 区) is the heart of the city and most tourists choose to stay here. Most of the city's attractions are located in this area: parks, museums, temples, tourist streets.
• Jin Jiang (锦江区) is a vibrant and thriving business center. It houses a large number of firms, offices, expensive shopping centers. It is in this area that the largest shopping street in the city is located, in addition, there are bars, restaurants, clubs, cinemas and many hotels. This is the second most popular area.
• Wu Hou (武侯区) is the largest. It is interesting for tourists because the famous Wuhou Temple and the ancient Qingli Street are located here. There are a sufficient number of hotels, bars and cafes.
• Jin Niu (金牛区) is another shopping area with many markets and shopping malls. The main railway station belongs to it.
• Cheng Hua (成华区) is an ordinary urban area with residential buildings, but it is in it that almost the main attraction is the panda breeding center. The rest of the area does not attract tourists.

Major attractions. What to see

Chengdu and its environs boast a sufficient number of both cultural, historical and natural attractions. In the city itself there are many temples, museums, ancient streets, which are the cultural and spiritual heritage of the entire country. Outside its borders, tourists will get acquainted with the unique and beautiful nature of Sichuan. It is not for nothing that tours from Russia are organized here (you can see the dates and prices).

Top 5

Giant Panda Breeding and Research Center

The main attraction, for which most tourists come to Chengdu, is the giant panda - an amazing animal that is almost never found in the wild. In the center of breeding and study, you can get to know these lazy bumps, completely different from bears, quite closely.

At the same time, it is located practically in the city, and it is easy to get to the center by city bus. Its Chinese name is 中国 大熊猫 繁育 研究 基地 (zhōngguó dàxióngmāo fányù yánjiū jīdì).

What I liked was the conditions in which the acquaintance with these animals takes place: there are no glasses, no nets, no high fences. Of course, pandas are at a safe distance from people, but still it seems that you can reach out and touch them. Most of the time, these lazy people either eat or sleep, and often they eat while lying down and fall asleep in an embrace with half-eaten bamboo, so they are exhausted by the process of eating. Only the young are frolicking, and even that is rather awkward. When I saw the pandas hanging on the tree like this, I could not even believe that they could get there, I thought that they were specially planted there to amuse the people, but no, it turns out, they climb there themselves and even manage to sleep there, it's a pity only failed to see the moment when they get there.

In addition to pandas, there is a lake with swans on the territory of the center, peacocks walk along the paths, and you can also meet another, no less amazing animal - a red, or small, panda.

Unlike their larger counterparts, red pandas are more like raccoons in both appearance and behavior. They are very agile, playful and restless.

Center opening hours and entrance fee

The center is open daily from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm, but ticket sales end one hour before closing. The best time to come is in the morning, when the pandas have breakfast time, but to be honest, we were stuck in the park for the whole day, we enjoyed watching these cuties so much. The admission ticket costs only $ 9 (58 RMB), which is extremely cheap considering the amount of positive emotions and experiences you will get there.

How to get there

You can get to the center by taxi, which will cost $ 5 (30 yuan) one way (if you are traveling with a company or family, this is a great option). If you are interested in a budget option, then you should use public transport, which is cheap, but not very convenient, because you will have to change trains. But this is the way I chose. The easiest way to change is at the Zoo stop (动物园 dòngwùyuán). You can get to it by buses numbered 39, 70, 99, 150, 193. If you are coming from the central railway station, then you need the 9th bus, and from the main square - 53, 64, 99. Then at the bus stop the zoo, you need to change to bus number 198, 198a or 87 to 大熊猫 基地 站 (dàxióngmāo jīdìzhàn).

The downside for those who don't know the language is that stops are announced only in Chinese. But in most buses there is a board on which the name of the next stop and the route map are displayed, where special lamps light up to mark the stops that have already passed and which have not. Even without knowing the meaning of the hieroglyphs, you can visually compare them or show the driver where you need to, so that he tells you where to get out.

House-Museum of the poet Du Fu （杜甫 草堂 dù fǔ cǎotáng）

Du Fu (712-770) is a great Chinese poet who lived and worked during the Tang era. One day he left the capital and settled on the outskirts of Chengdu in a small house with a thatched roof. In this place, he wrote more than 200 poems that have become a national treasure. The house in which Du Fu spent several years has survived to this day and has become a museum. In it you can learn about the life and work of the poet.

Now on this territory, in addition to the museum itself, there is a temple, a beautiful fruit garden, a pavilion, gazebos and a monument to the poet.

The museum is open from 8:00 to 18:00, entrance fee is $ 10. You can get there by the following buses: 19, 35, 58, 82, 151, 165, 170, 309, 319, 1024 or 1031 to the stop 杜甫 草堂 站.

Wuhou Memorial Temple Complex (武侯祠

wǔhóucí)

The Wuhou temple complex is a reminder of such a period in Chinese history as the Three Kingdoms, when the struggle for power was fought between the three kingdoms: Wu, Wei and Shu. At that time, Chengdu was the capital of the Shu kingdom, headed by Emperor Liu Bei. But the temple itself is dedicated to Zhuge Liang - Liu Bei's assistant, a famous commander and statesman of that era. On the territory you can see sculptures of Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang, pavilions named after them and ancient slabs with inscriptions.

Opening hours from 8:00 to 18:00, entrance fee is $ 10. To get there, take a taxi or buses numbered 1, 57, 82, 109, 334, 335 to 武侯祠 站.

Qingli Ancient Street (锦 里 古街 jǐnlǐ gǔ jiē)

Another tourist attraction in Chengdu is the ancient Qingli Street, which has a special flavor and seems to take you back in time. It is located next to the Wuhou temple complex, so I recommend not to miss the opportunity and combine a visit to these two places. There are many cozy cafes, bars and souvenir shops on Qingli. How to get to the street, see above for the description of the Wuhou Temple.

The largest building in the world

The Chinese once again broke all records and built a building that became the largest in area in the world. This is the New Century Global Center (新 世纪 环球 中心 xīnshìjì huánqiú zhōngxīn), which has an internal area of \u200b\u200b1.7 million square meters. Since opening in 2013, the mall has become a Chengdu heritage and tourist attraction.

What's inside? In addition to a huge number of shops, offices, restaurants, conference rooms, two five-star hotels, an ice skating rink and the largest IMAX cinema in Chengdu, there is also something that simply does not fit in your head. Inside the shopping complex, the Chinese have equipped an artificial beach with an area of \u200b\u200b5 thousand square meters, which can simultaneously accommodate more than 500 people. If you want to visit it, then here's to you useful information: The beach is open from 10:00 to 20:00 and the entrance costs $ 28 (RMB 180).
You can get to this architectural wonder by taking the subway to Jinchen Plaza (锦城 广场) Exit A.

Churches and temples. Which are worth visiting

If you are not the first time in China, then temples and other traditional architectural structures may become boring to you and are no longer impressive, but there are several in Chengdu that will interest you.

Temple of the Green Goat (青羊宫 qīngyáng gōng)

The Temple of the Green Goat is not just an example of Taoist architecture, but also one of the most ancient temples, which houses the sacred relics of Taoism. For those who are not fond of religion, the place is still worth a visit, because there is a beautiful well-groomed area, beautiful architecture and a unique atmosphere. The temple itself is located in the territory of Wenhua Park (文化 园 wénhuàyuán), where you can also have a good time.

Bronze statues of a goat can be found at the entrance to the Hall of the Three Beginnings. They have already been polished to a shine by visitors who believe that touching the statue will bring them good luck. One goat there, by the way, is very unusual, the main thing is to look carefully :)

The temple is open from 8:00 to 18:00, and the entrance fee is symbolic, less than $ 2.

You can get there by metro, the nearest station is Provincial People's Hospital 中医 大 省 医院 on Line 2 and then walk a little more. Or by buses: 11, 19, 27, 34, 35, 58, 59, 82, 129, 151 , 170, 309, 319 to stop 青羊宫.

Wenshu monastery (文殊院 wénshū yuàn)

Wenshu Buddhist Monastery is one of the best-preserved sacred Buddhist sites in Chengdu. More than 300 Buddhist statues made of stone, bronze, wood and other materials are kept on the territory of the monastery. The oldest of them belong to the Liang (502-557) and Tang (618 - 907) dynasties. In addition, the monastery displays valuable paintings, frescoes and calligraphy.

Open from 8:00 to 18:00, entrance fee is symbolic, about a dollar. To get there, take the first metro line, the station is called Wenshu Monastery (文殊院) or city buses 16, 52, 55 and 298.

Museums. Which are worth visiting

Sichuan Provincial Museum (四川省 博物院 sìchuānshěng bówùyuàn)

The museum consists of four halls and covers an area of \u200b\u200b46 thousand square meters. Its collection includes over 300 thousand artifacts that tell the history of Sichuan province from prehistoric times to the present day.

Unfortunately, I didn’t manage to visit it, so I cannot tell from my own experience, but I think it is worth a visit, because it is there that you can get to know the history and culture of the province. Open from 9:00 to 17:00, except Mondays. According to rumors, admission is free, you only need to have your passport with you, but I'm not sure of this information. You can get there by buses # 19, 35, 58, 82, 151, 165, 170, 319 to the Songxianqiao stop 送 仙桥.

In addition, if you have nothing to do, you can visit museums such as:

• Sichuan University Museum (四川 大学 博物馆). Entrance fee is $ 5.
• Sichuan Museum of Science and Technology. Located in the main square of the city, behind the statue of Mao Zedong. Opens from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, but visitors are not allowed in an hour before closing. Entrance $ 5.
• Dinosaur Museum of the Polytechnic University. Located on the territory of the Polytechnic University - 成都 理工 大学. Entrance $ 1.5.

Parks

The Chinese are very fond of spending their free time outdoors, so there are many parks and gardens in every city. They are worth visiting not only in order to be closer to nature, but also to see how the locals spend their leisure time. It is especially interesting to watch the older generation. Old people play mahjong, gather, so to speak, in "hobby groups" and sing songs, play instruments, read poetry, do dances and breathing exercises, and practice calligraphy.
Almost every park has a teahouse where you can taste local teas and play board games.
Parks worth visiting:

• People's Park (人民 公园 rénmín gōngyuán). Located within walking distance from the main square of the city, you can get to the metro station of the same name.

• Baihuatan Park (百花潭 公园 bǎi huā tán gōngyuán). Admission is free, the park is open from 6 am to 9 pm. Buses 35, 115, 126, 127, 129, 170 go there.

• Wangjiangtang Park (望江 楼 公园 wàngjiāng lóu gōngyuán). You can visit the park free of charge from 6 am to 9 pm. The nearest bus stops are 三 官 堂 (sānguān táng) and 龙船 路 (lóngchuán lù), to which buses 3, 12, 18, 31, 56, 68, 74, 82, 106, 152, 218 and others go.

Tourist streets

Wide and narrow alleys (宽窄 巷子 kuānzhǎi xiàngzi)

This place is a popular tourist attraction in the city center. Consists of three parallel streets with cafes, shops and amusing monuments.

Here you can sit in a cafe, buy souvenirs or taste local "delicacies" and feel that you are in ancient China. But the prices for everything are a little overpriced, after all, this is primarily a tourist attraction.

It is easy to get to the street, from the center it will not be a problem to walk from the square (30 minutes) or the People's Park (15-20 minutes).

From other parts of the city, take subway station 人民 公园 Line 2 and then walk.

I really liked this place, there is some special atmosphere in it, so I advise you to visit it.

What to see in the vicinity

Many tourists do not come to Chengdu for the sake of the city itself, more often it serves as a starting point for exploring the treasures of Sichuan province. I would like to suggest a few of them, all of them are included in the UNESCO list.

Dujiangyan Irrigation System (都江堰 景区 Dūjiāngyàn jǐngqū)

Almost 50 km from Chengdu, on the Minjiang River, there is a kind of monument to the engineering thought of the ancient Chinese - the Dujiangyan irrigation system, which was created more than two thousand years ago. Now it is tourist place with interesting temples to visit, a suspension bridge and tea houses.

There are several ways to get there from Chengdu:

• as part of a tourist excursion,
• by bus,
• by train,
• by taxi.

Buses to Dujiangyan City run from the airport, Xinnanmen, Chadianzi and other bus terminals. Upon arrival in the city, you still need to get to the park on city route number 4 or by taxi for 3-5 dollars. If you want to get there by train, then you need the main station (travel time is only 30 minutes, ticket price is 2-3 dollars). A taxi straight from Chengdu will cost $ 20-25 per car. The entrance ticket to the park itself costs $ 15.

Qingchengshan Mountain (青城 山 qīng chéng shān)

Mount Qingchengshan, revered by the Taoists, is located 70 km from the city of Chengdu and only 20 km from Dujiangyan, since it was here that the first Taoist temple complex was built. Now on its territory you can see Taoist monasteries, pavilions and pagodas, caves and lakes. This place combines Taoist culture and natural beauty. From Chengdu you can take the train (to станции 山 火车站 Station), then take bus 101 to the front of the mountain. Or take a bus from Xinnanmen or Chadianzi stations. In addition, you can get there from Dujiangyan. You will have to pay about $ 15 to enter, plus the cable car and visits to some caves are paid separately.

If you have enough time, I would advise you to combine the visit to the irrigation system and the mountain, especially since they are nearby. You can stay overnight in the park, at a hotel or at a monastery, or outside at the foot of the mountain and return to Chengdu the next day. But I haven't tried this option.

Giant Buddha statue in Leshan (乐山 大佛 lèshān dàfó)

Near Leshan city, which is 140 km from Chengdu, in the territory beautiful park there is a unique 70-meter high statue of Buddha carved into the rock, the work on the creation of which lasted about a hundred years. Its dimensions are really impressive, as several people can fit on just one toe. You can get to Leshan town by bus from bus stations or Chengdu airport to tourist bus, taxi or train from the southern railway station. Entrance fee around $ 15 (RMB 90).

Sacred Emeishan Mountains (峨眉山 éméishān)

The Emeishan Mountains are one of the four great and sacred Buddhist mountains in China and are a place of special beauty and atmosphere. Today, about 300 monks live in this territory and more than 20 monasteries operate. It attracts pilgrims and ordinary tourists who are ready to overcome the difficult path to the top and meet the sunrise in this stunning place. The ways to get there are the same as to Leshan.

Jiuzhaigou National Park (九寨沟 jiǔzhàigōu)

One of the main treasures of Sichuan province is a unique nature reserve with incredible beauty of lakes, waterfalls and mountain landscapes 400 km from Chengdu. All the necessary information about the park can be found in my article.

Huanglong National Park (黄龙 Huáng lóng)

Huanglong National Park, which is located 70 km from Jiuzhaigou, is no less beautiful. The pride of the park is considered to be of extraordinary beauty colored pools, waterfalls and a mountain 5588 meters high, which all year round wears a snow cap. Best combined with a visit to Jiuzhaigou.

I highly recommend visiting at least a few of these amazing places, because each of them is unique in its own way. I am by nature a great nature lover, so for me the ideal choice was to visit Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong, but for people who are interested in Buddhism, I advise you to conquer the Emeishan, this is just a must on the program. If there is not much time, then you can escape from the city to the Qingchengshan Mountain, admire the nature, and at the same time visit Dongjiangyan. Well, it's best to visit everything so that you don't regret it later.

Food. What to try

You probably know that Chinese cuisine is very interesting, varied and, at times, exotic. I wrote more about food in China and dishes worth trying in another article, you can read it.

But the Sichuan province has its own special cuisine 川菜, which is famous throughout the world for its searing spiciness. So if you're in Chengdu, be sure to try the local signature dishes. Some of them, such as gongbao chicken (宫保鸡丁 gōngbǎo jīdīng), hogo (火锅） and pork in fish sauce (鱼香 肉丝 yúxiāng ròusī), I have already mentioned. In addition, I advise you to consider the following dishes:

• mapo tofu (麻 婆 豆腐 má pó dòufǔ) - bean curd tofu fried with minced meat and hot Sichuan pepper;

• boiled fish in spicy Sichuan sauce (水煮 鱼 shuǐzhǔ yú);

• twice-cooked pork, or "meat returned to the pot" (回锅肉 huíguōròu) - pork stewed in a special way with hot pepper;

• beef with citrus zest (陈皮 牛肉 chénpí niúròu);

• braised pork pieces (东坡 肘子 dōng pō zhǒuzi);
• chili fish (辣子 鱼 丁 làziyúdīng);
• fish with pickles (酸菜 鱼 suāncài yú) - steamed fish with marinade according to a special recipe;

• dan dan noodles, or spicy Sichuan noodles (担 担 面 dàndànmià).

By the way, in order to extinguish the pungency after eating, you need to drink not water, but milk.
Finding what to eat in Chengdu is not a problem, because, as in all of China, there are restaurants on every corner for every taste and budget. The price will depend on the place you choose, the dish and the type of cuisine. European cuisine is more expensive, Chinese is cheaper. The most budgetary option is street food: various snacks, sandwiches, kebabs. A visit to a good restaurant will cost a lot of money, but I won't say that it tastes much better there than in small street establishments.

As you understand, you can eat in Chengdu almost everywhere, there are both Chinese establishments and cafes, restaurants and fast foods with European cuisine, so you don't have to go hungry.

A variety of dishes can be found on the tourist streets, which I wrote about above, there are many places near the main attractions. In the photo there are restaurants near the ancient Qingli Street (锦 里 古街).

There are even separate so-called food streets, but I would say that this is more suitable for Chinese than for foreigners. The most famous are Shaxixian (沙西 线 美食 一条 街), Yangxixian （羊 西 线 美食 一条 街), Wenshuyuan (文殊院 小吃 街) and others .

In addition, any shopping center or mall will have a whole floor with cafes and restaurants. Most often these will be nice and clean places with quality food.

In case you can't come to terms with the spicy Sichuan cuisine, you can always grab a bite to eat at MacDonald's, KFC (besides hamburgers and fries, there are often rice and meat dishes there) or Pizza Hut.

Things to do

Shopping and shops

Chunxi Shopping Street (春熙 路)

If in Chengdu you want to buy something for yourself, then I would advise first of all to go to Chunxi Street, which is called a shopping paradise.

On this street there are just a lot of boutiques, shopping centers, supermarkets and just shops where you can find things of Chinese and world brands at moderate and not very prices. Most shops are open from 10:00 to 22:00.

In addition to shops, there are a lot of coffee shops, fast foods and restaurants, both Chinese and European, where you can have a delicious meal and have a good time.

How to get there

It is located practically in the center of the city, and it is best to use the metro. Line 2 has a station called Chunxi Road (春熙 路), which is what you need. When you arrive, take exit C or D. In addition, you can also get there by city buses, here are several routes that run here: 43, 47, 55, 56, 58, 81, 98, 104 and others.

Zongfu Street (总 府路 zǒngfǔlù)

This street is located near 天府 广场 Square. A large number of shopping malls are concentrated on it, which attract both locals and visitors. There you can buy branded cosmetics, shoes, clothing and jewelry. But as for me, a hike to Chunxi Street will be enough, because there is more choice and a special flavor. But if you go to go, then the map below will help you, it will take about 20 minutes on foot from the square.

• handicraft and antiques market (送 仙桥 sòng xiānqiáo);
• Wide and Narrow Alley (宽窄 巷子 kuānzhǎi xiàngzi);
• tibetan souvenir market near the Wuhou Temple (武侯祠 横街 wǔhóucí héngjiē);
• ancient Qingli Street, next to Wuhou Temple (锦 里 古街 sòng xiān qiáo);
• antique market on Renmin South Road (人民 南路 rénmín nán lù).

Bars. Where to go

Chengdu is a large and advanced city, where young people also love to have fun and relax. Therefore, there is a fairly large number of interesting establishments and even whole streets of bars and nightclubs. It is enough to tell the taxi driver 酒吧 街 jiǔbā jiē, and he will take you to one of the many bar streets.

A popular street visited by both locals and foreigners is Lan Kwai Fong 兰桂坊, which has about 30 bars, restaurants and nightclubs in one place, but prices are not cheap. If you love parties and do not spare money for them, then you definitely go there. It is located near the Dong Da Road (东 大路) subway station. In addition, you can visit:

1. Shaoling Road Bar Street (少陵 路 酒吧 一条 街);
2. Jiuyanqiao Bar Street (九眼桥 酒吧 街);
3. Yulin Neighborhood Bar Street (玉林 酒吧 一条 街);
4. Wuhou Temple Bar Street (武侯祠 酒吧 一条 街).

If you want to spend an evening at the bar with a glass of beer or cocktail, then I advise you to walk along one of these streets, there you can definitely find something to your taste, or you can look into one of the establishments below.

Bars popular among foreigners:

• Beernest (啤酒 窝 j 酒吧),
• Underground (隧道 酒吧),
• Bookworm,
• bar-restaurant Lazy Pug,
• shamrock Irish Pub, Music House (音乐 房子) bar with live music.

Among others, often visited by local youth, are:

• Machu Picchu,
• Little Bar,
• Elephant Bar,
• Lotus Place,
• Shark "s and others.

Most of the bars are open from lunchtime until 2 am.

Clubs and nightlife

In addition to bars, there are nightclubs and discos in the city, but from my own experience I can say that the format of such an institution is different here and in China. With the exception of VIP establishments, which I have never been to, most of the entrance is free, there are no requirements for appearance either. And no one bothers foreigners at all, because it will be prestigious for any club if such guests come there. In some places there is even a practice that administrators specially invite laowai (as the Chinese call all foreigners 老外) and treat them for free, just to create a reputation for their institution. In addition, the usual dance floor may not exist, instead there will be a narrow stage for a dance show or singers (this is also a feature of local clubs), and the Chinese themselves rarely dance in clubs. By the way, another big disadvantage of many "Chinese" clubs is that they do not sell single drinks and cocktails, and in order to sit down at a table, you need, for example, take a box of beer or expensive whiskey (often fake), and if you come together, then it is absolutely not profitable. But there are also exceptions. Chinese clubs also close early, at 2-3 a.m., although at home I used to dance until the morning :)

The most popular clubs include:

• Jellyfish,
• Muse,
• Nasa,
• Here We Go,
• BABI,
• Kakadu.

Souvenirs. What to bring as a gift

The choice of souvenirs is probably an important part of any trip, because all these pleasant little things will later remind you of a great time. And you certainly won't want to return from China empty-handed. Chengdu is no exception, the choice of shops and markets is quite large, I would even say, eyes run wide, so if you have free time, devote a day to shopping. Besides the usual Chinese souvenirs, Sichuan has its own interesting and special products.

Bamboo products

Sichuan is rich in bamboo forests that panda bears love so much. It is not surprising that bamboo souvenirs have become popular here. As a gift for yourself or your loved ones, you can bring caskets, lamps, baskets, kitchen and writing utensils made of this material, they are sold both in expensive stores and in markets.

If you want to buy some unusual gift, then here's an idea for you: lately it has become fashionable to combine porcelain and wicker bamboo, you get very beautiful interesting things, like, for example, this tea set in the photo below.

Sichuan brocade Shu (蜀锦 shǔjǐn)

The skill of making Sichuan brocade Shu, or, as it is also called, patterned silk, originated more than two thousand years ago and has survived to this day. Previously, only emperors could have such a luxury, but now it is considered important cultural heritage Chengdu, but anyone can buy it. By the way, there is even a Shu brocade museum in the city, in Chinese it is called 成都 蜀锦 织绣 博物馆 (chéngdū shǔjǐn zhīxiù bówùguǎn) and is located at 青羊 区 草堂 东路 2 号 (qīngyáng qū cǎotáng dōng lù èr háo), which is not far from houses of Du Fu Museum and Baihuatan Park.

Sichuan Shu Embroidery (蜀 绣 shǔxiù)

This is the traditional artistic silk embroidery characteristic of this province. In Chengdu, you can buy paintings, scarves, clothes, pillowcases and bedding with traditional Sichuan embroidery, but it will not be cheap. From inexpensive among tourists, such small embroidered paintings in frames are in demand.

Lacquered products （漆器 qīqì）

Various varnished items have become popular souvenirs from Chengdu: dishes, vases, boxes. Sichuan lacquered crafts have been renowned for their quality to the news since ancient times, so if you like this kind of thing, don't miss the opportunity to get it.

Other souvenirs

In addition, you can buy silverware, jade jewelry, porcelain, tea, spices, local alcohol, antiques, and common Chinese souvenirs (fans, paintings, Chinese traditional clothes, Chinese masks, etc.).

How to get around the city

Chengdu has an excellent public transportation system; to services local residents and tourists have metro, regular and sightseeing buses, taxis. Today, the most convenient way to get around the city is by bus, but only for those who know Chinese, because the names of stops are written only in hieroglyphs, and stops are also announced in Chinese. Many different routes provide easy access to major city and suburban attractions, train and bus stations, shopping centers and tourist streets. Bus travel is also the cheapest - $ 0.3 per trip. The metro system is not yet sufficiently developed, because the first line was launched relatively recently, in 2010. But you can also get to many places, and at the same time without traffic jams. The metro will cost 0.3 - 1.1 dollars, depending on the distance, plus all the inscriptions are duplicated in English. For those who do not like public transport, there is always the opportunity to take a taxi. More on all this below.

Taxi. What features exist

Chengdu, like all of China, has fixed prices for taxi services. Most cars are equipped with a taximeter, and fees are charged at certain rates. I specifically checked what are the current rates in Chengdu, and you can use this information to roughly calculate how much you need to pay for travel, provided that, of course, you know the distance at least approximately.

From 6:00 to 23:00 boarding and the first 2 km cost 8-9 yuan, then the price for each kilometer is 1.9 yuan for a distance of up to 10 km, over 10 and up to 60 km you will have to pay 2.85 yuan for each kilometer. It turns out a little more expensive at night. From 23:00 to 6:00 boarding - 10 yuan, up to 10 km the price per km is 2.2 yuan, from 10 to 60 km - 3.3 per km.

That is, if you need to travel 2 km, you should take only $ 1.2, if 10 km, then $ 3.6, 20 - about $ 8.

You can catch a taxi everywhere and without much effort, just wave your hand to a passing taxi. In China, you usually do not need to call and pre-order a car, but if you have a flight to the airport, it is better to ask the hotel staff to arrange transport in advance.

When you get into a taxi, see that the taxi driver turns on and zeroes the taximeter, or, when he is not there, negotiate a price in advance (if you have an idea how much you should pay). In China, you can take a ride, they are usually also paid for at about the same price. The problem with Chinese drivers is that they often do not know English, so the address written in hieroglyphs is always better to have on a piece of paper. It's one thing if you need some kind of tourist place or train station, airport, the location of which everyone knows, but there are problems with hotels. Drivers do not always understand the back streets of the city and can wander, while you will pay for this ignorance.

Underground

The Chengdu subway is relatively new. The first line was opened in 2010, and according to the plan by 2020 there will be 10 of them. But so far 3 metro lines have been launched: Line 1 (blue), Line 2 (red) and Line 4 (green). A diagram of the working metro stations is presented below.

How much is the metro ride

As I said above, the cost of a metro ride varies depending on the distance and is calculated by the number of stops. So, for example, 6 stops cost 0.3 dollars, 12 - 0.46 dollars, and so on. That is, if, for example, you need to get from of course to the terminal via Line 1, you will have to pay $ 0.77. (22 stops). The maximum amount is $ 1.1 if you pass 40 stops.

Working hours

• Line 1 operates from 6: 20-22: 50;
• Line 2 from 6: 20-22: 30;
• Line 3 from 06: 30-22: 30.

How to buy a ticket

So far, there is no way to buy a one-day or two-day in Chengdu subway ticket, and each trip is paid separately. Locals have a special smart card that gives a discount on travel, but there is no point in buying it for tourists.

There are special machines to pay for metro fares (they have english language), the map of the metro and the station you are at appears on the screen. Next, you should select the station at which you are going to get off, after which the car will tell you how much you need to pay. You insert money into the bill slot, get change and a ticket. Keep your ticket until the end of the trip, because when you leave, you will need to put it to the turnstile. That's all, nothing complicated.

Buses

Regular city buses

City buses are the most popular and developed way of getting around the city. There are stops literally at every corner, and you can get to almost anywhere in the city. The public bus fare is $ 0.3. You need to pay in cash, and it is advisable to always have small money with you. Most often, buses do not have a conductor, and the fare is placed in a special transparent box next to the driver. Local people use a card to pay, which, if I'm not mistaken, is the same for all public transport, including the metro. Most routes start at 6:30 am and end at 9:00 pm, although some buses run until 11:00 pm. The exact timetable can be found at the stops, there is written not only the route of movement, but also the opening hours for each route.

In addition, the city has one night route under number 298, which runs from 22:00 to 05:30, the fare costs $ 0.46. It runs from the Century City New Convention and Exhibition Center to the Main Railway Station through the city center. The route practically runs along the first metro line, as you can see on the map below.

Sightseeing buses

Also in Chengdu there are sightseeing buses that can be used to get to some of the attractions of the city and its surroundings. But this proposal is rather peculiar. I am not a fan of group trips, so I have not tested this option, but I can still tell you a little about it.

The advantage of such a bus is that it travels to your destination quickly, without stops and changes, you do not need to look for a place yourself. Minus - in addition to travel (can be either one or two directions), its cost includes both entrance fees and guide services. So it turns out more expensive than driving on your own by public transport. Prices and timetables should be checked on the spot.

For example, I found information that a guided tour to the panda breeding center will cost $ 20 (128 yuan) per person, this price includes travel in both directions, an entrance ticket to the center and guide services (what do they mean by this, I don't know most likely you will have to follow him in a group). At the same time, you can independently get to the place by city bus, which will cost a maximum of $ 1.5 (10 yuan) in 2 directions (if you go with transfers), and pay $ 9 for the entrance to the park. (58 yuan). In my opinion, the price difference is noticeable. If you are traveling with a company, then a taxi will be more profitable.

But for those who do not like to look for something on their own, this option is not bad.

Where to buy tickets

There are special offices for selling tickets for such excursions, they are located near the main tourist attractions (at the main entrance to the pandas, the Wuhou temple, the Dufu house-museum), and buses leave from there. In addition, tickets can be bought at Shuangliu Airport (you need to find the International transit passenger service center in Terminals 1 and 2) and in Tianfu Main Square (at -1F near Starbucks near Jinzhan Shopping Center)

Where can you get

On such a sightseeing bus, you can go to see the Panda Breeding Center, the house of the poet Du Fu Museum, the Wuhou Temple, the Dujiangyan irrigation system, Mount Jingchengshan and more.

Transport rent

In order to legally drive a car in the PRC, you only need to have a Chinese driver's license. No foreign or international documents are suitable. Therefore, you will not be able to rent a car on your own and quickly. If the question is of principle, you can apply for Chinese on the basis of an already existing driver's license of your country, but you will have to take an exam in China, and this takes time and money. Honestly, I would not recommend driving here. But if the desire to drive is irresistible, you can navigate the prices for car rental. Although the local roads are of high quality, the drivers drive as they want, absolutely not following the rules, and it can be very difficult for a person who is not accustomed to such traffic to find their way. If retaking your license is not an option for you, then the only possible way is to rent a vehicle together with a Chinese driver or a person who has a document issued in the PRC, but it will not be cheap.

The capital of Sichuan province, the city of Chengdu (China) is a global transport and economic center of the Middle Kingdom, one of the five most densely populated metropolitan areas of the Middle Kingdom.

Historical chronicles

Sinologists still have no consensus about the time of the formation of the settlement in the Mingjiang River valley. The date that suits everyone is located in the fork from 2300 to 3000 years. The first documented mention of Chengdu is associated with the acquisition by the city of the capital status of the Shu kingdom in the era of the Three Kingdoms.

For three thousand years Chengdu as a mythical Phoenix, it flashed (shone) dazzlingly, then fell into ruins and ashes. The majestic chronicle of the Sichuan administrative center is best conveyed by nicknames, aliases, labels.

Interesting! Since the 200s, the city has been famous for its heavy silk fabric with embroidered gold patterns.

A symbol of luxury and wealth, brocade is still included in the basic list of products produced in the province: Chengdu rightfully bears its middle name "Jincheng" (Brocade City).

History has given Chengdu another definition: "Paradise Basin". Sichuan chernozems are fertile, and the peasants working on the land are hardworking. The world knows the most ancient Dujiangyan irrigation network invented and implemented in the region.

There are many names and nicknames, they reflect the glorious history of Chengdu:

• the homeland of the jiao paper money;
• flower hibiscus garden city;
• the most ancient center of engraving and printing of the Celestial Empire;
• alma mater of the Sichuan branch of traditional Chinese opera;
• places of birth and fruitful everyday life of the great Chinese writers Li Bo and Du Fu;
• center of the tea industry. Manding Ganlu, Moli Hua Cha with hints of jasmine, the famous Zhu Ye Qing are just the tip of the iceberg of the famous tea varieties cultivated and harvested on the highland plantations of the region.

Location

Chengdu is located in the southwest of mainland China, in the western part of the Sichuan tract. Modern city includes eleven prefectures and five counties on a total area of \u200b\u200b14,312 square kilometers.

Population

The official statistics of the PRC declares sixteen million people inhabiting the metropolis in 2010. In urban prefectures and adjoining rural counties, in addition to the Han people (the main population of the country), 54 other small ethnic groups live.

Paradise weather

Sichuan province is a classic subtropics with a clear seasonality. Chengdu's climate canon is a tropical monsoon.

The region is warm and humid throughout the year: the average annual temperature ranges between 12 and 16 degrees Celsius. Early spring, sweltering summer, gorgeous autumn and damp-warm winter.

Chengdu has a "resort weather" between March and June. The “high” season is the period between mid-September and November. Hottest period: July and August.

Road routes

One gets to the metropolis by plane or by rail. Car traffic is also possible, but it is too long and cumbersome.

High-speed rail transport

Chengdu has four railway stations... The best transit options are direct connections from Beijing or Shanghai.

• Shanghai-Chengdu Express: 1,700 km, 160-350 km / h. From 6,000 to 14,000 rubles.
• Standard flight Beijing-Chengdu: 1517 km, 140 km / h, 4900 rubles.

The negative side of this movement is the high cost of tickets.

Chengdu air harbor

Chengdu Airport is based in Shuangliu District, a suburb of Chengdu. Of the Russian capital there is a direct flight from Sichuan Airlines to Chengdu: flight time is about eight hours. Issue price: from 30 to 47 thousand rubles.

You can get to the metropolis from the air harbor:

• by taxi: 50-60 yuan;
• by bus: 12 RMB;
• monorail (CRH) 12-15 RMB.

Metro

The Chengdu metro system consists of five branch lines with a total length of 140 km. The fare is 2 to 10 RMB.

The underground monorail also belongs to the grid of metro lines, which really improves the traffic of the urban colossus. In 2018, a new line to the airport was inaugurated.

Map of picturesque and remarkable places

Chengdu is the center of an ancient province, there are quite remarkable tourist places in the city and the surrounding areas.

The most popular and unique sightseeing hits of the Sichuan region are located outside the city: inquisitive travelers should plan their travel schedule in advance, stock up on a map.

Chengdu travel guide is striking in its thickness. In the city itself there are many temples, museums, traditional centers of cultural and spiritual heritage. Outside the metropolis, travelers will find parks and protected areas, a unity with the beautiful nature of Sichuan.

"The tract of magnificent pandas"

The Sichuan climate is comfortable for giant pandas.

Interesting! The state nursery "Valley of Bamboo Bears" was organized in the nineties of the last century as part of the national program for the rescue of an endangered species.

The Panda Park employees are doing an excellent job with the task set by the government of the country: park visitors can observe prosperous adult animals and cubs in free green areas.

It costs 58 RMB to visit the park. The park is open to the public from 7.30 to 18.00 seven days a week. The reserve can be reached by the third subway line (Xiongmao dadao station) or by taxi.

Repository of the origins of Taoism

A stunning collection of Tao culture documentation (ancient manuscripts and scrolls) is kept in the green goat pantheon in Chengdu. The collection of Tao Zang is the last surviving library of Taoism, a literary and scientific artifact of the world philosophical and religious teaching.

The construction of the pantheon is associated with the Zhou era. The name of the central pagoda is associated with the legendary dictum of Lao Tzu: "Look out for the green goat after a century of Tao practice." The temple complex is considered by UNESCO as an object of classical architecture.

The sanctuary is open to the public from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, for only RMB 10 per person. You can get there by subway: Provincial People's Hospital station, the second line.

Park areas and gardens

The green lungs of the metropolis are an independent tourist value. Exotic nature and fauna, accompanying spectacles and entertainment.

"New century"

The monumental urban giant "New Century" is a universal urban building. The architectural masterpiece is included in the Guinness register as the world's largest integral structure.

The giant occupies 1.76 million square meters. The huge spaces of the building house business offices, conference halls, auditoriums of local educational institutions, three shopping malls, two five-star hotels, a cinema and an oceanarium.

Tianfu Square

The central area of \u200b\u200bthe city (80,000 square meters), except business card, is the cultural, historical and transport heart of a huge metropolis.

The square is decorated with a huge monument to Mao Tse Tung and a magnificent fountain. Along the perimeter there are numerous shopping areas and boutiques with expensive brands, entertainment complexes and a metro station. Experienced guides recommend planning a visit to Tianfu in the evening, with the grandiose lighting turned on.

Chunxi Pedestrian Road

Chunxi Shopping Street transforms everyday shopping into a world-class commercial tour. In addition to the exotic surroundings, the pedestrian avenue enchants travelers with an amazing assortment. More than seven hundred shopping centers, department stores, malls and small boutique shops are concentrated on 220 thousand square meters.

The shopping highway is located in the center, you can walk to establishments or "fly" along the second metro line to the Chunxi Road stop.

Nature Park

Jiuzhaigou is a nature park in the Sichuan mountains. The reserve is famous throughout the world for lakes, waterfalls and stunning mountain views.

It is better to allocate two days to visit the park: one for the road and accommodation in a hotel, the second for "unity with nature."

The price of the visit ranges from $ 26 to $ 50 seasonally. The reserve is open from 8.00 to 17.00 seven days a week.

Monument of Buddha in Leshan

The mountain settlement Leshan (140 km from the metropolis) is famous all over the world for its giant (71m) statue of Buddha. Statistical guides of the Median State classify the colossus as the largest object carved into the mountain range.

The colossus was cut in the rock for 90 years: the carving from the rock started in 713 and finished in 803. Inspection price of all objects: 90 yuan.

Qingchengshan peak

Qingchengshan is the birthplace of Taoism. The first Tao monastery was founded in the mountainous regions of the region.

In the Qingchengshan Mountains, there is a whole complex of Taoist temples, pantheons and pagodas. Those wishing to get acquainted with the everyday life and life of modern monks will have to make a three-hour trek to the top. There is also an alternative: the cable car for 60 yuan. The Tao Sanctuary is open daily from 8:00 to 17:00.

Accommodation and accommodation

The megalopolis Chengdu offers travelers the widest choice of hotels of various comfort and prices.

Hostels and youth campsites will provide tourists with good conditions for $ 10-25 per day. The hotel will become more expensive, pretentious and much more comfortable:

• three stars / double / 45-50 dollars per night;
• four stars / double / 80-90.

The atmosphere of luxury and unforgettable bliss will be provided by five-star grandees. For a suite at the Millennium Hotel, they will ask for $ 120 per day.

Where and how to eat?

Professional chefs and restaurateurs consider the Sichuan culinary school to be the most popular and beloved in the world.

The Sichuan culinary tradition is famous throughout the world for its enchanting aromas, fiery richness and pungent spices. Known all over the world - hot pot, Ma Po bean curd, Gong Bao Ji Ding Chengdu (fragrant chicken with nuts), Ma La Tang ("flaming tongue chowder").

Local gastronomic delights are available in restaurants and on the street. An exemplary hot sweat is served at the famed Huangcheng Laoma on Kintai Road. Shizilou and Tanyutou are famous for excellent local menus.

Gifts and souvenirs

Chengdu is an iconic place for gift and souvenir shopping.

Interesting! Walking through the shops, stalls and street markets of Chengdu is a great pastime, therapy and relaxation.

The list of souvenirs and gifts with a local flavor is incredibly wide: for every taste and wallet. All guidebooks and tour guides recommend purchasing:

• brocade Shu. Two millennia of production history and unconditional popularity throughout the world;
• bamboo products and crafts. Local craftsmen skillfully weave bamboo stems and porcelain. Stylish and very original;
• traditional medicine preparations, dietary supplements. Chengdu is the center of traditional medicine, the city's pharmacists practice the most ancient recipes;
• excellent tea grown on high mountain plantations.

The most popular shops and street bazaars are located along Zongfu Road, Chunxi and Luomashi.

Conclusion

Chengdu - beautiful city wealth, capital of success. The global metropolis is a good place to visit: here you can enjoy the beauties of nature, architectural and historical monuments, learn a lot about the great Celestial Empire, organically combining the archaism of antiquity and ultramodern data of progress.

Chengdu ("Brocade City") is the capital of the southwestern province of Sichuan, China's main giant panda nursery region.

Chengdu is an ancient city founded in the 4th century. BC, when it was the capital of the kingdom of Shu, and later six more kingdoms. Already in ancient times, Chengdu was an important political and shopping center... At the beginning of our era, the city was known throughout the Celestial Empire for its rich brocade, which was considered the best in the East. During the reign of the Song dynasty, paper money was circulated here for the first time in the world.

Modern Chengdu is one of the largest industrial centers in Western China. The appearance of the city has changed dramatically, one day-old historical Buddhist and Taoist monuments have survived to this day.

One of the main attractions of Chengdu and the province as a whole is the nurseries of giant pandas - China's "national treasure".

What must-see attractions in Chengdu

The most famous cult monument in China, dedicated to the period of the Three Kingdoms; was founded in 223, however, most of the buildings belong to the Qing period.

One of the most popular places in Chengdu is located 12 km north of the city. This is a huge center and nursery, where giant pandas live in natural conditions. There is also a museum exhibition dedicated to the evolution, habitats, reproduction and protection of pandas. Also here, under the guidance of the center, a 2-day volunteer work is possible. Listed in the catalog World heritage UNESCO.

Jiuzhaigou National Park in Chengdu attracts tourists with its unique beauty, unusual mysterious oriental landscapes, and names that are unusual for the European ear: Grass Lake, Sleeping Dragon Lake or Five Flowers Lake.

4. Leshan. A small town at the southern foothills of Lingyunshan Mountain, 120 km southwest of Chengdu. In ancient times it had a reputation for being the most beautiful landscapes in Sichuan. Today Leshan is one of the most popular destinations in the province, thanks to the giant stone Big Buddha and the Emeishan Mountains.

The largest Buddha statue in the world, carved from a solid rock in Lingyunshan Mountain, at 71 m. It inspires awe with its size, grandeur and impartial face. Listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

One of the sacred mountains of China, dedicated to Bodhisattva Pusyan; is located 160 km southwest of Chad. The highest peak of Emeishan is called the Peak of Ten Thousand Buddhas and reaches a height of 3,099 m. Even during the Tang Dynasty, the mountain became a pilgrimage site among Buddhists because of more than 200 sanctuaries built here during this time. 20 churches and monasteries have survived to this day. Among them are Jindingsi Temple, Ten Thousand Years Temple, Golden Peak, Jining Pavilion. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Weather in Chengdu

Chengdu has a humid subtropical climate. Comfortable for people living as well as for farming. The Qinling Mountains protect the city from the penetration of northern air masses from Siberia, so the winter in Chengdu is milder than in the lower part of the Yangtze. The average January temperature is 5.6 ° C; snow falls extremely rarely, although short-term frosts are sometimes possible. Summers are humid and rather hot, but not as hot as in cities down the Yangtze. Average temperatures in July and August are about 25 ° C, although during the day they can reach 33 ° C and higher. Persistent heat waves are also quite rare. The greatest amount of precipitation falls from June to September.

How to get there

The Chengdu Metro was officially opened in Chengdu on October 1, 2010. It consists of four lines, construction and planning of other lines, including the circular one, is underway. There are about 400 bus routes in the city and metropolitan area.

Shuangliu International Airport is located about 16 km from the city center. It is the 5th busiest airport in mainland China; in 2012 traffic amounted to 31.6 million passengers. Flies to most major cities in the country, as well as international flights to cities such as: Hong Kong, Osaka, Seoul, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Phuket, Bangkok, etc. In 2009, an agreement was signed to improve the airport infrastructure, which would allow Shuangliu to increase its traffic to 40 million passengers by 2015 year. The major airline Chengdu Airlines is based at the airport. There is also a long-term plan to build another airport with five runways. With the plan, the journey from the new airport to downtown Chengdu would take less than 30 minutes.

Brief video overview of Chengdu