Chengdu was known throughout ancient China as “The Land of Abundance,” an exotic and fertile city surrounded by mountains where fruit and tea grew, pandas basked in the surrounding forests and the locals enjoyed a leisurely lifestyle.
Thousands of years later, Sichuan’s capital city is one of the biggest in China. It remains a place of abundance: a lush, subtropical environment; rich historical sites; and fine cuisine. Most of all, Chengdu is known for its laid-back energy and the friendly locals who still live a slower-paced lifestyle. The citizens are famously hospitable and love to meet visitors.
Here are the best ways to interact with them while also having an authentic Chinese experience, Sichuan style.
Where to Stay
Visit the exquisite Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu for a luxurious experience close to all the most important sites in town. Unbelievable panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains can be captured from almost every part of the 350-room hotel.
Don’t miss out on the visual feast that is the opulent afternoon tea at the Ritz-Carlton’s 25th-floor Lobby Lounge. Cakes and chocolates created in house in the form of flowers and mushrooms are served on a bed of fresh moss, resembling a tiny scene from a fairytale. Apart from the aesthetic value, this style of afternoon tea is an eco-friendly initiative of the Ritz-Carlton, using local ingredients and natural vegetation to reduce waste.
Visit the Pandas
Sichuan, known as the panda capital of the world, is home to some of the most renowned panda research and conservation centers of these native bears. The Chengdu Panda Research Base is only six miles from town and focuses on breeding the furry mammals. Beyond the famous white-and-black variety, visitors can also see and learn about red pandas here.
For a chance to spot a wild panda, take a trip further out to Wolong Nature Reserve, where visitors can hike among the bamboo in the animals’ native habitat. Pandas are most active in the morning, so it’s best to get there early.
Buy the Hot Local Luxury Product
Hand cream shop Qingzhi has developed a viral cult following. Stop by the soft green-colored store in the historic Kuan Zhai Alley that’s devoted solely to the rich lotion. Qingzhi products have pleasant aromas in general, but the beautifully packaged, osmanthus-scented version made especially for Chengdu makes a trip worthwhile.
Try Area Cuisine
Sichuan is synonymous with its exquisite culinary traditions. Try some Chengdu classics such as the mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, kung pao chicken and Sichuan-style hot pot at places like The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu’s Li Xuan restaurant. But be warned: much of the food in Chengdu comes with a kick; the local chili oil is particularly strong.
If you aren’t as confident in your tolerance of the eye-watering spices, ask for yours on the side. The hot pot is a great place for beginners to start, as you can choose your spice level and throw fresh vegetables, meat and seafood into the broth according to your taste.
Drink Crafty Cocktails
Jing Bar, a glam cocktail spot hidden away in the Four-Star Temple House, is a hip and modern take on a classic concept — much like the rest of the property. The retro-chic bar offers original drinks made from locally sourced ingredients (the T-Bone is made with Zhengshan tea) mixed to your liking. Once Jing’s DJs are added to the mix, one of the hottest nightlife scenes in Chengdu comes to life. Reservations are recommended for this popular bar.
Encounter Everyday Life at the Park
Renmin Park is a lovely green space, but its main attraction is the chance to see the Chengdu locals living their best lives. Depending on when you visit, you can catch people playing Sichuan-style mahjong— this version is a local, simplified style of the tile game — doing tai chi, writing calligraphy or simply chatting with friends. You’ll also find bonsai gardens and teahouses, which are wonderful places to people-watch while sampling locally grown jasmine tea.
Relax and Recharge
There are reasons why The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu’s spa is considered one of the finest facilities in the city. The 24,756-square-foot sanctuary has 10 treatment rooms, a lap pool, a steam room and other tension-melting amenities. Luxuriate in the hot tub while taking in the view of the skyline before indulging in a signature massage that uses oil infused with native Sichuan delicacies, white tea or jasmine.
