Chengdu, you've got so many surprises I haven't discovered yet!

Chengdu travel guide! Those planning a trip to Chengdu during the holidays, pay attention! Chengdu, a city of exceptional charm, is more than just a testament to the rapid development of modern technology. Wandering through its streets and alleys, you'll feel as if you're traveling through time, touching the distant and profound historical and cultural veins of ancient Shu, Yin, Western Zhou, and Qin dynasties. The mystique of the ancient Shu civilization, the unique charm of the Yin and Shang periods, the etiquette of the Western Zhou Dynasty, and the grandeur of the Qin Dynasty have all left their mark on this city, waiting for every visitor to explore and experience. ## Travel Preparations ### Documents Documents are essential when traveling. Your ID card is a crucial identification document needed for transportation, hotel check-in, and entering certain scenic spots. Don't forget your student ID or other discount cards, which can save you money on entrance fees and transportation if you meet the eligibility criteria. ### Electronic Devices In this digital age, electronic devices have become an indispensable part of our lives. Mobile phones are essential for communication, navigation, and capturing memorable moments. Chargers and power banks ensure your phone stays fully charged so you don't miss anything exciting. Headphones allow you to enjoy your own music world during the trip, isolating you from the outside noise. Cameras are the best travel companions, allowing you to capture every beautiful scene in Chengdu and create lasting memories. ### Toiletries Skincare is essential even when traveling. Skincare products keep your skin hydrated, facial wipes are convenient and hygienic, makeup remover thoroughly cleanses your face, sunscreen protects your skin from UV damage, and facial cleanser keeps your face refreshed and clean. Bring these toiletries to maintain a healthy routine during your trip. ### Clothing Chengdu's weather is unpredictable, so sun-protective clothing is a must-have for travel. It protects you from the sun and provides warmth when the weather is slightly cool. Short sleeves are suitable for hot weather, keeping you cool and comfortable. Slippers are perfect for relaxing in the hotel, and a change of clothes ensures you have clean clothes every day. ### Medicine It's common to encounter minor health issues during travel. Motion sickness medication can alleviate discomfort during the journey, cold medicine can address potential cold symptoms, anti-inflammatory medicine can treat minor inflammations, and heatstroke prevention medicine protects your health in hot weather. ## Travel Tips ### Plan Your Trip Detailed planning is essential before any trip, just like a battle plan before a war. Without a plan, it's easy to encounter problems during the trip, such as missing the best time to visit popular attractions or choosing unsuitable restaurants. Gather information through the Internet, travel books, and friend recommendations to create a personalized travel plan. ### Book Flights/Train Tickets Chengdu is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons, when flights and train tickets are in high demand. Book in advance to avoid delays. Check the official websites of major airlines and railway departments for ticket information and potential discounts. ### Book Accommodation Booking accommodation in advance is crucial for a Chengdu trip. While Chengdu has abundant hotel resources, they can be scarce during peak seasons. Choose a hotel that suits your budget and preferences, ideally located near transportation and attractions for convenient travel. ### Check the Weather Check the real-time weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Chengdu's weather can change dramatically, from sunny one day to rainy the next. Being prepared ensures a more comfortable trip. ### Pre-Departure Check Before leaving, carefully check if doors and windows are locked, take out the trash, and turn off the power at home. This ensures home safety and avoids unnecessary waste. ## Five-Day, Four-Night Chengdu Itinerary ### Day 1: Chengdu Airport/Station Pickup - Hotel Check-in After arriving in Chengdu, check in to your hotel and take a good rest to recover from the journey. If you have energy, visit the Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street. Wuhou Shrine is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, where you can experience the turbulent times of the Three Kingdoms period and appreciate Zhuge Liang's wisdom and loyalty. Jinli Ancient Street is full of Chengdu's characteristic cuisine and traditional culture. Strolling along the ancient street, tasting various delicacies, and experiencing Chengdu's slow-paced life, you'll feel as if time has slowed down. ### Day 2: Chengdu - Huanglong Scenic Area - Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Scenic Area is a rare natural calcium deposit museum, known as a "world wonder" and a "fairyland on earth." The colorful calcified pools resemble gems embedded in the earth, shimmering under the sunlight. The journey from Huanglong Scenic Area to Jiuzhaigou offers breathtaking scenery, building anticipation for Jiuzhaigou. ### Day 3: Full-Day Jiuzhaigou Tour Jiuzhaigou's beauty is intoxicating. The deep tranquility of Long Lake, the vibrant colors of Five Flower Lake, the majestic Nuorilang Waterfall, the colorful Five Color Pond, the crystal-clear Rhinoceros Lake, and the mysterious Tiger Lake—each spot is like a beautiful painting. The magical Jiuzhaigou, known as a "fairytale world" and the "king of waterscapes," showcases nature's wonders, transporting you to a dreamlike world. ### Day 4: Jiuzhaigou - Chengdu On the way back to Chengdu from Jiuzhaigou, you'll pass through Chuanzhusi Town and Tibetan villages, which have the most distinctive Tibetan characteristics. Here, you can experience the unique local customs and admire the Tibetan and Qiang dwellings along the way, as if entering the Tibetan Plateau. The warm hospitality of the Tibetan people, the unique architectural style, and the colorful prayer flags will leave a lasting impression. ### Day 5: Dujiangyan - Panda Base - Return Home Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a World Cultural Heritage site, is an outstanding representative of ancient water conservancy projects and continues to play a vital role today. Here, you can appreciate the wisdom and creativity of the ancients and the magnificence of water conservancy projects. The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is home to adorable giant pandas, where you can observe their habits up close and have a close encounter with these lovely "national treasures." After the tour, return home with cherished memories. ## Food Guide ### Kaojiang Spicy Grilled Fish Address: 7th Floor, L707, IFS International Financial Center Mall, No. 1, Hongxing Road Section 3, opposite the Giant Panda. The grilled fish here is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, super fragrant, spicy, and flavorful! The fish is carefully grilled and absorbs the flavors of various seasonings. Be sure to add black bean curd; the tender bean curd absorbs the grilled fish broth, creating an exceptional taste! You'll fall in love after just one try. ### Zhang Taipo Lao Ma Ti Hua · Sichuan Restaurant (Taikoo Li Main Branch) Address: No. 27, Hongshizhu Heng Street. This is an authentic Chengdu Lao Ma Ti Hua (braised pig's trotters) restaurant with super authentic and delicious flavors! They offer various pig's trotters dishes, including braised and clear broth versions, each delicious and not greasy. The soft and tender trotters melt in your mouth, and the rich and flavorful broth is unforgettable. ### Taotao Sheng Freshly Baked Pastries (Taikoo Li Branch) Address: 1st Floor, No. 3 Annex, No. 2, Tianxianqiao North Road. Their mochi and large tarts are truly delightful! The mochi is chewy and paired with sweet fillings, creating a wonderful taste. The large tarts have a crispy crust and sweet filling, a must-try for pastry lovers. Mochi lovers must visit! ### Dakou Yichang · Sweet Potato Noodles and Dried Tofu (Taikoo Li Branch) Address: No. 7, Yuchengji Alley, Daci Temple Road. This sweet potato noodles and dried tofu shop is popular online. The dish can be enjoyed in various ways, wrapped with steamed pork, braised dishes, crab sticks, pickled pepper chicken offal, and more. One bite combines the softness of the sweet potato noodles, the firmness of the dried tofu, and the deliciousness of the various fillings, making it irresistible.