Chengdu pre-trip checklist
What's different about Chengdu: weather, must-book sights, local apps and getting in from the airport.
How we keep this accurateEvery fact here was checked against official sources on the date above. Rules change — if you spot something out of date, tell us and we'll fix it within a day.
Use together with the General Pre-Trip Checklist; this only lists Chengdu-specific items, and does not repeat general items (visa, payment, internet access, hotel booking).
- Climate and Clothing — The Sichuan Basin has many cloudy days, high humidity, and limited sunshine. Spring and autumn are mild, comfortable, and the best seasons, so bring a light jacket. Summer (June-August) is muggy and humid, with occasional heavy rain, so prevent heatstroke, stay hydrated, and carry an umbrella. Winter (December-February) is damp and cold, often feeling more uncomfortable than the dry cold in northern China, with little sunshine, so bring warm windproof clothing and a scarf. The basin is often cloudy, but UV is still present, so do not skip sunscreen, and keep an umbrella with you year-round.
- Airports and Getting into the City (Important) — Chengdu's two major airports are far apart, so be sure to confirm which one your flight uses: Tianfu International Airport (TFU, southeast of the city, farther away, served by Metro Lines 18/19 and airport shuttle services) or Shuangliu International Airport (CTU, southwest of the city, closer, served by Metro Line 10). Tianfu is far from downtown, so allow extra time, and use Didi (ride-hailing app) for rides.
- Attraction Reservations — Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding is the hardest to book and often sells out in peak season: it requires a real-name reservation (with passport), book at least 7 days in advance, and try to choose a morning slot (pandas are most active in the morning and often sleep in the afternoon). The park is large and involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Book tickets ahead for popular places such as Wuhou Shrine, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, and Jinsha Site Museum. For Sichuan opera face-changing shows (Shunxing Old Teahouse, Jinjiang Theater, and others), advance booking is recommended.
- Spice Level and Food — Sichuan food labeled "mildly spicy" may still be very spicy for visitors. If you do not want spice, say "bu yao la," meaning "no spice." "Ma," the numbing sensation from Sichuan peppercorns, is not the same as "la," or chili heat, and a tingling tongue is normal. Hotpot, chuanchuan skewers, boboji, maocai, and malatang are all worth trying. Carry stomach medicine, and cool the heat with ice jelly, yogurt, or soy milk. For your first one or two meals, do not start with the spiciest option.
- Teahouses and Temple Etiquette — Sitting in a teahouse for gaiwan tea, ear cleaning, and relaxed local conversation is a classic Chengdu experience. Qingyang Palace (Taoist) and Wenshu Monastery (Buddhist) are active religious sites: photos are allowed, but do not use flash, do not photograph worshippers who are praying, offering incense, or meditating, and dress respectfully.
- Extended Plateau Trips (If You Go) — If you extend your trip to high-altitude areas such as Jiuzhaigou, Daocheng Yading, or Mount Siguniang, be aware of altitude sickness, bring sunscreen, warm layers, and altitude-sickness medicine, and consult a doctor in advance.