Chengdu is a sub-provincial city that serves as the capital of China's
Sichuan province. It is one of the three most populous cities in Western
China. It is surrounded by the Chengdu Plain, which is nicknamed the
‘Country of Heaven’ for its scenic beauty and fertile lands. Chengdu has
played an important role in China’s history since 400 BC when it was made
the capital for the Shu Kingdom. It was a mighty kingdom and visitors can
see several of its artifacts in the Jinsha Site Museum.
Things to do in Chengdu
Chengdu Research Base
The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding combines two visions-
first, the visitors should get to see pandas in their natural habitats and
second, to find a way to scientifically study these lovely animals. This
research base was founded in 1987 with about 5 pandas but this number has
swollen to over 80 pandas.
Chengdu Wuhou Shrine
Built in 302 AD, the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine is one of the oldest temples in
China. It is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, who was an able strategist,
statesman and governor in the Shu Han Empire in 2nd century AD.
This temple features a gold-plated clay figure of Zhuge Liang majestically
seated in the central hall.
Wenshu Monastery
Spread across over 12 acres, the Wenshu Monastery is a late 17th
century complex featuring five temples built almost entirely of wood and
stone. This complex is built over the remains of a former 5th
century AD monastery. It is home to 10 iron statues of Buddhist guardian
gods dating back to 11th century and over 100 bronze sculptures
of Buddhas and Buddhist saints dating back to 17th century.
Best Time to Visit Chengdu
Winter season (the months from September to June) are the best to book your
flights from Los Angeles to Chengdu. It is the season when you can see
pandas in Chengdu Research Base. Book your flights from LAX to CTU during
this time of the year to enjoy famous cultural events like Chinese New
Year. It is advised to book Chengdu flights in advance to avoid paying more
during peak season.