Chengdu City Guide

Sichuan food is spicy and flavorful. Try Mapo Tofu, Hot Pot, and Kung Pao Chicken. You'll find diverse international cuisines too. Late-night eats are common. Vegetarian and vegan options are growing but sometimes need careful ordering.

Nightlife includes tea houses, KTV bars, nightclubs, live music, and craft beer bars. Popular spots are Lan Kwai Fong and Jiuyan Bridge.

Chengdu has a lively coffee scene with many third-wave shops and international chains, alongside traditional tea houses.

Tipping is uncommon and not expected. Small tips may be given in high-end places or for tour guides.

Buy SIMs at major carrier stores at the airport or city. China Mobile has widest coverage. Physical SIM cards required; valid passport needed for registration.

Main areas are generally clean with regular waste pickup. Older neighborhoods can be less tidy. Recycling is improving.

Many convenience stores are open 24/7. Late-night food options are abundant. 24/7 pharmacies and clinics are rare, but hospitals have emergency services.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Walmart, Ole', Sam's Club, and Hema Fresh offer international products. Wet markets open early for fresh produce. Large stores stay open on Sundays and holidays. Bargaining is common only at wet markets and small shops.

Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are everywhere. Cash is rarely used and often not accepted.

ATMs are common in banks, malls, and airports. Major banks accept international cards but watch for fees from both local and home banks.

Several international schools teach mainly in English and follow Western calendars. Apply early as spots can fill quickly.

A small but growing community. Meetups happen via WeChat and expat groups. Co-working spaces and cafes support remote work.

The city has many parks and river trails with shaded paths, good for walking and running.

Popular routes along Jinjiang River and parks. Generally safe but air quality can vary, especially in winter.

Several fitness chains and hotel gyms are available.

Tennis courts are at sports centers and universities, usually hard courts. Some offer coaching and equipment rental.

Padel courts exist but are less common than tennis.

Many yoga studios offer various styles and some English-speaking instructors. Meditation classes are also available.

Martial arts schools teach Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Sanda, and others. Drop-in classes may be available; English instruction is limited.

Xiling Snow Mountain Ski Resort is 2-3 hours away by car. It offers beginner to advanced slopes with equipment rental. Ski season is December to March.

Limited activities like paddle boating in city parks and some kayaking nearby.

No ocean access for surfing.

No diving or snorkeling sites.

Public hospitals provide quality specialized care but can be crowded. Private and international clinics offer faster service and English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common and many meds don't need prescriptions.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use boiled or bottled water.

Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes are common. Baby supplies are widely available. Attractions like the panda base and amusement park suit families.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is limited with no legal protections. Some safe spaces exist but public displays are rare.

Pet policies vary and many places don't allow pets. Vet clinics with English speakers exist, but dedicated pet parks are rare.