In Chengdu, life moves at the leisurely pace of its most beloved resident — the giant panda. Families visiting this charming Sichuan city can slow down and savor memorable moments, from watching pandas lounge beneath bamboo canopies to tasting local street snacks and wandering through leafy streets filled with teahouses. Here are our top picks for a panda-filled family adventure.
Panda icons in the city
From the moment travelers arrive, Chengdu presents plenty of playful panda-themed sights. Panda screens and murals brighten the airport terminals, while panda sculptures are scattered throughout the city. A giant sculpture climbs Chengdu’s International Finance Square, while a 3D panda peeks out at Chunxi Road — children will love spotting these whimsical pandas as they explore the city.
Panda encounters
No trip to Chengdu is complete without encountering its most famous residents in person. Just a short, scenic drive from the city leads to Dujiangyan Panda Base, where pandas can be observed up close in a natural setting. WildChina travelers enjoy a relaxed journey through the lush Sichuan countryside in spacious private transport before arriving at the base.
For those looking to get more involved, WildChina can arrange a hands-on volunteer experience designed for adults and children aged 8 and up. Guided by dedicated panda keepers, participants assist with essential tasks such as breaking bamboo — an activity that mimics pandas’ natural feeding behaviors — offering a deeper appreciation of their daily care and conservation.
Volunteers can also get creative while preparing nutritious “panda cakes” from bamboo flour, corn, eggs, and vitamins. Watching the pandas eagerly enjoy these handmade treats made by little hands is a heartwarming moment.
Afterward, visitors can indulge in a treat of their own — panda-shaped ice cream, available from stalls within the base.
The landscapes that inspired Kung Fu Panda
The journey doesn’t end with meeting Chengdu’s beloved pandas. The landscapes that surround the city are captivating, some even inspiring animated worlds. Led by WildChina’s local guides, families can venture to Qingcheng Mountain, the birthplace of Taoism and inspiration for the vivid landscapes of Kung Fu Panda. Here, our guides navigate travelers through tranquil paths, misty lakes, ancient temples, and lush bamboo groves. Easy hikes, cable car rides, and boat trips make this an accessible adventure for all ages.
Nearby, Anren Ancient Town offers a glimpse into 19th-century Sichuanese life. It’s an ideal setting to experience local history and culture, with beautifully preserved mansions, bustling markets, and peaceful courtyards to discover.
For a more active adventure, WildChina travelers can experience a private kung fu class with an expert instructor. Both adults and children can learn movements rooted in Shaolin and Wudang martial arts, making for an energizing and memorable experience.
Culinary adventures
After a day of adventure among bamboo groves and mountain temples, Chengdu’s rich food culture awaits. While Sichuan cuisine is famous for its bold spices, WildChina guides can introduce families to milder specialties. Along Jinli Old Street, a lively walkway lined with traditional architecture and street food stalls, visitors can try dan dan noodles, sweet sugar oil pancakes, and other local delicacies. For adventurous eaters, Chengdu hot pot restaurants offer milder broth options suitable for children.
WildChina can also arrange an exclusive hands-on culinary experience, beginning with a visit to a vibrant local market, where guests select fresh, seasonal ingredients alongside community residents. Guided by experienced local chefs, participants prepare traditional dishes while exploring regional cooking techniques and flavors. Children will especially enjoy experimenting with different dumpling shapes and fillings, adding a playful and interactive element to the experience.
Sichuan opera
From the flavors of Sichuan to its lively performing arts, Chengdu’s cultural heritage comes to life in the evening with a Sichuan opera performance, featuring colorful costumes, lively percussion, and dramatic musical arrangements. The highlight of the performance is the legendary bian lian (face-changing) act, where performers magically switch their painted masks in the blink of an eye. Adding to the enchantment, the show often includes shadow puppetry, where intricately crafted figures tell stories through movement and light, along with thrilling fire-breathing stunts and acrobatics.
For an even more immersive experience, families can enjoy VIP access, where children can have their faces painted in traditional Sichuan opera makeup and try on the elaborate costumes — transforming into mini-performers for a fun and memorable moment.
Chengdu’s living traditions
WildChina can arrange family-friendly craft workshops, bringing Chengdu’s artistic traditions to life. In a private brush painting session, children and parents can experiment with panda and bamboo designs, guided by skilled artists who introduce the simple, yet expressive brush strokes used in traditional Chinese art. In a bamboo weaving workshop, little hands can get creative weaving small keepsakes under the guidance of expert artisans. This engaging experience offers a fun way to appreciate the craftsmanship that has shaped Sichuan’s culture for centuries.
Beyond hands-on workshops, Chengdu’s vibrant traditions unfold in its community spaces. A stroll through People’s Park offers a window into daily life. Elders practice calligraphy with water brushes, play traditional teahouse games like mahjong or weiqi (Go), and perform various styles of dance. Parents can sip jasmine tea at a bamboo-shaded teahouse, while children take in the lively atmosphere. There’s even the chance to join in. Whether observing or participating, People’s Park is a delightful way to experience the heart of Chengdu.
Where to stay in Chengdu
For a comfortable and family-friendly stay in Chengdu, The Temple House offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. Children will love cuddling up with giant panda plushies and enjoying panda-themed sweets and desserts.
For those staying a little longer, we recommend the luxurious Six Senses resort, offering garden-to-table dining, tennis courts, and the opportunity to enjoy a Tai Chi class with a 37th-generation master.
Chengdu is a city that encourages families to slow down, connect, and savor both its natural beauty and cultural richness. Get in touch with our travel designers to start planning your own panda filled family adventure.
By Elena Shlykova
