Known for its spicy food and giant pandas, Sichuan is a southwestern province in China. It’s home to buzzing cities like Chengdu, Heritage-listed sites, stunning nature reserves and cultural attractions that highlight the country’s rich traditions.

Things to do

Most first-time visitors to Sichuan make a beeline for Chengdu Panda Research Base to see its cuddly giant pandas. You can observe new-born pandas and fully-grown adults through a variety of different habitats throughout the park, then stroll around the lake to see swans or visit the tranquil garden with koi fish.

Hike the trails at Jiuzhaigou Park, which features lush green forests, picturesque Dragon Lake and the cascading Nuoriliang Waterfall. If you’re looking for a more challenging adventure, hike Mount Emei and explore the 30 ancient temples along the trail to learn how Buddhism first entered China.

Discover one of China’s famous poets at the Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum or head to the Baoguo Temple Ancient Architecture Museum to stay overnight in a 970-year-old temple. For a peek at 1,000 cultural relics, visit the Sanxingdui Museum.

Want to see the largest stone Buddha sculpture in the world? Take a cruise along the Min River to admire the UNESCO-listed Leshan Buddha, which stands at 71 metres tall. If you prefer to explore on foot, stroll along Jinli Pedestrian Street to sample unique candy creations and traditional Chinese snacks.

Getting around

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is the region’s major airport. Regular trains arrive at Chengdu Railway Station from most major cities, including Shanghai. Buses and taxis are popular ways to explore attractions in Sichuan.