Chengdu Travel Guide - Brief Information on Chengdu

Chengdu is the capital of Sichuan Province and is renowned as being the “Heavenly State", the habitat of the much-loved giant panda and one of the most historic cities in China. Situated at the middle reach of the Minjiang River, west of Sichuan Basin, it is a pivotal hub connecting the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Spot, Emei Mountain as well as Daocheng and many of Sichuan's other famous tourist attractions.

Due to its singular location on the border of Sichuan's northwest highland and the Sichuan Basin, Chengdu has a unique climate. Generally speaking, the western part of Chengdu is cool while the east is warm at the same time all year round.

Chengdu, with a rich history of over 2,300 years, has an abundance of tourist attractions. Among them, Shu Han Culture, the scenery of the Heavenly State and the Giant Panda Reserve are among the most popular. There are plenty of famous scenic spots and historic sites, such as picturesque Jiuzhaigou, noted by the UN as one of the greatest natural legacies in the world; the eldest and largest Shu ancient city, Sanxing Dui, as well as Leshan Buddha and Wuhou Temple, built to commemorate Zhuge Liang, the Premier of the Shu Han Dynasty, known for his great wisdom. 

From ancient times to the present, the wise and diligent Sichuan people have cultivated a unique culture in the fields of economics, science and technology and the arts.  Among them, the famous four treasures of traditional Sichuan handicraft-embroidery, brocade, lacquer and bullion appliances enjoy both domestic and international acclaim. And Sichuan Opera, the representative genre of drama in Sichuan Province, has garnered renown and popularity for its magical arts of face changing and Spitting Fire.