Chengdu-destination – Trip Expect Journey

Chengdu

Chengdu is a place that many Chinese people love to visit, whether it’s for a short trip or a longer stay. I fell in love with this city after living here for just half a year. Life here is incredibly laid-back, and the locals have a very relaxed attitude toward life. You can always hear the sound of people playing mahjong, and it’s common to see people chatting and drinking tea everywhere. Life in Chengdu is comfortable, casual, and full of charm. The food here is especially famous—delicious, spicy, and absolutely irresistible. If you enjoy or want to try spicy food, this is the place to be; even the air on the streets carries that signature spicy aroma.

Even more attractive than that might be the pandas—especially “Huahua,” the star among giant pandas, with her adorable looks. Chengdu is the only place where you can get up close to these cuddly creatures.

In this blog post, I’ll share with you the sights I love, the mouthwatering food, and the unique things that make Chengdu so special.

KOWN

BEFORE

YOU GO.

BEST

TIME

TO

Visit

WHAT TO EXPECT

Language
Mandarin is the main language. Sichuan dialect is widely spoken locally.
In tourist areas ，hotels and major attractions, English is commonly used.
⚠️ Tip: Download a translation app for seamless communication elsewhere.（链接翻译app文章）

Currency
China uses Renminbi (RMB) with units Yuan (¥) or Kuai (块).
Cards & e-payments dominate, but carry small cash for street food, temples, or rural markets.

Payments
Alipay / WeChat Pay are KING!
International credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in hotels/large stores but may fail in small shops.

Cash is accepted everywhere but not always preferred. （How to pay easily in China）

🔌 Plugs & Voltage
Type A / C / I sockets (Standard: 220V, 50Hz).
Bring a universal adapter (with surge protection if using electronics).

👮♂️ Safety

Chengdu is very safe, even for solo female travelers!
Petty crimes (e.g., pickpocketing) are rare but possible in crowded areas (地铁, tourist spots).
Scam alert: Ignore “tea ceremony” invites near tourist sites.

💰 Budget Tips
Food & transport are cheap; attractions (e.g., pandas 🐼) can be pricey.
Eat like a local! Street food (5-15¥) beats tourist restaurants.
Use metro/buses (cheap & efficient) – Didi is China’s Uber.

🍜 Bonus: Culture Quick-Notes
Tea culture: Sit in a park teahouse (e.g., People’s Park) – it’s a must!
Spice level: Ask for “微辣” (wēi là = mild spice) if you can’t handle heat.
Respect temples: Dress modestly, speak quietly.

Chengdu is in southern China with relatively humid weather. Spring (March to May) is a great choice, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooms—especially rapeseed flowers and peach blossoms. However, spring rains are common (don’t forget your umbrella!), and it’s best to avoid May 1st–5th (China’s Labor Day holiday).

Autumn (September to November) brings crisp, clear days and the fragrance of osmanthus flowers, along with seasonal delicacies. Days can be warm while evenings turn cooler, so carry a light jacket. Avoid October 1st–10th (National Day holiday), when crowds peak.

Summer (June to August) is hot but manageable. Escape to nearby mountains like Qingcheng or Emei for cooler weather, or relax at open-air tea houses to soak up local life. Skip visiting pandas during this season—they tend to hide from the heat!