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| Panda decoration at Shuang Liu International Airport, Chengdu China. |
China is a country so popular that it is difficult not to visit. And if you do, which part will interest you? Chengdu is rising up among popular cities like Beijing and Shanghai as a tourist spot and a business hub. I recently had the opportunity to visit the capital of Sichuan province and its attractions charmed me. This summer, take the opportunity to have some fun in Chengdu which offers cute pandas, great scenery and grand history.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Chengdu, China
1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
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| Chengdu China : Bamboo forest in the park |
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| Chengdu, China : Pandas lazing at the outdoors |
When in Chengdu, make it a must to go to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. A fan of Po from Kung Fu Panda? You will be smitten with the adorable fuzzy giants. Not a fan of pandas? I give a high percentage of guarantee that you will turn into one once you have seen them lazing around eating bamboos. Chengdu is the pioneer in panda research that protects and breeds the endangered species. Take a stroll at the verdant park that offers many photographing opportunity of nature. If you are lucky, you might be able to catch a glimpse of the twin panda cubs born this year.
Website: www.panda.org.cn
2. Le Shan Giant Buddha
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| Chengdu, China : The amazing Giant Buddha at 71m |
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| Chengdu, China : Charter a boat to see the Giant Buddha from the river. |
Website: www.travelchinaguide.com/attraction/sichuan/leshan/buddha_statue.htm
3. TaoPing Qiang Village
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| Chengdu, China : Taoping Qiang Village is one of the valuable heritages in China |
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| Chengdu, China : A native of Taoping Qiang Village at 98 years old. |
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| Chengdu, China : Air dried meat the traditional way |
If you want to experience China 1000 years ago, I highly recommend a visit to TaoPing Qiang Village. This village is exactly the way it was 1000 years ago. The village survived battles, wars and earthquakes. Till now, there are still native dwellers living in the same ancient buildings that homed 56 generations. Water and drainage systems are maintained. Here you can see people still walking around in their ethnic costumes. I got dried yak meat and some interesting trinkets from the tribe as souvenir back home. It is definitely an eye opening experience for me.
Website: www.chinahighlights.com/chengdu/attraction/taoping-qiang-village.htm
4. Wuhou Memorial
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| Chengdu, China : Treasure #1 Calligraphy by Zhu Ge Liang. |
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| Chengdu, China : Treasure #2 The pair of tablets with valuable words. |
For those who have interest in Chinese history, make your way to the Wuhou Memorial site. It is where the Romance of the Three Kingdoms is preserved. There are significantly two grand treasures encompassed in this memorial- ancient poem from Zhu Ge Liang and a pair of tablets by Zhao Fan, indoctrinated by Mao Ze Dong. Liu Bei’s tomb is also in the memorial. The tomb is interesting as it was completed by Zhu Ge Liang and although the tomb seems plain for a royalty, it upholds the righteousness of Liu Bei until today. Visitors also get to walk on paths that have been stepped upon by Zhu Ge Liang thousands of years ago, capturing what the legendary figure experienced when strategizing his battles. Purchase a replica of his wisdom fan as a souvenir or a miniature pair of tablets to be displayed at your home.
Website: www.wuhouci.net.cn
5. Mount Emei
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| Chengdu, China : Golden Buddhist temple at the peak of the mountain |
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| Chengdu, China : Primates greeting visitors when hiking up the mountain |
Mount Emei is one of the four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. It is also listed as one of UNESCOs World Heritage site. It is 3099m high and requires physical strength to hike up by stairs. To reach the peak, a cable car has to be taken. At the top, there are Buddhist architectures and a golden temple. The climate is cold due to its latitude and visitors should be ready with warm clothing. From the top, I enjoyed fresh air and view of abundant greenery. Its pristine surrounding is rare from what we get from the city. Those who adore nature and hiking, this is the perfect destination for you.
Website: www.chinahighlights.com/leshan/attraction/mount-emei.htm
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| On the road without helmets.. amazing ! |
In Chengdu, remember to try their famous Ma Po Taufu and hot pot. Those who love spicy meals will enjoy Sichuan food. Chengdu also offers shopping of many ranges from luxe shopping to budget buys at streets. China, being China, has very interesting culture and unique customs. I enjoyed my holiday in Chengdu and will definitely return for more adventure and fun.
by ♥,
E-Wen
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