Monasteries, Teahouses & Sichuan Opera
Experience Chengdu through its spiritual heritage, teahouse culture and celebrated traditions, from Buddhist monasteries and historic alleyways to hotpot and Sichuan opera.
Area
Sichuan & Yangtze River
Type
Community & Culture
Food & Drink
Who
Adults
Teens
Begin at Wenshu Monastery, one of China's largest and best-preserved Buddhist monasteries. Dating back more than a thousand years, the complex is characterised by elegant halls, sweeping roofs and tranquil courtyards scented with incense. As a working monastery, it offers the opportunity to observe the daily routines and rituals of monks and nuns while gaining an insight into Chengdu's spiritual heritage.
Continue to Wuhou Temple, dedicated to Zhuge Liang, the renowned military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period. Explore the temple grounds and learn about the life and legacy of one of China's most respected historical figures, whose influence continues to resonate in Chinese culture. Afterwards, spend time exploring nearby Jinli Street, where traditional teahouses and local shops line the historic thoroughfare. Later, visit Wangjianglou Park for a performance of Chengdu's distinctive kung fu tea tradition. Watch as an experienced tea master combines elements of martial arts and tea service in a choreographed display of skill and precision before trying the pouring techniques yourself. Following the performance, enjoy time to wander the park, where local residents gather to dance, socialise and play mahjong. Continue to the Kuan Zhai Alleyways, a lively district where restored Qing Dynasty architecture sits alongside contemporary cafés, galleries, boutiques and bars. Popular with locals and visitors alike, the neighbourhood provides a fascinating contrast between historic Chengdu and the modern city. As you explore, there may also be opportunities to sample some of the region's traditional snacks. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sichuan hotpot dinner, one of the region's best-known culinary experiences. Gather around a simmering pot of richly flavoured broth and cook a variety of meats and vegetables at the table, experiencing the communal dining style that remains central to Sichuan food culture. Round off the day with a VIP experience at a Sichuan opera performance. Best known for its remarkable face-changing technique, the art form combines music, storytelling, comedy and acrobatics. During the performance, you'll gain an appreciation for one of Sichuan's most distinctive cultural traditions, with the option to experience the local custom of ear cleaning as part of the evening.Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationUpper House Chengdu
The Temple House is the latest addition to the Swire Group and is just as unique as its sister properties in Beijing and Shanghai. A fusion of traditional charm and modern elegance, this stunning property is the perfect base for exploring Chengdu.
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View AccommodationCrowne Plaza Yichang
Located in the city centre, Crowne Plaza Yichang is situated within reasonable vicinity to key entertainment centres and attractions in Yichang. It is an ideal base for an overnight before you embark to explore the surrounding Hubei region.
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View AccommodationChengdu Airport Hotel
Just a five-minute walk from the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, the Chengdu Airport Hotel is ideal for guests with an early departure or late arrival. Tastefully appointed rooms, an indoor pool, spa and fitness centre make it a welcoming base.
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View AccommodationSix Senses Qing Cheng Mountain
Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain is a peaceful resort at the foot of the Qing Cheng Mountains well-located for exploring UNESCO-listed Dujiangyan. Full of understated luxury, there is an award-winning spa, wide choice of restaurants and superb facilities.
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View AccommodationMövenpick Hotel Enshi
A modern contemporary five-star with design blending Eastern and Western elements, sparked with Swiss hospitality and convenient base to access the Enshi Grand Canyon.
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View AccommodationHolyland Hotel
Set in Kanggar with beautiful surroundings of towering mountains, Holyland Hotel is presently the best available hotel in the Daocheng Yading area.
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View AccommodationBuddha Zen Hotel
Drawing inspiration from the nearby Wenshu Zen Buddhist monastery, the Buddha Zen Hotel is a traditional boutique hotel in the historic Wen Shu Fang area of Chengdu, offering you a chance to immerse yourself in Sichuan’s Tibetan-influenced culture.
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View AccommodationNiccolo Chengdu
Niccolo Chengdu is a sophisticated and contemporary hotel set at the heart of Chengdu’s celebrated International Finance Square, renowned for its high-end shopping malls, restaurants and bars.
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View Accommodation
M.S Yangzi Explorer
Cruise the world's third largest river in decadent style and luxury on board the small and intimate M.S. Yangzi Explorer. See the 'life line' of China, The Yangzi River, unveil before you whilst you relax in comfort.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceTemples and Trails of Mount Emei
Explore the sacred landscapes of Mount Emei, walking among ancient monasteries, forested slopes and mist-shrouded peaks on one of China's most important Buddhist mountains.
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View ExperienceChonggu Temple & Pearl Lake
Arriving into Yading Nature Reserve, you will enjoy a hike to Chonggu Temple for a view of the Xiannairi holy peak. Afterwards, you will visit Pearl Lake.
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View ExperienceTenglong Cave & Qingjiang River
For the active travellers who enjoy challenging hikes, we will explore Tenglong Cave with its famous natural stone forest and hike along the Qingjiang River Bank.
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View ExperienceFull Day Tour of Chengdu and Panda Experience
Enjoy a full day tour of Chengdu exploring the wonder of the Wenshu Temple, take a visit to the ancient Jinli Street, and of course spending time at the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base to marvel at these majestic and rare animals.
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View ExperienceRed Grassland
Red Grassland is an ideal scenic places for photography. Be astonished by the impressive visual impact of the red, blue, white and yellow in the colorful Red Grassland. The tour is only available between 24 September and 12 October.
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View ExperienceShennong Peak & Longtan Valley
Discover Shennongjia's key spots, including Shennong Peak Scenic Area, Shennong Valley and Banbi Rock. Afterwards, you have the opportunity to come face-to-face with the golden apes at Longtan Valley.
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View ExperienceQingcheng Mountain & Tai Chi Experience
Discover the spiritual traditions of Qingcheng Mountain through Tai Chi, Taoist heritage and mountain trails leading to sweeping views across Sichuan's countryside.
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View ExperienceSichuan Flavours & Chengdu Heritage
Discover Chengdu through its culture and cuisine, exploring the city's history before learning the flavours and techniques that define Sichuan cooking.
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View ExperienceLeshan Giant Buddha & Mount Emei
Journey through Sichuan's cultural and natural landmarks, from the world's largest ancient Buddha to the sacred peaks and monasteries of Mount Emei.
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View ExperienceDujiangyan Panda Base and Dujiangyan Dam
Gain a deeper understanding of Sichuan through close encounters with giant pandas and a visit to one of China's greatest engineering achievements, still shaping the landscape more than 2,000 years after its construction.
Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning