Chengdu

From celebrated poet Du Fu who lived during the Tang dynasty to the implementation of the world’s first paper money, Chengdu has always been a cornerstone of culture and commerce throughout Chinese history. Stretching across two sides of a river, the capital of the Sichuan province once thrived as an important trading post along the Silk Road. Chengdu remains filled with ancient temples and relics of the past, which complement the futuristic skyline nicely.

Chengdu has drawn tons of visitors in the past for the abundance of giant pandas, a beloved treasure among Chinese culture. While the city may not boast as many major tourist sights as other Chinese hubs, it’s here that Sichuan food, one of the four main cuisines in China, is best experienced. Between the relaxing teahouses that have served the same brews for generations to the unique flavors that tingle utilize every single one of your taste buds, Chengdu has a rich legacy of gastronomy. It’s here in Chengdu after all, where the world’s first professional chef, first distillery and first local cuisine museum were set up. The laid-back pace of life is also a refreshing approach to other crowded Chinese metropolises.

Considering the flat landscape and designated lanes, Chengdu is ripe for exploring on a bike, provided you can handle the notorious traffic. The summer months bring scorching heat and rainy weather, while the winter is chilly and windy, making the shoulder seasons the ideal time for a visit. Chengdu has a lot of traditional dishes that may make your stomach queasy at first, but remember that it’s part of the experience that goes back centuries. Old-school restaurants may serve plates involving rabbit, for example, are more exotic to westerners, becoming a signature of “crazy” adventurous eating among visitors in Chengdu, but it’s a local delicacy that goes back centuries.