What's on in Chengdu-
Have a look at ChengduKultur.com for an excellent full calendar of events, and at the also excellent Chengdoo.com for stuff to do, places to eat, drink and visit.
Temples -
Da Ci Temple
Recently restored, the
temple of mercy/compassion is an absolute belter, if that’s
not too disrespectful. In the centre of town (10-15
mins walk from Crowne Plaza/Holiday Inn). Aside from
its main purpose (many worshippers every time we have been
there), this temple has a very lively yet relaxing outdoor
(part of it has a roof shelter) teahouse (various
teas, average price 5-8 Rb), with very clean lavs, and there’s
a folklore museum. Some outstanding
statues and other craftspersonship, too. An oasis of
calm and tea. Not one that’s normally packed. You
do have to shell out a whole 3 Rmb to get in. Should be open
from 9am to 6pm. Marvellous. Please remember
to switch off your mobile phones. Click
here for location of Da Ci Temple on Google Earth
Backstreets -
take a stroll along the city's old backstreets, before they
disappear.
Pandas -
Panda Breeding and Research Station. Get there early - our
monochrome friends should be up and about then. There are also
Red Pandas, which you can hold for (we think) 50 rmb. Wolong
worth a visit too.
Leshan Buddha -
2 hours on the bus from XinNanMen bus station (around 30 rmb
one way), or take a taxi from in front of the bus station.
We recommend a day trip, but if you want to see the big one
really early in the morning, and then see the other Buddhas,
go in the evening, check out some very good Leshan veggie food
and make an early start. Motor boat over to in front of the
Buddha, get dropped off at a temple, stroll along the paths,
stop off at some cave excavations, and then go down the steps
from the top of the 71-metre high statue. Best if you can avoid
the crowds - walking up the steps is better. Now the biggest
Buddha statue in the world, thanks to those fundamentalist
demolition experts elsewhere.
Sichuan opera -
Sounds a bit worthy, and you may have been put off by lengthy
Beijing operas. Sichuan opera is generally more accessible,
and fun. Impressive acrobatics, costumes, and the face-changing
act is a 'must see'.
Music -
see Random Stuff's astounding number of music page.
Food
