Chengdu’s pandas and street food stole the show… but Leshan had a twist I wasn’t expecting. Want to see what happened? Read my blog!

Disclaimer: All views expressed on this blog are my own based on my own experiences and do not represent of any entity with which I have been, are now or will be affiliated.

Part 5&6

My itinerary for my China trip includes the following: First Part Shanghai Disneyland, 2nd Part Shanghai, 3rd Part Beijing, 4th Part Xian, 5th part Leshan and 6th part Chengdu

I’ve been contemplating where to make my final stop on this trip to China, and Chengdu keeps coming to mind. The allure of Sichuan cuisine, with its bold and spicy flavors, and the chance to see the iconic giant pandas make it an irresistible choice. My first introduction to Chengdu was through my stakeholders, who spoke highly of its laid-back atmosphere and how it’s a fantastic place to unwind. At the time, I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but their enthusiasm left a lasting impression on me. That’s when I realized I had to experience this city for myself—to explore its vibrant food scene, immerse myself in its unique culture, and see firsthand what makes it such a special destination.

Fun Fact: China geographically spans 5 different time zones, but when the People’s Republic of China was established in 1949, the government unified the entire country under a single clock — Beijing Time (UTC+8) — to promote national identity and unity. To this day, the sun can rise as late as 10 AM in western China because of it!

February 21, 2025 (Friday)
Day 8

I had a good night’s sleep, but I woke up starving since I couldn’t find a place to eat after the lantern show last night. I tried ordering food online, but without a local mobile number, it wasn’t an option. In the end, I just booked a Didi ride to Xi’an North Station.

When I arrived, the first thing I did was grab Starbucks—finally getting something to eat and a much-needed coffee. As always, train stations in China impress me with their size, cleanliness, and efficiency. Now, I’m really looking forward to reaching Chengdu and finally seeing the pandas! This time, I decided to book a first-class ticket, and the difference is definitely noticeable—more legroom and complimentary snacks, which is a nice touch.

When I arrived in Chengdu, the train station was packed—likely due to the rain and the fact that the weekend was approaching. Booking a Didi ride was a challenge, but I eventually discovered that rides could be booked from a different floor. So, I headed there, made my booking, and waited.

After nearly an hour in the designated Didi waiting area, I finally managed to get a ride. Thankfully, I followed the crowd of people also trying to leave the station, which helped me navigate through the chaos and find my way out.

The Hidden House(Chengdu Taikoo Li & Hejiangting))
PHP 4,064.30 for 2 nights

I had a wonderful stay at The Hidden House—it was a truly relaxing experience. The room, though small, was well-designed with a separate shower and toilet. I appreciated that the receptionist made sure I saw the room before finalizing my booking. One of the highlights of my stay was the staff—they spoke English fluently and were incredibly helpful. Plus, they offered luggage storage before check-in, which was really convenient. The room itself was clean, well-equipped with amenities, and the bed, along with the pillows, was exceptionally comfortable. Overall, I really enjoyed my stay at this hotel!

After checking in and getting some rest, I headed out for the first activity on my itinerary—the Chengdu Food Tour, which I had booked through Get Your Guide here.

My food tour with Fiona and Amber was amazing. We rode a tuktuk around Chengdu, stopping to try different local dishes.

First, I had Danhonggao, a stuffed pancake that’s a popular street snack. Then, I tried Tianshui Mian or “sweet water noodles”—thick handmade noodles with sugar, sauce, and a bit of meat, topped with spicy red chili oil. I was surprised by how well the sweet and spicy flavors worked together.

I also loved the spicy dumplings, though they weren’t as fiery as I expected. Another highlight was Mapo Tofu—soft tofu in a rich chili-bean sauce with minced meat. We ate at a small, local spot where people casually smoked while dining, which gave it a cool, laid-back vibe.

To end the night, we went to a rustic bar and played mahjong. At first, I didn’t understand the game, but playing with food-loving strangers made it a fun and memorable experience!

The bar was close to my accommodation, so I walked back at night, which made me appreciate how safe Chengdu feels. I had a good night’s sleep, knowing I had to be up by 5:00 AM for the next day’s itinerary.

February 22, 2025 (Saturday)
Day 9

I booked my Leshan tour through Klook for ₱2,493.6. The organizer messaged me the night before with trip details, which I appreciated. I woke up early, got ready, and was picked up to join the tour bus. As passengers boarded, I quickly noticed that I was the only foreigner—everyone else spoke Mandarin. Even the WeChat group messages were in Mandarin, so I had to rely on auto-translate. It finally hit me when we arrived in Leshan and the guide spoke only in Mandarin—this was a fully Mandarin-guided tour.

At first, I was a bit overwhelmed, unsure how I’d get through the day without understanding a word. But then, something unexpected happened. A kind Chinese family noticed I wasn’t a Mandarin speaker and warmly invited me to join them. The mother reassured me that they knew a little English and that we could explore together. I was so touched by their kindness that I wanted to buy them gifts, but they politely declined.

With them, the visit to the Giant Buddha became so much more meaningful. We laughed, shared experiences, and connected beyond words. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about the places you see, but the people you meet. In that moment, I knew I’d always return to China—not just for its breathtaking sights, but for the warmth of its people. Xièxiè nǐ, China. Wǒ ài nǐ. I don’t want to leave—these memories will stay with me forever. Nothing compares to the magic of genuine human connection. The photos below, taken by the kind family I met on the trip, are more than just pictures—they remind me of their warmth and generosity. Every shot holds a special memory, making this experience even more unforgettable.

 Huanglongxi Ancient Town

Wandering through Huanglongxi Ancient Town felt like stepping back in time. The charming old streets, traditional wooden architecture, and peaceful riverside views made it a perfect place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere. I loved every moment of exploring this historic gem—I only wish I had more time to stay, unwind, and fully immerse myself in its serene beauty.

After my Leshan trip, I stopped by Chagee near the opera house before the show and grabbed a drink to-go. Having already tried Mixue in Huanglongxi, I’ve grown to love the rich aroma and deep flavors of China’s tea brands. There’s something special about the way their tea captures both tradition and quality in every sip.

Chengdu Sichuan Opera Evening Show – Shu Feng Yan Yun
PHP 2,319.53
Trip link here

Watching a Sichuan Opera at Shufeng Yayun, inside Chengdu Culture Park, was an unforgettable experience. The performances were mesmerizing, from dramatic storytelling and lively music to breathtaking specialty acts.

The highlights were definitely the face-changing (Bian Lian) and fire-spitting performances. Seeing the actors switch masks in an instant felt like pure magic, and the fire-spitting act added an electrifying thrill to the show. The performers’ colorful costumes, painted faces, and expressive movements made the entire experience even more captivating.

I also loved the rod puppet show and the shadow show and the way each act brought Sichuan’s culture to life. What made it even more special was that you could request certain performances in advance, making the show feel personalized.

Overall, the mix of artistry, tradition, and theatrical energy made this one of the most unique performances I’ve ever seen. If you’re ever in Chengdu, don’t miss this!

More video here.

February 23, 2025 (Sunday)
Day 10

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
PHP  6,624.61 Trip.Com link here.

Finally, I got to see the pandas! I took a Didi to the Chengdu Research Base and kicked off my day by buying a panda headband and enjoying a panda-inspired ice cream while waiting for my tour guide, Jack. The park itself was massive, with lush greenery, bamboo forests, and well-maintained pathways. I saw so many pandas—some were napping, others were climbing trees or doing funny, playful things. I also got to see red pandas roaming around climbing trees and eating which were just as adorable!

Thankfully, the park offers sightseeing buses because walking the entire area would have been exhausting. While I initially thought a private tour would provide deeper insights, I realized that exploring on my own would have been just as enjoyable since most of the experience is simply observing the pandas. That said, given the park’s vastness, having a guide did help navigate the different areas. Overall, it was a great experience, and the park itself is definitely worth visiting!

After the tour, I stopped by a nearby coffee shop (Cotti coffee), but to my surprise, orders could only be placed through an online app. Even though there were staff members around, they weren’t able to assist me. Thankfully, a fellow foreigner helped me navigate the ordering process since I was completely lost in translation.

After enjoying my coffee, I booked a Didi ride and headed to my next hotel.

Ma’s Kitchen
PHP500-PHP1,000

I lined up at this renowned eatery in the vibrant Taikoo Li district, a place that traces its roots back to a humble stall in Weishan in 1923 and has since earned a prestigious Michelin star. The moment I stepped inside, I was captivated by its elegant and classy ambiance, blending tradition with modern sophistication.

Surprisingly, the wait wasn’t too long, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive. When my order arrived—kung pao shrimp with rice—I knew I was in for a treat. The dish was a perfect balance of spice and savory goodness, with tender shrimp coated in a rich, flavorful sauce that had just the right amount of heat. Every bite was simply irresistible, making the entire dining experience truly unforgettable.

Nicesoe Hotel
PHP 2,035.92
February 23-25 (2 nights stay)
Trip.com link here

This place was quite tricky to find since it’s located on the 12th floor of a building. To avoid getting lost, it’s best to pay close attention to the signage at the entrance.

Overall, the room was spacious, and the bathroom was spotless. I especially loved the bed and pillows—they were incredibly comfortable! My stay here was wonderful, and the staff were exceptionally helpful. In fact, they even offered to help me get a refund since I checked out earlier than planned.

Private Tour of Chengdu’s Top 3 Must-go Attractions w Photo Shoot
PHP 1,133.38
Trip.com link here

I had an absolute blast exploring Chengdu with Anna, a friendly local who made the experience even more special. Together, we wandered through some of the city’s most vibrant spots, from the bustling Chunxi Road Pedestrian Street to the trendy Taikoo Li and the charming, lantern-lit Jinli Street. We also visited the Fang Suo Commune Bookstore, a hidden gem filled with artistic vibes and literary treasures.

With Anna by my side, it felt like having both a personal tour guide and photographer rolled into one. She captured so many great moments, and looking back at the photos, I can see exactly why I fell so deeply in love with Chengdu. The city’s energy, charm, and culture truly made this adventure unforgettable.

February 24, 2025 (Monday)
Day 11

I can’t believe my time in Chengdu has come to an end! This city has such a calming vibe, and the people here seem far more relaxed compared to other places I’ve visited.

For my final day, I made a stop at People’s Park to experience the local tea culture one last time. It was the perfect way to soak in the city’s peaceful atmosphere before saying goodbye.

(Check out more videos here!)

Renmin Park

Nestled in the heart of Chengdu, Renmin Park holds the distinction of being the city’s first public park. This beautifully designed urban oasis features lush gardens, a charming bonsai collection, and winding streams that connect a scenic pond where visitors can rent rowboats or motorboats.

The park is always buzzing with locals, making it the perfect spot to experience Chengdu’s laid-back lifestyle. Traditional teahouses offer an inviting atmosphere to sip a cup of tea while soaking in the tranquil surroundings. Whether you’re strolling through the landscaped pathways, enjoying a quiet moment by the water, or watching families on the kiddie amusement rides, Renmin Park is the ideal place to spend a peaceful and culturally rich afternoon.

After having tea and roaming around this relaxing place, I walked towards the Kuan Zhai Alley. It was just 10 minutes walk from People’s Park.

Kuanzhai Alley

Kuanzhai Alley, also known as “Wide and Narrow Alley” or “Kuanzhaixiangzi Alley,” is a fascinating historic district that dates back to the Qing Dynasty. It consists of three parallel alleys—Wide Alley (Kuanzhai), Narrow Alley (Zhai Xiang), and Well Alley (Jing Xiang)—each offering a unique glimpse into Chengdu’s rich past and vibrant present.

Lined with beautifully preserved ancient-style buildings, the area is a perfect blend of history and modern culture. Here, you can experience authentic Chengdu life, savor mouthwatering Sichuan snacks, browse exquisite handicrafts, and soak in the lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re admiring traditional courtyards, indulging in local delicacies, or simply people-watching, Kuanzhai Alley is a must-visit destination that captures the soul of Chengdu.

I absolutely loved this alley! I had such a great time sipping coffee, wandering through the charming shops, and picking up unique souvenirs. It’s definitely a must-visit spot, and I’ll make sure to come back the next time I’m in Chengdu!

I went back home to prepare for my flight. When I checked out, I initially thought of taking the MRT to the airport, but that turned out to be a bad decision. I booked a Didi to the MRT station, but when I arrived, I found out that the line wasn’t operating from that location.

Feeling rushed and a bit lost, I immediately booked another Didi to take me straight to the airport. The ride from the MRT station to the airport took about an hour. Thankfully, the driver was very helpful—he even picked me up from where I was actually standing, even though the pin was dropped incorrectly.

It was also raining, and I was carrying a 25kg suitcase. To save time, we had to take a muddy shortcut, so my luggage ended up getting dirty. It was a stressful experience, but I made it to the airport on time.

Upon arriving at the airport, I found that the check-in counter for Air China opened only two hours before departure—around 7:30 PM for my 9:30 PM flight. Fortunately, the entire process went smoothly, from check-in to immigration. Chengdu Tianfu Airport is massive and impressively efficient, making for a hassle-free departure.

While waiting for my flight, I explored the airport’s variety of restaurants and grabbed a meal. If you’re looking to buy souvenirs, it’s best to do so before heading to the boarding gates, as the options beyond that point are quite limited.

My one-way flight to the Philippines cost PHP 8,184, which included a 20kg luggage allowance and complimentary snacks. Luckily, there were no delays, and I arrived right on time, wrapping up my Chengdu adventure on a perfect note!

Falling in Love with China

China has completely stolen my heart! I was genuinely amazed by its beauty—from the stunning landscapes to the rich history and vibrant city life. Every corner I explored felt like a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, and there’s still so much more to see and experience.

This country is an absolute must-visit in Asia, offering everything from breathtaking nature to world-class cuisine and fascinating cultural experiences. I can’t wait to come back and dive even deeper into all that China has to offer in the coming years. Until next time, China—you’ve been incredible!

Love,
Maria,sometimes,Niskie