Book flights to Chengdu

Any trip to Chengdu should start with the city’s incredible history. The Tomb of Wang Jian, a mausoleum with an above-ground tomb, commemorates General Wang Jian, emperor of the Shu Kingdom, following the collapse of the Tang Dynasty. Also worth visiting are the city's temples, which stand as gorgeous examples of Chinese architecture. Wenshu Temple (Chengdu's largest Buddhist temple) and Wuhou Temple are the most popular. And Green Ram Temple near Culture Park is home to some magnificent Chinese art and sculptures.

At Tianfu Square is a giant statue of Chairman Mao and, if that whets your appetite for giant statues in general, take a trip to see the giant Buddha at Leshan. This is the world's largest Buddha statue and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Back in Chengdu, stroll around Jinli Ancient Street. While many consider it a tourist trap, it is a beautiful part of the old city and a great place to try street food.

Travel to Chengdu and there will be no shortage of leisure activities for all ages. Many come here to see the Chengdu Panda Research Base, accessible by bus or taxi. The largest panda breeding facility in the world, it offers sanctuary to around 60 giant pandas. Make sure you arrive early to avoid crowds.

Life in Chengdu moves at a muted pace, and foot and body massages are popular. Book a massage with friends for a more social experience; and refreshments are usually included.

To experience life in Chengdu as a local, head for one of the city's many tea houses. Playing mah-jong and drinking tea is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Renmin Park is home to an outdoor tea house and you may even get lucky enough to join a game.

Sichuan cuisine is fiery and delicious. Bear in mind that, because most dishes are spicy, you should request a level of piquancy to suit your taste, when ordering. Most restaurants are used to this and will gladly accommodate you. Dishes feature plenty of Sichuan pepper with its trademark hot-and-sour taste, and local specialities include Sichuan hotpot. This dish is designed to share; a simmering pot of spicy soup is placed in the centre of the table, into which meat, tofu and vegetables can be added by diners.

Street food in Chengdu is worth a try, but it can be unusual, and may not be to everyone's taste. Look out for spicy rabbit, spicy snails and Chongqing duck neck. Street vendors are a great option for a tasty snack or lunch on the go, in between sightseeing bouts. Why not enjoy ya cai bao (steamed buns), which you will find served all over the city, traditionally eaten for breakfast.

Dining out in Chengdu is affordable, and as well as Sichuan restaurants you will find Chinese, Japanese and Western options.

Shopping in Chengdu is an adventure. Take an afternoon stroll down Chunxi Road, one of the city centre's main shopping streets, with more than 700 outlets selling brands from around the world. Another great spot to find designer brands is Galleria, home to around 200 stores.

Chengdu's markets are the place to be if you are looking for bargains. Lotus Wholesale Market sells everything from clothing to home accessories and toys. For unusual souvenirs or traditional Chinese antiques, Songxian Qiao Antique Market is recommended. Here you can find antique jewellery, calligraphy pens and relics from the country's past.