Giant Panda Base
The ultimate family highlight — everyone loves pandas
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About Sichuan
Sichuan Province sits in southwestern China and borders Tibet, Yunnan, Guizhou, Chongqing, Shaanxi, Gansu, and Qinghai. The province is bisected by the Sichuan Basin in the east and towering mountain ranges in the west, creating extraordinary biodiversity and dramatic scenery. Sichuan is the global home of the giant panda and is equally celebrated for its bold, numbing-spicy cuisine that has conquered the world's palates.
- Capital
- Chengdu
- Largest city
- Chengdu
- Population
- 84 million
- Languages
- Mandarin Chinese, Sichuan dialect, Tibetan, Yi
- Currency
- Chinese Yuan
- Time zone
- China Standard Time (UTC+8)
Explore Sichuan by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Sichuan
The 5 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Sanxingdui Museum
Mind-blowing Bronze Age discovery that genuinely surprises kids
Leshan Giant Buddha
Scale is extraordinary — children understand it instinctively
Ziggong Dinosaur Museum
Perfect for younger children and dinosaur enthusiasts
Sichuan Opera
Magical face-changing performance that holds children's attention
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Sichuan Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Sichuan, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Sichuan
- Days 1-2Sichuan city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Sichuan
- Days 1-3Sichuan comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Sichuan, departure
Where to stay in Sichuan
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $27
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $66
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $180
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The Temple House
Boutique luxury in Ming Dynasty temple complex
Mix Hostel
Social hostel with rooftop bar near Chunxi Road
Holiday Inn Express Chunxi Road
Central location, free breakfast
Where to eat in Sichuan
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Chen Mapo Tofu
Original 1862 mapo tofu
Haidilao Hotpot
24-hour hotpot institution
Xiao Long Kan
Traditional old-style hotpot
Getting around Sichuan
High-speed train for Leshan; domestic flight for Jiuzhaigou; Didi in Chengdu city
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in CNY, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $8 | $25 | $100 |
| Food (per day) | $8 | $20 | $45 |
| Transportation | $4 | $10 | $20 |
| Activities | $7 | $11 | $15 |
| Daily total | $27 | $66 | $180 |
Best time to visit Sichuan
Essential travel tips
- Download WeChat and Alipay before arrival — essential for payments in Sichuan
- Get a local SIM card at the airport for affordable data
- Book Jiuzhaigou tickets well in advance online — daily caps apply
- A VPN is needed to access Google, Instagram, and WhatsApp in China
Safety information
Altitude sickness medicine if visiting any highland area above 3,000m
Children's paracetamol and anti-diarrhea medicine from home
Keep hotel address in Chinese on phone for showing to taxi/Didi drivers
Panda base monkeys are safe but keep snacks hidden — the mountain monkeys at Emeishan are bolder
Drink only bottled water throughout Sichuan
Frequently asked questions
Is Sichuan safe to visit in 2026?
Sichuan is generally a very safe destination for international travelers with low rates of violent crime in urban areas. The main safety considerations are altitude sickness in western highland areas, seismic activity, and the need to navigate Chinese internet restrictions and payment systems. Emergency services: police at 110, medical at 120.
What is the best time to visit Sichuan?
The best time to visit Sichuan is March–May and September–November. Sichuan has dramatically varied climates due to its geography. The Sichuan Basin (Chengdu and surrounds) has a subtropical monsoon climate with mild winters, hot humid summers, and low sunshine hours
Do I need a visa to visit Sichuan?
Entry requirements follow China national rules. Most foreign nationals require a visa; citizens of select countries may benefit from 144-hour transit visa-free or 15-day visa-free policies depending on port of entry. Check with the Chinese embassy in your country before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Sichuan?
The currency in Sichuan is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Sichuan?
The main language(s) spoken in Sichuan: Mandarin Chinese, Sichuan dialect, Tibetan. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Sichuan?
The top attractions in Sichuan include Jiuzhaigou National Park, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei (Emeishan), and Dujiangyan Irrigation System. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.