A Guide to Eating, Shopping, and Avoiding Tourist Traps in Chengdu

If you go to Chengdu without doing your research, you might miss out on the best parts and run into trouble. I learned that the hard way! So, here's a super practical Chengdu guide, including tips for traveling in April. Save it now! 🌞Chengdu Weather In April, the temperature in Chengdu ranges from 15°C–23°C (59°F–73°F). The daytime is sunny, so a long-sleeved T-shirt and a light jacket are perfect for exploring. It can be a bit chilly in the morning and evening, especially by the river or in the shade, where the breeze can feel cool. Bring a light cardigan or windbreaker to stay warm and stylish. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go and adjust your clothing accordingly. ⚠️Chengdu Travel Tips: ❌Don't trust people near the stations who try to get you to stay in cheap hotels or recommend "day trips." The conditions are poor, and there are many scams. Book your accommodations and plan your itinerary in advance on a reputable platform. ❌The "local specialties" sold by street vendors at tourist attractions, such as fake Sichuan opera masks and poor-quality Shu embroidery, are overpriced and not guaranteed. Buy souvenirs from reputable stores or established brands. ❌Don't take photos with "panda" mascots on the street. They will charge you a high price afterward. The small ads and promo codes at the entrance to the scenic spots are often consumer traps, so just ignore them. ✔️Book tickets online in advance for the Temple of Marquis Wu, and check the opening hours and tour times. Follow the designated route in the park and protect the cultural relics. ✔️For authentic food, go to Kuixinglou Street. The Maojiao Spicy Skewers are amazing, and the ice jelly is refreshing. Yulin Road is also a treasure trove of food, with hot pot and barbecue galore. ✔️For a view of Chengdu at night, go to Jinli Ancient Street. The night scene in April is beautiful, and there are folk performances. Book tickets online in advance and take lots of photos. ✔️After visiting Du Fu Thatched Cottage, stroll along Huanhua Creek and check out the Sichuan Provincial Museum. Take a sightseeing bus from a regular stop to avoid being ripped off. ✔️Visit Mount Qingcheng on a sunny day. Book tickets and round-trip transportation online in advance. Enjoy the scenery along the trails, and don't damage the environment. 🏘Accommodation Recommendations I recommend staying in Wuhou District or Jinjiang District. Wuhou District is close to the Temple of Marquis Wu and Jinli, making it convenient for travel and full of ancient charm. Jinjiang District has Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li, with plenty of food options. Prioritize places near bus or subway stations for easy access to various attractions. Although homestays in remote suburbs are cheaper, they are inconvenient for transportation and lack facilities. It's hard to get help in case of emergencies at night, so choose carefully. 📍Chengdu Transportation: Chengdu's attractions are scattered, so buses and subways are convenient. Buy a transit card or use your mobile phone to scan the code to ride. To go to Mount Qingcheng, take subway Line 2 to Xipu Station, then transfer to the intercity train to Mount Qingcheng Station. Pay attention to the first and last train times. Buses offer scenic views, but the routes are complicated, so check the station directions when you get on. Confirm the destination and price with the taxi driver to avoid disputes. Plan your transportation in advance, and enjoy a smooth trip to Chengdu!