Half Day City Walk to Experience Chinese Taoism and Tibetan Culture
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sichuan is not only the gateway to Tibet, but also the second largest Tibetan area in China. For those who plan a trip to Tibet, this half day tour gives a good opportunity to experience the culture shock by walking around Tibetan Quarter nearby Wuhou Temple; Qingyanggong Taoist Temple is the largest Taoist location in downtown Chengdu, and understanding Taoism is one of the most efficient ways to dive into Chinese culture as it plays an important role in shaping Chinese ethics, societal frameworks and aesthetics.
8:45-09:00 Meet at Qingyanggong Taoist Temple
9:00-10:00 Qingyanggong Taoist Temple Tour
10:00-13:00 A Taster of Tibet:Tibetan Quarter Visit
13:00-14:00 Jingli Old Street Tour
Available options
Half Day City Walk to Experience Chinese Taoism and Tibetan Culture
What's included
Private transportation
Lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Chengdu is a dynamic city – some people say it is the fastest growing city in the world! Skyscrapers and shopping centers are being built up quickly everywhere in the city. However, there are still some peaceful places left, where you can rest your stressed soul. One of them is Qingyang Temple – the place where Laozi is to be said that he spoke the Tao Te King (also: Dao De Jing 道德经) to one of his disciples, which is one of the main books (besides the famous I Ching/Yi Jing 易经) of Daoism.
Learn about Taoism by visiting the largest Taoist location in Chengdu and freshen your knowledge of Taoism both as a religion and an ancient philosophy.
2
Stop 2
Known as Little Lhasa, Chengdu‘s colorful Tibetan quarter is as close as one can get to Tibet without traveling to the remote Sichuan countryside or crossing the border to Tibet itself. Wander down Wuhouci Heng Jie, directly opposite Wuhou Temple, and take in the sights: monks wrapped in maroon robes counting beads behind their backs, vendors selling yak butter on the street, and shop after shop of Tibetan Buddhist religious icons, prayer flags and wheels, tapestries, incense, wildly patterned leather boots, and beads of every hue, size and price.
We will not only walk around this Tibetan Quarter, but also taste Tibetan food like yak meat, drink yak butter tea,together with a Tibetan culture demonstration by our guide.
3
Stop 3
Just outside Wuhou Temple is Jinli Street, a narrow street of shops, restaurants and craft stalls. The architecture of this quaint pedestrian street mirrors the Qing Dynasty style of the temple making it one of the most popular Chengdu places of interest.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ZH-CN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
You will be met by your guide at the gate of Qingyanggong(青羊宫）, holding the logo of SunriseChina Expeditions and your name sign.
Important notes
Notice:
1.It is a soft walk if you choose to walk up the mountain to visit the Buddha, a pair of comfortable walking shoes is necessary;
2.Vegetarian food is possible, if you have any food allergy, please tell us ahead of time before booking this tour;
About Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, is renowned as the home of the giant panda and famous for its rich history, spicy cuisine, and vibrant culture. This ancient city offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern urban development, with lush tea houses, bustling markets, and stunning natural landscapes.
Top Attractions
Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding
This world-renowned research base is home to over 120 giant pandas. Visitors can observe these adorable creatures up close and learn about conservation efforts.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥55
Jinli Ancient Street
A well-preserved ancient street with traditional architecture, local snacks, and cultural performances. It's a great place to experience Sichuan's rich history and culture.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (shopping and food at additional cost)
Wenshu Monastery
One of the oldest and best-preserved Buddhist monasteries in China. It's known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and vegetarian cuisine.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Dujiangyan Irrigation System
An ancient irrigation system built over 2,000 years ago. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient Chinese engineering.
Historical
Half day
¥80
Chengdu Panda Base
A research and breeding center for giant pandas. Visitors can see pandas in a natural setting and learn about conservation efforts.
Nature
2-3 hours
¥55
Must-Try Local Dishes
Mapo Tofu
A spicy tofu dish with minced meat, typically pork or beef, and fermented black beans. It's known for its numbing spiciness.
Dinner
Vegetarian versions available.
Dan Dan Noodles
Noodles topped with a spicy sauce made from chili oil, Sichuan pepper, minced pork, and scallions. It's a popular street food.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made vegetarian.
Hot Pot
A communal dining experience where diners cook raw ingredients in a shared pot of boiling broth. Sichuan hot pot is known for its spicy broth.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Sichuan Dumplings
Steamed or boiled dumplings filled with minced pork, shrimp, or vegetables. They're often served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Tea house visits
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Museum visits
Temple tours
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is less crowded during these periods compared to summer.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Mandarin
- Widely spoken: Sichuanese, English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Renminbi (RMB) (CNY)
Time Zone
CST (UTC+8)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Chengdu is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
Getting there
By air
- Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport • 16 km from city center
- Chengdu Tianfu International Airport • 45 km from city center
By train
Chengdu Railway Station, Chengdu East Railway Station
By bus
Chengdu Long-Distance Bus Station, Chengdu North Long-Distance Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The metro system is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jinli Ancient Street
Wuhou Shrine
Chunxi Road
Kuanzhai Alley
Day trips
Mount Qingcheng
60 km from Chengdu • Full day
A scenic mountain known for its beautiful landscapes, ancient temples, and hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a great escape from the city.
Leshan Giant Buddha
130 km from Chengdu • Full day
A massive stone statue of Buddha carved into a cliff face during the Tang Dynasty. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable feat of ancient engineering.
Jiuzhaigou Valley
340 km from Chengdu • Overnight
A stunning national park known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for nature lovers.
Festivals
Sichuan Festival • Late August
Lantern Festival • February (Lunar calendar)
Chengdu International Non-violence Week • October
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals.
- Try the local street food, but be cautious and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
- Visit the Chengdu Panda Base early in the morning to see the pandas at their most active.
- Explore the city's tea houses and experience the rich tea culture of Sichuan.
- Take a day trip to Mount Qingcheng or Jiuzhaigou Valley for a stunning natural experience.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
