Private Full Day Sichuan Gourmet Food Tour from Chengdu
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the culinary wonders of China’s Sichuan province on this comprehensive food tour from Chengdu. Your gastronomic adventures start with a visit to the ancient town of Luodai, where tasty local treats await. Then, a trip to the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine and a Pixian bean paste factory will satisfy your equally hungry mind. With both lunch and dinner provided, this tour is a fabulous way to spend a day in Sichuan and will surely please the foodie in you.
Available options
Private Full Day Food Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Private comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
Local English-speaking guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Admission of all the places list in the itinerary
Hot pot dinner
Local Hakka snacks for lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Be taken care by your professional, efficient and friendly guide and driver, this all-day food adventure begins with hotel pickup in Chengdu and a drive to Luodai, an ancient town nearby. Small towns in the province of Sichuan are usually bursting with life, and Luodai is no different. Vendors selling fresh produce line the streets; elderly gentlemen play mah-jong inside and outside of shops; food stands fill the air with the wonderful scents of various local snacks. Spend two hours on a guided tour of this old yet vibrant town, which boasts of the largest Hakka community in southwest China. See several guildhalls with intricate Hakka architecture and stroll down the streets with the locals. Your guide will pick three or four mouthwatering local snacks for lunch. This may be anything from rice noodles to fire-cured goose to a sticky rice ball – all tasty Hakka delicacies.
2
Stop 2
On the 90-minute drive to your next location, take a food-induced nap or listen to stories from your guide. You’ll arrive at a Pixian chili bean paste factory, where you’ll discover the secrets of making the famed doubanjiang, a spicy bean paste used in Sichuan cuisine.
Then learn more at the Museum of Sichuan Cuisine, displaying various culinary artifacts and books by authors known for their contributions to Sichuan cuisine. Hear many Sichuan food facts, from the historical developments of the cuisine to the trade and commerce related to this industry. Learn about technological advancements in pottery and cooking techniques and the culinary effects in art and literature, and see maps showing the subtle variations in flavor among the different areas of Sichuan.
After the museum, return to Chengdu and satisfy your growling stomach with a wonderful bowl of hot pot at a local Chinese restaurant. On this full day tour, you will not only gain knowledge about the history and culture of Sichuan cuisine, you will also partake in a savory experience of the food itself!
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A small amount of walking is involved; comfortable shoes are recommended
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
