Chengdu

Chengdu is where China slows down. It's a large, modern provincial capital that somehow stays easygoing — people linger in teahouses, play mahjong in the park, and eat extraordinarily well. It's the gateway to western China and the panda capital of the world, with a growing expat community drawn by the low cost of living and high quality of life.

Chengdu has two airports: Shuangliu International (CTU), closer to the city and on the metro, and the newer Tianfu International (TFU) to the southeast, which handles a growing share of flights. Both are connected to the city by metro and Didi.

Chengdu East is the main high-speed hub, with fast trains to Chongqing in around an hour and connections to Xi'an, Kunming, and beyond. The Chengdu–Chongqing corridor is one of the busiest in western China.

Chengdu's metro has grown into one of the largest networks in the country, covering the city center, suburbs, both airports, and the rail stations. It's modern, cheap, and easy to navigate with Alipay or a transit QR code.

Didi is reliable and cheap across the city. Shared bikes are everywhere and the flat terrain makes cycling easy. The city is walkable in central areas, and the slower pace makes wandering on foot genuinely pleasant.

The downtown core — Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li are the main shopping and nightlife districts, anchored by the historic Daci Temple. Central, lively, and well connected.

Home to the Wuhou Shrine and the touristy-but-charming Jinli ancient street, plus the Tibetan quarter nearby. A great area for history, snacks, and atmosphere.

Chengdu's modern southern expansion — high-rises, tech and finance offices, parks, and newer housing. More corporate and spread out, but increasingly central to the city's growth.

Chengdu is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Hot pot, mapo tofu, dan dan noodles, and the tongue-tingling málà spice are everywhere. Eat at busy local spots and don't miss a proper teahouse afternoon at People's Park.

The Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding on the city's north side is the best place in the world to see pandas. Go early in the morning when they're most active. Day trips to the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei are also within easy reach.