Hop aboard your private air-conditioned vehicle and head to the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base. Here, you can spend a leisurely morning observing pandas at every life stage—from tiny, cuddly newborn cubs to playful teenagers and majestic adults. Wander through the research laboratory, panda museum, sunny playgrounds, and beside the facility’s serene lake. Capture photos of these adorable endangered creatures as they laze, munch bamboo, or frolic in their naturalistic enclosures.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: Founded in 1987, the base is a world-leading institution dedicated to the conservation and breeding of giant pandas, aiming to reintroduce captive-bred pandas into the wild.

After lunch, set off for Kuanzhai Alley—a vibrant blend of old and new, featuring well-preserved Qing Dynasty courtyard houses, trendy cafes, boutique shops, and lively nightlife spots. Follow your guide to explore the winding lanes, learn about Chengdu’s folk culture and local life, and visit Well Alley—a dynamic zone that showcases the modern and diverse lifestyle of Chengdu’s residents.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: Dating back over 200 years, Kuanzhai Alley was once a residential area for Qing Dynasty officials and aristocrats, and now stands as a living museum of Chengdu’s traditional architecture and urban heritage.

Next, visit Wenshu Yuan Monastery—the best-preserved Buddhist temple in Chengdu. Step into the solemn halls adorned with hundreds of bronze, wooden, and stone Buddha statues, and admire over 500 pieces of precious Tang Dynasty (618–907) calligraphy and paintings collected here. Stroll through the tranquil courtyard with your guide, learn about Chinese Buddhism, watch locals burn incense and pray devoutly, and appreciate the exquisite garden landscapes and ancient temple architecture.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: First built in the Tang Dynasty and rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty, Wenshu Yuan Monastery is dedicated to Manjushri, the Bodhisattva of Wisdom, and has been a sacred Buddhist site and cultural landmark in Chengdu for over 1,300 years.

At the end of the day, your driver will transfer you back to your Chengdu hotel.

Meals Included: Lunch

The Leshan Giant Buddha is the world’s largest stone-carved Buddha statue. Its construction began in 713 during the Tang Dynasty and took over 90 years to complete, with thousands of workers devoting their wisdom and labor to this grand project. The statue has inspired countless poems, songs, and stories throughout history. Follow your guide to explore the site, and admire the Buddha from multiple viewpoints for a breathtaking experience.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: Carved into a cliff face from 713 to 803 during the Tang Dynasty, the 71-meter-tall Leshan Giant Buddha is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stone Buddha statue in the world, built to calm the turbulent waters at the confluence of three rivers.

Your first stop at the Leshan Giant Buddha site is Lingyun Temple, located directly behind the Buddha’s head. Marvel at the intricate design of the Buddha’s coiled hair, which consists of around 1,020 twisted buns. Step inside the temple to admire its delicate sculptures and elaborate wall murals, then climb to a viewing platform for a panoramic view of the three rivers merging peacefully below. After that, follow your guide on a 30-minute walk down the cliff path along the left side of the Buddha to reach the base—gasp at the full 71-meter height of this awe-inspiring sacred site, and take unforgettable photos.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: First built during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317–420), Lingyun Temple is one of Sichuan’s oldest Buddhist temples and is closely linked to the construction of the Leshan Giant Buddha, serving as a key religious and cultural hub for over 1,600 years.

Next, head to the right side of the Buddha to explore Wuyou Temple, which houses a rich collection of terracotta sculptures and ancient calligraphic paintings. Stroll through the temple’s peaceful grounds with your guide, and learn more about its Buddhist heritage and history. If the line to enter the temple is too long, you can opt for a scenic river cruise instead, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the Leshan Giant Buddha from the water.

Historical Fact in One Sentence: Founded in the Tang Dynasty and named after the nearby Wuyou Mountain, Wuyou Temple is renowned for its well-preserved Tang Dynasty architecture and a large collection of Buddhist artworks, making it an important part of Leshan’s cultural landscape.

Enjoy a hearty local lunch at a nearby restaurant after exploring the Leshan sites. After the tour, you have two options: end your journey in Chengdu, or take a flight back to Beijing—your driver will arrange your transfer to the airport or hotel accordingly.

Meals Included: Lunch