Faces and Phases of Chengdu

Chengdu’s gloomy skies and chilly temperate climate will welcome you once you’ve stepped out of the airport. The eastern edges of the Himalayas and Tibetan plateau give this Sichuanese capital its daily sweater weather.

The city hosts the highest concentration of giant white pandas in the world. A visit to the main breeding center of China’s cuddly national icon will surely warm your frozen fingers and toes (and probably even your ex’s cold heart).

If that’s not enough, try the fiery Chengdu hotpot, where you dip mushrooms and pork or chicken innards in boiling chili- and Sichuan pepper-infused broth.

Also not to be missed is Chengdu’s pride, the mesmerizing Sichuan opera. It’s Cirque de Soleil, traditional dance, and martial arts performances on steroids.

The city also serves as the gateway to Tibet. So it’s not surprising to see Tibetan pilgrims and traders roaming around.

A few hours south of the city is the Le Shan Giant Buddha. Chiseled right off the cliff overlooking three large rivers, this magnificent man-made wonder is considered as the world’s largest ancient Buddha structure.

Le Shan Giant Buddha

Giant pandas

Wenshu Monastery

Sichuan opera prep

Chengdu delicacies: Spicy rabbit or duck head

New Century Global Center, the world’s largest building

More photos here.