Panda Sanctuary & 9 Things To Do In Chengdu With Kids

China is growing in popularity as a tourist destination, but it’s always the more well-known places that are visited more often by Singaporean families, including big cities like Shanghai and Beijing.

Chengdu, nestled in the heart of Sichuan Province in southwest China, is often overlooked as a family travel destination. But let's set the record straight — this panda-famous place should actually be one of your top family trip destinations in China, especially if you have young kids.

To make your trip planning easier, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best things to do with kids in Chengdu, along with some handy travel tips to make your trip the best one yet.

How long to spend in Chengdu

For a family trip, we recommend spending around four to five days in Chengdu. This will give you enough time to explore the city's highlights at a leisurely pace, ensuring that both parents and kids have a fun and relaxing experience. 

Getting to Chengdu

Travelling to Chengdu is easy with direct flights available from Singapore. At the time of writing, a direct round-trip with Singapore Airlines costs $435.90 per person, with a flight time of around five hours.

Getting around Chengdu

Chengdu offers numerous transportation options, including an efficient public transport system, as well as a plethora of taxis. 

Taxis and ride-hailing

Taxis are plentiful in Chengdu and, honestly, the most comfortable way to travel. 

During my recent trip to China, I found myself using ride-hailing apps like Didi to go everywhere. Let's face it, who has time to decipher train maps when you're on the go? 

Fares start at just 8 RMB (S$1.50), with extra charges per kilometer. Taxis are incredibly handy, especially if you have lots of luggage or need to get somewhere quickly. The app is available in English, making it perfect for tourists.

Public transport

The metro system in Chengdu is efficient and well-connected, making it easy for families to get to most major attractions. You can buy tickets at the station or use a rechargeable transportation card. 

You can expect to pay between 2 to 7 RMB ($0.37 to $1.30) per person for a train ride. The trains run from 6am to 11pm, with signs and announcements in both Chinese and English.

Pro tip: Families might find taking a cab more convenient and cost-effective, especially when dividing the fare among members.

Best times to visit

The best times to visit Chengdu with kids are during spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and outdoor attractions. 

Winters in Chengdu seem pretty manageable as well, with temperatures hitting around 3 to 12 degrees Celsius from December to February. 

I would personally avoid visiting during the summer (June, July, August) as it can get really hot — up to 30 degrees! I mean, why go to another country just to experience the same heat in Singapore?

Top 10 things to do with kids in Chengdu

1. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

If you're visiting Chengdu with kids, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding should be at the top of your list!

Nestled in the northern suburbs of Chengdu, about 10km from downtown, this incredible sanctuary is home to adorable giant pandas of all ages, from playful cubs to majestic adults. 

To see them at their liveliest, aim to arrive early — around 8.30am — when they're most active. Expect to spend around three to four hours wandering through the beautifully landscaped enclosures, watching the pandas munch on bamboo, climb trees, and lounge around.

Ticket prices start at $10.20 for adults, and $5 for kids below 7 years old. Tickets can be booked in advance on Trip.com, which is highly recommended to avoid long lines.

#2 Chengdu Happy Valley

Make sure to set aside an entire day for your visit — this park is huge! Covering an impressive 560,000 square meters, Chengdu Happy Valley is one of the largest amusement parks in Asia.

From high-speed roller coasters to interactive kids’ attractions, you’ll want plenty of time to experience everything without rushing.

The park is divided into themed zones:

• Happy Time
• Flying Island
• Magic Castle
• Sunshine Harbour

Adrenaline seekers will love the coasters, while younger children can enjoy gentler rides, interactive play areas, and live performances. The water park section is especially popular in the summer, perfect for cooling off on hot days.

1. Happy Time (欢乐时光) – Classic carnival activities

A lively and colourful area filled with classic amusement park rides and carnival-style attractions. This zone is perfect for visitors who enjoy spinning rides, bumper cars, and interactive games.

Popular attractions:

• Twin-Tower Space Shot – A thrilling drop ride that launches riders high into the sky before a sudden freefall.
• Spinning Tea Cups – A family-friendly favourite where you control how fast your cup spins.
• Happy Train – A gentle ride for kids and families to tour the zone in a fun, themed train.

2. Flying Island (飞跃地带) – High-tech thrills and futuristic fun

This zone is designed for adventure seekers who love high-speed rides and cutting-edge attractions. It features some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the park, making it a must-visit for adrenaline lovers.

Popular attractions:

• Dragon in Clouds – One of the park’s biggest roller coasters, featuring high-speed loops and sharp turns.
• Fly Over Mediterranean – A towering roller coaster with steep drops and rapid twists.

3. Magic Castle (魔法城堡) – A fairy tale wonderland

A whimsical, storybook-inspired zone designed for younger visitors and families. This is the best place for children to enjoy gentle rides, meet themed characters, and watch magical performances.

Popular attractions:

• Carousel of Dreams – A beautifully decorated, classic merry-go-round.
• Magic Forest Adventure – A fun, interactive journey through an enchanted forest.
• Children’s Play Area – A safe and colourful space with climbing structures, slides, and themed play equipment.

4. Sunshine Harbour (阳光港湾) – Water rides

A scenic, waterfront-themed area featuring water rides, relaxing attractions, and entertainment for all ages. This is a great place to cool off on a warm day and enjoy a slower-paced experience.

Popular attractions:

• Jungle Rescue Rapids – A water rafting adventure with splashes and surprises along the way.
• Wave Pool and Water Slides – A refreshing way to escape the heat, featuring fun slides and wave action.

Tickets are priced at $42.65 per adult, and $22.25 per child, and can be purchased on Trip.com. 

3. Dotsss Children's Museum

For parents seeking an educational yet fun experience for their little ones in Chengdu, A Piece of Forest Children's Museum is a fantastic place to explore. Designed to spark curiosity and creativity in children, this interactive museum focuses on music, art, nature, ecology, and learning through immersive exhibits and activities.

The exhibits are divided into several themed halls, each focusing on different aspects of the natural world:

Life Science Hall 

Explore the diversity of life, from the smallest microorganisms to complex ecosystems, through interactive displays and hands-on activities.

Engineering and Technology Hall

Discover the marvels of human innovation and how technology interacts with the natural environment.

Earth Science Hall

Delve into the geological processes that shape our planet, including interactive models and educational demonstrations.

Art and Music Hall

Experience the intersection of nature, art, and music, showcasing how the natural world has inspired artistic expression throughout history.

This museum is ideal for children aged 2 to 10, especially those who love nature and hands-on activities. Parents will appreciate the educational value and calm, engaging atmosphere that makes learning fun!

You can find ticket prices and opening hours on Dotsss Children's Museum's official website.

4. Valley of Flowers

Tucked away in the countryside, Valley of Flowers is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a family day out. This floral paradise offers a stunning collection of flower fields, scenic walks, and activities that everyone will enjoy.

The seasonal flowers – from tulips and lavender to sunflowers and cherry blossoms – create a constantly changing landscape.

Besides snapping Insta-worthy shots with flowers, there is also a mini zoo with animals like alpacas, ostriches, deer, and more. Kids will have a blast getting up close, feeding them, and even petting them in a safe, interactive space. 

For a bit of extra fun, there’s a mini theme park with a giant Ferris wheel and mini roller coasters!

Tickets are available at an affordable $9.27 per person, and can be booked via Trip.com. 

5. Chengdu Haichang Polar Ocean Park

At Chengdu Haichang Polar Ocean Park, the magic of the ocean comes to life.

Whether it's dolphins leaping or beluga whales gliding, there's something here to captivate every child's imagination.

One of the biggest draws is the daily dolphin and sea lion performances, where these intelligent creatures showcase their incredible skills. Be sure to check the schedule when you arrive — you won’t want to miss it!

Take a walk through the underwater tunnel, where sharks and stingrays glide overhead, making it feel like you’re strolling along the ocean floor. 

If the kids still have energy to burn, there’s even a small amusement area with rides to keep them entertained.

There is also a Lucky Ice and Snow Park, where your family can experience northern winter in -10℃ weather! 

You may purchase tickets on Trip.com, with tickets costing $48.21 per adult, and $24.11 for students. 

6. Mount Qingcheng (Day trip)

Craving some fresh air and a change of scenery? Mount Qingcheng is the perfect place to slow down and reconnect with nature, just an hour’s drive from Chengdu. 

Kick off your visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site with a cable car ride, gliding over lush forested slopes before stepping onto gentle, scenic trails. 

From there, it’s a short and easy walk to Laojun Pavilion, where little explorers can stretch their legs while parents take in the breathtaking mountain views. 

If the kids are up for more adventure, hidden temples, waterfalls, and winding stone pathways offer plenty to discover.

​Plan to spend four to six hours here, and stop at one of the charming teahouses for a rest and some local snacks!

7. Peppa Pig Play Cafe

Peppa Pig Play Café in Chengdu is a dream come true for little fans of the cheeky piglet and her friends. Tucked inside Chengdu Yintai Centre IN99 shopping mall, every corner is designed to bring the beloved cartoon to life. 

Children can step into Peppa’s world with life-sized replicas of her house, Grandpa Pig’s garden, and Suzy Sheep’s playroom, creating an immersive experience that feels straight out of the show.

Little ones will have no shortage of fun with the many interactive attractions designed to bring Peppa’s world to life. They can splash around in “muddy puddles,” pretend to be shopkeepers in the supermarket play zone, or step into the kitchen to cook alongside Mummy Pig. 

The excitement doesn’t stop there — kids can hop on gentle rides, including Peppa’s whimsical balloon ride or a cheerful train adventure that takes them on a journey through familiar scenes from the show. 

When it's time for a break, families can unwind at the Peppa Pig-themed café, where parents can relax while the little ones enjoy more playtime in a cosy, cheerful setting.

Tickets cost $31.17 for a Family (one adult and one child under 130cm), and can be bought on Trip.com.

8. Shufeng Yayun Sichuan Opera

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Chengdu, the Shufeng Yayun Sichuan Opera is something you absolutely cannot miss! 

The most famous act, face-changing (Bian Lian), is guaranteed to leave you amazed as performers swap masks in a split second, creating an air of mystery and excitement. With acrobatics, fire-breathing, puppetry, and live music, we are sure that everyone will be mesmerised by the fast-paced performances and playful storytelling. 

Tickets to the show start from $22.25, on Trip.com.

And if your family is up for some extra fun, you can take the experience to the next level with the Theatrical Costumes & Dressing Up Experience! For $60.44 per person, you’ll get the chance to dress up in authentic opera costumes and have a professional artist apply stunning theater makeup to transform you into a character straight out of the show.

9. Wuhou Shrine

Wuhou Shrine is a peaceful retreat where nature, culture, and storytelling come together in the heart of Chengdu.

Stepping inside is unreal — the buzz of the city fades away, replaced by the gentle rustling of bamboo and the calm atmosphere of ancient courtyards.

Walking through the shrine feels like stepping back in time. You and family can get a glimpse into the legendary Three Kingdoms era, which pays tribute to some of China’s most famous heroes, including the brilliant strategist Zhuge Liang and the revered ruler Liu Bei. 

But there’s plenty for kids to enjoy too! They can wander through wide courtyards, explore hidden pathways, and marvel at the grand warrior statues that look like they’ve stepped right out of an adventure story.

10. Jinli Ancient Street

What we love about Jinli Ancient Street is that it is full of energy, colour, and old-world charm.

Grab Insta-worthy shots with the cobblestone pathways lined with traditional-style buildings. Grab a bite at one of the bustling food stalls, or simply chill and watch lively street performances. 

Kids can try their luck at old-fashioned carnival games, watch artisans create sugar paintings, and snack on local treats like tanghulu — crispy candied fruit skewers. 

Whether it’s the sights, sounds, or flavours, there’s something magical about this street that keeps visitors coming back for more!