population: 16.5 million

extension: 14,378 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Chengdu and interested in visiting museums, I'd recommend checking out the Sichuan Museum, which features exhibits on the history and culture of the Sichuan region. Another great option is the Jinsha Site Museum, which showcases artifacts from the ancient Shu civilization. If you're looking for more museums to visit in the area, you might also want to consider the Chengdu Museum or the Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat according to local people in Chengdu include:

1. Mapo Tofu: A spicy and flavorful dish made with soft tofu, minced pork, chili bean paste, and Sichuan peppercorns.

2. Kung Pao Chicken: A stir-fried dish that typically consists of diced chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers.

3. Hot Pot: A communal cooking pot filled with a spicy broth, various meats, vegetables, and other ingredients that are cooked at the table.

4. Dan Dan Noodles: A noodle dish typically served in a spicy sauce made with chili oil, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and minced pork.

5. Sichuan Boiled Fish: A hot and sour fish soup made with fresh fish fillets, Sichuan peppercorns, dried chili peppers, and various vegetables.

6. Twice Cooked Pork: A dish made with thinly sliced pork belly that is first boiled and then stir-fried with vegetables like cabbage, leeks, and peppers.

7. Chongqing Spicy Chicken: A fried chicken dish seasoned with spicy Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious and popular dishes you can try in Chengdu!

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that local people like to do in Chengdu:

1. Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base: This is a popular attraction among both locals and tourists, where you can see giant pandas up close and learn about conservation efforts to protect this endangered species.

2. Enjoy hot pot: Chengdu is known for its spicy hot pot, and locals love gathering with friends and family to share a pot of simmering broth filled with vegetables, meats, and other ingredients.

3. Watch Sichuan opera: This traditional form of Chinese opera has its roots in Sichuan province and features colorful costumes, acrobatics, and comedic performances.

4. Explore Wenshu Monastery: This Buddhist monastery is one of the oldest and most well-preserved in Chengdu, and locals often come here to meditate, make offerings, and admire the beautiful architecture and sculptures.

5. Take a stroll around Jinli Old Street: This pedestrian-only street is lined with shops, restaurants, and traditional-style buildings, and offers a glimpse into Chengdu's rich history and culture.