Shopping in Chengdu reveals authentic local experiences at every turn. The best immersive tours start with hands-on Sichuan cooking classes, where you’ll visit bustling wet markets and learn to make classics like Mapo Tofu from seasoned local chefs. I love the cultural walking tours through traditional markets and temples – they offer an intimate look at daily life, especially the stop at the Chinese medicine center. The tea and spice market tours are real gems, connecting travelers with wholesale vendors for the freshest ingredients at local prices.
Check out these top-rated Chengdu shopping experiences that showcase the best of this vibrant city.
Good To Know
- Chengdu offers diverse shopping experiences, including local markets and specialty shops, with guided tours highlighting local culture, traditional products, and unique ingredients.
- Market tours provide insights into Chengdu’s thriving tea culture, with behind-the-scenes visits to wholesale tea markets and opportunities to learn about traditional Chinese tea practices.
- Spice and Chinese medicine markets feature a wide variety of spices, herbs, and traditional remedies, showcasing the historical significance and cultural applications of local ingredients.
- Culinary classes in Sichuan cooking and specialty dishes, such as Mapo Tofu and Chinese Buns, offer immersive experiences in traditional techniques and flavors.
- Tour participants are advised to dress comfortably, engage with vendors, and bring a shopping list to make the most of the immersive shopping and cultural experiences.
Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit
For those looking to dive into the culinary delights of Chengdu, the Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit offers a unique opportunity to take in the vibrant local food culture.
This highly-rated class includes a guided tour of a local wet market, where participants can explore the freshest ingredients.
During the hands-on cooking session, an English-speaking guide will teach participants traditional Sichuan cooking techniques, culminating in a delicious dinner prepared by your themselves.
With all necessary equipment and ingredients provided, as well as complimentary transportation and gratuities, this class is a hassle-free way to savor the flavors of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Designed for foodies seeking an immersive cultural experience, the Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit in Chengdu offers a captivating culinary adventure.
Led by a professional chef, the small-group class provides an insider’s look at the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Participants begin with a visit to a local spice market, exploring the diverse ingredients used in Chinese cooking.
Then, they learn to prepare the renowned mapo tofu dish, savoring the final creation with a refreshing beverage. Awarded a Badge of Excellence, the class caters to all ages and dietary needs, ensuring a memorable and personalized cooking experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Chinese Bun Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Chengdu will find the Half-Day Chinese Bun Cooking Class with Local Spice Market Visit an engaging and enriching activity.
This 100% recommended tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at Sichuan cuisine. Visitors start by exploring a local spice market to learn about regional ingredients, then dive into a hands-on cooking class focused on making traditional “Bao Zi” steamed buns.
The class accommodates up to 15 people and includes an English-speaking guide, food, drinks, and gratuities. Vegetarian options are available.
Priced from $80 per person, this experience is ideal for adventurous foodies who want to expand their Chinese cooking skills in an authentic setting.
Read our full review: Half-Day Chinese Bun Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Chengdu Courtyard Cooking Class With Local Market Visit
The Half-Day Chengdu Courtyard Cooking Class with Local Market Visit provides an opportunity to take in the vibrant culinary culture of Chengdu.
Travelers can explore a local spice market, then head to a Sichuan courtyard restaurant for a hands-on cooking class led by a professional chef. The class teaches guests to prepare multiple Sichuan dishes, with a sample menu of over 50 options, including vegan-friendly choices.
Inclusions such as an English-speaking guide, ingredients, beverages, and gratuities ensure a seamless experience.
With rave reviews, this class is ideal for foodies seeking to expand their culinary knowledge and taste authentic Chengdu cuisine.
Read our full review: Half-Day Chengdu Courtyard Cooking Class With Local Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Walking Tour With Local Market Trip and Vegetarian Lunch in Nunnery
This half-day walking tour in Chengdu, China, offers travelers an immersive experience into the vibrant culinary and spiritual culture of the region.
Highlights include a visit to the spice market to learn about Sichuan ingredients, a Buddhist ceremony at a nunnery, and a vegetarian lunch prepared by the nuns. Guests will also stroll through temples, markets, and a Chinese medicine center.
Priced at $50 per person, the tour includes afternoon tea, food tastings, and hotel pick-up and drop-off. It’s not wheelchair accessible, but children 5+ can participate with an adult.
Reviews praise the unique local experiences and interactions. This tour provides an engaging way to discover Chengdu’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Half-Day Walking Tour With Local Market Trip and Vegetarian Lunch in Nunnery Review
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Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Enjoy the vibrant culinary culture of Chengdu, China, with a half-day Dandan noodles cooking class.
This 5-star rated workshop takes you on a journey through the local spice market, followed by a hands-on session in a professional kitchen.
Learn the secrets of Szechuan-style noodle preparation from an experienced chef, then savor the fruits of your labor alongside jasmine tea and a complimentary beer.
The class includes round-trip hotel transfers, all ingredients, and a delectable Dandan noodle meal.
Catering to both vegetarians and omnivores, this experience offers an authentic taste of Chengdu’s renowned cuisine.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your culinary skills and learn about the city’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Private Leshan Buddha Day Tour With Local Market Visiting
Embarking on a private Leshan Buddha day tour, visitors can enjoy the serene grandeur of this iconic attraction.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Chengdu’s 3rd ring road, a private air-conditioned vehicle, and a professional guide. Lunch is covered, and gratuities are recommended for excellent service.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and comfortable walking shoes and water are recommended. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are available. Specific dietary requirements can be accommodated.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this private tour offers flexibility and a chance to explore the Leshan Buddha and a local market.
Read our full review: Private Leshan Buddha Day Tour With Local Market Visiting Review
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Half-Day Private Sichuan Hot-Pot Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Kicking off the culinary adventure, visitors can partake in a half-day private Sichuan hot-pot cooking class in Chengdu, hosted by Chilli Cool China.
The class offers a choice between a spicy red pot or a non-spicy white pot, both featuring flavorful broths. Included are coffee, tea, and local beer.
Private transportation is provided, with pickup available within Chengdu’s second ring road. The morning class serves lunch, while the afternoon class serves dinner.
Priced from $80 per person, the experience can be easily booked with free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the class welcomes infants and is a private group activity.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private Sichuan Hot-Pot Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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2 Hours Chengdu Survival Chinese Class Plus a Wet Market Visit With Local Lunch
For those seeking to delve deeper into Chengdu’s vibrant culture, an engaging 2-hour Survival Chinese Class plus a visit to a local wet market awaits.
This experience includes a hands-on language lesson and a guided tour of a bustling wet market, culminating in a local lunch. Participants will learn essential Mandarin phrases, gain insights into Chinese culinary traditions, and enjoy an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation.
With accessibility for wheelchair users and strollers, this activity caters to most travelers. Priced from $51.29 per person, the class offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for planning.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Chengdu Survival Chinese Class Plus a Wet Market Visit With Local Lunch Review
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Private 3 Hours Chengdu Local Tea Market Visit (Whole-sales Market)
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Chengdu’s thriving tea culture can embark on a private 3-hour excursion to the city’s local tea market.
This wholesale market offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of tea, with prices starting from $46.16 per person. The tour includes private transportation, coffee or tea, and the opportunity to explore the market independently.
With a 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and features free cancellation and rescheduling up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can choose to meet at the Wenshu Yuan Monastery or request pickup, with the tour ending back at the starting point.
Read our full review: Private 3 Hours Chengdu Local Tea Market Visit (Whole-sales Market) Review
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3 Hours Chengdu Spices and Chinese Medicine Market Visit (Whole-Sales Market)
Expanding beyond Chengdu’s thriving tea culture, the 3-hour Spices and Chinese Medicine Market visit offers a fascinating immersion into the diverse world of traditional Chinese ingredients.
Travelers can explore the bustling wholesale market, where vendors sell an array of spices, herbs, and traditional remedies. The private tour includes an English-speaking guide who provides insights into the history and uses of these products.
With convenient transportation and water provided, visitors can navigate the market’s accessible surfaces, whether on foot or in a wheelchair. This tour is a must for those seeking an authentic shopping experience and a deeper understanding of Chinese traditional medicine.
Read our full review: 3 Hours Chengdu Spices and Chinese Medicine Market Visit (Whole-Sales Market) Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Tours?
The cancellation policy usually allows for full refunds if the tour is cancelled 24 hours in advance. Partial refunds may be available for shorter notice cancellations. Customers should check the specific policy for each tour.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Preferences?
Many tours accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences, allowing travelers to enjoy the experience while catering to their needs. It’s best to check with the tour operator about their policies on handling special dietary requirements.
Are Transportation and Entry Fees Included in the Tour Prices?
Transportation and entry fees are usually included in the tour prices, allowing visitors to enjoy a hassle-free experience without worrying about additional costs. The exact inclusions vary by tour, so it’s best to check the details before booking.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for Each Tour?
The maximum group size varies across different tours, typically ranging from 8 to 15 participants. It’s best to check the specific details of each tour to ensure the group size aligns with your preferences.
Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit Our Interests?
Yes, many tour operators allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your interests. This provides flexibility to focus on the shopping destinations and experiences that most appeal to you during the tour.
The Sum Up
Chengdu offers a variety of engaging shopping tours that provide insights into local cuisine, culture, and markets. From cooking classes to market visits, these experiences allow visitors to enjoy the city’s vibrant gastronomic traditions. Whether you’re interested in learning to make Sichuan dishes or exploring specialty spice and tea markets, Chengdu’s shopping tours cater to a range of interests and preferences.