Chengdu offers excellent hands-on cultural workshops that cut right to the heart of local life. The best cooking classes teach you to make fiery Sichuan classics like Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken, starting with market visits to source fresh ingredients. For something gentler, try a morning Tai Chi session or Chinese brush painting workshop – both wonderfully authentic experiences. I especially love the combination tours that pair panda viewing with cooking lessons, giving you two memorable experiences in one day. Most tours include convenient hotel pickup and English-speaking guides.
Let’s look at my favorite Chengdu workshops and classes…
Good To Know
- Sichuan cooking classes offer hands-on instruction from experienced chefs, featuring bold flavors and spiciness with a 100% recommendation rate.
- Culinary and cultural experiences combine visits to the Panda Research Base with Sichuan cooking classes, providing a well-rounded exploration of Chengdu’s heritage.
- Language and food integration programs merge Mandarin learning with food adventures, allowing visitors to enjoy the local culture.
- Martial arts classes, such as Kung Fu and Tai Chi, provide opportunities to learn traditional Chinese practices in scenic settings.
- Artistic and scenic experiences, including Chinese brush painting and tofu-making classes, enable travelers to create unique crafts and gain insights into Chengdu’s culinary traditions.
Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit
Though Sichuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and spicy kick, learning to prepare it can seem daunting. Fortunately, this private cooking class offers an immersive experience that demystifies the techniques behind four classic Sichuan dishes.
After a tour of a local wet market, you’ll receive hands-on instruction from a veteran chef in a small group setting. Together, you’ll prepare and savor four separate Sichuan specialties, leaving with recipes to recreate at home.
The class includes transportation, all necessary cooking equipment and ingredients, as well as a professional English-speaking guide.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this class provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary traditions of Sichuan.
With its badge of excellence and 100% recommendation rate, it’s the perfect way to learn about the flavors of China’s southwestern cuisine.
Read our full review: Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit Review
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Private Panda Tour With Cooking Class One-Day Trip
Set out on a captivating one-day journey that combines a private panda tour with an immersive Sichuan cooking class.
Explore Chengdu’s iconic Panda Research Base and observe these adorable creatures up close. Afterward, savor a vegetarian lunch at a hidden nunnery before delving into the vibrant local market and learning to prepare three authentic Sichuan dishes.
This private tour offers unparalleled convenience, with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for your comfort. Enjoy complimentary bottled water, coffee, and tea throughout the day.
The tour is suitable for all ages, with a minimum age of 1 year for children. Rated 4.7 stars from 7 reviews, this experience is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic and personalized exploration of Chengdu.
With flexible booking options and a lowest price guarantee, you can secure your spot with confidence. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about the rich cultural tapestry of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Private Panda Tour With Cooking Class One-Day Trip Review
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Sichuan Cooking Class Half Day Tour
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this half-day cooking class in Chengdu.
You’ll learn to prepare classic dishes like Ma Po Tofu, Yuxiang shredded pork, and Coca-Cola chicken wings from an expert Sichuan chef. Start your experience with a convenient hotel pickup and head to the Hilton Chengdu, where the class will take place.
In the comfortable setting of a home-cooked kitchen, you’ll learn the secrets of Sichuan cooking while enjoying a delicious meal.
Explore the local market to discover the region’s rich food culture before returning to the Hilton to continue your culinary journey.
The class includes all necessary equipment and ingredients, as well as coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages.
With wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces, this tour caters to various accessibility needs.
Wrap up your experience back at the meeting point, armed with newfound Sichuan cooking expertise.
Read our full review: Sichuan Cooking Class Half Day Tour Review
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Half-Day Sichuan Cooking Class Experience in Chengdu
This immersive 4-hour Sichuan cooking class in Chengdu allows participants to master the bold flavors of this renowned regional cuisine.
With a maximum of 5 travelers, the small group setting ensures ample personal attention from the English-speaking local chef. Guests will prepare classic Sichuan dishes like Kung Pao chicken, Mapo Tofu, Sweet and Sour Pork, and dumplings, learning key techniques and flavor profiles along the way.
The hands-on cooking experience uses fresh ingredients, and participants can savor the prepared dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Detailed recipe cards are provided for replicating the recipes at home. Although some reviews note limited English from the instructor, the quality of the food and overall experience are consistently praised, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5.
With free hotel pickup and drop-off, this Sichuan cooking class is an immersive and convenient way to explore the vibrant culinary traditions of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Half-Day Sichuan Cooking Class Experience in Chengdu Review
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Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Travelers seeking an authentic Sichuan culinary experience can enjoy this half-day mapo tofu cooking class in Chengdu.
Led by a professional chef, the class offers a hands-on opportunity to learn the secrets of this iconic Sichuan dish. Participants will first visit a local spice market to explore the key ingredients, then dive into the cooking lesson under expert guidance. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
During the class, guests won’t only learn to prepare the perfect mapo tofu but also have the chance to savor their creation, accompanied by beverages like beer or local tea.
The experience includes round-trip transportation, all necessary ingredients, and even a souvenir to take home. With 100% positive reviews from previous travelers, this cooking class is a must-do for anyone eager to uncover the flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Priced from $69.24 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to take in the culinary traditions of Chengdu.
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
Although cooking classes are abundant in Chengdu, this half-day Chinese bun cooking class with a local spice market visit stands out for its immersive culinary experience.
With over 22 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this activity is ideal for foodie travelers looking to expand their cooking skills.
The class begins with a visit to the local spice market, where participants learn about Sichuan spices and other ingredients.
This is followed by a hands-on cooking session focused on making “Bao Zi” – delicious steamed buns. The sample menu includes these buns, which are enjoyed with light refreshments or a meal, depending on the class schedule.
The class is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Vegetarian options are available, and dietary requirements can be accommodated.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, this class offers a flexible and engaging way to take in Chengdu’s rich culinary traditions.
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
Chengdu’s rich culinary heritage comes alive in this half-day courtyard cooking class. Exploring a local spice market, participants learn about the vibrant ingredients that define Sichuan cuisine.
Under the guidance of an expert chef, they’ll master the art of crafting classic dishes like stir-fried cabbage, Kung Pao chicken, and the signature Mapo tofu. With a menu catered to dietary needs, vegans and vegetarians can savor the flavors too.
After the hands-on cooking session, guests enjoy the fruits of their labor, savoring the dishes alongside refreshing beverages. The experience not only imparts culinary skills but also provides insights into Chengdu’s unique food culture.
Praised for its knowledgeable guides and delicious outcomes, this class earns rave reviews from travelers seeking an immersive gastronomic adventure. Whether a foodie or a novice cook, this half-day courtyard experience promises an unforgettable taste of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Half-Day Chengdu Courtyard Cooking Class With Local Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
For those seeking an immersive culinary experience in Chengdu, the Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit offers a captivating opportunity.
Led by an experienced chef, this hands-on workshop teaches participants the art of preparing authentic Szechuan-style dandan noodles. The class includes a visit to a local market, where guests can shop for the necessary spices and ingredients.
Participants will enjoy a delightful meal of the expertly-prepared noodles, accompanied by refreshing jasmine tea and a complimentary beer.
The class also provides recipes for guests to recreate the dish at home. With hotel pickup and drop-off, English-speaking guidance, and all necessary inclusions, this class is a convenient and comprehensive way to explore Chengdu’s vibrant food culture.
Suitable for ages 5 and up, with vegetarian options available, the class accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers per session, ensuring a personalized experience.
Read our full review: Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Giant Panda & Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class 1 Day Tour
Designed for those seeking an immersive experience in Chengdu’s renowned culinary heritage, the Giant Panda & Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class 1 Day Tour offers a captivating blend of wildlife and gastronomic exploration.
Operated by U2Panda, this 4.5-rated tour takes participants on a journey to the famous Panda Base and a local Sichuan cooking class.
The tour includes private transportation, panda base tickets, a cooking class, dinner, lunch, and a market visit, all guided by an English-speaking chef.
Guests can enjoy free pickup and drop-off from hotels within Chengdu’s 3rd ring road, or meet at a designated point for a small fee if their hotel is outside this area.
With a start time of 8:00 am, this private tour ensures an intimate experience, as only your group will participate.
Whether you’re a panda enthusiast, a culinary adventurer, or simply seeking a well-rounded culture, this tour promises an unforgettable day in Chengdu.
Read our full review: Giant Panda & Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class 1 Day Tour Review
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From the Desk to the Dining Table: Chinese Class With Food Experience in Chengdu
Seeking to expand your Mandarin skills beyond the classroom? Chengdu’s “From the Desk to the Dining Table” experience combines Chinese language learning with a delightful food adventure.
In this small-group format, you’ll start by spending an hour mastering basic Chinese over coffee or tea. Then, you’ll visit a local market and scenic spots, practicing your newfound language skills by ordering food at a neighborhood restaurant.
Comfort and convenience are assured with private air-conditioned transportation to and from the meeting point at Peoples Park Metro Stop. With a maximum of 10 travelers, this experience offers a personalized touch.
While not wheelchair accessible, it welcomes service animals. Infants can join, sitting on laps. Flexible cancellation policy allows free changes up to 24 hours before.
At $82.06 per person, this 4.7-rated experience by Speakup Mandarin Club provides a unique blend of language and culinary discovery in Chengdu.
Read our full review: From the Desk to the Dining Table: Chinese Class With Food Experience in Chengdu Review
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Chinese Kungfu Class at Bamboo Park: 5-Step Boxing, the Key to Become Guru
Visitors to Chengdu’s Bamboo Park can take part in a captivating Chinese Kungfu class focused on the 5-step boxing technique, a key to mastering the art of Kung Fu.
With a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, this class is led by experienced instructors and takes place at the conveniently located Wuhou District in Chengdu, just a 400-meter walk from the east gate of Sichuan University.
The class includes private transportation, with an air-conditioned vehicle provided for pickup or direct travel to the meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for most travelers, though those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions are advised against participation.
Booking offers a lowest price guarantee starting at $29 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Visitors can reserve now and pay later, providing greater flexibility in planning their Chengdu adventure.
Read our full review: Chinese Kungfu Class at Bamboo Park: 5-Step Boxing, the Key to Become Guru Review
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Small Group 2-Hour Kungfu Lesson in Chengdu
Curious to learn authentic Kungfu in an intimate setting? Join this small group 2-hour Kungfu lesson in Chengdu, China.
You’ll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel for convenience, and learn various Kungfu moves from a qualified instructor, Master Liu Peng, in a personalized setting.
The lesson lasts 2 hours and offers an opportunity to ask questions throughout. The small group size ensures a more immersive learning experience.
Comfortable walking shoes and clothes are recommended, and the activity is wheelchair accessible.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this Kungfu class is a flexible and accessible option.
Reviewers have highlighted it as a memorable experience, with an overall 5.0 rating. Don’t miss the chance to explore the art of Kungfu in the heart of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Small Group 2-Hour Kungfu Lesson in Chengdu Review
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Sichuan Cooking Class 4hours Lunch Tour /Dinner Tour
Enjoy the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine during this 4-hour cooking class and tour in Chengdu. Available as either a lunch or dinner experience, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a central location and taken to a private cooking school.
Under the guidance of a local chef, you’ll learn to prepare authentic Sichuan dishes using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Along the way, you’ll gain insights into the region’s rich culinary traditions. The class culminates in a delicious meal that you’ve helped create.
Priced from $150 per person, this private tour ensures you’ll have a personalized experience with just your group. While the class isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Infants can join, sitting on laps. Most travelers can participate.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Read our full review: Sichuan Cooking Class 4hours Lunch Tour /Dinner Tour Review
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Half-Day Private Sichuan Hot-Pot Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Spend a delightful half-day exploring Sichuan’s renowned hot-pot cuisine during this private cooking class in Chengdu.
Led by local experts, you’ll learn to prepare two classic hot-pot dishes – the fiery red pot with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, and the non-spicy white pot broth.
After the cooking lesson, savor the fruits of your labor over a full lunch or dinner, complemented by coffee, tea, and local beers.
The class includes private transportation, picking you up from your apartment or hotel within the second ring road.
With confirmation guaranteed at booking, this is a private experience tailored to your group.
While not wheelchair accessible, the class is located near public transit. Infants can join, sitting on laps or using provided infant seats.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and a “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option is available.
Priced from $80 per person, the cost varies by group size.
Read our full review: Half-Day Private Sichuan Hot-Pot Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Half Day Private Chengdu Traditional Guqin Class
This private half-day guqin class in Chengdu offers an immersive introduction to the millennia-old Chinese stringed instrument.
Located in the heart of the city, the class is limited to just three participants, ensuring personalized attention from the private tutor. Over the course of the afternoon, you’ll explore the guqin’s rich history, learn to read traditional Chinese musical notation, and master basic playing techniques.
The intimate setting allows you to truly connect with this ancient art form. Following the lesson, enjoy an afternoon tea break before concluding the experience back at the original meeting point.
The class is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, making it an engaging cultural activity for the whole family. Wearing traditional Han Chinese robes for photos is an optional highlight.
With free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee, this guqin class is an unmissable opportunity to learn about Chengdu’s musical heritage.
Read our full review: Half Day Private Chengdu Traditional Guqin Class Review
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Chinese Brush Painting Class
Explore the art of Chinese brush painting in a hands-on class in Chengdu. This 3-hour experience takes you to the heart of the city, where you’ll learn the techniques and traditions of this ancient art form.
The class, priced at $75 per person, accommodates up to 12 travelers and includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious breakfast and lunch.
You’ll meet at the Yu Shuang Lu metro station, just a short taxi ride away. Once you arrive, you’ll dive into the world of Chinese brush painting, guided by an expert instructor.
From mixing ink to mastering brushstrokes, you’ll create your own panda-inspired masterpiece to take home. The class is suitable for all skill levels, with most travelers able to participate.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a lowest price guarantee, this Chinese brush painting class is an engaging and affordable way to learn about Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Chinese Brush Painting Class Review
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2 Hours Chengdu Survival Chinese Class Plus a Wet Market Visit With Local Lunch
Travelers can enjoy the local culture of Chengdu during this 2-hour Survival Chinese class, which includes a visit to a lively wet market and a delicious local lunch.
The class starts with a meeting at the iconic Wenshu Yuan Monastery, where participants can choose to meet the group or request a pickup. During the class, they’ll learn essential Mandarin Chinese phrases and vocabulary to navigate everyday situations, like ordering food and interacting with locals.
The highlight of the experience is a visit to a bustling wet market, where participants can explore the sights, sounds, and smells of this quintessential Chengdu institution.
Afterwards, they’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring the flavors of the region. The class ends back at the meeting point, leaving participants with a greater understanding and appreciation of Chengdu’s vibrant culture.
This small-group tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for most travelers.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Chengdu Survival Chinese Class Plus a Wet Market Visit With Local Lunch Review
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3 Days Chengdu Panda Base and Leshan Buddha Visit With Cooking Class
Although the previous day’s activities focused on Chengdu’s cultural highlights, the three-day tour now shifts its attention to the city’s natural wonders.
The second day begins with a visit to the renowned Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, where guests can observe these captivating creatures in their natural habitat. The tour then proceeds to the awe-inspiring Leshan Buddha, the world’s largest carved stone Buddha statue. While the entrance fee is included, participants have the option to climb up to the statue for an additional fee, providing a unique perspective.
The day’s activities also include a Sichuan-style cooking class, where guests can learn to prepare authentic local dishes. Beverages are provided during the class, and the experience is complemented by a visit to a local tea plantation and spice market.
In the evening, the group indulges in a hot pot dinner, paired with local beers, followed by a backstage experience at the Sichuan Opera.
Read our full review: 3 Days Chengdu Panda Base and Leshan Buddha Visit With Cooking Class Review
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Chengdu Tai Chi Martial Art Class in the Morning
After a day exploring Chengdu’s cultural and natural wonders, the three-day tour now offers a chance to immerse in the city’s rich martial arts heritage.
The Chengdu Tai Chi Martial Art Class is a local experience held in a park, with a maximum of 15 travelers. Led by an experienced English-speaking guide, the class takes place at the Shengduo Maintenance Service Center, near the Tonghuimen Subway Station.
During the class, you will learn the fundamentals of Tai Chi, a traditional Chinese martial art known for its graceful movements and health benefits.
They’ll also have the opportunity to explore the nearby Qintai Road, a scenic area in the city. Gratuities are included, making this an accessible and hassle-free activity.
While the class isn’t wheelchair-accessible, most travelers can participate, including infants who can sit on laps. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, which is operated by U2Panda.
Read our full review: Chengdu Tai Chi Martial Art Class in the Morning Review
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Half Day Chengdu Tofu Making Class With Mapo Tofu Cooking
Chengdu’s culinary heritage extends beyond its iconic Sichuan cuisine. For those eager to explore the city’s dynamic food culture, the Half Day Chengdu Tofu Making Class with Mapo Tofu Cooking offers a unique hands-on experience.
Priced from $71.80 per person, this private tour allows you to learn the art of traditional tofu making from a master chef.
During the half-day session, you’ll be guided through the process of transforming soaked soybeans into fresh tofu. Afterward, you’ll put your newfound skills to the test by preparing the renowned Mapo Tofu dish.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy complimentary tea, water, or beer, and receive the recipes to recreate these delectable treats at home.
The class is accessible to most travelers, with wheelchair and stroller-friendly accommodations.
With a 5.0 rating based on a single review, this experience promises a delightful and immersive exploration of Chengdu’s culinary legacy.
Read our full review: Half Day Chengdu Tofu Making Class With Mapo Tofu Cooking Review
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Private Half Day Mahjong Lesson
For those seeking a deeper immersion into Chengdu’s rich cultural heritage, the Private Half Day Mahjong Lesson offers a unique opportunity to learn the traditional Chinese game.
This 3-hour experience takes place in a local teahouse, where an English-speaking guide will instruct you on the rules and strategies of mahjong while you sip delicious tea.
After the lesson, you’ll have the chance to challenge locals and put your newfound skills to the test.
The experience includes a mahjong rental fee, hotel pick-up and drop-off within the 3rd Ring Road, and taxi or metro fare if you’re outside that area.
While food and additional drinks aren’t included, you’ll enjoy one complimentary cup of tea during the lesson.
This activity is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Children under 5 can attend for free, and infants can sit on laps.
Priced from $47 per person, the Private Half Day Mahjong Lesson promises an immersive cultural experience in the heart of Chengdu.
Read our full review: Private Half Day Mahjong Lesson Review
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Best of Chengdu: Panda Visit and Cooking Class Experience
Combining Chengdu’s iconic pandas with an immersive cooking class, the Best of Chengdu: Panda Visit and Cooking Class Experience offers a well-rounded cultural exploration. Priced from $187.70 per person, the private tour includes round-trip transportation, lunch, dinner, and drinks.
Kicking off at 8 AM, the experience begins with a visit to the Chengdu Panda Base, where you’ll have the chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
After the panda encounter, you’ll head to a local cooking school for a hands-on lesson in traditional Sichuan cuisine. Under the guidance of a professional chef, you’ll learn to prepare classic regional dishes, then enjoy the fruits of your labor over lunch.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with accommodations for wheelchairs, strollers, and infants.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies provide added convenience. This experience offers an immersive dive into Chengdu’s renowned panda and culinary scenes.
Read our full review: Best of Chengdu: Panda Visit and Cooking Class Experience Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do the Classes Offer Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Options?
Many classes and workshops in Chengdu offer vegetarian and gluten-free options to accommodate varied dietary needs. Students should inquire about menu selections when signing up to ensure their specific requirements can be met.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Many workshops and classes in Chengdu offer discounts for early registration or package deals. Check the provider’s website or contact them directly to inquire about any available promotions or bundle options that could save you money.
Can the Classes Be Customized to Specific Dietary Requirements?
Yes, many workshops and classes can be customized to accommodate specific dietary requirements. Simply let the organizers know about any needs, and they’ll work with you to ensure the content and menu fit your needs.
How Long Are the Transportation Times to the Class Locations?
The transportation time to the class locations can vary depending on your starting point and traffic conditions, but most are easily accessible within 30-45 minutes by public transportation or private car.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements for the Classes?
Many workshops and classes in Chengdu don’t have age restrictions, though some may have minimum age requirements. It’s best to check with each provider to understand the age guidelines before signing up.
The Sum Up
Chengdu offers a wide range of workshops and classes for visitors. From private Sichuan cooking classes to Tai Chi lessons and mahjong instructions, there’s something for all. Whether you’re interested in learning about the local cuisine, culture, or traditions, these experiences provide an immersive and authentic way to discover Chengdu. With options for both half-day and full-day programs, travelers can easily find a class that fits their schedule and interests.