1. What is a must see activity or place that I should bring my family to on a Saturday or Sunday? I only have one weekend in Chengdu. Charlie you mentioned that People’s Park is nice. Are there any interesting weekend markets to visit?
Check out the park. Visiting the pandas might be a good idea also, that’s north of the city.
2. I am very keen to listen to some good Chinese Hifi amplifiers and speakers. I will be making a trip to listen to Line Magnetic speakers at 成都市桂王桥西街66号附9-10号. Is there a big mall or area where I can see all the Chinese Hifi brands together in the same place? What would be the nearest subway station?
If you’re from the West somewhere, nothing here will excite you. Good quality amps and speakers are all imported, and more expensive that what you’d pay overseas.
3. Is there a sort of Art Commune where I could view artists’ paintings or sculptures? Always love that sort of vibe. Might like to buy a piece or two.
There’s an art market called Songxian Qiao but it’s moved a few times and I’m not sure where it is now. It might be worth tracking down, I used to be the only art market that I knew about that was worth visiting in the city. There are a lot of painters and paintings there in particular.
4. Can you recommend some great family friendly Western eating places? I’m pretty sure after several days of Sichuan spicy food that my young ones will be craving for Western food.
Check out Red Beard Burgers or The Lazy Pug.
5. Is there a particular public bus or buses that I can take which will give me a great tour around the city? I’ve often discovered that taking public transport is a great way to see a new place and also allow me to get to know local Chengdu people.
If you don’t speak or read Chinese, it will be difficult for you to figure out where you’re going. But it’s fun to just get on a random bus and ride around, if you’re up for that.