[Photo provided to Shanghai Star]

6. If there is no time to visit the real pandas, settle for a photo with the giant panda installation at IFS. The mall also has many restaurants and a quiet rooftop garden with interesting art. You can buy plush panda toys to take home here, as well.

Address: Chengdu International Financial Square (IFS)

Hongxing Road Pedestrian Mall,

紅星路步行街三段一號

7. Be impressed by the mastery of renowned weavers of Shu brocade. There are many centers where they sell the finished products but the best place to learn about the history of this astonishingly detailed craft is still at the Museum of Shu Brocade.

Suggestion: Guests at the St Regis Hotel in Chengdu can take part in their special Weave in Style – Shu Brocade Aficionado package featuring an exclusive private evening tour of Chengdu's Brocade and Embroidery Museum.