Chengdu is the provincial capital of Sichuan province in Southwest China and for reasons encompassing culture, culinary, adventure and outstanding beauty, remains a favored destination for travelers. First time visitors will be intrigued by the regions well known Giant Pandas, with a trip to the breeding and research center high on the list of activities. Repeat visitors may venture further into Northwest Chengdu, an area bordered by the high and steep Longmen Mountain, or travel west to the Qionglai Mountains that rise 3,000 m (9,800 ft) and includes Miao Jiling (5,364 m (17,598 ft)).

However, there is another attraction on the lips of every traveler – Chengdu cuisine. With the city’s recent designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Destination Asia China is leading the way in providing exceptional culinary tours through the spicy delights of Chengdu. With 56 alternative cooking styles and over 23 identifiable flavors present, the dishes found in this region of China are some of the most complex, unique, and exciting in the world.

The distinct characteristic of Sichuan cuisine is the use of fiery chilies and peppercorns. Local dishes include Grandma Chen’s Tofu (Mapo doufu), Chengdu Hot pot and Dan Dan Mien – literally meaning noodles carried on a pole.

With over a thousand years of culinary history, the refined, spicy and simply delicious food from this region is guaranteed to leave clients asking for more.