Top Southwest China Classes & Workshops

The Naxi people have shaped Lijiang but it can be hard to discover their culture. Get hands-on with this minority group’s distinctive cuisine during this small-group cooking class, led by a local family. Shop at Lijiang’s oldest market then continue to a professional cooking studio in a courtyard home. Prepare and eat three different dishes—with snacks, tea, and water—as a photographer records your experience, ensuring you have memories to share.

Explore the rich traditions of Chengdu through a hands-on handicraft workshop that offers a deep dive into Sichuan's cultural heritage. Begin with professional instructors who unveil the historical significance of bamboo weaving and silver filigree, leading you to choose a crafting project that aligns with your skill level. Under the guidance of experienced artisans, transform bamboo strips into beautiful crafts or create intricate silver filigree pieces. Enjoy a relaxing tea break with authentic Sichuan refreshments while you work. As a memento, take home your handcrafted item and a special Chengdu-themed souvenir, marking your journey through this vibrant culture.

Uncover the secrets behind Sinchuan cuisine on a 4-hour cooking class in Chengdu. Under the guidance of a local chef, learn the techniques required to make delicious delicacies like Kung Pao chicken and dumplings while gaining insight into the complex flavors of Sichuan food. Afterwards, sit down to feast upon the fruits of your labor with your fellow food lovers. Return home with recipe cards to impress friends and family with your new found knowledge.

Most travelers want to experience the profound healing of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), but are held back by the language barrier and the fear of the unknown. The unique flavor of this experience is "Ancient Wisdom, Translated for You." This is not a standard tourist spa visit—it is a deeply authentic cultural and medical immersion. What makes us truly unique is your guide: you are accompanied not by a standard tour guide, but by a bilingual, internationally certified physician. We act as your personal cultural bridge, safely demystifying the 2,000-year-old Taoist philosophy of Yin, Yang, and Qi (vital energy). You get to step inside a premium, authentic local clinic and experience the ancient diagnostic arts of pulse and tongue reading, with absolute peace of mind knowing a trained doctor is sitting right beside you to translate every concept. It is the perfect harmony of Eastern cultural heritage, premium VIP comfort, and modern medical safety.

Enjoy the unique opportunity to delve into the world of traditional Chinese calligraphy or painting and explore the beauty of this ancient art form. No prior experience is needed. The course offers a peaceful retreat into creativity, allowing you to connect with nature through the mindful movement of the brush. Chinese calligraphy is more than just beautiful writing; it is a deeply respected art form and a moving meditation. For centuries, it has been a cornerstone of Chinese culture, reflecting the mind, spirit, and character of the artist. Our experiential course is designed to guide you into this captivating world. Chinese painting is a poetic art form that seeks to capture the essence and spirit of a subject, rather than its exact physical appearance. The resulting artworks are not just images but profound expressions of emotion and atmosphere. Our hands-on workshop invites you to experience this elegant tradition.

TRANSPARENT PRICING MODEL This experience operates on a "Base Fee + Voluntary Appreciation" system. Your host is a local cultural guide, not an employee. Their service is supported by a voluntary cash appreciation (TIP) at the end, based on your satisfaction. SUGGESTED RANGE: USD 20–50 PER PERSON. By booking, you agree to this model. Experience Highlights Begin on a hidden rooftop with a barista-guided Yunnan specialty coffee workshop, featuring panoramic Lijiang views. Explore local produce at Xiangshan Market(lijiang biggest wet market). In a Naxi home, cook three signature dishes, including Hand-Pounded Shredded Chicken and Yunnan-Style Mapo Tofu, and prepare Tibetan Butter Tea. Conclude with a Pu’er tea tasting and conversation on Dongba culture and local lifestyle culture communication and make your own paper cutting and frame it home as your lijiang day souvenir.

During this 4-5 hours unique Dumpling making workshop, you’ll be taken into an authentic local spice market to explore it with fun challenges to complete and learn different species of Sichuan spices and ingredients that will be used in the following cooking class. The class will be carried out in a traditional Sichuan style courtyard. You’ll be treated with Sichuan local tea as it’s local’s custom to treat friends and visitors. After that, you then will be guide to start the cooking process by a professional chef in a cozy kitchen. Finally, you can enjoy the dumplings with delicious fillings made by yourself along with some beers or beverages. For it’s really informative, interesting and fun, this class will be an unforgettable experience in your lifetime.

This is the ideal pick for foodie travelers who are keen to expand their Chinese cooking skills. Rather than just watching online videos, enjoy a much more immersive experience that starts with a visit to a local spice market. Learn about Sichuan spices and local ingredients, then take part in a cooking class that focuses on “Bao Zi” steamed buns. At the end, enjoy your tasty creations with drinks.

Highlights Learn from a Heritage Bearer: Master the traditional art of bamboo weaving under the guidance of an officially recognized inheritor of this intangible cultural heritage. Create Your Own Bamboo Keepsake: Craft a unique bamboo-woven panda by hand, and take your handmade souvenir home. Coffee or jasmine tea is served during the workshop. Authentic Local Life Experience: After the workshop, enjoy an included dinner at a local canteen and explore street food spots—all within a 5-minute walk—for a true taste of Chengdu's community life.

Sichuan Hotpot has a history of at least 1700 years. Today Sichuan Hotpots have been increased in category to include the "Red Pot" (Spicy hotpot flavor with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns), the “White Pot” (Non-spicy hotpot flavor with broth) and ‘Double Pot’ (Including the first two). With the help of your guide, you will be cooking both the spicy hotpot and the Non-spicy pot and learn to cut and set dishes with decorations, which will be guided by a professional chef. This experience will have a very unique local market visit as well, you will try to learn and taste the different foods in this beautiful city.

Live like a real Chongqinger—not just sightsee. Choose mystery ingredients at a bustling wet market, cook authentic dishes in a local home, and share a family meal. Sip premium Pu’er tea, create traditional paper-cut art (framed to keep), and end with optional Hanfu photos in a stunning indoor garden. It’s culture you touch, taste, and take home.

Your leader will meet you at your hotel lobby(City Center hotel), we will go to a great local tea house to have some coffee or tea, and learn the commonly used Tourism Chinese. It doesn't matter that you can't speak Chinese at all. After this class, everyone will have the confidence to speak Chinese. First of all, we practice introducing ourselves in Chinese. Then we will learn some Chinese greetings. Then we practice more about how to order food or how to take a taxi and more. After about 1 hour to 1.5 hours of class, we will go out and have a small walk! You’ll be taken into an authentic local spice market to explore it with fun Chinese challenges to complete and learn different Sichuan spices and ingredients that will be used in the locals cooking. At last, we will go to a great local dinner restaurant, you will have a real test here to order the food with all the Chinese you learned (You don't need to pay, it is included) Promise this will be a unique and fun experience for you!

Chengdu never sleeps—and neither do we. This city blends tea houses and pandas with rock music, art, and underground nightlife. Our pub crawl takes you from the hottest bars to hidden local gems, led by a local host who knows where the real fun is. Expect good music, great vibes, new friends, and a night that shows you a side of Chengdu most travelers never see.

Immerse yourself in Tibetan intangible cultural heritage and unique ethnic traditions. Handcraft your own ornaments to take home meaningful mementos.

Engage with giant pandas in an exclusive half-day tour at the Chengdu Giant Panda Base. With VIP access through the east gate, gain insights from professional instructors about panda behavior and nutrition. Make your own panda food buns, explore enclosures, and enjoy a 3D film screening to enhance your understanding of these beloved creatures. This unique experience combines hands-on learning, interactive discussions, and a certificate award at the end of your visit. - VIP access at the east gate for fast admission，Can see giant pandas more conveniently - Hands-on experience making giant panda food with expert guidance - Observe giant pandas in various enclosures and learn about their habits - Receive a certificate and exclusive panda-themed gifts at the tour's end

Established in 1998, Sufeng Yayun is a renowned cultural venue in Sichuan Province, dedicated to presenting authentic folk arts of Western Sichuan and traditional Chinese opera. It is the only large-scale, multifunctional theater in Sichuan that integrates traditional Chinese art performances and opera culture, and has been recognized as a key national cultural and tourism project. Located along the Qintai Ancient Path in Chengdu, Sufeng Yayun is housed within the historic architecture near Qingyang Palace, and is surrounded by cultural landmarks such as Du Fu Thatched Cottage and Wuhou Shrine. With its elegant, traditional design, the theater has long been a gathering place for renowned Sichuan opera performers and remains one of the most representative folk opera venues in the region. Guests may also experience Gaiwan Tea, a traditional Chinese tea-drinking method using a three-piece tea set consisting of a bowl, lid, and saucer, adding to the immersive cultural atmosphere.

More than just a night out, this experience offers a unique introduction to Chengdu through its nightlife, people, and culture. Led by internationally experienced locals, you'll discover hidden bars, hear local stories, and make meaningful connections along the way

At your professional Sichuan cooking studio, you will find a spacious, bright, and exceptionally comfortable environment centered around a large kitchen island. Your instructor is a master Sichuan chef with deep expertise. He will guide you through the finest details—from key seasonings and cooking techniques to the cultural nuances that distinguish Sichuan flavors from other Chinese culinary traditions like Shanghai, Cantonese, and Beijing. You can select one dish to master from your curated menu of 18 of Sichuan cuisine's most iconic classics. Throughout the hands-on session, you will not only learn how to perfectly prepare your chosen dish but also gain insights into the unique culinary traditions and essence of Sichuan locals. The experience culminates in the best part: savoring the delicious dish you created with your own hands.

Focus on Sichuan cooking during this tasting tour in Chengdu. With a guide in the lead, you’ll visit some of the city’s back alleys to find the best street food in places you might not find on your own. Gain insider knowledge of local as well as a deeper understanding of the culinary culture. Sample a variety of snacks, from hotpot to dumplings, throughout the tour.

Prepare Dan Dan noodles like a pro with this half-day cooking workshop. After a convenient pickup from hotels within the second ring road, travel with a guide to shop for spices at a local market. Then, head to a professional kitchen, where you’ll sip Jasmine tea and learn the secret sauce of Dan Dan noodles from an experienced chef. Savor your expertly-prepared meal and enjoy a complimentary beer before being returned to your hotel.

Get more out of your time in Chengdu by going on this action-packed day tour. You’ll see pandas, learn to cook Chinese dishes, eat amazing food, and visit a beautiful monastery— Wenshu Monastery. After a morning pickup, you’ll travel with ease to Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where entrance tickets are included. Explore the panda base, before enjoying a lunch in a hidden nunnery. The day ends with a market exploration and a Sichuan cooking class.

Discover the Story Behind Chengdu’s “City of Brocade” Learn how Shu Brocade shaped Chengdu’s identity and why the city earned its famous nickname over 2,000 years ago. Craft Your Own Shu Brocade Waist Fan Create a personalized keepsake using authentic Shu Brocade patterns and take home a piece of Chinese elegance. Experience Chengdu Through Local Conversations Share tea, snacks, stories, and insights with a local host while exploring the relaxed spirit of Chengdu beyond the guidebooks. Conveniently Located Near Chengdu East Railway Station Easy to reach whether you’re arriving by high-speed rail or exploring the city.

You will learn three very authentic vegetarian dishes from Chengdu. These are home-style dishes that almost every Chengdu household makes. The ingredients are easy to find and the methods are simple, so even if you have no cooking experience, you can give them a try. Why should you take my vegetarian cooking class? - These are vegetarian dishes with Chengdu characteristics. I want to show that vegetarian food doesn't have to be bland—it can be delicious, full of flavor, and has the characteristics of Chengdu - You'll come to a local's home, not a commercial kitchen. Not only will you learn to cook, but you'll also get a real glimpse into the daily life of locals. - The recipes I teach you were passed down from my mother, so you won't find them anywhere else. - I'm not a vegetarian, but I do enjoy vegetarian food. I hope you'll come and experience a non-vegetarian's take on vegetarian dishes.