Here’s a round-up of some of the highlights to see and do in Chengdu.

Bold, lively and fun, Chengdu is a city that knows when to turn up the heat as well as when to slow down. The capital of Sichuan is a place where tucking into fiery hotpot at a table with friends as a prelude to a late night on the tiles is just as representative of everyday life as is a leisurely stroll through one of its verdant parks. This youthful energy coupled with the city’s relaxed attitude, are behind Chengdu’s increasing pull for businesses, diplomats – and, of course, visitors. With a growing range of air connections, getting here is ever easier. A flying six-day, visa-free visit to China’s most liveable city will definitely pack a punch.

The past few years have revolutionised Chengdu’s hospitality scene, with the addition of a few standout properties that have redefined the aesthetics of high-end hotels in the city. This bustling centre has been chosen as a location by chains large and small to try out new concepts in the hospitality sphere – be it creating a space that feels homely while also being a great example of contemporary class, or rethinking a model of tourism that is closer to the residents’ experience of the city. From age-old sites to new towers – and hidden gems – join us as we tour the best addresses to book for your stay.

That a side helping of milk is sometimes requested in Chengdu should give you a good indication of how spicy Sichuan cuisine truly is. Still, there is an amazing variety in the ways that the region’s potent chillies and peppercorns can be put to use: from ‘mapo tofu’ to ‘dandan noodles’, many of the region’s recipes have become beloved internationally – chief among them the satisfying hotpot. These dishes have a kick but they have also been reinterpreted in their most sophisticated versions by smart chefs. Here are some of the city’s most sought-after tables and a tip on where to head for an unmatched nightcap.

Both the fashion sense and the spending power of residents in Chengdu have made this city in Sichuan a serious contender in terms of high-end retail, with plenty of international brands choosing it as one of their top picks for expansion in China. Shopping is serious business here: malls such as Taikoo Li and Chengdu IFS are landscaped and planned to deliver on design credentials not just shelf space. And given their extended opening hours, it’s never too late for a quick spree. Walking around the city you’ll spot passers-by chatting, shopping bags in hand, well into the evening.

The heart of Chengdu’s cultural life beats inside venues whose sweeping architecture enhances the activities within. From books to music and contemporary art, the city’s most interesting players have created spaces where spending time and exploring feels natural. Many of the city’s neighbourhoods are increasingly becoming home to cultural players that are bringing new sparks of creativity into the community – here are three cases in point. Be it because of innovative models or dedication to bringing China’s cultural highlights to the world, some have attracted interest and attention from beyond the country’s borders.

Despite being one of China’s largest and most populous cities, Chengdu stands out for its abundance of green spaces, both inside the city’s perimeter and on its outskirts. Unusually for such a large city, more than 40 per cent of the downtown area is green space, while more than a third of the entire municipality is covered by forests. Whether you want to explore a different side to the city at a slower pace or you fancy a day away from the buzz, Chengdu’s parks are perfect places in which to lie back and enjoy immersing yourself in nature. This is only one of the factors making it one of China’s most liveable cities.