On October 25, the 2026 Chengdu Marathon will start at Jinsha Site Museum. 35,000 runners will take on the challenge of exploring the 3,000-year-old city on foot.

 

After finishing the race, participants can take some time to slow down, let the autumn breeze soothe their tired legs, and enjoy a rendezvous with Chengdu in autumn.

 

 

Urban Everyday Charm

 

 

 

For a taste of Chengdu’s traditional everyday atmosphere, the Wuhou Shrine Museum is an option, where crimson walls and bamboo shadows evoke the legacy of the Three Kingdoms. Heading to Jinli Ancient Street across the road reveals stone-paved old lanes paired with red lanterns, which set a lively scene for sampling local treats, such as danhonggao pancakes and fried glutinous rice balls.

 

 

As evening falls, visitors can set off on a night cruise along the Jinjiang River. The golden tiles and upturned eaves of Anshun Covered Bridge shimmer on the water, while the lights of Hejiang Pavilion gradually come alive. The beauty of the riverside night gently washes away the fatigue from the marathon.

 

 

Fresh Air in Gentle Hills

 

 

 

For autumn scenery without a strenuous hike, one may visit Dujiangyan Scenic Area for the millennia-old irrigation system, or head to the Panda Valley for a close-up view of giant pandas. Both feature a relaxing escape to gentle hills for fresh air, with no challenging hikes.

 

 

Cultural Strolls

 

 

 

If you happen to be interested in culture and arts, it may be a good idea to watch planes take off at Shuangliu Airport Flower Fields, or unwind with a cup of tea at the century-old teahouse in Pengzhen Township. Aviation views paired with poetic urban exploration offer culture and art enthusiasts an opportunity to pause and enjoy the moment at their will.

 

 

Ancient Town Rambles

 

 

 

Runners with more time to spare can visit Chengdu’s ancient towns, stay awhile, and explore at a leisurely pace.

 

 

The riverside wharves of Huanglongxi Ancient Town set the tone for a slower pace. You can wander through the gentle hills and river valleys at a natural and relaxing pace. From the old streets lined with mansions at Anren Ancient Town and the riverside bustle at Yuantong Ancient Town to the ginkgo trees and gray tiles of Jiezi Ancient Town, each town is perfect for a day’s visit. There is no need to rush or wear yourself out.

 

 

Running the Chengdu Marathon offers a first glimpse of Chengdu. Wandering its streets at a leisurely pace is the way to come to understand Chengdu.

 

Edited by Zhang Yuanlin

Source: Home in Chengdu