Looking for hands-on food experiences in Chengdu? The city’s cooking classes range from quick market-to-kitchen workshops to in-depth traditional sessions.
My favorite programs start with morning market visits where you’ll learn about Sichuan spices before heading to the kitchen. The half-day classes featuring Mapo Tofu and dumpling-making are especially practical – you’ll use these recipes for years to come.
For a cultural bonus, pick a class that includes the Sichuan Cuisine Museum or combines with a morning panda visit. You’ll find English-speaking instructors and easy hotel pickup at most schools.
Let’s explore the best cooking classes Chengdu has to offer.
Top Tours
- Half-day cooking classes in Chengdu offer hands-on experiences in preparing iconic Sichuan dishes, with options for vegan-friendly and personalized instruction.
- Private and personalized cooking classes provide tailored experiences, including guided tours of local markets and one-on-one supervision from English-speaking chefs.
- Specialized cooking classes focus on preparing signature Sichuan dishes like Mapo Tofu and traditional Chinese buns, with limited group sizes for personalized attention.
- Unique culinary experiences combine panda viewing, guided tours of the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, and hands-on cooking sessions with renowned chefs.
- Cooking classes in Chengdu generally range from $83.99 to $123.08 per person, with high recommendation rates and positive reviews from previous participants.
Half-Day Chengdu Cooking Class With Local Market Visit
What better way to learn about the vibrant culinary culture of Chengdu than with a half-day cooking class and market tour?
Boasting 312 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this experience is a must-do for foodies visiting the city. Led by professional chefs, the class takes place in a Sichuan courtyard restaurant, where you’ll learn to prepare an array of authentic regional dishes.
Start by exploring a local spice market with a guide, then return to the kitchen to cook and enjoy your creations.
With vegan-friendly options and a hassle-free format, this class caters to a variety of dietary needs and preferences.
Read our full review: Half-Day Chengdu Cooking Class With Local Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Stepping beyond the broader culinary experiences offered in the Half-Day Chengdu Cooking Class With Local Market Visit, this half-day professional Mapo Tofu cooking class invites participants to enjoy the intricate flavors of this iconic Sichuan dish.
Located in Chengdu, the class includes a market tour, all necessary ingredients, and instruction from knowledgeable guides. Participants can enjoy local tea or beer, light refreshments, and either lunch or dinner depending on the schedule.
The class also provides recipes and a souvenir, with a maximum of 10 travelers per session. Rated 5.0 out of 17 reviews, this class is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Mapo Tofu experience in Chengdu.
Read our full review: Half-Day Professional Mapo Tofu Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Half-Day Chinese Bun Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
This half-day Chinese bun cooking class in Chengdu offers participants a hands-on experience in mastering the art of traditional Chinese steamed buns.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the class includes a market tour to source local ingredients. Participants will then learn the techniques for making and shaping the buns, before enjoying their creations for lunch or dinner.
With a maximum group size of 15, the class provides a personalized and engaging atmosphere. Travelers have awarded the experience a 100% recommendation, praising the guide’s expertise and the overall friendly vibe.
Conveniently located near the Liang Jia Xiang Metro Stop, this class is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Chinese cooking adventure in Chengdu.
Read our full review: Half-Day Chinese Bun Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit
Oftentimes, travelers seek an immersive culinary experience that allows them to explore the rich flavors and traditions of Sichuan cuisine.
The Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit offers precisely that. With a 100% recommendation rate and a 5.0 overall rating, this highly-rated class provides a comprehensive introduction to the regional specialties.
Participants will enjoy a guided tour of a local wet market, a hands-on cooking session, and a delectable Sichuan-style dinner prepared under the supervision of a fluent English-speaking chef.
The class is suitable for all skill levels and dietary needs, making it an excellent choice for both seasoned foodies and culinary novices alike.
Read our full review: Private Sichuan Cooking Class Including Local Wet Market Visit Review
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Chengdu: Sichuan Cuisine-Themed Museum Cooking Experience
For travelers eager to delve deeper into the rich culinary traditions of Sichuan, the Chengdu: Sichuan Cuisine-Themed Museum Cooking Experience offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This 5-hour activity includes a guided tour of the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, a hands-on cooking class featuring three signature Sichuan dishes, and the chance to interact with a nationally-renowned Top Chef.
Participants will learn about essential ingredients, cutting skills, and cooking processes, culminating in the enjoyment of their self-prepared dishes.
With round-trip hotel transfers, fluent English-speaking guides, and a certificate of completion, this experience provides a comprehensive immersion into the captivating world of Sichuan cuisine.
Read our full review: Chengdu: Sichuan Cuisine-Themed Museum Cooking Experience Review
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Chengdu Panda Base Tour With Tickets and Cooking Class
Embarking on a captivating Chengdu adventure, travelers can enjoy the enchanting world of pandas and the culinary delights of Sichuan cuisine through the Chengdu Panda Base Tour With Tickets and Cooking Class.
With a 5-hour duration, the experience includes hotel pickup, a private group tour, and the opportunity to see both giant and red pandas.
After the panda visit, you will enjoy a hands-on cooking class featuring popular Sichuan dishes like Gongbao Chicken and Mapo Tofu. The chef provides step-by-step guidance, and guests can savor the fruits of their labor.
Flexible scheduling allows for additional exploration in the city known for its relaxed lifestyle and scenic beauty.
Read our full review: Chengdu Panda Base Tour With Tickets and Cooking Class Review
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Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class
The Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class offers an immersive opportunity for travelers to explore the rich culinary traditions of China’s Sichuan province.
This 6-hour experience begins with a guided tour of a local market, where participants can explore fresh produce and meats. Visitors then head to the Sichuan cuisine museum to learn about the region’s culinary history before participating in a hands-on cooking session under the guidance of a professional chef.
The class covers traditional Sichuan dishes, and participants receive a cooking certificate upon completion. The experience culminates with a visit to a food street, where travelers can sample local delicacies.
Convenient pickup, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary equipment and ingredients are included, making this class a comprehensive and engaging way to discover Sichuan’s flavors.
Read our full review: Sichuan Cuisine Cooking Class Review
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Chengdu: Cooking Class With Fresh Market Half Day Experience
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Chengdu can embark on the Chengdu: Cooking Class With Fresh Market Half Day Experience.
This 4.5-hour activity offers free cancellation and flexible payment options. Accompanied by a bilingual guide, you will explore a local spice market, learn hands-on cooking techniques from a professional chef, and savor the self-prepared dishes.
Positive reviews highlight the supportive guidance, informative nature, and enjoyment of the cooking process and meal. Ideal for foodies, the class provides a hassle-free tour with all ingredients and meals included, along with the opportunity to discover Chengdu’s renowned cuisine.
Read our full review: Chengdu: Cooking Class With Fresh Market Half Day Experience Review
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Chengdu Cooking Class With One Way Private Transfer
This Chengdu cooking class with one-way private transfer offers a convenient and immersive culinary experience for travelers.
The 2-hour class focuses on typical Chinese cuisine, particularly Sichuan dishes like Gongbao Chicken, sweet sour pork, Mapo doufu, and dumplings. Taught by a Chinese chef proficient in simple English, the hands-on class provides an opportunity to learn local cooking techniques.
Participants can choose to cook for lunch or dinner. The experience also includes a 30-minute car transfer to the cooking studio.
After the class, travelers are responsible for arranging their own transportation back to the hotel, with readily available taxi services.
This activity blends cooking and culture, making it ideal for foodies.
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Half-Day Sichuan Cooking Class Experience in Chengdu
Typically, the Half-Day Sichuan Cooking Class Experience in Chengdu offers visitors an immersive culinary journey into the renowned flavors of the Sichuan province.
Priced from $83.99 per person, the class accommodates a maximum of 5 travelers and includes dinner, hotel pickup and drop-off, and instruction from a local English-speaking chef.
Participants will learn to prepare iconic Sichuan dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Mapo Tofu, and Sweet and Sour Pork, as well as classic Chinese dumplings.
With a focus on hands-on cooking and clear guidance, the class provides an intimate and enjoyable experience that allows guests to savor the results of their culinary efforts in a relaxed setting.
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Private Panda Tour With Cooking Class One-Day Trip
For those seeking an immersive Chengdu experience, the Private Panda Tour with Cooking Class One-Day Trip offers a well-rounded adventure.
Priced from $123.08 per person, this private tour includes a cooking class where participants learn to prepare 3 Sichuan dishes, as well as lunch and dinner.
Travelers are provided with bottled water, coffee, and tea, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
The tour starts at 7:30 am and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Chengdu’s second ring road.
With an overall rating of 4.5 from 7 reviews, this experience is a great way to explore Chengdu’s panda population and culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Private Panda Tour With Cooking Class One-Day Trip Review
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Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit
Commencing with a half-day deep dive into the art of preparing Chengdu’s iconic dandan noodles, this cooking class invites participants to explore the vibrant flavors and time-honored techniques that define this regional culinary staple.
Accommodation includes English-speaking guides, hotel pickup and dropoff, all necessary ingredients and refreshments, as well as a hearty meal.
With a maximum of 8 travelers per class, the intimate setting allows for personalized attention and hands-on learning.
Situated in the heart of Chengdu, the class also features an optional visit to a local spice market, offering a well-rounded culture.
Suitable for all ages and dietary requirements, this experience promises to elevate one’s appreciation for Sichuan cuisine.
Read our full review: Half-Day Dandan Noodles Cooking Class With Local Spice Market Visit Review
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Common Questions
What Are the Dietary Restrictions Accommodated During the Classes?
The cooking classes typically accommodate various dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal options. Participants are encouraged to communicate any special dietary needs prior to the class to ensure they’re catered for.
Can the Classes Be Booked for Private Groups?
Many cooking class providers allow participants to book private group sessions. This can provide a more personalized experience and the ability to customize the menu and class activities to suit the group’s preferences and dietary needs.
Are the Ingredients Used in the Classes Locally Sourced?
The ingredients used in the cooking classes are typically locally sourced, allowing students to learn about and experience the fresh, high-quality produce available in the region. This provides a more authentic and enriching learning experience.
What Is the Minimum and Maximum Number of Participants per Class?
The minimum and maximum number of participants per class varies by provider, but typically ranges from 4 to 12 students. This allows for personalized instruction and hands-on experience in a small group setting.
Are the Cooking Classes Suitable for Beginners or Experienced Cooks?
The cooking classes are suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. They offer instruction tailored to participants’ skill levels, allowing everyone to learn and improve their culinary skills regardless of their prior experience in the kitchen.
Sum Up
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, offers an array of exceptional cooking classes for visitors seeking an authentic culinary experience. From learning to prepare classic Sichuan dishes like mapo tofu and dandan noodles to exploring the vibrant local markets, these classes provide an immersive look into the region’s rich food culture. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, Chengdu’s diverse cooking class options cater to all interests and skill levels.