I was going to post a new thread on getting Chengdu advice, but this one is pretty recent so I'll just hijack this thread! I'll have 48 hours in Chengdu by myself next month. 8AM on Friday to 8AM on Sunday. Staying at the Renaissance.

1. Pandas - I understand that it is important to get there right when it opens in order to see the pandas most active and to somewhat beat the crowds. I'm planning on going on a Saturday, as I don't get there early enough on Friday. Any issues with that?
2. I see that there are like 4 different panda centers near Chengdu. Which one is best?
3. It seems like taking photos w/ pandas is on / off based on health of pandas and other factors. Any advice on this? I'll go either way, but if there's one spot that will allow me a selfie with a panda, I'll take that option haha.
4. Hotpot - I have two dinners in Chengdu (note: after Chengdu, I will have nearly two weeks in other Chinese cities)... Should I just go all-in and do two hot pot dinners in a row?
5. Anyone familiar with Chengdu a runner? I'm an avid runner, and I'd love to get a daily run in. What are the best spots?
6. Any other advice?

Thanks in advance for any and all advice! I know there's a lot on Tripadvisor, but I trust Flyertalk way more as a source...