It's Really Wise Not to Enter Sichuan When Young: Chengdu—a City You Won't Want to Leave

Chengdu, a place you never want to leave once you arrive.

A land of abundance where you'll never want to depart—Chengdu, this ancient capital of Shu with a long history of 3,000 years, is not only surrounded by numerous scenic spots but is also a world-renowned food capital. It is definitely a must-visit destination for you.

Jinli Ancient Street, located in the land of abundance, Sichuan, in Chengdu. Walking into Jinli Ancient Street in the Wuhou District of Chengdu feels like traveling back in time. China has countless ancient streets, but this one is unforgettable.

Jinli Ancient Street is close to Wuhou Shrine. It is neither wide nor narrow, and on the surface, it doesn't look much different from ordinary alleys. But once you step inside, you realize it's very different. Red lanterns hang at the entrance, and inside is no exception. As you walk along, you see long vertical lanterns strung together, giving the impression of a market in ancient times.

The further you go, a small river ditch by the roadside catches my attention. There are many aquatic plants in the river, the water is crystal clear, and many cute little goldfish can be seen swimming around. When tourists feed them, the goldfish rush over to compete for the food. Their joyful mood makes the surrounding water ripple layer after layer. Where there is river water, the air is naturally good, and these cute little creatures add new vitality to the place. This is an ancient street full of life at all times.

Where there is beautiful scenery, there is naturally good food. Jinli Ancient Street is full of delicious food. Various shops display large plaques, and there is really everything you could want to eat and drink.

The names of the shops are very artistic, easily giving you a feeling of traveling back in time. There are also many spicy skewers in the roadside shops, so tourists who love spicy food are in for a treat.

Cold noodles, glutinous rice cakes, ice powder, grilled meat skewers, steamed sweet cakes, and many other delicacies whose names I can't remember.

Some people also sell candied hawthorns, sugar figurines, antiques, and paper fans, all over the place.

There is another flavor that can't be missed in ancient alleys: the candy sellers. That kind of hard white candy can stick your teeth together, but it is especially sweet and delicious.

This is the ancient street in my memory, perfectly fulfilling my expectations of what an ancient street should be. If I had enough time, I would love to take a set of photos in the ancient street, holding an oil-paper umbrella, with a nice hairstyle, wearing ancient costumes, and walking leisurely. I would surely have a unique experience.

The surrounding shops are all antique-style, with many decorations carrying an 'ancient flavor.' Everything doesn't feel modern, and even after leaving, the feeling lingers. Stepping into Jinli Ancient Street brings back a dream of ancient times!

If you are a foodie, then when you come to Chengdu, you must visit many of Chengdu's food spots to taste them. Sichuan has always been known as the 'Land of Abundance,' with beautiful mountains and clear waters, outstanding people, a long history, and profound culinary culture. Just hot pot alone has dozens of variations due to different regions. Chengdu is the capital of this land of abundance. Although it cannot encompass all the essence of Sichuan, you can still experience Sichuan's food culture through it.

Eastern Suburb Memory: Unlock Your Memories

This is the highland of Chengdu's cultural creative industry. Many people say it resembles Beijing's 798, but I feel it has a stronger impact of historical contrast than 798.

The former red brick factory is now a venue for avant-garde art exhibitions; the former boiler room is now a music bar; the former Soviet-assisted office building is now a coffee shop and hotel. Everywhere reflects the changes of the times and creates a strong contrast. It seems there is a crack in time and space, yet everything coexists harmoniously. Eastern Suburb Memory, formerly Chengdu Eastern Suburb Music Park, was built on the site of the former state-owned Hongguang Electronic Tube Factory and transformed into a modern cultural industry park, officially opening on September 29, 2011. On November 1, 2012, it was renamed Eastern Suburb Memory.

It originally started as a music-themed park, so you can see many sculptures related to music and art elements. As a former old industrial site, the remaining factory buildings,废弃 pipes, tanks, or machine tools have been fully utilized by designers, many becoming works of art.

First, it carries the memory of old industrial elements: red bricks, factory buildings, pipelines, big chimneys, machine tools, and other industrial tools and elements. After a series of renovations, it has become a leisure park area.

Of course, memories are not only brought by these elements but also by the inheritance of industrial civilization. Besides old industrial memories, there are also memories of life in the 1960s, 70s, and 80s: bicycles, mailboxes, red lacquered wooden furniture, supply and marketing cooperatives—full of nostalgic feelings.

It is a music hub where you can see musical instruments placed around. In this park, there are many musicians or music students carrying a guitar or other instruments, dragging a speaker to perform live. Many people will stop by to watch and listen.

Even the bar owner plays and sings himself. There are many cafes, dessert shops, and bars in the park. When passing by a bar, the owner was playing and singing, so I chose that place without hesitation. The weather was nice, and at that moment, I really enjoyed such a time. I love the atmosphere of live music performances.

At Eastern Suburb Memory, there are cafes and drink shops. But don't forget, there is also a cozy beautiful place—the bookstore. For those who enjoy a slow life and appreciate exquisite living, books are indispensable.

The most enjoyable time is having an afternoon tea or coffee while reading a favorite book, or watching a play in some theater, experiencing the feeling of a movie. Perhaps in such an environment, you will find that life can be so comfortable, and you can enjoy the tranquility that time brings.

It is precisely the industrial-style photography, music enjoyment, and slow pace of life that are my favorite lifestyle and state. Therefore, Eastern Suburb Memory Music Park is the best place for me to relax.

Jiaoliao Hotel—A Place of Culture, Beautiful Scenery, and Tranquility

Chengdu Jiaoliao Boutique Hotel is located within the Kuanzhai Alley scenic area. In the bustling Kuanzhai Alley, it creates a quiet haven, exuding classical and elegant Chinese cultural atmosphere.

Ten years have passed like rainy nights, the world is chaotic.

What remains unchanged is the width and narrowness; what changes is the human heart. We are never quite satisfied with this bustling world. After experiencing the ultimate beauty, we suddenly realize that even in noisy places there is tranquility. Right in the middle of Kuanzhai Alley stands the Jiaoliao Hotel.

Amid the noisy crowd, we gently push open this door full of stories. While waiting for the butler to open it, the old door itself becomes a must-see sight. The gate is made of red bean wood, untouched by any restoration, retaining its original appearance. Painted in the middle are traditional Chinese door gods. The left door god holds peonies, and the right one holds a wine vessel (jue), together symbolizing promotion and advancement. It is said that this design is also to wish the guests staying at Jiaoliao a thriving career and continuous promotion, leading us back to the most natural state of life.

Pushing the door open, we see a long corridor. The blue-tiled walls on both sides contrast sharply with the steel-and-concrete high-rises. For those of us tired of the fast-paced urban life, blue tiles seem to soothe our constantly tense nerves, making us want to touch and feel them.

As we walk through the corridor, the birds hopping up and down on both sides become unusually active because of our arrival, chirping incessantly. Although we cannot understand bird language, we can feel a warm welcome from their calls.

Then the scene changes, and we officially enter the accommodation area. The Jiaoliao Hotel is quite large, and we walk through, admiring its beauty. It has four floors, with accommodations and an open-air tea terrace. Each floor has its unique scenery, changing with every step, making people stop to admire.

Upon entering the room, we see the overall color scheme is light natural wood, without any other color embellishments.

From the bed to the wardrobe, window frames, tables, and chairs, all are made of smooth polished Chinese parasol wood, used directly. The facilities are quite complete, even more well-equipped than my home. This lifestyle close to nature is truly what we need.

We also notice that each room has orchids, surrounded by bamboo. Looking closely, we can see chrysanthemums carved on some reliefs, creating a very elegant atmosphere. Combined with the dim lighting, the whole room feels very warm. The details reveal understated luxury.

The hotel's equipment is truly high-end, matching the standards of five-star hotels. Every aspect brings us the ultimate stay experience. The mattress, Kohler bathroom fixtures, and smart toilet—everything is perfect, giving us the best enjoyment. As my fingers touch every part of the room, I feel the owner's dedication, and I am somewhat moved.

The guest room also has a spa room. Such considerate arrangement is very much appreciated. After a day of sightseeing and tiredness, we can lie in the spa room, enjoy the masseur's service, relax our muscles and bones, and fully indulge in long-lost comfort.

At Jiaoliao, nestled among mountains, forests, stones, and bamboos, we savor the Zen-like elegance and poetic dwelling. The bustling Kuanzhai Alley is crowded every day. Beyond the long street of flowing crowds, in the tranquility within the hustle, Jiaoliao quietly watches the people coming and going at its door.