A 7-Day In-Depth Chengdu Tour: Everything About Food, Accommodation, and Transportation Is Here!

"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom? If I were a bird, where would I fly? The twinkle of a star is not enough to form a constellation; the sum of a big tree gathers a single weight." Lately, I've been looping this song, "The Sum of Loneliness." Perhaps we are all sums of loneliness, so we gather together!

**Wide Narrow Alley – Embodying the Charm of Old Chengdu**

If you come to Chengdu, you must not miss this attraction: Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley). Although it's called Wide and Narrow Alley, it actually consists of Well Alley, Wide Alley, and Narrow Alley. Here, you can experience the local life of this city.

Kuanzhai Alley has always been a reflection of a leisurely and relaxed lifestyle. Some say Kuanzhai Alley is like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang. In my view, Nanluoguxiang's charm is ancient and traditional, while Kuanzhai Alley is leisurely and soothing. But they share one thing in common: plenty of specialty snacks. The local famous foods here will definitely satisfy your appetite!

Because Kuanzhai Alley preserves so much of old Chengdu culture, when you stroll through it, you'll see a blend of history and modern fashion, yet it feels harmonious, creating a wonderful sensation. The walls built with bricks from different eras, and the relief-like paintings of old street life, make Chengdu's afternoon leisurely and beautiful.

When you come to Kuanzhai Alley, don't just say you're here to see the scenery without eating anything—you'd be too embarrassed to claim you've visited. There are many Chengdu snacks here, perfect for a hearty feast. I love all kinds of wontons: sweet, savory, numbing, spicy—the flavors are superb and the prices are very cheap. Old Lady Rabbit Head, rabbit dices, street-side skewers, guokui (Chinese flatbread), Zhong dumplings, and boboji (cold skewers) are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here; it suits my taste perfectly—delicious and inexpensive, truly great.

Strolling through Kuanzhai Alley, feeling its charm, you'll find that you can slowly enjoy a tranquility that is hard to find in daily life. Sipping a cup of tea while eating Chengdu's specialty snacks—this is perhaps true enjoyment.

**Jiaoliao Hotel – Jiaoliao's New Nest, Memories of Kuanzhai; Chengdu's Blossoms Await Your Picking**

In ancient times, there was "the wren nests in the deep forest"; today, there is "the wren nests in Kuanzhai." Speaking of Kuanzhai Alley, this is a bustling area of Chengdu. From ancient times to the present, high-ranking officials and nobles have settled here, and even ordinary people often wander around here.

Nowadays, tourists and pedestrians come in an endless stream. From afar, you can smell the snacks wafting from various alleys, and hear the vendors' voices, rhythmically hawking their wares.

Jiaoliao Humanistic Boutique Hotel finds tranquility amidst noise. With a delicate and exquisite appearance, it sits humbly and plainly within the Kuanzhai Alley scenic area at No. 28 Kuan Alley. The hotel is near Metro Line 4. It is about 19 kilometers from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, about a 40-minute drive. Surrounding attractions include Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli, Tianfu Square, and Chunxi Road.

If you want to enjoy a peaceful vacation without missing out on the city's hustle and bustle, Jiaoliao Humanistic Boutique Hotel is the perfect choice.

Before coming, we had already inquired about the origin of the hotel's name. It is said that "Jiaoliao" originally refers to a bird, derived from Zhuangzi's writing: "The wren nests in the deep forest, needing but one branch." This embodies a philosophy of setting aside worldly troubles, guarding one's true heart, returning to nature, and achieving a carefree poetic dwelling, along with a philosophy of returning to nature and远离喧嚣.

This time, Jiaoliao does not nest in the deep forest but chooses this alley full of human warmth, situated by a long street bustling with tourists, opening up a haven of urban woodland for guests from afar.

Amid the noisy crowd, we pushed open this old, large gate. The first thing that caught our eyes was the main entrance. On the screen doors on both sides were hollow-carved patterns, including bat motifs symbolizing blessings and happiness. The two bats facing each other had water ripples above, signifying blessings as vast as the eastern sea. The bat on the central axis symbolized blessings descending from heaven. Together with the central one, they formed the five blessings arriving at the door, wishing all distinguished guests longevity, a good end, wealth, health, and virtue.

After crossing the courtyard and entering the corridor, we saw bamboo, tiles, flowing water, and rockeries, giving a sense of rustic elegance, as if entering a parallel space separate from the world's prosperity, only a wall away from the bustling outside. My companion was like a kid on a sugar high, constantly praising how beautiful it was and taking photos endlessly, laughing happily like a child.

Entering the lobby, we observed that the hotel's decoration style was full of the characteristics and elegance of Western Sichuan folk houses. The simple and elegant replica of Qing Dynasty architecture combined movement and stillness, revealing the essence of landscape within a small space. It seemed the owner put a lot of heart into it, with such exquisite decoration, no wonder it's so popular.

As we passed the corridor, the parrots hanging on both sides, jumping up and down, became unusually active because of our arrival, chirping incessantly, making my friend laugh. It seemed these birds were also welcoming us!

The green bricks and black tiles of the hotel interacted with the birds' chirping—movement and stillness complementing the hotel's design style, both vividly manifested.

The "movement" is reflected in the details of the hotel's interior decoration, with little bird-shaped ornaments echoing the hotel's name everywhere.

The "stillness" is reflected in the imitation ancient courtyard with blue-black bricks and tiles, where every plant and tree is serene, every bamboo and stone elegant, establishing a quiet, leisurely lifestyle, allowing one to roam freely in spirit.

Passing the corridor, we arrived at the accommodation area. Entering the guest room, we found that all materials used were natural, solid raw wood. The room also featured Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries, and a mortar for rice, fully interpreting the original meaning of returning to simplicity.

We noticed that the hardware facilities inside the room were also of high quality. Whether the bathroom fixtures, fully intelligent sensor toilets, or mattresses were all configured according to the top standards of international five-star hotels. Low-key luxury exuded a high-end atmosphere. Such configuration far exceeded other hotels—how could our group not be tempted?

Inheriting the culture of Laozi and Zhuangzi, creating high-end facilities, not flowing into vulgarity, not abandoning the world. Jiaoliao Hotel allows you to find a perfect balance between bustling excitement and peaceful seclusion, letting you enjoy tranquility away from the mundane while having the convenience of city life. All for your unique experience.

**Panda Base – Discover the Joy of Pandas**

Mentioning Sichuan, you must not forget the place where giant pandas live: the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Many people love the cute and chubby appearance of giant pandas. Previously, I could only see pandas online; browsing their pictures, I found them soft, adorable, and cute. This time, coming to the panda breeding base, I was especially excited to see real pandas—after all, they are our national treasure. "Serving the country by being cute" is the real strength of these baby pandas.

At this base, you will see many giant pandas—a completely different feeling from browsing pictures online!

The panda babies enjoy a national treasure-level treatment here. The environment is fully simulated to mimic pandas' wild habitat.

There are lakes, streams, and, of course, the pandas' favorite food: bamboo!

Most notably, there are "panda villas" built for them, serving as their daily leisure and entertainment venues. When the weather is cool, panda babies play here: some stroll leisurely in the yard, others roll on the ground—a carefree scene!

Visitors can observe the adorable pandas from behind railings. When it's hot, the pandas smartly hide in the rest area, where visitors can only see them sleeping soundly through the glass.

In short, when you come to Sichuan, you must visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The pandas here are in all kinds of poses; you'll find everything you want to see.

The national treasure giant pandas are truly adorable—chubby, cute, free, and happy. Suddenly I found myself envying these pandas; perhaps I'm not the only one!

**Childlike Fun Amidst White Snow – Taiziling Ski Resort**

If we talk about enjoying snow in winter, Chengdu people surely think of Xiling Snow Mountain, but there is an even more beautiful place waiting to be visited: Taiziling Ski Resort at Jiuding Mountain.

Taiziling Ski Resort is located in the Jiuding Mountain Scenic Area in Mao County, Aba Prefecture, the site of "China's Ancient Qiang City." It is 180 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, only about a three-and-a-half-hour drive, making it a professional-level ski resort at Chengdu's doorstep.

In winter, Jiuding Mountain is covered in silver, with white snow, welcoming a four-month sunny skiing season. Taiziling Ski Resort boasts the longest intermediate-to-advanced international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly divided from beginner to expert levels, and equipped with full imported new ski gear.

The ski area can accommodate 5,000 people simultaneously, with professional ski instructors available to meet the needs of enthusiasts of different levels. The resort also offers free introductory group lessons at various times, allowing visitors to quickly learn basic beginner skiing moves and quickly experience the joy of skiing.

Besides adult activities, the resort has a special area for children. In the snow play area, children slide down from heights on sleds accompanied by their families, filling the scene with laughter and joy.

As a top-level ice and snow resort in southwestern China, Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort is equipped with supporting leisure facilities such as the Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and Hemingzhuang Holiday View Restaurant. Coupled with the convenience of a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Chengdu to the ski hall, it offers a new destination for winter outdoor sports for Chengdu and surrounding tourists.

Taiziling Ski Resort's ski runs are divided by slope from low to high: 3 beginner runs, 3 intermediate runs, and 3 advanced runs. Each run has gentle slopes, giving beginners a full sense of security. The 3 intermediate runs are the domain of bold beginners and most regular players, where they can have fun to their heart's content.

Parents bringing children need not worry; there are also kid-friendly snow play runs with very gentle slopes, perfect for children. They can play safely and joyfully: snowball fights, building snowmen, and sledding—everything is available. Here, you can experience the innocence of childhood and the lost childlike fun.

If you drive here, you're in luck. When driving home at night, passing through Wenchuan, you can also enjoy the night view of Wenchuan.

Neon lights are brilliant, beautiful, giving a sense of peace and comfort. Only by skiing yourself can you know how charming it is—once you go, you'll be hooked!

When you immerse yourself in that pure white, amidst thrilling sports, you can appreciate the purity and grandeur of the mountains; while speeding down, listen to the wind whistling past your ears. Vast white snow, the world at your feet.

**Let You Taste the Flavor of Home – Yuan Gong**

A Chengdu Sichuan cuisine must-try: Yuan Gong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic Zigong cuisine (salt gang cuisine), with genuine flavors that let homesick locals taste food with a touch of home.

Specific location: No. 87-1 Xuedao Street. At the south entrance of Chunxi Road, cross the overpass and walk towards Xinhua Bookstore, about ten minutes. It's also not far from Qingshiqiao Seafood Market, about five minutes.

Before entering, we could see their sign from afar. The storefront is not particularly large, but it has an antique flavor with a strong Chinese style. It feels like a mid-to-high-end restaurant; the dining area inside is spacious and not cramped. The environment is definitely excellent.

The service staff are very friendly. When you enter, everyone greets you together. The host at the door leads you in, then the interior staff takes over.

They seem very attentive.

I must say the serving speed is very fast; shortly after we ordered, the dishes came one after another.

I especially recommend the old duck soup. The flavor is very fresh, the broth rich and delicious, and the soup base is truly umami. Drinking a bowl makes the whole body and mind feel relaxed. The duck meat is stewed very tender, not dry, very nourishing and healthful.

The Longmen hanging meat is really distinctive. When the server cuts it, they say: "First cut, good fortune heads; second cut, step by step promotion; third cut, happiness and fulfillment." It tastes like crispy pork, very crunchy.

If I have to say which dish impressed me most, it would definitely be the "naked shrimp." The naked shrimp is pre-peeled shrimp meat, definitely fresh, and the vein has been removed for peace of mind. Most importantly, there are taro chunks in the naked shrimp—the taro is delicious, soft and flavorful, with an excellent texture.

Yuan Gong clam and frog: visually stunning, like a nebula chain. The taste is very good; this combination of frog and clam is my first time trying. I have to say it's highly innovative and tastes good too.

Zai Jiang diving frog: the meat is tender and the flavor pure. This dish looks very spicy, but actually it's okay; the frog meat is very tender, making taste buds jump in the mouth—pretty good!

The dishes are really delicious, and the portions are generous. It's also a great place for gatherings and entertaining guests. Recommendation rating: five stars!

**Red and Hot Skewers**

Located just a few minutes' walk from Exit A of Huazhaobi Metro Station, Chengdu Gua Skewers has a very eye-catching sign. When I walked in, I felt the style was unique, very Chinese, quite interesting.

I have to say their storefront decoration is very grand. Inside are square tables with enough space between them, so it doesn't feel crowded. Sitting inside is comfortable.

The serving speed is also fast. I should mention that their skewers are cold pot skewers: you choose your ingredients, and the shop cooks them and brings them directly. No need to worry about whether they're cooked—just eat them as soon as they arrive. Very convenient.

The dry dipping powder is their specialty. The flavor is particularly good, with lots of crushed peanuts on top, which seems great. My friend loves it so much that he wanted to ask the shop about the exact seasoning, but that's impossible; the shop won't reveal it. The dry powder is good, but for those like me who can't handle very spicy food, it's not suitable. For spice lovers, this is your magic dipping sauce!

Of course, they don't just have skewers. Bowl dishes are also their specialty. Many small bowl dishes with good flavors. Recommended must-order: Spicy hot pot noodles (mao huoguo fen). The noodles are really tasty and very flavorful. Every strand is coated with the soup, the taste is amazing—absolutely great!

Mao potato chunks are my favorite. Not too spicy, and the potatoes paired with the seasonings are delicious to the max. The potatoes are neither hard nor too soft—just the right texture. After one bowl, I want another.

My first time eating rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Gua Skewers. Unexpectedly, the rabbit kidney tasted very good, even better than I imagined. Tender texture, one bite each—really satisfying.

After finishing the skewers, have some ice jelly to cut the grease. Life is so good.

**Savoring Time in Bie Yuan (Other Courtyard)**

This tavern, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and filled with various drinks and snacks, became a favorite for Chengdu's drinkers as soon as it appeared.

Perhaps you encounter various frustrations in life, but on such a night, having a party with friends is not a bad choice. It may help you temporarily forget unpleasant things and let you fully enjoy a pleasant time. Savor it, savor it slowly!

This small tavern is actually near 339, on the bar street. As soon as you enter, you'll find the decoration quite nice. The flashy, boozy atmosphere makes you feel like you're at a midnight cocktail party, with a kind of mystery.

The whole place has two floors. The stairway design to the second floor is quite interesting, with flashing lights. It's also an Instagram-worthy decoration spot; indeed, it's very eye-catching. Inside, there are several rows of moving colorful lights, changing colors and moving up and down, adding to the atmosphere.

This place is practically a museum of alcohol.

In addition to 75 kinds of alcohol plus over 20 specialty cocktails, they recently introduced "hot pot liquor." This drink scores full marks for appearance. Have you ever eaten hot pot? Have you ever drunk alcohol? But have you tried such a high-looking "hot pot liquor"? Hmm, its shape resembles traditional Beijing copper hot pot. It contains mellow unfiltered sake and strong vodka. The pot comes with base ingredients: besides dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, and small kumquats, rose petals are added—full marks for romance.

The alcohol content is not high. It tastes sweet and sour, with a fruity and floral fragrance, appealing to both men and women. The portion is large; two or three people can order just this pot. Sitting at the bar, watching the bartender's smooth skills is itself a wonderful enjoyment.

Perhaps in such moments, we can find the unrestrained self!

**Give Yourself a Reason**

I finally understand a truth: In a person's life, there should be at least two impulses—one for a love that disregards everything, and one for a trip that leaves on a whim...