Welcome to Copy: A Deep 7-Day Chengdu Tour — Food, Accommodation, and Transportation All Here!
"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom; if I were a bird, where would I fly; the twinkling of a star alone cannot 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, which is why we come together!
Wide Narrow Alley — Embodying the Essence of Old Chengdu
If you come to Chengdu, you must not miss this attraction — Wide Narrow Alley.
Though called Wide Narrow Alley, it actually consists of Well Alley, Wide Alley, and Narrow Alley. Here, you can experience the local life of this city.
Wide Narrow Alley has always been a reflection of a leisurely and comfortable lifestyle. Some say Wide Narrow Alley is like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang. In my view, Nanluoguxiang carries an ancient and traditional charm, while Wide Narrow Alley is more leisurely and soothing. However, they share one common feature: an abundance of local snacks. The famous local delicacies here will surely satisfy your appetite!
Since Wide Narrow Alley preserves much of old Chengdu's culture, as you stroll through it, you'll see a blend of history and modern fashion. Surprisingly, it doesn't feel disharmonious but rather creates a奇妙 sensation. The rows of walls built with bricks from different eras, along with the relief-like paintings of old street life, make the afternoon in Chengdu both leisurely and beautiful.
When you come to Wide Narrow Alley, don't say you're just here for the scenery—if you don't eat something, I'm afraid you'll be embarrassed to say you've visited. There are plenty of Chengdu snacks here, perfect for a feast. My favorite is the various types of wontons—sweet, salty, numbing, spicy—super delicious and very affordable. Old Mother's Rabbit Head, diced rabbit, roadside skewers, guokui, Zhong Shui Jiao, and Bobo Chicken are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here—tasty and not expensive, really great.
Wandering through Wide Narrow Alley and soaking in its charm, you'll find that you can slowly enjoy a tranquility rarely experienced in daily life. Sipping a cup of tea while eating Chengdu's specialty snacks—this might be true enjoyment.
Jiaoliao Hotel — Jiaoliao New Nest, Memories of Wide Narrow Alley; 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 Wide Narrow Alley." Wide Narrow Alley is a bustling area of Chengdu. Throughout history, dignitaries have settled here, and even ordinary folks often wander around.
Today, tourists and pedestrians come in an endless stream. From afar, you can smell the aromas of snacks wafting from every corner of the alley, hear the vendors' voices rhythmically hawking their goods.
Jiaoliao Boutique Hotel seeks tranquility amidst noise. With its delicate and subtle form, it modestly nestles at No. 28 Kuan Alley within the Wide Narrow Alley scenic area. The hotel is near Metro Line 4. It is about 19 km from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, approximately a 40-minute drive. Nearby attractions include Wide Narrow Alley, Jinli, Tianfu Square, and Chunxi Road.
If you want both a peaceful holiday and the bustle of the city, Jiaoliao 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" is a type of bird, derived from Zhuangzi's words: "The wren nests in the deep forest, using only one branch." This implies a poetic dwelling that abandons worldly troubles, guards the true heart, returns to nature, and attains freedom, along with a philosophy of returning to nature away from the hustle and bustle.
This time, however, the wren does not nest in the deep forest but chooses this alley filled with the breath of human life, situated by a long street teeming with visitors, offering a haven amidst urban forests for travelers from afar.
Amid the noisy crowd, we push open this aged and heavy door. The first thing that catches our eye is the main gate, with carved hollow patterns on the screen doors on both sides. Among them, the bat pattern symbolizes blessings and happiness. The two blessings on the diagonal, with water ripples above, imply blessings as vast as the eastern sea. The blessing on the central axis represents blessings descending from heaven. Together with the one in the middle, they form the Five Blessings arriving at the door, wishing all honored guests longevity, a good death, wealth, health, and virtue.
Passing through the courtyard into the corridor, we see a bamboo, a tile, flowing water, and rockery, giving a sense of rustic elegance, as if entering a parallel space separated from the worldly splendor by just one wall. My accompanying friend, as if possessed, kept saying how beautiful it was, constantly taking photos, happy as a child.
Entering the lobby, we observe that the entire hotel's decoration style is filled with the characteristics and elegance of Western Sichuan folk houses. The simple and elegant imitation Qing Dynasty ancient architecture achieves a dynamic balance, revealing the essence of mountains and waters within a small space. The hotel owner seems to have put great effort into such exquisite decoration—no wonder it's so popular.
As we passed through the corridor, the parrots hanging on both sides, jumping up and down, became unusually active because of our arrival, chirping nonstop, making my friend laugh. It seems these birds were also welcoming our stay!
The hotel's blue bricks and black tiles are closely linked with the birds' chirping, one moving and one still, complementing the hotel's design style, reflecting both dynamics and stillness.
The "movement" is reflected in the meticulous details of the hotel's decoration: bird-shaped ornaments echo the hotel's name everywhere.
The "stillness" is reflected in the antique quadrangle courtyard of blue-black bricks and tiles, where every plant and tree is exquisite, every bamboo and stone brings elegance, establishing a quiet and leisurely lifestyle, allowing one to roam freely in spirit.
Passing through the corridor, we arrive at the accommodation area. Entering the guest rooms, we find that the materials used are all natural, solid wood. The rooms also feature Shu embroidery, one of the four famous embroideries, and a mortar for rice processing, fully interpreting the return to simplicity.
Careful observation reveals that the room's hardware facilities are also of high quality. Whether it's the bathroom, fully automatic smart toilet, or mattress, they are all configured according to top international five-star hotel standards. Low-key luxury exudes a high-end atmosphere, far surpassing other hotels. How could our group not be tempted?
Inheriting the culture of Laozi and Zhuangzi, creating high-end facilities, not flowing with the vulgar, not abandoning the world. Jiaoliao Hotel helps you find the perfect balance between bustling excitement and peaceful seclusion, allowing you to enjoy both the tranquility beyond the world and the convenience of urban chaos—all for your unique experience.
Panda Base — Discovering the Joy of Pandas
When mentioning Sichuan, you must not forget the home of giant pandas — the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Many people love the cute and clumsy appearance of giant pandas. Before, I could only see pandas online. Browsing pictures of pandas, I found them really soft, cute, and adorable. Coming to the breeding base this time, thinking about seeing real pandas, I was extremely excited—after all, they are our national treasure. "Being cute for the country" is their true strength.
At this base, you will see many giant pandas, which is a completely different feeling from browsing pictures online!
The panda babies enjoy a national treasure-level treatment here. The environment is fully simulated to match the wild living conditions of giant pandas.
There are lakes, streams, and of course, their favorite food—bamboo!
Most notably, a "Panda Villa" has been built for them. This is also their daily leisure and entertainment area. When the weather is cool, the pandas play here, some strolling leisurely in the yard, others rolling on the ground—a scene of carefree enjoyment!
Visitors can also watch the adorable pandas from behind the railings. When the weather is hot, the pandas wisely retreat to the rest area, where visitors can only watch 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, everything you want to see.
The national treasure giant pandas are truly adorable—clumsy, cute, free, and happy. Suddenly, I found myself envying these pandas. Perhaps I'm not the only one who feels this way!
Childlike Joy in the White Snow — Taiziling Ski Resort
When it comes to winter snow viewing, Chengdu locals naturally think of Xiling Snow Mountain. But there's 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 of Mao County, the site of "China's Ancient Qiang City" in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It is 180 km from downtown Chengdu, only about a 3.5-hour drive, making it a professional-level ski resort on Chengdu's doorstep.
In winter, Jiuding Mountain is covered in silver and white snow, ushering in a 4-month sunny ski season. Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort boasts the longest intermediate-to-advanced international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly divided from beginner to top-level, plus a full set of imported new ski equipment.
The ski resort can accommodate 5,000 skiers simultaneously and is equipped with professional ski instructors to fully meet the needs of enthusiasts at different levels. The resort also offers free beginner group lessons at different times, allowing visitors to quickly learn basic skiing moves and experience the joy of skiing.
In addition to adult activities, the ski resort has specially prepared areas for children. In the snow play area, children sled down from heights with their families, filling the scene with laughter and joy.
As the top ice-and-snow resort in Southwest China, Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort is also equipped with leisure facilities such as Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and Hemingzhuang Holiday View Restaurant. Plus, the convenience of a 3.5-hour drive from Chengdu directly to the ski hall provides new options for winter outdoor sports for locals and tourists from Chengdu and surrounding areas.
Taiziling Ski Resort has ski runs divided by slope gradient into 3 beginner runs, 3 intermediate runs, and 3 advanced runs, each with gentle slopes, giving beginners a full sense of safety. The 3 intermediate runs are the domain of bold beginners and most regular players, who can have a great time here.
Parents with children need not worry—there are also snow play runs suitable for kids, with very gentle slopes, ensuring safe and fun play. Snowball fights, building snowmen, and sledding—everything is available. Here, you can experience the innocence of childhood and the lost joy of youth.
If you drive here, you're also in luck. Driving home at night, passing through Wenchuan, you can enjoy the night scenery of Wenchuan.
Neon lights, beautiful and dazzling, give 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, experience the purity and grandeur of the wilderness amidst thrilling sports, listen to the howling wind as you glide at high speed—snow vast and boundless, the world beneath your feet.
Tasting the Flavor of Home — Yuan Gong
Chengdu Sichuan cuisine check-in: Yuan Gong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic salt-bang (Zigong) cuisine, with genuine flavors that allow homesick locals to taste dishes with a homey feel.
Location: No. 87 Xue Dao Street, Unit 1. South exit of Chunxi Road, cross the overpass and walk toward Xinhua Bookstore—about ten minutes' walk. It's also not far from Qingshiqiao Seafood Market, about five minutes away.
Before entering, we saw their sign from afar. The storefront is not particularly large but has an antique charm with strong Chinese-style elements. It feels like a mid-to-high-end establishment, with a spacious interior that doesn't feel crowded. The environment is definitely excellent.
The service staff are very friendly. Everyone greets you with welcome words upon entry. The receptionist at the door leads you inside, where you're then attended by interior staff.
They seem quite thoughtful.
I must say their serving speed is fast. Shortly after we ordered, the dishes started arriving.
I highly recommend the old duck soup—very fresh, rich broth, delicious taste, and the soup is incredibly savory. Drinking it seems to relax both body and mind. The duck meat is stewed very tender, not dry, and very nourishing.
The Loongmen Hanging Meat is truly unique. When the server cuts it, they say: "First cut brings good luck, second cut brings promotion, third cut brings happiness." It tastes like crispy pork, very crunchy.
If you ask which dish impressed me most, it would be the "Naked Shrimp." The shrimp are pre-peeled and definitely fresh, with the veins removed, ensuring diners feel safe eating. Best of all, the dish contains taro, which is delicious—soft and well-seasoned, with an excellent texture.
Yuan Gong Clam with Frog presents an excellent visual effect, reminiscent of a nebula chain. The taste is great; I tried this combination of frog and clam for the first time, and it's quite innovative and tasty.
Young Ginger Jumping Frog has tender meat and pure flavor. The dish looks very spicy, but it's actually mild. The frog meat is tender, creating a delightful sensation on the palate—very good!
The dishes are truly delicious and generous in portion. It's also a great place for gatherings and banquets. Recommendation rating: five stars!
Vibrant and Lively Skewers
Located just a few minutes' walk from Exit A of Huazhaobi metro station, Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan has a very eye-catching signboard. When I walked in, I felt the style was unique, with a particularly Chinese feel—quite interesting.
I must say their storefront decoration is grand. Inside are square tables with enough spacing to avoid crowding, making it comfortable to sit.
The serving speed is also fast. I should mention that their skewers are cold pot skewers—you choose your dishes, and the restaurant cooks them and brings them out directly, so you don't have to worry about whether they're cooked. Just eat—very convenient.
The dry dipping powder is their specialty. It tastes excellent, with lots of crushed peanuts, making it really good. My friend loved it so much that he wanted to ask about the exact seasoning, but that's impossible—the restaurant won't reveal it. The dry dipping powder is good, but for someone like me who can't handle very spicy food, it's not quite suitable. For spice lovers, this is your condiment weapon!
Of course, they offer more than just skewers. The bowl dishes are also their specialty. Many small bowl dishes taste quite good. Must-order items: Spicy Hot Pot Noodles (Mao Huo Guo Fen) — the noodles are really tasty and well-seasoned, every strand soaked in broth, absolutely amazing!
Mao Potato Chunks are my favorite—not overly spicy, each potato piece combined with seasonings is incredibly delicious. The potatoes are neither hard nor too soft, just the right texture. After one bowl, you'll want another.
My first taste of rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan. Unexpectedly, the rabbit kidney was quite good, even better than I imagined—tender texture, one bite each, simply delightful.
After finishing the skewers, enjoy some ice jelly to refresh your palate—life is so satisfying.
Savoring Time in Bie Yuan
This bar, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and filled with various drinks and snacks, quickly became a favorite among Chengdu's night owls.
Perhaps you encounter various frustrations in life, but on a night like this, a night of revelry with friends is a good choice. It might temporarily help you forget unpleasant things and allow you to enjoy a pleasant time. Savor it, savor it slowly!
This small bar is located near 339, on that bar street. Upon entering, you'll find the decoration quite appealing. The lively, bustling atmosphere makes you feel like you've arrived at a midnight cocktail party, with a sense of mystery.
The whole bar has two floors. The staircase design leading upstairs is interesting, with flashing lights—a trendy photo spot, indeed quite eye-catching. There are also rows of moving colorful lights that change colors and move up and down, adding to the bar's ambiance.
This place is practically a museum of alcohol.
Besides 75 types of liquor and over 20 specialty cocktails, they recently introduced "Hot Pot Wine." This drink scores full marks for appearance. You've had hot pot and alcohol, but have you tried such a visually stunning hot pot wine? It looks a bit like traditional Beijing copper hot pot, containing warm turbid wine and strong vodka. The pot itself has base ingredients: besides dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, and kumquats, it also includes rose petals—full of romance.
The alcohol content is low, tasting sweet and sour with a floral and fruity aroma, appealing to both men and women. The portion is large; two or three people can share one pot. Sitting at the bar, watching the bartender's fluid skills is itself an exquisite enjoyment.
Perhaps in such moments, we can find our unfettered selves!
Giving Yourself a Reason
I've finally understood a truth: In life, everyone should have at least two impulses—one for love that knows no bounds, and one for a trip that says, 'Let's go right now.'
