In-Depth Chengdu Travel Guide: Save It Now!

"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom; if I were a bird, where would I fly; the twinkle of one star does not form a constellation; the sum of a big tree gathers a single weight." Lately, this song "The Sum of Loneliness" has been on repeat. Perhaps we are all the sum of loneliness, so we come together!

**Kuanzhai Alley: The Essence of Old Chengdu**

If you come to Chengdu, you must not miss this attraction—Kuanzhai Alley.

Though called "wide and narrow alleys," it actually consists of Jing Alley, Kuan Alley, and Zhai Alley. Here, you can experience the local life of this city.

Kuanzhai Alley has always been a symbol of leisurely and comfortable living. Some say Kuanzhai Alley is like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang; in my opinion, Nanluoguxiang has an ancient and traditional charm, while Kuanzhai Alley is leisurely and soothing. However, both share one thing in common: they are full of distinctive local snacks. The famous local delicacies here will definitely satisfy your appetite!

Because Kuanzhai Alley retains so much of old Chengdu's culture, when you stroll through it, you will see a blend of history and modern fashion. Surprisingly, it doesn't feel disharmonious at all; instead, it gives a wonderful feeling. The rows of walls built with bricks from different eras, and the relief-like depictions of old street life, make this Chengdu afternoon leisurely and beautiful.

When you come to Kuanzhai Alley, don't say you're just here to see the sights and not eat anything—I'm afraid you'd be embarrassed to claim you've visited Kuanzhai Alley. There are many Chengdu snacks here, a true feast. I love all kinds of wontons—sweet, salty, numbing, spicy—super tasty and super cheap. Old Ma's Rabbit Head, diced rabbit, street-side skewers, Guokui (stuffed flatbread), Zhong Shui Jiao (Zhong-style dumplings), and Bò Bò Jī (spicy chicken skewers) are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here—it fits my taste perfectly, delicious and affordable, really great.

Strolling through Kuanzhai Alley and feeling its charm, you'll find that here you can slowly enjoy a peace that is hard to find in everyday life. Sipping a cup of tea while eating Chengdu's specialty snacks—this might be the true enjoyment.

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

In ancient times, there was "Jiaoliao nests in deep forests"; today, there is "Jiaoliao nests in Kuanzhai." Kuanzhai Alley 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.

Nowadays, tourists and pedestrians stream in endlessly. From afar, you can smell the aroma of snacks wafting from the alleys, and hear the vendors' voices, rhythmically hawking their wares.

Jiaoliao Boutique Hotel, nestled in tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle, resides with a delicate and modest demeanor inside the Kuanzhai Alley scenic area—No. 28 Kuan Alley. The hotel is near Metro Line 4. It is about 19 km 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 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, originating from a line by Zhuangzi: "Jiaoliao nests in deep forests, but only occupies one branch." This embodies a poetic dwelling that discards worldly troubles, guards the original heart, returns to nature, and achieves freedom and ease—a philosophy of returning to nature and staying away from the clamor.

This time, however, Jiaoliao does not nest in deep forests but chooses such a lane full of human warmth, sitting by a long street crowded with tourists, creating a haven of urban wilderness for visitors from afar.

Amid the noisy crowd, we pushed open the old, heavy door. First映入眼帘 is the main gate. The screen doors on both sides have hollow-carved patterns, including bat motifs symbolizing blessings and happiness. The two blessings on the diagonal have water ripple patterns, meaning blessings as vast as the sea. The blessing on the central axis represents blessings descending from heaven. Together with the middle one, they make five blessings arriving at the door. We wish all distinguished guests longevity, a good end, wealth, health, and virtue.

Passing through the courtyard into the corridor, we saw a bamboo, a tile, flowing water, and rockery, giving an antique and elegant feeling—like entering a parallel space separate from the worldly splendor, separated by just one wall. Our accompanying friend, as if on a roll, kept saying how beautiful it was, constantly taking photos, happy as a child.

Entering the lobby, we looked closely. The entire hotel's decoration style is full of the characteristics and elegance of Western Sichuan folk houses. The simple and elegant imitation Qing ancient architecture combines movement and stillness, showcasing the essence of mountains and waters within a small space. It seems the hotel owner put a lot of effort into 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, which amused my friend. It seems these birds were also welcoming us!

The hotel's green bricks and black tiles, together with the birds' chirping, interplay movement and stillness, complementing the hotel's design style. Both movement and stillness are concretely reflected.

The "movement" is embodied in the detailed creation of various parts of the hotel's decoration, with small bird-shaped ornaments echoing the hotel's name everywhere.

The "stillness" is reflected in the imitation ancient courtyard houses with green-black bricks and tiles, where every plant and tree exudes tranquility, every bamboo and stone shows elegance, establishing a quiet and leisurely lifestyle, allowing one to roam freely with the heart.

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

Upon careful observation, we noticed that the room's hardware facilities are also of high origin. Whether it's the bathroom fixtures, fully intelligent sensor toilets, or mattresses, they are all configured according to the top standards of international five-star hotels. Understated luxury exudes a high-end atmosphere. Such configuration far exceeds other hotels—how could our group not be tempted?

Inheriting the culture of Laozi and Zhuangzi, creating high-end facilities, not following the vulgar, nor abandoning the world. Jiaoliao Hotel allows you to find the perfect balance between bustling excitement and peaceful seclusion, letting you enjoy both the tranquility away from the world and the convenience of urban life—all for your unique experience.

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

When talking about Sichuan, you must not forget the home of giant pandas—the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Many people love the adorable, chubby appearance of giant pandas. Previously, we could only see pandas online. Browsing pictures of pandas, we found them soft, cute, and lovely. This time, coming to the panda base, thinking about seeing real pandas, we were especially excited—after all, they are our national treasure. "Being cute for the country"—that's the true strength of these baby pandas.

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

The baby pandas here enjoy national treasure-level treatment. The environment completely simulates the pandas' wild habitat.

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

Most notably, there are "panda villas" built for them. These are also their daily leisure and recreation areas. When the weather is cool, the panda babies play here; some stroll leisurely in the yard, others roll on the ground—a scene of carefree joy!

Visitors can also watch the cute pandas from behind railings. When it's hot, the pandas smartly hide in their rest rooms, and visitors can only watch them sleeping soundly through the glass.

In short, when you come to Sichuan, you must visit this place—the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The pandas here are incredibly diverse; whatever you want to see, it's there.

The national treasure giant pandas are really adorable—clumsy, cute, free, and happy. Suddenly, I find myself a bit envious of these pandas. Perhaps, and I might not be the only one thinking this!

**Childlike Fun in White Snow — Taiziling Ski Resort**

If winter snow viewing is mentioned, Chengdu people immediately think of Xiling Snow Mountain, etc. Actually, 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 of Mao County, the site of "China's Ancient Qiang City" in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan. It is 180 km 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, ushering in a four-month sunny ski season. Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort features the longest intermediate-advanced international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly graded from beginner to top levels, and is equipped with a full set of imported new ski equipment.

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

In addition to adult activities, the resort has a special area for children. In the snow play area, children slide down from heights on sleds with their families, filling the scene with laughter.

As a top snow and ice resort in Southwest China, Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort is also equipped with supporting leisure facilities such as the Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and the Hemingzhuang Holiday View Restaurant. Combined with the convenience of a direct drive to the ski hall in three and a half hours from Chengdu, it provides a new winter outdoor sports destination for tourists from Chengdu and surrounding areas.

Taiziling Ski Resort's slopes are divided into three beginner runs, three intermediate runs, and three advanced runs, from low to high gradient. Each run is gently sloped, giving beginners a full sense of security. The three intermediate runs are the domain of bold beginners and most regular players, where they can play to their heart's content.

Parents with children need not worry; there are also snow play runs suitable for kids, with very small and stable slopes, perfect for children to play safely and happily. Snowball fights, snowman building, and sledding—everything is available. Here, you can experience the innocence of childhood and the lost fun of youth.

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

Neon lights shine brilliantly, magnificent and dazzling, giving a sense of peace and comfort. Only by skiing yourself can you realize how charming it is—once you go, you'll be addicted!

When you blend into that pure white, experience the purity and grandeur of the wilderness amidst thrilling sports, and listen to the howling wind while speeding down, the vast white snow lies beneath your feet.

**Taste of Hometown — Yuan Gong**

Chengdu Sichuan cuisine food check-in: Yuan Gong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic Yanbang cuisine, with truly genuine flavors that allow homesick locals to taste the flavor of home.

Location: No. 87 Xue Dao Street, Unit 1. South entrance of Chunxi Road, cross the overpass and walk toward the Xinhua Bookstore, about ten minutes. It's also not far from Qingshiqiao Seafood Market, about five minutes away.

Before entering, we could see their sign from afar. The storefront is not particularly large but has an antique flavor with a strong Chinese style. It gives the feeling of a mid-to-high-end restaurant, with a spacious interior that doesn't feel crowded. The environment is definitely excellent.

The service staff are friendly. Everyone greets you at the entrance. The host at the door led us in, and then the interior staff took over.

They really put thought into it.

Their serving speed is quite fast; shortly after we ordered, the dishes started arriving one after another.

Highly recommend the old duck soup—very fresh, rich and aromatic, extremely tasty. The broth is really fresh; one sip and you feel refreshed. The duck meat is very tender, not dry, and very nourishing.

The Longmen Hanging Meat is truly unique. When the server cuts it, they say: "First cut, great luck; second cut, step-by-step promotion; third cut, happiness and fulfillment." It tastes like crispy pork, very crunchy.

If I had to pick the most impressive dish, it would be the "Naked Shrimp." The shrimp are peeled and deveined, definitely fresh, ensuring diners can eat with confidence. Most importantly, the naked shrimp comes with taro, which is delicious—soft and flavorful, giving an excellent texture.

Yuan Gong's Clam and Frog—visually stunning, like a nebula chain. The taste is great; this combination of frog and clam is something I tried for the first time. It's highly innovative and tastes good too.

Young Ginger Jumping Frog—tender meat, pure flavor. This dish looks very spicy, but it's actually okay. The frog meat is very tender, making your taste buds dance—great!

The dishes are really delicious and generous in portion. It's also a great place for gatherings and treating guests. Recommended with five stars!

**Red and Hot Skewers**

Located just near Hua Zhao Bi Metro Station Exit A, a few minutes' walk away, Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan (Melon Skewers) has a very eye-catching sign. When I walked in, I felt the style was unique, very Chinese, quite interesting.

The storefront is decorated generously. Inside, there are square tables with enough space between them, so it doesn't feel crowded, and sitting inside is comfortable.

The serving speed is fast. I have to mention that their skewers are cold-pot skewers—you choose your ingredients, and the restaurant cooks them and brings them to you directly. No need to worry if they're cooked; just eat up, very convenient.

The dry dipping powder is their specialty. It tastes great, with lots of crushed peanuts on top. My friend loved it so much that she wanted to ask the owner for the exact recipe, but that's impossible—the owner won't reveal it. The dry powder is good, but for someone like me who can't handle too much spice, it's not suitable. If you love spicy food, this is your dipping weapon!

Of course, besides skewers, they also have bowl dishes as specialties. Many small bowl dishes taste quite good. Recommended must-order items: Mao Huo Guo Fen (boiled hot pot noodles). The noodles are really tasty and very flavorful. Each noodle strip is coated with broth—the taste is simply fantastic, absolutely great!

Mao Tu Dou Tuo Tuo (boiled potato chunks) is my favorite. Not too spicy, and the potatoes paired with the seasonings are explosively delicious. The potatoes are neither too hard nor too soft—perfect texture. One bowl isn't enough; I want a second!

My first taste of rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan. Unexpectedly, the rabbit kidney was very tasty, even a bit better than I imagined—tender texture, one bite each, absolutely satisfying.

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

**In Bie Yuan, Savor Time**

This bar, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and filled with various drinks and snacks, became a favorite of Chengdu's night owls as soon as it appeared.

You might encounter unpleasant things in life, but on such a night, having a nocturnal狂欢 with friends is a good choice. It can help you temporarily forget some unhappy things and let you enjoy the pleasant moments—taste it, savor it!

This small bar is actually near 339, on that bar street. Upon entering, you'll find the decoration quite nice. The atmosphere of lights and wine makes you feel like you're at a midnight cocktail party, with a mysterious vibe.

The whole place has two floors. The staircase design is interesting, with flashing lights—it's one of their Instagram-worthy decorations, indeed something to see. Inside, there are several rows of moving small colored lights, changing colors and moving up and down, adding to the bar's atmosphere.

It's practically a museum of wine.

In addition to 75 kinds of wine + over 20 specialty cocktails, they recently introduced "hot pot wine." This drink scores full marks for appearance. I've eaten hot pot and drunk wine, but have you ever tried such a good-looking hot pot wine? Tsk, tsk, its shape looks a bit like a traditional old Beijing copper pot. Inside, there's mellow unfiltered sake and strong vodka. The pot includes base ingredients like dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, small kumquats, and rose petals—full marks for romance.

The alcohol content is low, sweet and sour, with a fruity and floral aroma, appealing to both men and women. The portion is large; two or three people sharing this one pot is enough. Sitting at the bar, watching the bartender's smooth and skillful techniques is itself a wonderful enjoyment.

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

**Give Yourself a Reason**

I finally understood a truth: A person's life needs at least two impulses—one for love without hesitation, and one for a trip taken on a whim...