A 7-Day In-Depth Chengdu Tour: Everything on Food, Stay, and Transport—Feel Free to Copy!

"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom; if I were a bird, where would I fly to; the shimmer of a single 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, and that's why we come together!

The wide and narrow alleyways hold the essence of old Chengdu

If you come to Chengdu, you must not miss this spot—Kuanzhai Alley (Wide and Narrow Alley).

Though called Kuanzhai Alley, it actually consists of Jing Alley, Kuan Alley, and Zhai Alley. Here, you can experience the everyday life of this city.

Kuanzhai Alley has always been a symbol of leisure and comfort. Some say it's like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang, but in my view, Nanluoguxiang exudes ancient tradition, while Kuanzhai Alley is about ease and relaxation. However, both share one common feature: an abundance of local snacks. The famous local delicacies here will definitely satisfy your cravings!

Because Kuanzhai Alley preserves so much of old Chengdu's culture, as you stroll through it, you'll see a blend of history and modern style. Surprisingly, it doesn't feel dissonant but rather creates a奇妙 sensation. The rows of brick walls built in different eras, along with 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 sightsee. If you don't eat something, I'm afraid you'll be embarrassed to say you've been here. There are so many Chengdu snacks—it's a feast. I love all kinds of wontons: sweet, savory, numbing, spicy—the taste is superb and the price is very low. Grandma's rabbit head, diced rabbit, street-side skewers, guokui, Zhong's dumplings, and boboji are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here; it's very much to my taste, delicious and affordable, truly great.

Wandering around Kuanzhai Alley, absorbing its charm, you'll find you can slowly enjoy a peace that's hard to come by in daily life. Sipping a cup of tea while tasting Chengdu's specialty snacks—that might be a true pleasure.

Jiaoliao Hotel—Jiaoliao New Nest, Old Memories of Kuanzhai; The Blossoms of Rongcheng Await Your Picking

In ancient times, there was the saying, "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 to modern times, high officials and nobles have settled here, and ordinary folks also linger around all day.

Now, visitors come and go in an endless stream. From afar, you can smell the snacks wafting from every corner of the alley, and hear the vendors' voices, with their rhythmic cries promoting their goods.

Jiaoliao Cultural Boutique Hotel stands quietly amidst the hustle and bustle, with a delicate and unpretentious presence, nestled at No. 28 Kuan Alley within the Kuanzhai Alley scenic area. 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, Chunxi Road, and other famous sites.

If you want to enjoy a peaceful vacation without missing the city's bustle and excitement, Jiaoliao Cultural 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 line: "The wren nests in the deep forest, needing only a single branch." This embodies a philosophy of casting aside worldly distractions, guarding one's true heart, returning to nature, and living freely and poetically—a philosophy of retreating from the noise.

This time, however, the wren does not nest in the deep forest but chooses an alley full of the smoke and fire of human life, situated on a bustling street, offering a haven of urban woodland for travelers from afar.

Amid the noisy crowd, we pushed open this aged but grand gate. The first thing that caught our eyes was the main gate, with lattice doors on both sides featuring hollow-carved patterns. Among them, the bat motif symbolizes blessings and happiness. The two opposing blessings have water ripples above, meaning 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 auspicious pattern of the Five Blessings arriving at the door. We hope that all honored guests here may enjoy longevity, a good end, wealth, health, and virtue.

Passing through the courtyard and into the corridor, we saw a bamboo, a tile, flowing water, and rockeries, giving a sense of rustic elegance, as if entering a parallel space separated from the worldly glamour by just a single wall. My companion, as if possessed, kept exclaiming how beautiful it was, taking photos incessantly, joyful as a child.

Entering the lobby, I examined the details. The entire hotel's decoration style is imbued with the characteristics and elegance of western Sichuan folk dwellings. The simple and elegant pseudo-Qing architecture perfectly blends movement and stillness, revealing the essence of mountains and waters within a small space. It seems the owner put great effort into this exquisite decoration—no wonder it's so popular.

As we passed through the corridor, parrots hanging on both sides, bouncing up and down, became unusually active at our arrival, chirping incessantly, which amused my friend. It seemed these birds were also welcoming our stay!

The hotel's blue bricks and grey tiles intertwined with the birds' calls—one dynamic, one static—complementing the hotel's design style, reflecting each other. Both movement and stillness were vividly embodied.

The "movement" is reflected in the meticulous details throughout the hotel: bird-shaped decorations echo the hotel's name everywhere.

The "stillness" is embodied in the antique quadrangle courtyard of blue-grey bricks and tiles, where every plant and tree exudes tranquility, every bamboo and stone reveals elegance, establishing a peaceful, leisurely lifestyle—a state of wandering freely with the heart.

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

Upon closer inspection, we noticed that the room's hardware facilities are also impressive. Whether the bathroom fixtures, fully smart sensor toilets, or mattresses, they are all configured according to top international five-star hotel standards. Understated luxury exudes a high-end vibe—such configurations far surpass other hotels. How could our group not be tempted?

Inheriting the culture of Laozi and Zhuangzi, building high-end facilities—neither vulgar nor detached from the world. Jiaoliao Hotel allows you to find the perfect balance between bustling excitement and tranquil seclusion, letting you enjoy both the peace beyond the mundane and the convenience of urban life—all for your unique experience.

Panda Base—Discover the Joy of Pandas

Speaking of Sichuan, you must not forget the home of giant pandas—the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Many people love the adorable, clumsy appearance of pandas. I used to see pandas only online; browsing pictures, I found them soft, cute, and endearing. Now, coming to the Panda Base, excited to see real pandas—after all, they are our national treasure. "Selling cuteness for the country"—that's the true skill of these panda babies.

At this base, you'll see countless pandas—a completely different feeling from browsing pictures online!

The panda babies here enjoy national treasure-level treatment. The environment is a full simulation of pandas' wild habitat.

There are lakes, streams, and of course, bamboo—their favorite food!

Most notably, there are "panda villas" built for them. These are their daily leisure and entertainment spaces. When the weather is cool, pandas play here, some strolling leisurely in the yard, others rolling on the ground—what a carefree scene!

Visitors can also watch the adorable pandas through the railings. When it's hot, the pandas cleverly hide in their air-conditioned rooms, and visitors can only watch them sleeping soundly through the glass.

In short, a must-visit in Sichuan: the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The pandas here are truly diverse—whatever you want to see, they have.

The national treasure giant pandas are incredibly cute: silly, adorable, free, and happy. I suddenly found myself quite envious of these pandas. Perhaps, maybe, I'm not the only one who thinks so!

Snowy Innocence and Childlike Fun—Taiziling Ski Resort

When it comes to winter snow views, people in Chengdu undoubtedly think of Xiling Snow Mountain, but there is an even more beautiful place waiting to be visited: Taiziling Ski Resort on Jiuding Mountain.

Taiziling Ski Resort is located in the Jiuding Mountain Scenic Area, Mao County, the home of "China's Ancient Qiang City" in Aba Prefecture, Sichuan. It is 180 km from downtown Chengdu, only about a 3.5-hour drive—a professional ski resort right on Chengdu's doorstep.

In winter, Jiuding Mountain is covered in silver, with white snow stretching far, welcoming a sunny skiing season lasting four months. Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort boasts the longest intermediate-advanced international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly divided from beginner to expert levels, along with a full set of imported new ski equipment.

The resort can accommodate 5,000 skiers simultaneously and is equipped with professional ski coaches, fully meeting the needs of enthusiasts at different levels. The resort also offers free group beginner lessons at various times, enabling visitors to quickly learn basic skiing moves and immediately feel the joy of skiing.

In addition to adult activities, the resort has a dedicated area for children. In the snow play zone, under the supervision of their families, children slide down from heights on sleds, filling the air with laughter and joy.

As the top冰雪vacation destination in southwestern China, Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort also features leisure facilities like the Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and Hemingzhuang Holiday View Restaurant. Combined with the convenience of a 3.5-hour drive from Chengdu directly to the ski hall, it offers a new winter outdoor sports destination for Chengdu and surrounding tourists.

The ski runs at Taiziling are divided into 3 beginner slopes, 3 intermediate slopes, and 3 advanced slopes according to gradient. Each slope is gentle, providing beginners with a full sense of security. The 3 intermediate slopes are the domain of bold beginners and most regular skiers, where they can play to their hearts' content.

Parents with children need not worry—there are also kid-friendly snow play slopes, very gentle and safe, perfect for children, ensuring a fun and secure experience. Snowball fights, snowman building, sledding—everything is available, allowing you to experience the purity of childhood and the fading childlike fun.

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

Neon lights aglow, magnificent and splendid, giving a sense of peace and comfort. Only by skiing yourself can you know its charm—once you go, you'll be hooked!

When you immerse yourself in that pure white, experiencing the purity and grandeur of the wilderness amidst thrilling sports, listening to the wind whistling past your ears as you speed down, the vast snowscape lies beneath your feet.

Let You Taste the Flavors of Home—Yuan Gong

Chengdu's Sichuan cuisine check-in spot: Yuan Gong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic Zigong (Yanbang) cuisine with genuine local flavors, letting folks who miss home-cooked meals taste the comfort of home.

Specific location: No. 87 Xue Dao Street, Annex 1. At the south entrance of Chunxi Road, cross the overpass towards Xinhua Bookstore, about a ten-minute walk. It's also close to Qingshiqiao Seafood Market, about five minutes away.

Before entering, we could see their sign from afar. The restaurant isn't huge, but it has an antique charm with a strong Chinese style. It feels like a mid-to-high-end establishment; the interior is spacious and not cramped. The environment is definitely excellent.

The service staff are very friendly. Everyone greets you at the entrance. The receptionist at the door leads you inside, where you're attended by interior staff.

They really seem to put their heart into it.

I must say their serving speed is quite fast. Shortly after we ordered, dishes began to arrive in succession.

Highly recommend the old duck soup—it's extremely fresh, rich in flavor, and the broth is incredibly savory. One sip feels soothing for both body and mind. The duck meat is stewed until very tender, not dry at all, very nourishing and healthy.

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

If I have to pick the most memorable dish, it's definitely the Naked Shrimp. The shrimp is pre-prepared, definitely fresh, and the vein is removed—ensuring diners can eat with confidence. Best of all, the dish also contains taro, which is delicious—soft, flavorful, with an excellent texture.

Yuan Gong's Clams and Bullfrog is visually stunning, like a nebula chain. The taste is great; this combination of frog and clams is a first for me—novel and tasty.

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

The dishes are truly delicious, and the portions are generous. It's also a great place for gatherings or treating guests—rating: five stars!

Vibrantly Enjoying Chuanchuan

Located just a few minutes' walk from Exit A of Huazhaobi Metro station, Chengdu Gua Chuanchuan has a very eye-catching sign. As I approached, I felt its style was unique, with a strong Chinese vibe—quite interesting.

I must say their storefront is beautifully decorated. Inside, there are square tables placed with enough space between them, so it doesn't feel cramped. Sitting there is very comfortable.

Serving speed is also fast. I have to mention, their chuanchuan is of the cold-pot type. You choose your ingredients, and the staff cooks them and brings them directly. No need to worry about whether they're cooked—just eat and enjoy—very convenient.

The dry dipping mix is their specialty; it tastes excellent, topped with lots of crushed peanuts—really good. My friend loved it and even wanted to ask the shop for the exact recipe, but that's impossible—the shop won't reveal it. The dry dip is great, but for someone like me who can't handle too much spice, it's not quite suitable. If you love spicy food, this is your dipping weapon!

Of course, they don't just have chuanchuan; small bowl dishes are also a specialty. Many small bowls, all quite tasty. Recommended must-order: Mao Huoguo Fen (spicy hot pot vermicelli). The vermicelli is really delicious, very flavorful; each strand is coated with soup—the taste is out of this world—absolutely fantastic!

The Mao Tudou Tuotuo (spicy potato chunks) is my favorite. Not too spicy, each potato chunk paired with those condiments is incredibly tasty. The potatoes are neither hard nor mushy—just the right texture. I could eat a second bowl after the first!

My first time trying rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Gua Chuanchuan. Unexpectedly, it tasted really good, even better than I imagined—tender and soft, one piece at a time—simply delightful.

After finishing the chuanchuan, a bowl of ice jelly (bingfen) to cut the grease—life is just so satisfying.

Savoring Time in Bie Yuan

This tavern, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and filled with various drinks and snacks, instantly became a favorite for Chengdu's night owls.

Life may throw all sorts of troubles at you, but on a night like this, partying with friends can be a great choice. It might let you temporarily forget unpleasant things and indulge in carefree moments—savor it, taste it!

This small tavern is located near 339, on that bar street. Just entering, you'll find the decoration quite appealing. The flashing, bustling atmosphere makes you feel like you've stepped into a midnight cocktail party, with a certain mystery.

The place has two floors. The stairway to the second floor is designed quite interestingly, with flickering lights—another trendy photo spot. It's really something to see. Inside, there are rows of moving colored lights, changing colors and shifting up and down, adding to the overall ambiance.

This place is like a museum of alcohol.

Besides 75 kinds of liquor and over 20 specialty cocktails, they recently introduced a "hot pot" alcohol drink. This drink looks perfect—top marks for appearance. Have you ever eaten hot pot? Have you had alcohol? But have you tried such a good-looking hot pot alcohol? Hmm, it looks a bit like a traditional Beijing copper pot. Inside, there's mild unstrained liquor and strong vodka. The pot comes with ingredients: besides dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, and small kumquats, it also has rose petals—romance to the fullest.

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

Perhaps in moments like this, we can find the uninhibited version of ourselves!

Give Yourself a Reason

I've finally come to understand: a person should have at least two impulses in life—one is a love that knows no hesitation, and the other is a journey that you take without a second thought...