A 6-Day Self-Drive Chengdu Trip: Full Guide on Food, Accommodation, and Travel

"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom; if I were a bird, where would I fly? The sparkle of one star is not enough to form a constellation; the sum of a big tree is just a single weight." Lately, I've been constantly looping this song, "The Sum of Solitude." Perhaps we are all sums of solitude, and that's why we come together!

**Kuanzhai Alley – Embracing the Old Chengdu Charm**

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

Although it's called Kuanzhai Alley, it actually consists of Jing Alley, Kuan Alley, and Zhai Alley. Here, you can experience the city's local life.

Kuanzhai Alley has always been a portrayal of leisurely and comfortable living. Some say Kuanzhai Alley is like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang, but in my view, Nanluoguxiang is ancient and traditional, while Kuanzhai Alley is leisurely and relaxing. However, both share one thing in common: a wide variety of unique snacks. The locally renowned delicacies here will definitely let you eat to your heart's content!

Because Kuanzhai Alley preserves so much of old Chengdu culture, as you stroll through it, you'll see a blend of history and modern fashion, but you'll find it not disharmonious at all – instead, it creates a wonderful feeling. The walls built with bricks from different eras and the relief-like paintings of old street scenes make this Chengdu afternoon leisurely and beautiful.

When you come to Kuanzhai Alley, don't say you're just here to see the sights without eating anything – otherwise, you'd be embarrassed to claim you've visited. There are so many Chengdu snacks here; it's a feast. I love all kinds of wontons – sweet, savory, numbing, spicy – super tasty and very affordable. Ma's rabbit head, rabbit diced, street-side skewers, guokui (Chinese flatbread), Zhong's dumplings, and boboji (cold spicy skewers) are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here; it suits my taste, delicious and inexpensive, really great.

Wandering around Kuanzhai Alley, feeling its charm, you'll find you can slowly enjoy a peace you can't find in daily life. Sipping a cup of tea while eating Chengdu's specialty snacks – this is perhaps true enjoyment.

**Jiaoliao Hotel – Jiaoliao New Nest, Kuanzhai Old Memories; Chengdu's Blooming Flowers, Awaiting Your Picking**

In ancient times, there was "Jiaoliao nests in deep forests"; nowadays, there is "Jiaoliao nests in Kuanzhai." Speaking of Kuanzhai Alley, this is a bustling area in Chengdu. From ancient times to the present, high-ranking officials and nobles have settled here, and even ordinary folks wander around here every day.

Nowadays, tourists and passers-by are endless; from afar you can smell the snacks wafting through the alleys, and hear the vendors' voices, rhythmically hawking their goods.

Jiaoliao Boutique Hotel, finding tranquility amidst noise, with a delicate and exquisite posture, humbly and elegantly resides in Kuanzhai Alley, at No. 28 Kuan Alley. The hotel is near Metro Line 4. It's about 19 km from Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, about a 40-minute drive. Around it are famous attractions like Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli, Tianfu Square, and Chunxi Road.

If you want to enjoy a peaceful holiday without missing 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 originally a bird, derived from Zhuangzi's words: "Jiaoliao nests in deep forests, but only needs one branch." It embodies a poetic dwelling that casts aside worldly troubles, keeps the original heart, returns to nature, and attains freedom and ease – a philosophy of living in nature away from the noise.

This time, Jiaoliao does not nest in deep forests but chooses such a lively alley full of human烟火气息, sitting on a bustling street, to open up a haven of urban forest for guests from afar.

Amid the noisy crowd, we pushed open this old and heavy door. The first thing we saw was the main gate. On the screen doors on both sides were hollow-carved floral patterns, among which the bat pattern symbolized blessings and happiness. The two blessings on the opposite corners had water ripples above, meaning blessings as vast as the East Sea. The blessing on the central axis represented blessings falling from heaven. Together with the one in the middle, they made five blessings arriving at the door, wishing all honored guests here longevity, a good death, wealth, health, and virtue.

After passing through the courtyard into the corridor, we saw bamboo, tiles, flowing water, and rockery, giving a sense of rustic elegance, as if entering a parallel space to the worldly prosperity – separated by only one wall from the bustling outside. My travel companion was so excited, like a child, constantly saying how beautiful it was and taking photos nonstop.

Entering the lobby, we carefully observed that the hotel's decoration style was full of the characteristics and elegance of Western Sichuan folk houses. The simple and elegant imitation Qing dynasty buildings combined dynamic and static elements, revealing the essence of mountains and waters within a small space. It seemed the owner had put great thought into such exquisite decoration; no wonder it's so popular.

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

The hotel's black bricks and tiles interacted with the birds' chirping – one dynamic, one static – complementing the hotel's design style. The dynamic aspect was reflected in the careful details throughout the hotel, with bird-shaped decorations echoing the hotel's name. The static aspect was embodied in the antique four-sided courtyard with black tiles, where every plant and tree was exquisite, every bamboo and stone elegant, establishing a peaceful and leisurely lifestyle.

Passing through the corridor, we reached 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 rice-grinding tool, fully interpreting the concept of returning to simplicity.

Upon closer inspection, we discovered that the hardware facilities inside the room were also of high quality. Whether it was the bathroom, the fully intelligent感应 toilet, or the mattress, they were all configured according to the top standards of international five-star hotels. The understated luxury exuded a high-end vibe, far surpassing other hotels – how could our group not be tempted?

Inheriting the culture of Laozi and Zhuangzi, building high-end facilities, not following the vulgar, nor abandoning the world. Jiaoliao Hotel allows you to find an excellent balance between bustling excitement and peaceful serenity, letting you enjoy both the tranquility beyond the mundane and the convenience of urban life – all for your unique experience.

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

Speaking of Sichuan, you must not forget this place where giant pandas live – the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Many people love the adorable and憨态可掬 appearance of giant pandas. Before, I could only see pandas online; when browsing pictures, I found them soft, cute, and adorable. 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" – that's the real strength of these panda babies.

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

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

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

Most notably, they have built "Panda Villas" for them. These are also their daily recreational venues. When the weather is cool, panda babies play here – some stroll leisurely in the yard, others roll on the ground – such a carefree scene!

Visitors can also watch the cute pandas through railings. When it's hot, the pandas cleverly hide in their rest areas, and 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 truly diverse; you'll see everything you want.

The national treasure giant pandas are really cute – silly, adorable, free, and happy. Suddenly I found myself envying these pandas, and perhaps I'm not the only one thinking this!

**Snowy White Innocence – Taiziling Ski Resort**

If we talk about winter snow viewing, people in Chengdu must think of Xiling Snow Mountain, etc. But there is an even more beautiful place waiting for people – Taiziling Ski Resort at Jiuding Mountain.

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

In winter, Jiuding Mountain is covered in silver, with white snow, ushering in a 4-month sunny skiing season. Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort boasts the longest intermediate-advanced international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly divided from beginner to top levels, with full imported brand-new ski equipment.

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

Besides adult activities, the resort also has a special area for children. In the snow play area, under family supervision, children slide down from high places on sleds, filled 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 like the Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and Hemingzhuang Holiday Viewing Restaurant. Plus, the convenience of a direct three-and-a-half-hour drive from Chengdu to the ski hall provides a new winter outdoor sports destination for Chengdu and nearby tourists.

Taiziling Ski Resort has ski runs divided by slope into 3 beginner runs, 3 intermediate runs, and 3 advanced runs. Each run has a gentle slope, giving beginners ample 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 with children don't need to worry either. Here there are also snow play runs suitable for kids, with very gentle and stable slopes, perfect for children, ensuring they play safely and happily – snowball fights, building snowmen, and sledding – everything is available here, allowing them to experience the innocence of childhood and the lost 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.

The neon lights are dazzling and beautiful, giving a sense of peace and comfort. Only by skiing yourself can you know how charming it is – you'll get addicted once you try!

When you blend into that pure white, experience the purity and grandeur of the mountains amidst thrilling sports, and listen to the wind whistling past your ears while speeding down, the vast snowy world lies beneath your feet.

**Tasting Hometown Flavor – Yuangong**

Chengdu Sichuan food check-in: Yuangong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic Zigong cuisine (Yanbang cuisine), with genuine flavors that let homesick locals taste a home-cooked feel.

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

Before entering, we saw their sign from afar. The store is not particularly large, but it has an antique charm with a strong Chinese style. The store feels like a mid-to-high-end establishment, with a spacious hall that doesn't feel crowded. The environment is definitely excellent.

The service staff are very friendly. Everyone greets you as you enter. The receptionist at the door leads you inside, and then an inner hall server takes over.

They seem quite attentive.

I must say their serving speed is very fast. Soon after we ordered, the dishes came up one after another.

Highly recommend the old duck soup – it's very fresh, with a rich and delicious broth. The soup base is incredibly fresh; one sip makes you feel refreshed. The duck meat is stewed very tender, not dry or stringy, very nourishing.

The Dragon Gate Hanging Meat is really unique. When the server cuts it, they say: "First cut brings good fortune, second cut brings promotion step by step, third cut brings happiness." It tastes like crispy pork, very crunchy.

The dish that impressed me the most is definitely the "Naked Shrimp" – the shrimp is prepped, definitely fresh, and the vein is removed, ensuring diners can eat with confidence. Best of all, there are taro pieces in the dish – the taro is delicious, tender and well-flavored, with an excellent texture.

Yuangong Clam and Frog – visually stunning, like a nebula chain. The taste is great. It's my first time trying this combination of frog and clam – I have to say it's highly innovative and tasty.

Young Ginger Jumping Frog – tender meat, pure flavor. This dish looks spicy, but it's actually not too much. The frog meat is very tender; eating it feels like flavors jumping on the tongue – very good!

The dishes are really tasty, and the portions are generous. It's also a great place for gatherings and treating guests. Highly recommended – five stars!

**Enjoying Skewers with Red Fire**

Located just a few minutes' walk from Exit A of Huazhaobi Metro Station, Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan (Melon Skewers) has a very conspicuous sign. When I walked in, I felt the style was unique, very Chinese, kind of interesting.

I have to say their storefront decoration is very grand. Inside, there are square tables spaced apart so it doesn't feel cramped. Sitting inside is comfortable.

Serving speed is quite fast. I should mention that their skewers are cold-pot skewers – you choose your items, and the shop cooks them and serves them directly. No need to worry if they're cooked; just eat. Very convenient.

The dry dipping spice is their specialty – it tastes great, with many crushed peanuts on top. My friend loved it so much he wanted to ask the staff for the recipe, but that's impossible; they won't reveal it. The dry dip is good, 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 skewers; bowl dishes are also their specialty. Many small bowls of dishes taste quite good. Recommended must-order items: Spicy hot pot noodles (Mao Huoguo Fen) – really delicious and well-flavored. Each noodle is soaked with broth – the taste is amazing, absolutely praise!

Mao Potato Tuan Tuan is my favorite – not too spicy, and each potato paired with the toppings is explosively tasty. The potatoes are neither hard nor too soft, just the right texture. You'll want a second bowl after finishing one.

My first time trying rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan. Surprisingly, the rabbit kidney was very good, even better than I imagined – tender, one bite each, really satisfying.

After eating skewers, have some ice jelly (bingfen) to refresh – life is so good.

**Savoring Time in Bie Yuan**

This tavern, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and surrounded by various drinks and snacks, instantly became a favorite for Chengdu's drink lovers.

Perhaps you may encounter various troubles in life, but on such a night, a night of revelry with friends is a great option. It might let you temporarily forget some unpleasantness and enjoy the pleasant time to the fullest – you savor it, you carefully savor it!

This small tavern is actually located near 339, on that bar street. As soon as you enter, you'll find the decoration quite attractive. The bustling, colorful atmosphere makes you feel like you're at a midnight cocktail party, with a mysterious vibe.

The whole place has two floors. The staircase design to the second floor is quite interesting, with flashing lights – it's also one of their Instagram-worthy decorations, indeed eye-catching. There are also several rows of moving colored lights that change colors and move up and down, adding to the atmosphere of the whole tavern.

This place is like a museum of alcohol.

Besides 75 kinds of alcohol + 20+ specialty cocktails, they recently introduced "hotpot liquor." This drink scores full marks for appearance. Have you tried hotpot, and drunk alcohol, but have you tried such a good-looking hotpot liquor? Hmm, it looks a bit like a traditional Beijing copper pot. It contains mellow unfiltered liquor and strong vodka. The pot comes with base ingredients including dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, and small kumquats, plus rose petals – full of 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 sharing one pot is enough. Sitting at the bar, watching the bartender's smooth skills is itself a wonderful experience.

Perhaps in times like these, we can find the indulgent self!

**Give Yourself a Reason**

I've finally come to understand a truth: In one's life, there must be at least two impulses – one for a love that knows no bounds, and one for a spontaneous journey...