7-Day Sichuan Self-Driving Detailed Guide, Feel Free to Take It!
"If I were a flower, for whom would I bloom? If I were a bird, where would I fly? The twinkle 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 the sum of loneliness, and that's why we come together!
The Wide and Narrow Alleys — 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 Jing Alley, Wide Alley, and Narrow Alley. Here, you can experience the city's local life.
Kuanzhai Alley has always been a portrayal of leisurely and comfortable life. Some say Kuanzhai Alley is like Beijing's Nanluoguxiang, but in my opinion, Nanluoguxiang's charm is ancient and traditional, while Kuanzhai Alley is leisurely and soothing. However, both share one common point: they have a lot of special local snacks. Some well-known local delicacies here will surely satisfy your appetite!
Because Kuanzhai Alley preserves too much old Chengdu culture, when you stroll inside, you'll see a blend of history and modern fashion, but you'll find it not disharmonious at all—instead, there's a wonderful feeling. The rows of walls built with bricks from different eras, along with the relief-like paintings of old street life, make the Chengdu afternoon leisurely and beautiful.
When you come to Kuanzhai Alley, don't say you're just here to see the scenery without eating something—I'm afraid you'd be embarrassed to say you've visited. There are many Chengdu snacks here; it's a feast for the senses. I love all kinds of wontons—sweet, salty, numbing, spicy—super tasty and very cheap. Mom's rabbit head, diced rabbit, street-side skewers, guokui (stuffed flatbread), Zhong dumplings, and boiled chicken in chili oil are all good. I also recommend a sweet noodle shop here; it suits my taste, delicious and affordable, really great.
Strolling through Kuanzhai Alley, feeling its charm, you'll find that here you can slowly enjoy a tranquility you can't find in daily life. Sipping tea and eating Chengdu's special snacks—perhaps that's true enjoyment.
Jiaoliao Hotel — Jiaoliao's New Nest, Old Memories of Kuanzhai; The Blooming Flowers of Rongcheng Await Your Harvest
In ancient times, there was a saying, "The wren nests in the deep forest." Today, we have "The wren nests in Kuanzhai." Speaking of Kuanzhai Alley, this is a bustling area of Rongcheng (Chengdu). From ancient times to the present, dignitaries have settled here, and even ordinary people wander around here day and night.
Nowadays, tourists and pedestrians are endless; you can smell snacks wafting from all corners of the alley from afar, and the voices of vendors peddling their goods with rhythmic cries echo in your ears.
The Jiaoliao Boutique Hotel stands quietly amidst the hustle and bustle, with a delicate and exquisite appearance, rustic and restrained, located within the Kuanzhai Alley scenic area at 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 Ancient Street, Tianfu Square, and Chunxi Road.
If you want to enjoy a peaceful vacation without missing the bustling urban life, 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 writing: "The wren nests in the deep forest, but only uses one branch." This embodies a philosophy of leaving behind worldly troubles, guarding one's heart, returning to nature, and living freely and poetically—a philosophy of returning to nature and staying away from the noise of the world.
This time, however, Jiaoliao does not nest in the deep forest but chooses such a lively alley full of human warmth, sitting on a long street bustling with visitors, creating a haven amidst the urban forest for guests from afar.
Amid the noisy crowd, we pushed open this old and weathered door. The first thing that caught our eyes was the main gate. On both sides of the screen doors were carved hollow patterns, including bat motifs symbolizing blessings and happiness. The two blessings at the corners had water ripples, signifying "blessings as vast as the eastern sea." The blessing on the central axis represented "blessings falling from heaven." Together with the middle one, they made up the five blessings arriving at the door—wishing longevity, good death, wealth, health, and virtue to all honored guests here.
Passing through the courtyard and entering the corridor, we saw a bamboo, a tile, flowing water, and rockeries, giving a sense of ancient elegance, as if entering a parallel space separated from worldly prosperity by just one wall. My friend, like a person on a lucky streak, kept saying how beautiful it was, taking photos nonstop, laughing like a child.
Entering the lobby, we observed that the entire hotel's decoration style was filled with the charm and elegance of Western Sichuan folk houses. The simple and elegant imitation Qing dynasty ancient architecture combined movement and stillness, revealing the essence of landscape in every inch. It seemed the hotel owner put a lot of effort into such exquisite decoration—no wonder it's so popular.
As we passed through the corridor, the parrots hanging on both sides became unusually active because of our arrival, chirping incessantly, making my friend laugh. It seemed the birds were welcoming our stay!
The green bricks and black tiles of this hotel echoed with the chirping of birds, creating a dynamic and static contrast that complemented the hotel's design style, vividly embodied.
The "dynamic" aspect is reflected in the detailed decorations throughout the hotel—bird-shaped ornaments echoing the hotel's name everywhere.
The "static" aspect is reflected in the imitation Qing dynasty quadrangle courtyard with greenish-black bricks and tiles, where every blade of grass and tree is exquisite, every bamboo and stone full of elegance, establishing a quiet and leisurely lifestyle, allowing you to wander freely in spirit.
Passing 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 embroidery styles) and a "duiwo" (a traditional rice pounding tool), fully embodying the concept of returning to simplicity.
Upon closer inspection, we noticed that the hardware facilities inside the room were also of high quality: sanitary ware, fully intelligent sensing toilets, and mattresses were all configured according to top international five-star hotel standards. Understated luxury exuded an air of sophistication—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 following the crowd nor abandoning the world. Jiaoliao Hotel allows you to find the perfect balance between bustling excitement and peaceful seclusion, letting you enjoy tranquility away from the dust while having the convenience of urban bustle—all for your unique experience.
Panda Base — Discover the Joy of Pandas
When 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 clumsy look of giant pandas. Previously, we could only see pandas online; browsing pictures of them, we found them adorable and cute. This time, visiting the panda breeding base, we were especially excited to see real pandas—after all, they are our national treasure. "Selling cuteness for the country"—that's the true skill of baby pandas.
At this base, you'll see many pandas—a completely different feeling from browsing pictures online!
Panda babies enjoy national treasure-level treatment here. The environment fully simulates the wild habitat of giant pandas.
There are lakes, streams, and of course, their favorite food—bamboo!
Most notably, they have built "panda villas" for them. These are also their daily leisure and entertainment areas. When the weather is cool, panda babies play here; some stroll leisurely in the yard, others roll on the ground—a scene of utmost carefree enjoyment!
Visitors can watch the adorable pandas from behind the railings. When it's hot, pandas cleverly stay inside their rest areas, so 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 diverse in poses—everything you want to see is here.
The national treasure giant pandas are truly adorable—clumsy, cute, free, and happy. Suddenly, I found myself envying these pandas. Perhaps, maybe, I'm not the only one who thinks so!
Childlike Joy Amidst the Snow — Taiziling Ski Resort
If people in Chengdu think of winter snow viewing, Xiling Snow Mountain often comes to mind. But there is an even more beautiful place waiting to be visited: the Taiziling Ski Resort in Jiuding Mountain.
Taiziling Ski Resort is located in the Jiuding Mountain Scenic Area, Mao County, Aba Prefecture—the site of "China's Ancient Qiang City." It is 180 km from downtown Chengdu, about a three-and-a-half-hour drive, making it a professional ski resort at the doorstep of Chengdu residents.
In winter, Jiuding Mountain is covered in silver, with snow-white scenery, welcoming a four-month sunny ski season. Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort boasts the longest middle-to-high-level international commercial standard ski runs in western China, strictly divided from beginner to expert levels, with a full set of imported new ski equipment.
The ski resort can accommodate 5,000 people skiing simultaneously and is equipped with professional ski instructors to meet the needs of enthusiasts of different skill levels. The resort also offers free basic ski teaching sessions at different times, allowing visitors to quickly learn the basics of beginner skiing and immediately feel the joy of skiing.
Besides adult activities, the resort has specially prepared an area for children. In the snow play area, children, accompanied by their families, slide down from heights on sleds, filling the scene with laughter and joy.
As a top-level ice and snow resort in Southwest China, Jiuding Mountain Taiziling Ski Resort is also equipped with leisure facilities such as the Hemingzhuang Holiday Hotel and the Hemingzhuang Holiday View Restaurant. Plus, the convenience of a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Chengdu directly to the ski hall provides a new outdoor winter sports destination for visitors from Chengdu and surrounding areas.
The ski runs at Taiziling Ski Resort are divided by slope gradient into three beginner runs, three intermediate runs, and three advanced runs. Each run has a gentle slope, giving beginners a full sense of safety. The three intermediate runs are the domain of bold beginners and most casual skiers, where they can have fun to their heart's content.
Parents with children don't need to worry—there are also gentle snow play slopes suitable for kids, very safe and smooth, ensuring they 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 also in luck. On the way home at night, passing through Wenchuan, you can enjoy the night scenery of Wenchuan.
Neon lights are brilliant and gorgeous, giving a feeling of peace and comfort. Only by skiing yourself can you know how charming it is—once you try it, you'll be hooked!
When you step into that pure white world, experiencing the purity and grandeur of the wilderness amid thrilling sports, listening to the howling wind as you glide at high speed, with vast white snow beneath your feet—the world lies at your feet.
Let You Taste the Flavor of Home — Yuangong Restaurant
A must-visit for Sichuan cuisine in Chengdu: Yuangong. This restaurant was recommended by a friend. It serves authentic Zigong salt-boat cuisine, with genuine flavors, allowing those who miss home cooking to taste the flavor of home.
Specific location: No. 87-1 Xuedao Street. South entrance of Chunxi Road, cross the overpass towards Xinhua Bookstore, about a ten-minute walk. 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 it has an antique charm with a strong Chinese style. The store has a mid-to-high-end feel; the interior is spacious and not cramped. The environment is definitely excellent.
The service attitude is good; upon entering, everyone greets you together. The receptionist at the door leads you inside, then an interior server takes over.
It feels like they really put thought into it.
I must say, their serving speed is quite fast. Not long after we ordered, the dishes came up one after another.
Special recommendation: the old duck soup. It's very fresh, rich and savory, with a delicious broth. Taking a sip makes you feel relaxed all over. The duck meat is stewed very tender, not dry, very nourishing and healthy.
The Longmen hanging meat (dragon gate hanging meat) is truly unique. When the server cuts it, they say: "First cut brings good fortune, second cut brings promotion step by step, third cut brings 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" (peeled shrimp). The shrimp is pre-prepared, fresh, and deveined for peace of mind. The best part is that the dish also contains taro—the taro is delicious, soft and flavorful, with an excellent texture.
Yuangong clams and bullfrog: visually stunning, like a chain of nebula. The taste is great; it's my first time trying this combination of frog and clams. I must say it's very innovative and tastes good too.
Zigong-style jumping frog (tender frog with young ginger): the meat is tender and the flavor is pure. The dish looks very spicy, but it's actually okay; the frog meat is tender, making your taste buds dance. Not bad!
The dishes are really delicious and generous in portion—also a great place for gatherings and treating guests. Rating: five stars!
Eating Skewers in a Bustling Red Style
Located just a few minutes' walk from Exit A of Huazhaobi Metro Station, Chengdu Melon Skewers (Chengdu Gua Chuan Chuan) has a very eye-catching sign. When I walked in, I noticed the style is unique, with a particularly Chinese feel—quite interesting.
I must say their storefront decoration is grand. Inside, there are square tables with enough space between them, so it doesn't feel crowded. Sitting inside is very comfortable.
The serving speed is also fast. I have to mention that their skewers are cold-pot skewers (cold-pot style): you choose your ingredients, and the shop cooks them and brings them directly. No need to worry if they're cooked—just eat them right away. Very convenient.
The dry dip (dry seasoning) is their specialty. The dry dip tastes especially good, topped with lots of crushed peanuts, which feels great. My friend loved it so much he wanted to ask for the specific seasoning recipe, but that's impossible—the shop won't reveal it. The dry dip is good, but for someone like me who can't handle very spicy food, it might not be the best fit. For spice lovers, this is your go-to dipping condiment!
Of course, they don't just have skewers—small bowl dishes are also their specialty. Many small bowls taste quite good. Recommended must-order items: spicy hot pot noodles (mao huoguo fen). The hot pot noodles are really tasty and very flavorful. Each noodle is coated in broth—simply amazing!
Mao potato chunks (mao tuduotuo) are my favorite—not too spicy, and the potatoes paired with the toppings are delicious. The potatoes are neither hard nor mushy, just the right texture. After one bowl, I wanted another.
My first taste of rabbit kidney was at Chengdu Melon Skewers. Surprisingly, the rabbit kidney tasted great—better than I imagined. Tender texture, one bite each—so satisfying.
After eating skewers, finish with some ice jelly (bingfen) to cut the grease—life is just this pleasant.
Savoring Time in Bieyuan (The Private Courtyard)
This tavern, surrounded by greenery, lit by neon lights, and surrounded by various drinks and snacks, became a favorite of Chengdu's night owls as soon as it appeared.
You might encounter various frustrations in life, but on a night like this, partying with friends until late is a good choice. It might help you temporarily forget some unpleasantness, letting you enjoy the cozy time—savor it, savor it slowly.
This small tavern is actually located near 339, on that bar street. Upon entering, you'll find the decoration quite attractive. The dazzling lights and festive atmosphere make you feel like you've arrived at a midnight cocktail party, with a mysterious vibe.
The whole place has two floors. The staircase leading upstairs is interestingly designed, with flickering lights—it's one of their Instagram-worthy decorations. Indeed, it's impressive. There are also a few rows of moving fairy lights that change colors and move up and down, adding to the atmosphere.
This place is practically a museum of alcohol.
Besides 75 kinds of liquor and over 20 specialty cocktails, they've recently introduced "hot pot liquor." This drink scores full marks on appearance. You've had hot pot and you've had liquor, but have you ever tried such a high-looking "hot pot liquor"? Hmm, it looks a bit like a traditional Beijing copper hot pot. Inside, there's mellow unfiltered liquor and strong vodka. The pot comes with ingredients such as dried tangerine peel, cloves, dragon fruit, and small kumquats, plus rose petals—full of romance.
The alcohol content is low; it tastes sweet and sour with a fruity and floral 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 skillful moves is itself a wonderful experience.
Perhaps in moments like this, we can find the uninhibited version of ourselves!
Give Yourself a Reason
In the end, I understood one truth: a person's life needs at least two impulses—one for a love that gives everything, and one for a spontaneous trip...
