1. Wide and Narrow Alleys (Kuanzhai Xiangzi)

Introduction: Comprising Wide Alley, Narrow Alley, and Well Alley, this is a preserved Qing Dynasty historical block in downtown Chengdu. It combines traditional architecture with modern boutique shops and cafés.

Why Visit: Experience Chengdu’s laid-back vibe, savor authentic local food, and take Instagram-worthy photos.

2. Jinli Ancient Street

Introduction: Located near Wuhou Shrine, this street recreates the culture of the Three Kingdoms period and Chengdu’s folk traditions. It is lively, adorned with lanterns, and filled with snack stalls and handicraft shops.

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in traditional Chengdu street culture and enjoy local delicacies such as sugar-coated pastries and “Three Cannons.”

3. Wuhou Shrine

Introduction: The only temple in China dedicated to both an emperor and his minister, Wuhou Shrine commemorates Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang of the Shu Han state. Its garden-like architecture and numerous relics from the Three Kingdoms period are impressive.

Why Visit: A must-see for fans of the Three Kingdoms history to learn about this rich cultural heritage.

4. Du Fu Thatched Cottage

Introduction: Once home to the famous Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu, this site is now a museum and classical garden celebrating Tang Dynasty poetry and culture.

Why Visit: Appreciate the charm of Chinese poetry and classical garden art.

5. Qingcheng Mountain

Introduction: Located on the outskirts of Chengdu, Qingcheng Mountain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the birthplaces of Taoism, known for its lush greenery and Taoist temples.

Why Visit: Ideal for visitors seeking a mix of nature and culture, with opportunities for hiking, meditation, and scenic views.

6. Dujiangyan Irrigation System

Introduction: Built in 256 BC, this ancient water management project is still in use today and is a marvel of Chinese engineering.

Why Visit: Discover the ingenuity of ancient Chinese technology while enjoying picturesque landscapes.

7. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Introduction: A world-renowned facility for giant panda conservation and research, where visitors can observe pandas in their natural habitat.

Why Visit: Get up close with China’s beloved “national treasure” and enjoy a unique experience with these adorable animals.

8. Tianfu Square

Introduction: Tianfu Square is a central landmark in Chengdu, featuring fountains, green spaces, and nearby museums that blend the city’s modernity with historical culture.

Why Visit: Perfect for photos and a quick introduction to Chengdu’s urban charm.

9. People’s Park

Introduction: A popular spot for locals to relax, drink tea, play chess, and even attend the unique “matchmaking corner.”

Why Visit: Experience the leisurely lifestyle of Chengdu residents and soak in the authentic local atmosphere.

10. Jinsha Site Museum

Introduction: This archaeological site from the Shang and Zhou Dynasties showcases a wealth of ancient artifacts, including the iconic Sun and Immortal Birds gold ornament.

Why Visit: Explore Chengdu’s ancient civilization and marvel at its exquisite craftsmanship.

11. Chunxi Road

Introduction: Chengdu’s busiest commercial street, filled with shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Why Visit: A shopping paradise and food haven, offering a taste of modern Chengdu’s vibrant lifestyle.

12. Jiuyanqiao Bar Street

Introduction: Jiuyanqiao is famous for its bustling nightlife, with a variety of bars and clubs by the riverside.

Why Visit: Enjoy Chengdu’s bar culture and lively nightlife.

13. Luodai Ancient Town

Introduction: Known as the best-preserved Hakka ancient town near Chengdu, Luodai is rich in traditional folk customs and Hakka culture.

Why Visit: Experience Hakka culture and the charm of ancient towns while enjoying unique local snacks.

14. Sansheng Flower Village

Introduction: A rural tourism area combining flower viewing, fruit picking, and countryside cuisine.

Why Visit: Perfect for family outings or nature lovers, offering a relaxing escape to enjoy rural scenery.

These attractions showcase Chengdu’s cultural depth, natural beauty, and modern charm, catering to a wide range of interests.

Night Tour of Jinjiang River

Take a boat ride along Jinjiang River at night to enjoy the stunning city nightscape and riverside light shows. It’s a romantic and tranquil experience, especially popular among couples and families.

—

Strolling Through Yulin Market

Experience authentic Chengdu life at Yulin Market, where you can find fresh vegetables, fruits, and local snacks. Interacting with the friendly vendors offers a great insight into the local culture.

—

Exploring People’s Park

A favorite gathering spot for locals, People’s Park offers a glimpse into Chengdu’s laid-back lifestyle. Enjoy traditional Sichuan tea at a teahouse, watch elderly locals dance, or simply relax in the park.

—

Visiting Night Owl Night Market

A vibrant night market in Chengdu, perfect for sampling authentic local street food, shopping for trendy clothes, and exploring unique small goods. It’s lively and full of energy.

—

Exploring Taikoo Li

Chengdu’s most stylish shopping district combines traditional and modern architectural styles. It’s the perfect spot for luxury shopping, enjoying boutique cafes, and capturing Instagram-worthy photos.

—

Discovering Eastern Suburb Memory

A former industrial area transformed into a creative cultural park. It’s a hub for art exhibitions, photography, and live music performances, making it a favorite destination for art lovers.

—

Visiting Jianxin Alley

A renowned food street in Chengdu, Jianxin Alley is packed with local specialties such as spicy hot pot skewers (Bobo Chicken), sweet water noodles, and more. It’s a food paradise for young people and visitors.

The most important reminder:

If you want to taste authentic local food, avoid eating near tourist attractions. Do not eat snacks in Jinli and Kuan Zhai Alley—they are specifically made for tourists and are often not very tasty. Instead, head to the places where the locals usually dine. Additionally, Chengdu offers a variety of dishes from other provinces in China, and many of these are also outstanding. In Chengdu, you can enjoy famous dishes from all over China.

Chengdu Cuisine is one of the most renowned culinary traditions in China, celebrated for its bold flavors, vibrant spices, and unique use of ingredients like Sichuan peppercorns and chili peppers. As the capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is the birthplace of Sichuan cuisine, often hailed as one of China’s four major culinary styles. Here are some key features and must-try dishes:

Key Features of Chengdu Cuisine:

Bold Flavors: Sichuan food is famous for its combination of spicy, sour, salty, and umami tastes. The balance of these flavors makes Chengdu cuisine both exciting and unique.

Sichuan Peppercorn: This is the hallmark of Sichuan cuisine. When eaten, Sichuan peppercorns cause a tingling or numbing sensation on the tongue, known as mala (麻辣), which translates to “numbing and spicy.”

Chili Peppers: Sichuan dishes are often quite spicy, with generous amounts of dried chili peppers or chili paste added to dishes, adding both heat and deep flavors.

Fermented Flavors: Ingredients like fermented bean paste, pickled vegetables, and soy sauce are often used to add a layer of umami depth.

Must-Try Dishes in Chengdu:

1. Sichuan Hotpot (火锅, Huǒguō)

Why try it? Hotpot is a social, communal dining experience where you dip various meats, vegetables, and tofu into a simmering pot of spicy broth.

What’s special? The broth is infused with Sichuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers, giving it a signature mala flavor.

What to eat? Common ingredients include thinly sliced beef, lamb, mushrooms, and vegetables. You can also try dipping tofu skin, fish fillets, and noodles.

2. Mapo Tofu (麻辣豆腐, Mápó Dòufu)

Why try it? This is one of Chengdu’s signature dishes, featuring soft tofu cooked in a spicy and numbing sauce made from Sichuan peppercorns, chili paste, and fermented bean paste.

What’s special? It’s spicy, aromatic, and packed with umami, perfect for those who love bold, fiery dishes.

3. Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁, Gōngbǎo Jīdīng)

Why try it? This dish is internationally famous, but its origins trace back to Chengdu. It combines diced chicken with peanuts, chili peppers, and a savory sauce.

What’s special? The balance of spicy, sweet, and salty flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the peanuts.

4. Twice-Cooked Pork (回锅肉, Huíguōròu)

Why try it? This is a beloved Sichuan dish where pork belly is boiled, then stir-fried with spicy bean paste, leeks, and peppers.

What’s special? The pork becomes tender but retains a flavorful, caramelized exterior, giving a delicious contrast of textures.

5. Chengdu-style Dumplings (担担面, Dàndànmiàn)

Why try it? Dandanmian, or Sichuan-style noodles, are served with a spicy, sesame-based sauce.

What’s special? This dish is characterized by its mala (numbing and spicy) flavor, and often garnished with minced pork, chili oil, and green onions.

6. Sichuan Spicy Fish (水煮鱼, Shuǐzhǔ Yú)

Why try it? This dish features fish fillets poached in a spicy broth made with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns.

What’s special? The fish absorbs the rich, spicy flavors of the broth, making it an aromatic, flavorful experience.

7. Chongqing Chicken Wings (重庆辣子鸡, Chóngqìng Làzǐ Jī)

Why try it? Although it originates from Chongqing, these crispy fried chicken wings covered in dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns are extremely popular in Chengdu.

What’s special? The crispy skin and tender meat, combined with the numbing-spicy sensation, create a mouthwatering dish.

8. Sichuan Cold Noodles (凉拌面, Liángbànmiàn)

Why try it? A refreshing, spicy noodle dish often served cold, perfect for Chengdu’s hot weather.

What’s special? The noodles are coated in chili oil, soy sauce, and vinegar, creating a tangy and spicy flavor, often topped with cucumber, peanuts, and sesame seeds.

9. Dan Dan Noodles (担担面, Dàndànmiàn)

Why try it? This dish is famous for its combination of chewy noodles, spicy chili oil, minced meat, and a rich peanut-sesame sauce.

What’s special? The layers of flavor from the sesame paste and chili oil make it both spicy and savory.

10. Sichuan Pickled Vegetables (泡菜, Pàocài)

Why try it? These are crunchy, tangy, and often slightly spicy pickled vegetables, which can range from cabbage to radishes.

What’s special? The fermented flavors make them a perfect accompaniment to the rich and spicy Sichuan dishes.

11. Sichuan Style Braised Fish (干烧鱼, Gānshāo Yú)

Why try it? Fish is braised in a soy-based sauce with chili, ginger, and garlic.

What’s special? The fish is tender and the sauce packs a punch, balancing the richness of the fish with the bold flavors of the chili and spices.

Chengdu Snacks:

Sichuan Popcorn Chicken (宫保鸡丁爆米花): Crispy fried chicken pieces served with a sprinkle of spicy seasoning.

Sichuan Pickled Chili Peppers: Often served with meals, pickled chili peppers add a flavorful tanginess.

Tea Culture and Snacks:

Chengdu Tea Houses: Chengdu’s tea culture is an essential part of local life. Tea houses are often found in gardens or park settings, where locals gather to drink tea, play cards, or socialize.

Conclusion:

Chengdu cuisine is an explosion of flavors, centered on bold spices, numbing peppercorns, and a balance of heat and flavor. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters who love spicy food. Whether you’re savoring a hotpot, tasting a bowl of Dan Dan Noodles, or simply enjoying the local snacks, Chengdu’s food scene is sure to captivate your taste buds and leave you craving more!