Chengdu: Spicy capital with slow pace
Chengdu is a metropolis in southwestern China with a permanent population of over 20 million. When you think of Chengdu, all that seems to come to mind in China is the slow life, endless mahjong, cute pandas and spicy, flavourful hot pots.
This is a city where you can slow down to enjoy your time. The hustle and bustle of Chengdu’s city centre is not only filled with luxury shopping malls and office buildings, but also a slow-paced park life that feels like staying in a desert oasis.
1. The People's Park
Chengdu people’s old-fashioned slow life is inseparable from drinking tea outdoors, especially in sunny days. A few rattan chairs, a wooden table, a pot of steaming tea and a thermos filled with boiling water. This is the most typical scene of Chengdu people drinking tea. There are always some people sitting around the table to have tea. Chatting non-stop, drinking tea non-stop.
You can find such a place to drink tea in People’s Park. There is a place called Heming Tea House where you can drink tea and chat. But as the popularity rises, there are now too many people there, and it may be not like the leisure place in the past. Maybe after having your meal, you could walk along the river, where you will find many small teahouses where you can drink tea and play cards or mahjong for entertainment.
-Restaurant Recommendation nearby-
Name: Zhong Dumpling (钟水饺总店)
📍 Location: Inside People’s Park (East Gate entrance).
🍽️ Why Go: Iconic local spot for authentic Zhong Dumplings (sweet-spicy sauce), Dan Dan Noodles, and Sweet Water Noodles.
💰 Price: ¥15–30/person.
⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
✨ Tip: Grab a table by the pond for a park view!
Perfect for a quick, budget-friendly taste of Chengdu’s street food culture!
2. Kuanzhai Alley (Wide & Narrow Alleys)
📍Location: Central Chengdu, easily accessible by metro (Line 4, Kuanzhai Alley Station).
🏮 Why Visit:
– Historic Charm: Qing Dynasty architecture with traditional Sichuan courtyards.
– Cultural Mix: Combines old-world vibes with modern shops, teahouses, and street food.
– Food Heaven: Try local snacks like Zhong dumplings, spicy rabbit heads, and ice jelly.
– Vibrant Atmosphere: Street performances, art galleries, and boutique stores.
3. Shizi Xiang (Persimmon Lane) Citywalk
📍 Location: Near Wide & Narrow Alleys, a hidden gem blending history and hip vibes.
🏮 Why Explore:
– Historic Charm: Cobblestone paths, 1920s architecture, and quiet courtyards.
– Art & Craft: Boutique galleries, indie pottery studios, and vintage shops.
– Café Culture: Sip local tea in retro teahouses or trendy coffee spots.
– Photo Ops: Pastel walls, whimsical street art, and persimmon tree motifs.
🚶Walk Tip: Start from Kuanzhai Alley, stroll 10 mins west. Best visited weekday mornings for crowd-free snaps! 📸
4. Chengdu’s Kuixinglou Food Street Guide
📍 Location: Just south of Wide & Narrow Alleys, a 5-min drive or 15-min walk.
🍢 Why Go: A bustling street packed with authentic Sichuan eats and hip local vibes.
🔥 Must-Try:
– Maojiao Huola (冒椒火辣): Fiery skewers in spicy broth – try rabbit kidney and quail eggs.
– Chengdu Chike (成都吃客): Creative Sichuan dishes like grilled fish with pickled peppers.
– Erniang Chicken Claws (二孃鸡爪爪): Braised spicy chicken feet – tender and addictive.
– Sugar-Oil Fruit (糖油果子): Crispy glutinous rice balls for dessert.
💰 Price: ¥20–50/person for small delicacies.
✨ Tip: Arrive by 5:30 PM to beat the crowds. Pair with some drinks to tame the heat! 🌶️BTW, the soy bean milk named Weiyi is the most popular soft drink in Sichuan, I really recommend it to you:)
Shopping street🛒：
Chengdu Taikoo Li & Surrounding Area Guide
📍Location: Central Chengdu, near Chunxi Road.
🛍️ Why Visit: A blend of luxury shopping, historic charm, and modern vibes.
Highlights:
1. Taikoo Li:
– Luxury Brands: Gucci, Hermès, and more.
– Daci Temple: A serene ancient temple amidst modern architecture.
– Instagram Spots: Bamboo-themed alleys and futuristic LED walls.
2. Chunxi Road:
– Shopping: Affordable fashion and local brands.
– Food: Try Long Chao Shou for dumplings or Chen Mapo Tof for spicy classics.
3. **Fangsuo Bookstore**: A stunning bookstore with art exhibitions and a café.
4. Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li: Trendy bars and rooftop views.
✨ Tip: Visit at night for dazzling lights and fewer crowds. Perfect for shopping, dining, and photo ops! 📸🛍️🍜
