Travel in China
Start at the east end of Wide Alley (the entrance nearest Changshun Street), walk its full length, then cross to Narrow Alley for the bars and courtyards, and finish on Well Alley for the local eating houses.
Suggested Itinerary
- Wide Alley (Kuan Xiangzi)
Enter from the east gate, walk the full 400-metre lane past the shops, cafes and the brick relief wall. - Narrow Alley (Zhai Xiangzi)
Cross to the middle lane for the restored courtyards, bars and the boutique hotel. - Well Alley (Jing Xiangzi)
Finish on the southernmost lane for local snacks, massage and the more residential atmosphere.
What to See
The Brick Relief Wall
A wall of carved bricks along Wide Alley depicting scenes of old Chengdu.
The Bamboo-Chair Teahouse
Order a gaiwan tea (20-50 RMB) and watch the ear-cleaners work their trade.
The Manchu Gatehouses
Look for the original 18th-century gatehouses at the entrance to each courtyard.
The Persimmon Trees
Ancient persimmon trees in the courtyards - golden fruit in autumn.
The Alley 29 Hotel Courtyard
Even if not staying, the restored courtyard is worth a peek.
The Well Alley Wall-Art
Contemporary murals and installations along the southernmost lane.
Photo Gallery
Tips from Real Travelers
Food & Drink
Gaiwan Tea and Snacks
The teahouses serve Sichuan snacks alongside their famous teas.
Three Cannon Glutinous Rice Balls
A Chengdu speciality - glutinous rice balls thrown theatrically onto a board.
The Courtyard Restaurants
Sichuan cuisine in restored Qing-dynasty courtyard settings.
Zhong Dumplings
A famous Chengdu dumpling shop with a branch on Well Alley.
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