Chengdu Kuanzhai Alley is a pedestrianized commercial area consisting of Wide Alley, Narrow Alley and Well Alley.
As a “cultural landmark” in Chengdu, Kuanzhai Alley is far more than just an ordinary antique commercial street, it is a relic of the life of the Qing Dynasty aristocrats as well as a vibrant microcosm of modern Chengdu.
Table of Contents
The Unique Charm of Kuanzhai Alley
Kuanzhai Alley: Ruins of a Qing Dynasty Military Camp
The well-preserved brick courtyard houses, the living quarters of the eight banners of the Qing Dynasty
Drinking Gai Bowl Tea and listening to old Chengdu people telling stories in a century-old teahouse
Narrow Alley: Artistic Living Area
A space where traditional architecture and modern art collide
Visit independent bookstores and encounter street music performances
Jing Alley: Where old meets new
A 400-meter-long bas-relief wall showcases Chengdu’s century-long transformation
Scan the QR code on the wall to watch the AR history animation
Must-See Attractions in Kuanzhai Alley
Kai Lu (No. 11, Kuanxiangzi)
The residence of a Qing Dynasty official, with the Chinese character “福” formed naturally at the door.
Suggestion: take a photo of the old and the new under the porch.
Little House (No.30, Narrow Alley)
A combination of Chinese and Western architecture of the Republican period
Special moment: the soundscape collision between the balcony saxophone and the hotpot restaurant on Saturday night
Brick Culture Wall (Jing Alley Zi)
Three-dimensional reliefs tell the story of Chengdu
Interactive experience: AR technology allows historical figures to “walk out” of the wall.
Recommended Itinerary for Kuanzhai Alley
Morning: Cultural Exploration
9:00 Start the history tour at Kailu
10:30 Experience engraving at Sanlian Taofen Bookstore
Noon: Culinary Discovery
12:30 Must-try List:
Xiaolong Turning Dajiang Hot Pot (Sichuan Opera Face Changing Show)
Heji Egg Cake (Traditional Chengdu Snack)
Afternoon: Art Experience
14:30 Experimental theater at the White Night Bar
16:00 Postcards at the Panda Post Office
Night: Magic Chengdu
19:30 Sichuan Opera Face Changing Show (Fri/Sat)
20:30 Panda Lantern Festival under neon lights
Practical Information
Transportation
Metro: Line 4, “Kuanzhai Alley Station”, Exit B, direct access
By Bus: Take No. 5/13/43 to Jinhe Road Station and walk for 5 minutes.
Admission
Free admission to the neighborhood
Tickets for Sichuan Opera performances are recommended to be purchased online in advance.
Recommended Accommodation
Luxury Experience: Diaoyutai Boutique Hotel (French Design + Chinese Courtyard)
Backpacker’s choice: Alley Youth Hostel
FAQ
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Do I need a ticket for the Kuanzhai Alley?
The neighborhood is open for free, and tickets for the Sichuan Opera show are ¥80-150 (it is recommended to book tickets in advance)
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Is it suitable for children?
Recommended participation programs: AR wall interaction, Panda Post Office DIY postcards, Sunday non-legacy workshop
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How to avoid the crowd?
① Choose mid-week morning ② Start from Jing Alley and tour in the reverse direction ③ Follow the “Kuanzhai Alley” public number to check the real-time flow of people.