Jinli Street

 

Located in the east of Wuhou Memorial Temple, Jinli Ancient Street (Jinli Old Street) is modern commercial pedestrian streets that embed into Chengdu ancient buildings which originally built during Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

 

 

Over 350 m (383 yds) in length, Jinli Ancient Street is the concentration of Chengdu nightlife, snacks and folk culture. There are many cafes and bars here - including Starbucks. They blend modern elements with the old buildings harmoniously. It is enjoyable to sit on a wooden or bamboo chair with a cup of delicious coffee. When night falls, the whole street is decorated with beautiful red lanterns on the each eave of the ancient buildings. These cafes or bars are the perfect place to take a break, rest, and soak up the local culture. 

As well as the bars, Jinli Ancient Street is also the paradise for gourmand. It contains large amount of Sichuan restaurants which provide famous Sichuan dishes and snacks - Mapo Tofu, Fu Qi Fei Pian and so on. Very few people who visit this part of China leave without becoming hooked.

 

 

 

Strolling down the narrow street, you will find yourself surrounded by old-world stores selling lacquer products, folk handicrafts, Shu Embroidery and calligraphies. You can browse leisurely or purchase some souvenirs for your friends. Most of the special local products can be found here. You can find folk artisans putting on funny shows such as a puppet show. Some traditional arts such as paper-cut and clay figurines made by the skilled craftsmen are sold here. From these artworks you will get a taste of the true life of the local people and find some reminders of China's past in the modern city.

Jinli Ancient Street's reputation is spreading all over the world since it opened to public in 2004. Reflecting both the diversity and integration of Sichuan custom and folklore, Jinli Ancient Street is a must-see location in not only Chengdu, but also in China as a whole.