Jinli Ancient Street
A vibrant pedestrian street in Chengdu, famous for its Qing Dynasty architecture, red lanterns, and delicious Sichuan street food.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical lantern glow
Jinli Ancient Street
Best Time
Magical lantern glow
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant pedestrian street in Chengdu, famous for its Qing Dynasty architecture, red lanterns, and delicious Sichuan street food.
"The street is lined with shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts, and most importantly, it offers a wide variety of local food and snacks to try."
🎯 Arrive Before Sunset
See the street transition from day to night for the best photos and atmosphere.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Don't miss trying spicy tofu, Dan Dan noodles, and other Sichuan street snacks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lantern-Lit Streets
Throughout the street
Experience the magical glow of traditional red lanterns illuminating Qing Dynasty-style architecture at night.
Sichuan Street Food
Various stalls
Sample iconic Sichuan snacks like spicy tofu, Dan Dan noodles, and sweet rice balls.
Traditional Architecture
Main thoroughfares
Admire the charming Qing Dynasty-style buildings with curved roofs and wooden facades.
Cultural Performances
Open-air tea houses
Catch mesmerizing Sichuan Opera, including the famous face-changing act.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Ambiance is Key
Manage Expectations for Authenticity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Before Sunset
See the street transition from day to night for the best photos and atmosphere.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Don't miss trying spicy tofu, Dan Dan noodles, and other Sichuan street snacks.
Travelling around Chengdu
Visiting China first the first time: Shanghai & Chengdu. Taking all advice!
📸 Capture the Lanterns
The street is incredibly photogenic at night with its glowing red lanterns.
🚶♀️ Explore at a Leisurely Pace
Allow 1.5-2 hours to fully enjoy the architecture and food stalls.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Before Sunset
See the street transition from day to night for the best photos and atmosphere.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Don't miss trying spicy tofu, Dan Dan noodles, and other Sichuan street snacks.
📸 Capture the Lanterns
The street is incredibly photogenic at night with its glowing red lanterns.
🚶♀️ Explore at a Leisurely Pace
Allow 1.5-2 hours to fully enjoy the architecture and food stalls.
🎭 Watch a Sichuan Opera
Experience the unique face-changing performance for a cultural treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Jinli Ancient Street is praised for its enchanting evening atmosphere, especially when illuminated by red lanterns, and its array of traditional Sichuan street food. Visitors appreciate the Qing Dynasty-style architecture and the cultural performances. However, some find it overly commercialized with limited food variety compared to other ancient towns, and suggest it can be skipped if time is tight.
"Jinli is a famous ancient street in Chengdu, Sichuan province. It is known for its beautiful Qing Dynasty-style architecture and stunning red lanterns, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere, especially in the evening. The street is lined with shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts, and most importantly, it offers a wide variety of local food and snacks to try. It's a great spot for tourists to experience authentic Sichuan culture and cuisine."
Tongz NP
"There's not much to do here. Many other ancient town that's more interesting. This place is rather small. Street food & snacks quite limited & doesn't taste good. Watched a 30-minute cultural performance here. The show & place is pretty lacking. At other streets, u can get it cheaper with a better stage."
Cher Ong
"Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) in Chengdu is a captivating blend of history, culture, and vibrant street life. Nestled in the Wuhou District, right next to the famous Wuhou Temple, it’s often called the “First Street of the Shu Kingdom” due to its origins dating back over 1,800 years43dcd9a7-70db-4a1f-b0ae-981daa162054.
🌸 What Makes Jinli Special
- Architecture: Traditional Qing Dynasty-style buildings with curved roofs, wooden facades, and red lanterns line the stone-paved alleys.
- Street Food Paradise: Try spicy tofu, Dan Dan noodles, sweet rice balls, and even grilled rabbit head if you're feeling adventurous.
- Cultural Performances: Enjoy Sichuan Opera, especially the mesmerizing face-changing act, often performed in open-air tea houses.
- Handicrafts & Souvenirs: From Shu embroidery to shadow puppets and calligraphy, it’s a treasure trove for art lovers like you.
- Atmosphere: At night, the lantern-lit streets create a magical, almost cinematic vibe—perfect for photography.
Given your love for visual aesthetics and photography, Chanat, Jinli would be a dream to capture—especially during golden hour or when the lanterns glow after sunset. Would you like tips on the best photo spots or how to plan a visit?"
All Reviews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jinli Ancient Street is conveniently located in the Wuhou District, right next to Wuhou Temple. You can easily reach it by metro, taking Line 3 to the Wuhou Temple station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in Chengdu.
Yes, Jinli Ancient Street is adjacent to the famous Wuhou Temple, making it easy to combine visits. It's also a short distance from other popular Chengdu spots like Kuanzhai Alley.
The street is a pedestrian-only zone, so the best way to explore is by walking. It's a relatively compact area, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
While there might be some paid parking lots nearby, it's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services due to potential congestion and limited parking availability.
Yes, strollers can be rented across the main street, making it convenient for families with young children.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Jinli Ancient Street itself is free. You only pay for any food, souvenirs, or performances you choose to purchase.
Jinli Ancient Street is generally open 24 hours a day, but individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. The atmosphere is best experienced in the afternoon and evening.
Yes, Wuhou Temple, located next to Jinli, usually has a small admission fee. It's worth visiting for its historical significance.
Yes, Jinli Ancient Street is open during holidays, but expect significantly larger crowds. The festive atmosphere can be enhanced, but it will be more challenging to navigate.
Since entry to the street is free, there are no general admission discounts. However, keep an eye out for potential deals on food or performances, though these are not commonly advertised.
📸 📸 Photography
The most magical time for photography is in the evening when the red lanterns are lit, creating a warm and inviting glow. Golden hour just before sunset is also excellent for capturing the architecture.
Look for the main thoroughfares lined with traditional buildings and lanterns. The areas near the water features and bridges also offer beautiful shots.
Tripods are generally allowed, but it's advisable to be mindful of other visitors, especially during peak hours, to avoid obstructing pathways.
There are no specific restrictions on general photography. However, always be respectful of individuals and private businesses if you plan to take close-up shots.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both the street scenes and architectural details. A fast prime lens (e.g., 50mm f/1.8) is excellent for low-light photography after dark.
🍽️ 🍜 Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the spicy tofu (mala doufu), Dan Dan noodles, and sweet rice balls (nian gao). Adventurous eaters can also try grilled rabbit head.
Yes, while many dishes are meat-based, you can find vegetarian options like spicy tofu, various noodle dishes without meat, and sweet snacks.
Street food prices are generally affordable, ranging from 10-30 RMB per item. Sit-down restaurants might be slightly more expensive.
While there are many restaurants, Jinli is more known for its street food and snacks. For a dedicated hot pot experience, you might find better options in other parts of Chengdu, though some restaurants here will offer it.
Many small eateries offer local dishes. Look for places that are busy with locals, which usually indicates good food. Specific recommendations vary, but exploring the side alleys can reveal hidden gems.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens and be prepared for low-light conditions in the evening. Golden hour is also perfect for capturing the details of the buildings before the lanterns are fully lit. 🍜 Foodies on a Budget
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Atmosphere: Day vs. Night
However, the true magic of Jinli unfolds as dusk settles. The street transforms with the illumination of countless red lanterns, casting a warm, inviting glow over the entire area. This is when the street becomes a vibrant hub of activity, with street performers, cultural shows, and a lively buzz. The evening ambiance is what many travelers seek, making it a prime spot for photography and experiencing the lively Sichuan culture.
Key takeaway: While a daytime visit offers a calmer experience, the evening is when Jinli truly shines with its iconic lantern-lit charm and bustling energy. Consider visiting in the late afternoon to witness the transition.
Culinary Delights of Jinli
While the street food is a major draw, it's worth noting that some reviews suggest the variety can be somewhat limited or similar to other tourist areas in Chengdu. However, the experience of trying these local treats amidst the historic surroundings is often considered a highlight. Many small eateries also offer sit-down meals, providing a chance to delve deeper into Sichuan cuisine.
Tip: Don't be afraid to try different stalls and sample a variety of snacks. Look for stalls with longer queues of locals, as this often indicates delicious and authentic food.
Cultural Immersion and Performances
These performances are typically held in open-air tea houses or designated stages, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the street. While some reviews mention that the quality or stage setup might be less impressive than in dedicated theaters, they still offer an accessible and enjoyable cultural experience for tourists. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the local arts and traditions.
Recommendation: Check the performance schedules upon arrival to plan your visit accordingly and ensure you don't miss out on these captivating cultural displays.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit