Jinli Ancient Street

Jinli Ancient Street, located at 231 Wuhouci Street in Chengdu's Wuhou District, stands as one of the city's most iconic historical attractions. Adjacent to the renowned Wuhou Temple, this 550-meter-long street covers an area of 30,000 square meters and is often referred to as "The First Street of Western Shu." The street perfectly embodies the essence of Three Kingdoms culture and Western Sichuan folk customs.

Historical Significance

Dating back to the Qin and Han dynasties, Jinli was originally a center for brocade production and trade, hence its name which means "Brocade Street." During the Tang and Song dynasties, it flourished as one of Chengdu's busiest commercial districts. Today, the street has been meticulously restored in the architectural style of late Qing and early Republic periods, featuring traditional wooden structures, ornate carvings, and ancient stone pavements that transport visitors back in time.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Recommendations

• Spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) offer the most pleasant weather
• Spring brings fresh blooms and gentle breezes
• Autumn features comfortable temperatures and golden ginkgo leaves creating a picturesque scene

Daily Timing

• Before 9 AM: Experience the peaceful morning atmosphere as shops begin to open
• Evening: Witness the street transform into a magical wonderland with traditional red lanterns illuminating the stone pavements
• Night visits are highly recommended for photography and experiencing the vibrant nightlife

How to Get There

By Metro

• From Shuangliu International Airport: Take Line 10 to Taipingyuan Station, transfer to Line 3, get off at Gaoshengqiao Station
• From Chengdu East Railway Station: Take Line 7 (Inner Ring) to Gaoshengqiao Station
• From Chengdu North Railway Station: Take Line 7 (Inner Ring) to Gaoshengqiao Station

By Bus

• Multiple bus routes available: 1, 57, 82, 334, 335, 1126, Cultural Tourism Line, Night Bus 11
• Get off at Wuhou Temple Station

Highlights

Ancient Stage

The traditional wooden stage regularly hosts Sichuan Opera performances, featuring face-changing acts, fire-spitting, and shadow puppetry. Street artists demonstrate traditional crafts like sugar painting, clay figurine making, and paper cutting.

Nine Flavors Street

This food paradise offers authentic Sichuan cuisine:

• Zhang Fei Beef (张飞牛肉)
• Sad Jelly (伤心凉粉)
• Three Cannon Shots (三大炮)
• Bobo Chicken (钵钵鸡)
• Sweet Rice Cakes (糖油果子)

Historical Sites

• Zhuge Liang's Well: A thousand-year-old well allegedly dug by the famous strategist
• Huang Long Pool: Features bridges and pavilions reflecting traditional architecture
• Song Dynasty Stone Carving Gallery: Displays ancient stone artworks
• Folk Custom Memory Wall: Illustrates Sichuan's rich cultural heritage

Shopping

Traditional Crafts

• Sichuan Embroidery: Exquisite handmade pieces featuring birds, flowers, and landscapes
• Bamboo Crafts: Various items from practical utensils to decorative pieces
• Prices range from ¥10 for small souvenirs to thousands for premium artwork

Cultural Experiences

• Traditional Tea Houses: Enjoy local tea while watching Sichuan Opera performances
• Ear Cleaning Service: Experience this unique local tradition (¥30-50)

Travel Tips

1. Opening Hours

• Street: 24 hours
• Shops: 8:00-22:00

2. Best Photography Spots

• Huang Long Pool area: Beautiful combination of water, bridges, and traditional architecture
• Fu Shou Lane: Red lantern-lined narrow alley perfect for photos

3. Suggested Route Combine with nearby attractions:

• Morning: Wide and Narrow Alleys
• Afternoon: Wuhou Temple
• Evening: Jinli Ancient Street
• Night: Jinjiang Riverside walk

4. Safety and Etiquette

• Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
• Respect historical sites and local customs
• Maintain cleanliness and proper behavior
• Be cautious with spicy food if you're not used to it
• Compare prices before purchasing souvenirs

Address: No. 231 Wuhouci Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu