Jinli Ancient Street is a must-see destination in Chengdu, offering a blend of historical charm, vibrant culture, and local cuisine. Located adjacent to the famous Wuhou Shrine, this bustling street is perfect for an evening visit, when the area comes alive with lights and atmosphere. Whether you’re here for the food, the crafts, or the perfect photo, Jinli provides a memorable experience for every visitor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip to Jinli Ancient Street.
Jinli Ancient Street Overview
Address: No. 231 Wuhou Shrine Street (武侯祠大街), Wuhou District, Chengdu. It is separated from Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) by just one wall.
How to get there: Take Metro Line 3 or 5 and get off at Gaoshengqiao Station (高升桥站), then walk about 1 kilometer to reach Jinli.
Suggested visit duration: Around 2 hours.
Recommended Route: Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子) → Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) → Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) → Jinjiang Night Tour (夜游锦江).
Tips for Visiting Jinli Ancient Street
Best Time to Visit: Jinli is especially beautiful at night when the lanterns are lit, creating a stunning scene. It’s a perfect place for evening photography, with vibrant lighting and a festive atmosphere.
Pair with Wuhou Shrine: Visit Wuhou Shrine (武侯祠) in the afternoon, explore its historical significance, and take some photos along the famous red walls. Later, head to Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街) for an evening of exploration.
Operating Hours: Jinli Ancient Street is open 24/7, but the shops typically operate from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Shopping and Food: As you walk down the ancient street, you’ll find many shops selling snacks and souvenirs on both sides. Be aware that prices can be a bit high, so watch out for overcharging!
Photography Spots: One of the best photo spots is near Huanglongtan (黄龙潭), where you’ll find beautiful water features, trees, and bridges all illuminated by lanterns. However, it can be quite crowded, so try to find different angles for your shots.
Fushou Alley: Fushou Alley (福寿巷) is a narrow lane adorned with countless red lanterns, making for a picturesque scene, although it can also get very crowded.
Food Recommendation: Be sure to try “Ye Popo” Bo Bo Chicken (叶婆婆钵钵鸡), a local chain that’s been around for over 40 years. The red oil flavor is a must-try, with the fragrant sesame taste in every bite.
Unique Experiences at Jinli Ancient Street
Sugar Figurine Art (吹糖人): One of the most interactive and nostalgic experiences at Jinli. After melting maltose, the artist wraps it around a stick and creates a figurine based on the child’s breath. The child blows into the tube, while the artist molds the sugar into shape. This hands-on activity is a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Sugar Painting (糖画): For 15 yuan, you can try the sugar painting activity. You spin a wheel to determine which shape the artist will create for you. The taste brings back childhood memories of maltose candies, and watching the artist pour the syrup and carve out the intricate designs is mesmerizing.
Dough Figurines (面塑): A traditional Chinese folk art, dough figurines are created using flour as the main ingredient, mixed with various colors to form different characters or shapes. The artist’s skill is truly impressive, as they mold lifelike figures from the dough.
Gourd Art (葫芦画): A delicate form of art where artisans carve and decorate gourds, turning them into beautiful, detailed works of art. This traditional craft is a testament to the creativity and patience of the artisans.
Eggshell Art (蛋壳画): A rare and intricate craft, eggshell art will leave you amazed at the craftsmanship. Artisans carefully carve and paint on fragile eggshells, creating incredible works of art.
Shadow Puppetry (皮影戏): Shadow puppetry, or “shadow play” (影子戏), is an ancient form of storytelling using leather or paper silhouettes. At Jinli, you can watch live performances where the puppeteers operate behind a lit screen, moving the figures in sync with music and narration. The most surprising element is the addition of “face-changing” techniques to the show, a skill that amazes many first-time viewers.
Inner Painting (内画): Designated as one of China’s first intangible cultural heritage items, inner painting involves artists using a specialized brush to paint detailed images inside a glass bottle. The process is fascinating, and the finished artworks are remarkably intricate.
Nearby Attractions
Jinli Ancient Street is conveniently located near several other Chengdu attractions:
Kuanzhai Alley (宽窄巷子): About 4 kilometers from Jinli, Kuanzhai Alley offers a mix of traditional and modern culture, making it a perfect destination for a morning stroll before heading to Jinli.
Jinjiang River (锦江): About 5 kilometers away, you can also visit the Jinjiang River in the evening after exploring Jinli. Many people enjoy walking along the river at night, as it offers a peaceful way to end the day with beautiful views of Chengdu’s city lights.
Pro Tip: Skip the riverboat tour and instead enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverside for an equally scenic but more relaxing experience.