Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li are two of the most famous and bustling shopping and dining areas in Chengdu, attracting tourists from all over the world. But navigating these hotspots, especially for first-timers, can be tricky with the crowds and overwhelming selection of things to do. This guide will help you avoid the common pitfalls and ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience in one of Chengdu’s most iconic areas!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
For those new to Chengdu, here’s the first tip: don’t take the metro directly to Chunxi Road! While the metro station is conveniently located, it’s not the best choice during holidays or peak hours. The crowds can be overwhelming, and you’ll likely find yourself standing shoulder-to-shoulder with tourists and locals alike. You might even have to queue for a long time just to board a train, and once you’re on, it can be so packed that you’re not able to move or even hold onto a pole!
Once you exit the station, you’ll be met with a sea of people on the streets. It’s difficult to enjoy the shopping or take photos when you’re constantly dodging crowds. The sheer volume of people can make it hard to get good shots for your social media—it’s nearly impossible to get a photo without a background of people.
Experience Chunxi Road & Taikoo Li the Right Way
To have a more pleasant experience, we suggest changing your itinerary and starting your journey in a quieter area.
Step 1: Wander Around Wangping Street
First, head to Wangping Street (望平街), which is perfect for a relaxing city walk. This street is full of cool, small shops run by young, trendy locals. You’ll find cozy cafes, vibrant bars, and delicious little snack shops scattered around. It’s a peaceful street with fewer tourists, so you can truly enjoy the local vibe. The ambiance here is relaxed and laid-back, and you’ll immediately feel your stress melt away.
It’s the perfect place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere before diving into the more crowded areas.
Step 2: Visit Da Ci Temple for Tranquility
Next, head over to Da Ci Temple (大慈寺), which is just a short walk from Wangping Street. Located amidst the hustle and bustle, Da Ci Temple offers a serene oasis of calm. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience a bit of Chengdu’s spiritual side. Here, you can enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal or sip some local tea while watching a performance of Sichuan opera or listening to live music. It’s a peaceful place to relax and rejuvenate—perfect after a day of walking around.
Step 3: Explore Taikoo Li
Finally, after soaking in the tranquility of Da Ci Temple, take the time to visit Taikoo Li (太古里). You can easily walk from the temple to this modern shopping and dining area. Taikoo Li is filled with international and local luxury brands, trendy stores, and delicious restaurants. However, you’ll notice that it’s less crowded than Chunxi Road. As you walk through the area, you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy spots without the usual crowd interference. Take your time exploring the shops and enjoy a more relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere compared to the chaos of Chunxi Road.
Hotpots Near Chunxi Road & Taikoo Li
If you’re a foodie, Chunxi Road and Taikoo Li offer plenty of culinary delights. Here are some local favorites to try:
1. Xiao Long Fan Da Jiang Hotpot (小龙翻大江火锅)
For an authentic Sichuan hotpot experience, Xiao Long Fan Da Jiang Hotpot is a must-visit. The restaurant boasts a modern, new Chinese-style interior and offers spacious seating. The hotpot base has a rich, beefy aroma and a unique flavor. During your meal, you can also enjoy performances of traditional Sichuan culture, such as face-changing opera and long-spouted teapot tea ceremonies. It’s an immersive experience that pairs perfectly with the delicious food. Highly recommended!
2. Xiao Long Kan Hotpot (小龙坎火锅)
Another hotpot gem is Xiao Long Kan, known for its extremely spicy and flavorful broth. The hotpot here is so spicy that even northern Chinese visitors claim it’s hotter than the famous Chongqing hotpot! Be sure to come early to avoid waiting in long lines as this place is very popular.
What to Avoid: Tourist Traps
While the area is filled with great places to visit, there are also a few spots you might want to skip:
1. Yinshi Square (银石广场)
Yinshi Square is located right near the Chunxi Road metro station, but it’s not worth the visit. The space is cramped, and the narrow walkways are often overcrowded. The food here is overpriced and of low quality, and the whole place has a heavy smell of oil and smoke from the small eateries. You’ll likely find better food at the local street vendors, so it’s best to skip this spot.
2. The Snack Street Opposite Taikoo Li
The snack street located just opposite Taikoo Li is another tourist trap to avoid. While there are some small eateries and food stalls, the quality of food here doesn’t match the price. Most of the offerings are basic noodle dishes and snacks, but they tend to be bland and overpriced for what they offer. The food quality doesn’t justify the high prices, so it’s better to explore other local dining spots instead.