Wide and Narrow Alleys, built during the late Kangxi period of the Qing Dynasty, are among the three major historical districts of Chengdu. This area is composed of three parallel, ancient streets – Wide Alley, Narrow Alley, and Well Alley – along with a cluster of traditional courtyards that showcase the essence of old Chengdu.
The alleys feature 45 courtyard-style complexes that blend late Qing and early Republican architecture, along with garden villas rich in artistic and cultural heritage, and newly constructed boutique hotels. Today, Wide and Narrow Alleys have become a symbol of modern Chengdu, distinctly reflecting the region’s characteristics and vibrant Sichuan culture. The area combines folk culture, traditional dining, trendy bars, and entertainment, offering a unique blend of history and contemporary lifestyle.
In Wide and Narrow Alleys, visitors can touch the traces of history while experiencing the authentic leisurely lifestyle of Chengdu. A stroll through these alleys offers a journey into the heart of Chengdu – where the old meets the new, and tradition intertwines with modernity.
Travel Information about Wide and Narrow Alleys
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
Ticket: Free admission.
Opening Hours: Open all day.
How to Get There
Location: No. 127, Changshun Upper Street, Qingyang District, Chengdu.
Metro: Take Metro Line 4 to Kuanzhai Xiangzi Station, then walk about 250 meters to reach the alleys.
Attraction Ratings
- Leisure: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★★
- Romance: ★★
- Unique Features: ★★
- Cultural Significance: ★★
- Excitement: ★
Highlights of Wide and Narrow Alleys
Wide Alley: The Heart of Chengdu’s Folk Culture
Wide Alley embodies the most authentic and down-to-earth aspects of Chengdu’s folk culture. This alley is characterized by elements like the Old Chengdu Life Experience Hall, intricately designed doorways, sycamore trees, and traditional teahouses nestled under the eaves, all of which create a unique charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local customs and catch a glimpse of the nearly forgotten scenes of old Chengdu’s way of life.
Within Wide Alley, Demenren Li is a courtyard that offers a genuine experience of old Chengdu life, faithfully recreating a day in the life of a Sichuan family. This courtyard was even a filming location for the TV series A Chef in Seoul. Today, it operates as a boutique hotel, perfectly showcasing the blend of classical and modern elements that define Wide and Narrow Alleys.
Located at No. 11 Wide Alley, Kai Residence features one of the most iconic doorways in the entire Wide and Narrow Alleys district. This doorway is a prime example of traditional Chengdu architecture, showcasing the representative style of old Chengdu entrances. Visitors here can get a true sense of the classic design that characterizes the historical charm of the area.
Narrow Alley: The Essence of Chengdu’s “Slow Life”
Narrow Alley captures the essence of old Chengdu’s “slow life,” blending modern international trends with the city’s traditional courtyards. This area has become a refined lifestyle district, offering a mix of Western dining, art and leisure spaces, wellness centers, and exhibits of folk culture.
If Chengdu is the “Land of Abundance,” then Narrow Alley represents the “mansion” of Chengdu. The alley showcases the city’s courtyard culture, which embodies an elite and traditional refined lifestyle. The design of these courtyards is a quintessential Chinese dream: a garden within a home, a house within the garden, a courtyard within the house, trees within the courtyard, the sky above the trees, and the moon above the sky. This vision reflects the dream of life in Narrow Alley, where elegance and tradition meet.
Related Details:
- Lotus on Lotus (Lianshanglian) at No. 40 Narrow Alley: Once the former residence of the famous painter Li Huasheng, Lotus on Lotus offers visitors a unique experience within its quaint courtyard. Here, you can admire exotic furniture and decorations while also enjoying the opportunity to have custom-made gemstone jewelry crafted by international artisans.
- Horse Hitching Stone at No. 32 Narrow Alley: Located on the old wall at the entrance of No. 32 Narrow Alley, the horse hitching stone stands about 1.2 meters above the ground. Weathered and worn, it is one of the three remaining horse hitching stones in the Wide and Narrow Alleys. Over a century ago, this area was home to the northern Manchu-Mongol Eight Banners and their families, who had a habit of traveling on horseback.
Well Alley: A Hub of “New Life”
Well Alley, named after an ancient well dug during the Kangxi era, represents the modern side of life in Chengdu. In this area, visitors can savor a variety of delicious foods in one of Chengdu’s most beautiful historical districts, enjoy vibrant nightlife in meticulously preserved traditional buildings, and experience the joy of creative freedom in a classic, long alleyway.
One of the most distinctive structures in Well Alley is the Little French Building Plaza. This French-style building, rumored to have once been the private residence of a wealthy family and later converted into a church, stands as a symbol of Chengdu’s open and inclusive spirit, blending diverse cultural influences within its architecture.
Related Details:
- Panda House at No. 20 Well Alley: Panda House is a retail platform that showcases and sells a variety of “Giant Panda” themed cultural souvenirs, along with traditional Sichuan handicrafts and folk products. Here, you can purchase unique panda-themed items such as folding fans, clothing, and other memorabilia. Additionally, the Shu brocade, specially crafted for Wide and Narrow Alleys, is a valuable keepsake. The luxurious brocade features detailed depictions of iconic doorways like “Kai Residence” and the complete layout of traditional courtyards behind them.
- Historical and Cultural Wall in Well Alley: Well Alley features a historical and cultural landscape wall, a 400-meter-long east-west facing structure divided into three sections: “The Shadow of History,” “The Expression of History,” and “The Face of History.” This wall tells stories through elements such as the Baodun ancient city ruins, Qin dynasty city walls, Han dynasty brick designs, Song dynasty ancient roads, scenes of cockfighting on the streets, tea-drinking at brick gates, and card games in courtyards, offering a deeply reflective experience for visitors.
Popular Restaurants in Wide and Narrow Alleys
When visiting the Wide and Narrow Alleys in Chengdu, you’ll discover a delightful blend of traditional and modern culinary experiences. The alleys are lined with bars, tea houses, coffee shops, and restaurants, each offering a unique and refined atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely break. Here are some of the popular dining spots you can explore:
Here are the popular restaurants in the Wide and Narrow Alleys of Chengdu, now including their Chinese names:
Xiangjichu 1999 (香积厨1999)
Located at No. 18 Wide Alley, this cultural tavern is operated by the famous poet Li Yawei and his brother. As one of the pioneers in modern Sichuan cuisine, Xiangjichu 1999 serves dishes from various regions of China. The tavern also hosts activities such as tea tasting, cultural discussions, and avant-garde art exhibitions.
Chengdu Impressions · Daqian Small Restaurant (成都映象 · 大千小馆)
Situated at No. 18 Narrow Alley, this restaurant specializes in refined Sichuan cuisine with a modern twist. The dishes are carefully crafted and authentic, while the interior boasts traditional decor. The restaurant features Sichuan opera performances at lunchtime and storytelling sessions in the afternoon.
Zi Fei (子非)
Found at No. 25 Wide Alley, Zi Fei is a high-end dining establishment that spans three floors, covering 1,400 square meters. With only 17 private rooms, this restaurant offers a personalized dining experience. Each dish is customized based on guests’ preferences, ensuring privacy and an exclusive atmosphere.
Liuli Hui (琉璃会)
Located at No. 33 Narrow Alley, Liuli Hui offers not only exquisite cuisine but also an immersive artistic experience. The entire restaurant is designed like a glass art museum, with stunning glasswork on display throughout. Dining at Liuli Hui is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Ting Xiang (听香)
At No. 6 Wide Alley, Ting Xiang is a charming courtyard restaurant with a poetic name. The serene courtyard, complete with lush greenery and elegant wooden screens, provides a tranquil setting for enjoying a variety of authentic Sichuan dishes. It’s an ideal spot for savoring the relaxed lifestyle of Chengdu.
Fo Xiao (佛晓)
Tucked away in Wide Alley, Fo Xiao is a traditional courtyard restaurant surrounded by greenery and blooming hydrangeas. The courtyard features intricately carved walls and flowing water, creating a serene ambiance. The restaurant serves fresh, beautifully presented dishes that delight both the eyes and the taste buds.
Tea Horse Road Restaurant (茶马古道餐厅)
Located across from No. 27 Wide Alley, this Tibetan-themed barbecue restaurant offers a cozy and clean environment. With a wide variety of dishes, reasonable prices, and excellent service, it’s a great spot to experience something different.
Chengdu Chike (成都吃客)
Situated at No. 10 Kuixinglou Street, this innovative Sichuan restaurant offers creative and meticulously crafted dishes. The bold flavors of “Streaking Tuo Tuo Shrimp” (裸奔坨坨虾), the sweet and refreshing “Osmanthus Brewed Cherry Tomatoes” (桂花酿小番茄), and the unique “Paper-Grilled Fresh Abalone” (纸上炯鲜鲍) are just a few highlights of their menu.