Jinli Street, nestled beside the Wuhou Shrine in Chengdu, Sichuan, is one of the oldest and most atmospheric pedestrian streets in China.
Its origins trace back over 1,800 years to the Qin Dynasty, and it flourished during the Shu Kingdom as a hub for brocade production—hence the name "Jinli," meaning "Brocade Lane." Once a bustling commercial artery, it was revived in 2004 as part of a cultural restoration project, preserving its Qing Dynasty architectural style while celebrating the legacy of the Three Kingdoms period.
Walking through Jinli is like stepping into a living museum. The street is paved with flagstones and lined with wooden facades, curved roofs, and red lanterns. Traditional teahouses, opera stages, and artisan stalls evoke the leisurely rhythm of old Chengdu. Visitors can witness folk performances such as shadow puppetry and the famed Sichuan opera face-changing act, while browsing shops that sell Shu embroidery, lacquerware, calligraphy, and other local crafts. The street’s layout and ambiance reflect a deep integration of folk customs and historical memory.
Jinli is also a paradise for food lovers. Its narrow alleys are filled with the aromas of Sichuan street snacks—spicy tofu, pork intestine noodles, sweet rice balls, and grilled rabbit head are just a few of the local specialties. The experience is not merely culinary but cultural, as eating here becomes a way to participate in Chengdu’s relaxed, communal lifestyle. Whether sipping tea in a quiet courtyard or watching a traditional bridal sedan procession, visitors to Jinli encounter a vibrant blend of past and present, where history is not only preserved but lived.
Jinli Ancient Street Panorama Guide Map |
Jinli Main Entrance |
Zhangwu Street |
Gogo Pandart
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Ancient Theater Stage |
Zhangwu Street next to Zhuge Well |
Jiupin Snack Street |
Leaving Jinli Street |
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