Few places in China are as instantly recognisable as Beijing and Shanghai. Both cities have played crucial roles in China’s history, host a number of famous landmarks and are important global economic hubs. However, their highly westernised nature may leave some visitors feeling like they have missed out on the authentic Oriental experience. Nowadays more and more adventurous tourists are heading deeper into China, exploring the lesser known regions and finding treasures that few outside China will ever experience.
Chengdu is the capital of the Sichuan Province. It is a large city located in southwest China, on the fertile plains of Sichuan Province’s Red Basin. Chengdu is sometimes called ‘the Land of Milk and Honey’ because of its agricultural wealth. It is an extremely scenic place, with the Funan River calmly meandering through the middle of town. Boat traffic, which was once quite plentiful, is now a rare sight adding to the serenity of the river. The city is bounded by mountains to the East, and the foothills of the mystic Tibetan Plateau lay barely an hour’s travel to the West. Enjoying a nice, cool weather throughout the year, Chengdu has several tourist sites of note.
The Jinli Promenade is a folk art and trading street built to imitate the days of old. It lies adjacent to the Wuhou Temple, and is a favourite local haunt. Jinli, which means ‘make perfection even more perfect’, was the name of a popular street going back to the Han Dynasty. The original street was one of the most commercialised streets in all of West Shu, and was known throughout the country. While the current street may not be as grand, it is still quite popular. Tourists can enjoy a number of Chinese delicacies, visit traditional teahouses, attend a Sichuan Opera and even witness a Shadow Play show all at the Jinli Promenade.
One can find a hotel in Chengdu to fit nearly any kind of budget. Those looking for a luxurious Chengdu hotel can try Millennium Chengdu. Situated in the urban district, the hotel gives guests convenient access to the city’s best shopping and leisure destinations.