As night falls, it is recommended to take a leisurely stroll through the three alleys in the center of Chengdu (Kuanzhai Alley, Zhai Alley, and Jing Alley). Collectively, these three alleys are known as “Kuanzhai Alley.”
The Significance of Kuanzhai Alley
Kuanzhai Alley literally means “Wide Alley” and “Narrow Alley.” It specifically refers to the three famous alleys in Chengdu (not just two, but three)—Kuanzhai Alley, Zhai Alley, and Jing Alley (Fangge Alley and Courtyard).
These three alleys have now been renovated into ancient alleys from the Qing Dynasty period in Chengdu, and Kuanzhai Alley is one of Chengdu’s three historical heritage protection zones.
In the early Qing Dynasty, the Qing government built city walls in Chengdu to serve as residences for the Eight Banners troops and their families. In the 60th year of the Kangxi reign, General Nian Gengyao of Chengdu petitioned the court to station 1,600 troops in Chengdu permanently.
Kuanzhai Alley ABC
In the 40th year of the Qianlong reign (1776), the court established a general’s office in Chengdu to consolidate the southwestern frontier, providing residence for the Shaocheng General and the troops and their families.
The ancient city once had 42 alleys, with Kuanzhai Alley and Jing Alley being three of them. Kuanzhai Alley represents the extension of the hutong culture from the north to the south.
Wide Alley
Wide Alley is the most well-preserved old building in the entire district. Here, you can enjoy a bowl of tea, have a meal of authentic Sichuan cuisine, and experience the local customs and atmosphere of old Chengdu.
Narrow Alley
Narrow Alley focuses on Western dining culture, art, and leisure, and features a relaxed lifestyle area with architectural styles from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China.
Kuanzhai Alley Travel Tips
- Admission Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open all day
- How to Get There:
- Take Metro Line 2 to People’s Park Station, then walk 400 meters.
- Take Metro Line 4 to Kuanzhai Alley Station.
- Take bus routes 62, 70, 93, 126, 127, 163, or 340 to Kuanzhai Alley Station.
- Address: Near Jinhua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province
Author:TravelChinaBook,Please indicate the source:https://travelchinabook.com/touring-chengdu-china-kuanzhai-alley.html
