Hey Leosquad! If you’re planning a trip to Chengdu and wondering where to soak in the city’s legendary mix of tradition and modern charm, Kuan Zhai Alley Chengdu is the perfect place to start. This historic district is one of the city’s hottest attractions, and for good reason — it’s packed with food, culture, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
🎥 Want to see the full vibe of Kuan Zhai Alley?
Wide Alley (left) Narrow Alley (right)
Source: EastChinaTrip (left), China Highlights (right)
Kuan Zhai Alley, also known as Wide and Narrow Alley, is a famous snack street in Chengdu. It consists of three ancient streets: 宽巷子 Kuān Xiàngzi (Wide Alley), 窄巷子 Zhǎi Xiàngzi (Narrow Alley), and 井巷子 (Jǐng Xiàngzi) (Well Alley), along with traditional courtyards nestled in between. This area spans 32 hectares and includes around 70 well-preserved siheyuan courtyards.
I walk through its wide and narrow Alley, you’ll quickly understand why this spot is loved by both locals and travelers. The wooden facades and classic Sichuan architecture blend seamlessly with trendy cafés, food stalls, and local artisans. It’s a place where old Chengdu breathes alongside a fresh, youthful vibe.
One of the first things you’ll notice is the food. And if you’re wondering what to eat here, let’s dive right in.
🐇 Rabbit Heads: A Bold Bite from Kuan Zhai Alley Chengdu
Source: Gastronomy Blog
Rabbit Heads might sound intimidating, but this Chengdu delicacy is a true cultural experience. Spicy, flavorful, and absolutely packed with Sichuan peppercorn heat, it’s the kind of dish you try when you want to understand what makes Sichuan cuisine so bold and unforgettable. It’s not for the faint-hearted — but for those who love adventure, it’s a must.
The rabbit head costs 15 RMB (about USD 2.05), so it’s an affordable way to try one of Chengdu’s boldest local dishes.
📍 Location: Shuāngliú lǎo mā tù tóu (双流老妈兔头)
⏰ Opening Hours: Open 17:00 – 24:00
🍬 Bo Si Tang: The Sweet Showstopper
Right after the spice, you’ll come across 波丝糖 (Bō sī táng) , a sweet and sticky treat that instantly wins you over. This dessert is the answer to travelers asking what sweet snacks Chengdu is known for. Soft, chewy, and satisfying, it balances the more intense flavors of the alley and gives you a delightful pause between tastings.
This 波丝糖 (Bō sī táng) instantly reminds me of Indonesia’s rambut nenek or arumanis — that same sweet, fluffy vibe but with a Chengdu twist.
The Bō sī táng (波丝糖) costs 15 RMB (about USD 2.05)💰, making it a sweet and budget-friendly treat to try in the alley.
🐑 Lamb Skewers: Tender, Smoky, Addictively Spiced
Next up is the crowd favorite: lamb skewers. Fresh, smoky, and seasoned with the right amount of spice, these skewers show you how Chengdu turns simple street snacks into something irresistible. Each bite hits you with layers of flavor — smoky, savory, lightly spicy — making it easy to understand why so many people line up for them.
These lamb skewers cost 20 RMB (around USD 2.81) 💰, a great price for such a flavorful street snack.
🍨 Bamboo Cup Ice Cream: The Coolest Finish
When the Sichuan heat catches up with you, look for the charming bamboo-cup ice cream etched with “Chengdu.” The milk flavor is clean, simple, and refreshing — a perfect way to cool off as you explore the alley. It’s also one of the most Instagrammable treats you’ll want to try.
This bamboo-cup ice cream costs 28 RMB (around USD 3.94) 💰, making it an affordable treat to cool off while exploring the alley.
👣 So How Do You Explore Kuan Zhai Alley Best?
The best way is to stroll slowly. Let the ambiance guide you — from traditional tea houses to modern boutiques showcasing local crafts. You’ll discover when this area shines brightest: late afternoon into evening, when the lanterns glow and the atmosphere becomes even more magical.
Kuan Zhai Alley isn’t just about eating; it’s about how you immerse yourself in Chengdu’s culture through taste, sight, and sound. Every corner offers something new to explore.
Address: China, Sichuan, Chengdu, Qingyang District, 长顺上街127号 邮政编码: 610032
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (most shops and restaurants operate from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM)
Recommended Visit Duration: 2-4 hours
Best Seasons to Visit: Year-round
Admission: Free (no tickets required)
🤔 What Would You Try First at Kuan Zhai Alley Chengdu?
Source: Chinatripedia (left)
Would you go straight for the daring Rabbit Heads, or does the sweet Bō sī táng (波丝糖) steal your heart?
Whichever you choose, Kuan Zhai Alley Chengdu promises an experience that stays with you long after your trip.
For more delicious discoveries across China, follow LeoTrails on every food adventure.
🎥 Watch the Full Video Here
🏨 Where to Stay in Chengdu?
Source: Trip.com
Where I Stayed: Chengdu Apostle Antique Hotel
If you want a stay that’s close to culture, temples, and historic streets, choose QingYang District — This Chengdu Apostle Antique Hotel is a peaceful, scenic, and perfect for travelers who enjoy slower, more traditional vibes. But if you prefer a lively atmosphere with endless shopping, food, and nightlife, Chunxi Road is the place to be. Both offer great access to Chengdu’s top attractions, so the choice comes down to whether you want calm charm or energetic city life.
👉 Need a comfortable stay in Chengdu? Tap the button below to explore the top hotels and guesthouses.
