City TourAfter the first ray of sunshine hits the green-tiled roofs, Chunxi Road wakes up from its nighttime slumber. It is no longer a commerce street, but an urban verse, combining the history of Chengdu with energetic vigor. Harmonious history and fashionable present feel at every pace. Let us take a glimpse at this important place in Chengdu tourism.
I. Historical precipitation
The history of Chunxi Road dates back to 1924. At that time, the Qing Dynasty Anchasi ruins were refurbished as a business street at the command of Sichuan warlord Yang Sen. The street originally bore the name “Senwei Road” in honor of Yang Sen’s “General Senwei” title, but the public opposed the name.
It was not until then that Mr. Jiang Ziyu, inspired by the “Tao Te Ching”, that the street was most appropriately named “Chunxi Road”. Since then, the sign “Xi” has come to occupy a very central position in the identity of this place.
During the Republic of China era, Chunxi Road was already in the vanguard of fashion. Since the People’s Republic of China was established, the street has experienced fluctuations. With the reform and opening-up policy, legendary brands opened their gates successively one after another, and new shops sprang up in multitudes.
Today, walking along the street, you can see arcade structures and glass curtain walls coexisting harmoniously. They are speaking silently of the century-long transformation.
II. Commercial shopping paradise
Getting onto Chunxi Road is equal to entering an enormous fashion kaleidoscope. Under the IFS International Financial Center glass dome, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, and other luxury houses’ showrooms are dazzling. Next to Chunxi Road, Taikoo Li abides by the concept of “slow life and fast fun”. Young people stroll about with coffee, look for stores to find the hard-to-find fashion items, or stand in line outside the trendy milk tea cafes. All of this is a balanced image.
III. Unique cultural charm
Leaning peacefully against a corner of Chunxi Road, Daci Temple sits like a wise man who has witnessed it all. Originally built during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, it was respected as the “best Buddhist monastery in the east”.
As you walk by the temple, the amazing sights will shock you. Despite the paintings of Wu Daozi having deteriorated through the centuries, you can catch an intangible trace of enchantment in the brushwork of this “magnificent master of wonder”. The dignified carvings of Buddha statues seem to hold in their fingers the scent lingering over them, that of centuries worth of incense.
IV. Special landscape check-in spots
Among the most iconic check-in locations along Chunxi Road, the “wall-climbing panda” perched on the outer wall of the IFS is an absolute top pick. This 15-meter-long and 13-ton giant panda, in its adorable stance of “staring at the city,” has become such a symbol that tourists cannot resist taking a photo with it. During holiday seasons, the square is filled with travelers, all equipped with a cell phone or camera, waiting for an opportunity to capture the adorable expression of this panda.
Times Landmark Screen is Chunxi Road’s “urban living room”. In addition to a screen for blockbuster commercials of multinational brands, this giant screen also assumes the role of an art platform. It broadcasts energetic image works by vanguard artists. In the evening moonlight, the screen shines and sends light onto the street, filling the whole street with reverie.
The bronze statue of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, which is in front of Zhongshan Square, bears a solemn and majestic atmosphere. It has witnessed the hundred-year history of Chunxi Road and is a place where people can remember the past.
V. Nighttime style
As dusk casts shadows upon Chunxi Road, it opens up its untamed beauty. The bars have become the most suitable location for nightlife activities. Inside the bars, bartenders expertly shake their pitchers of wine, and a range of cocktails glimmer with dazzling hues in the dim light. Meanwhile, the alfresco restaurants are full of people savouring the hot, pungent grilled fish and sizzling skewers, all washed down with ice-cold beer. That is the epitome of satisfaction.
Next are the street performers. The melodious tunes of the saxophone are in the air, and the mystifying magicians draw gasps of amazement from onlookers. There are night market booths on the streets as well. Handicraft accessories and creative cultural items take on a particular allure under the soft yellow lighting. From couples walking arm in arm to groups of friends gathering for a wild party, the nightlife on Chunxi Road has endless reasons to captivate.
Conclusion
Chunxi Road is Chengdu’s love letter to the world. As a professional travel agency with extensive experience in Chengdu tourism, we know this iconic street like the back of our hand. We’re here to craft an individuated travel plan for you. Don’t just look at Chunxi Road on a screen behind you. Get in touch with us today, and let’s take a step together to unlock the boundless beauty of this amazing destination!
