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Jinli Street

About Jinli Street

Jinli Street (锦里古街), also known as Jinli Ancient Street, is one of Chengdu’s best-known cultural streets. Located next to Wuhou Shrine in Wuhou District, it combines traditional architecture, local food, crafts and entertainment in one lively area.

Jinli has a long history linked to the ancient Shu region. Today, the street is known for its traditional-style buildings and narrow lanes, which create the feel of old Chengdu. As you walk through the area, you will find teahouses, snack stalls, craft shops and small courtyards.

Food is one of the main reasons to visit Jinli Street. Visitors can try a wide range of local snacks while exploring the lanes. In addition, shops sell handmade crafts, silk products and traditional souvenirs. You may also come across folk performances and cultural activities, including shadow puppetry and Sichuan opera face-changing.

Jinli Street at Night

Although Jinli is lively during the day, the atmosphere changes after sunset. Red lanterns light up the lanes, while teahouses, food stalls and small shops create a warm and busy setting. As a result, evening is one of the most popular times to visit.

The street can become crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. However, the evening lights make it a great place for photography and a relaxed walk after visiting nearby attractions.

📍 Location:
No. 231 Wuhouci Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China

四川省成都市武侯区武侯祠大街231号

🚇 How to Get There:
Take Chengdu Metro Line 3 or Line 5 to Gaoshengqiao Station (高升桥站). From there, Jinli Street is around a 10–15 minute walk.

🎟️ Admission:
Free

🕒 Opening Hours:
The street is generally accessible throughout the day. However, individual shops, restaurants and attractions have their own opening hours.

What to See and Do

There is plenty to explore along Jinli Street. Try local Sichuan snacks, browse traditional craft shops or stop at a teahouse for a break. In addition, the traditional buildings, red lanterns and narrow lanes provide plenty of opportunities for photography.

Cultural performances may also take place at different venues along the street. Therefore, it is worth taking your time rather than rushing through the area.

Nearby Places to Visit

Wuhou Shrine is located directly next to Jinli Street, making it the easiest attraction to combine with your visit. The surrounding Wuhou area also has shops and streets where visitors can experience more of the neighbourhood’s local culture.

Visitor Tips

Visit in the late afternoon and stay until evening to enjoy both the daytime atmosphere and the lanterns.
Expect larger crowds during weekends and public holidays.
Bring comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore Jinli is on foot.
Food stalls can become busy, so allow extra time if you want to try several local snacks.
Check prices before buying souvenirs or joining paid activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jinli Street free to visit?

Yes. Entry to Jinli Street is free, although food, shopping and some activities cost extra.

What is the best time to visit Jinli Street?

Late afternoon and evening are popular times to visit. This allows you to explore during daylight and see the red lanterns after sunset.

How long should I spend at Jinli Street?

Most visitors can explore the main street in around one to two hours. However, you may want to stay longer if you plan to eat, shop or watch a performance.