you’ve shed a tear lately about not being able to go home or travel this year, dry your eyes, pet. You don’t need a passport. Chengdu has joined the club of cities full of fake monuments, and now you can visit places like Stonehenge, London Bridge, and even Florence, all without leaving Sichuan’s capital.

Stonehenge “巨石阵”

The newest addition to Chengdu’s growing list of fake monuments is none other than the mysterious Stonehenge. The original version in Wiltshire, England, was built sometime between 3000 and 2000 BC. Historians and archaeologists still debate how and why it was built, with many believing it took over 1,000 years to complete. The ring features more than 100 stones, each standing about 13 feet tall, 7 feet wide, and weighing around 25 tons.

Now, Chengdu has its own take on this ancient wonder. You’ll find it in the northwest part of the city at Qingshuihe Ecologic Park, next to the scenic Jingrong Lake. Granted, Chengdu’s version is missing quite a few stones, but to be fair, they are probably very heavy.

Looking for a relaxing weekend activity? Pack a picnic and head to the park. You’ll likely spot newlyweds snapping photos among the stones, adding even more charm to this unique spot.

Fake monument, Stonehenge | Chengdu Expat

Chengdu’s Stonehenge

Address:

Piwen Road, Pixian District

郫都区郫温路

 


London Bridge 戛纳湾风情廊桥

 

Wuchaizi Bridge may have stolen the spotlight on social media this year, but Chengdu’s very own London Bridge is just as Instagram-worthy. Located in Huayang, this pedestrian bridge was inspired by the Camden Theatre Tower Bridge in the UK. Built in 2012, it features eight striking red towers that support the suspension bridge above the Jinjiang River.

On one side, you’ll find a villa compound, and on the other, a bustling vegetable market with a large restaurant. Runners and walkers will appreciate the riverfront trail, it’s a great way to explore this quirky replica.

🌟 If you’re into quirky or beautiful bridges, don’t miss our guide to Iconic Bridges in Chengdu, there are more photo-worthy spots around the city than you might expect.

London Bridge, fake monument | Chengdu Expat

Address:

Shuangliu District, Tianfu New Area, Huayang avenue, Binjiang Road Section 2

成都市双流区天府新区华阳街道滨河路二段

 


British Ville 中德·英伦联邦

If you’re a Harry Potter fan or can’t resist the charm of Downton Abbey, British Ville is a must-visit. Located in South Chengdu near Tianfu Avenue Metro (Line 1), British Ville spans four city blocks. It features more than 25 castle-like buildings, complete with a fake Big Ben and a European-style church.Although Architectural Digest won’t be giving out awards here anytime soon, British Ville delivers full-on British vibes. It’s another standout example of Chengdu’s commitment to quirky fake monuments.

British Ville | Chengdu Expat

Address:

Gaoxin District, crossing of Huilong Avenue and Hongxing Road

高新区 – 会龙大道与红星路南延线交汇处(新川科技园对面)

 


Florentia Shopping Village 佛罗伦萨小镇

Chengdu’s own “Florence” may not have the real David statue, but it certainly has the shopping. Opened in 2017, Florentia Village is the largest outlet mall in Chengdu by floor space. Designed to resemble an Italian piazza, it’s complete with rivers, rustic facades, and even the occasional gondolier.

It’s one of nine Florentia Villages in China and a top-tier destination for discount designer goods. However, the location is tricky to reach without a car. Shuttle buses run from Xipu Metro Station every hour, and a Didi from the city center will cost about 80 RMB. If Michelangelo’s David could weep…

Florentia Shopping Village | Chengdu expat

Address:

No.888 Yinxing Road, Pidu District

郫都区银杏路888号(G4217成灌高速郫都区西出口)

 


Louis Castle 

For those dreaming of French castles, Louis Art Castle delivers a full fairytale. Located just south of the Third Ring Road, this sprawling estate covers more than 80,000 square meters. Construction began in 2008 and took ten years. Supposedly, most of the stone was shipped all the way from France.

Today, the castle features several buildings and six villas, all styled after iconic French palaces. Seven banquet halls, including ones named after Versailles and Fontainebleau, make this spot a go-to for weddings and events. We know it’s a bit cheeky, but we kind of love this one

Louis Castle, fake monument | Chengdu Expat

Address:

North Jiannan Avenue No. 92, Wuhou District

武侯区剑南大道北段92号


Have you unearthed an Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, behind a Hongqi Chain Store?

Let us know in the comments!


Please follow and like us: