This guide explains how to apply for your Criminal Record Certificate in Chengdu, and outlines the steps if you’ve already left the country.

Obtaining a (Non-)Criminal Record Certificate in Chengdu

Foreigners holding Work (Z), Student (X), or Journalist (J1) visas are eligible to apply. If you hold a different visa type, you can still apply, though the process may vary slightly.

To get started, go to your local Public Notary Office. (Note: This is not the same as the Public Security Bureau.)

Required Documents:

• Passport (with valid Chinese visa)
• Passport copy
• Passport photos
• Residence Permit
• Work Permit
• Employment contract
• Letter from your school or employer confirming employment
• Application fee

After submitting these documents and the payment, your certificate will typically be ready within one month.

This process is available to both Chinese citizens and foreigners. However, since most of the process is in Chinese, bringing a Chinese-speaking friend can be very helpful.

Chengdu-Specific Process

In Chengdu, foreigners must apply through a local notary office authorized to issue foreign-related notarisations. The notary will coordinate with the Division of Exit and Entry Administration of the Chengdu PSB to check your record. Applicants cannot apply directly to the PSB.

The Chengdu Notary Public Office is the city’s largest and most commonly used. Use the search function on www.chengdu-expat.com to find other options.

Other Cities in China

Shanghai: The local notary public manages applications for Shanghai, Anhui, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang.
Chongqing: Applicants must first visit the nearest police station, followed by the local notary public. This applies to Guizhou, Sichuan, and Yunnan.
Guangzhou & Shenzhen: The notary public handles the entire process.
Beijing: Shuang Xiong is a recommended service provider. They complete the process in around six working days and issue both Mandarin and English copies.

Obtaining a Criminal Record Certificate from Outside China

Most cities and locations will allow you to appoint a representative to apply on your behalf. For this, you need a friend or contact in China that is willing to go to the PSB on your behalf. Then, the required documents and process is identical to the process above with addition of the following. When your representative applies on your behalf, they also need to bring with them the following:

• His or her Chinese ID card
• A signed authorisation letter from you. You can print this out and sign it in pen then scan the letter and email/ send them the letter to print out in China

As with all regulations and jurisdictions these will change slightly according to location and time of applying. The above is a guide to show you the general process and should point you in the direction of getting your no criminal conviction certificate from China.

The rest of the process and documents remain the same.

Translating the Certificate into Another Language

You can have the certificate translated at the Public Notary Office. To do this, you need to provide the following:

• Your original Chinese criminal record certificate

• Your passport (containing visa and residence permit)

With these documents, your certificate will be translated.

The post Criminal Record Certificate in Chengdu: Guidelines appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Daily Life Related

1. Cancel the Accounts
2. Cancel Phone SIM Card
3. Off-lease Procedure
4. Transfer Money to your Foreign Account
5. Cancel Broadband
6.Get the Contacts
7. Pet Affairs
8. Bucket List

Administrative Procedures 
9. Recommendation Letter
10. Employment Separation Certificate
11. Work Permit Cancellation Certificate
12. Apply for T Visa
13. Non-criminal Record
14. Withdraw Social Insurance
15. Withdraw Housing Fund
16. Handle Individual Income Tax
17. Personal Income Tax Payment Certificate

 

1) Cancel the Accounts

Your Chinese phone number is crucial for accessing apps like Alipay or WeChat linked to your bank.

Failing to cancel the accounts linked with your number before departing from China may run into problems, especially if it is associated with your passport number.

If the phone bill remains unpaid for an extended period (6 months), the number might be reassigned, and others could potentially access your accounts.

So it’s necessary to unbind your phone number from all associated applications and services or cancel the accounts linked to the number.*For SkyRemit, you can add your email as an additional sign-in method in the account settings first and unbind your phone number with the assistance of customer support.

2) Cancel Phone SIM Card

Decide if you want to keep your Chinese phone number active.

Keep the phone number

Downgrade to the cheapest plan that will keep your account active (China Mobile is about 18 CNY per month).

Keeping your phone number allows you to continue using services associated with it, such as Alipay and banking apps, even after departing from China.

You can simply switch your phone to airplane mode and connect to Wi-Fi when necessary, eliminating the need for a mobile data plan.

Using SkyRemit requires access to Chinese banking apps and services like WeChat or Alipay, which may need your phone number for verification.

Cancel the phone number

If you have settled all matters before departure, including the remittance of your salary, you can choose to cancel your mobile phone number.

The materials required for cancelling a mobile phone number may vary by city, it is recommended that you contact the customer service of the relevant telecom operatorsto clarify the requirements before visiting a local telecommunications business hall.

The customer service numbers are as follows:

China Mobile: 10086

China Unicom: 10010

China Telecom: 10000

*If the SIM card is not cancelled, it will continue to be charged by the Chinese provider. In addition, after 90 days, the provider will take back the number and blacklist you. This will cause problems for you to apply for a new SIM card later.

3) Off-lease Procedure

Before leaving China, foreigners need to communicate with the landlord to handle the rental deposit or get reimbursement of housing subsidies from your company. Due to the visa time, it is better to plan in advance.

4) Transferring Funds Out of China

Worried about missing bank visits before leaving?

Concerned about accessing RMB after you’re gone?

Use SkyRemit to transfer RMB overseas anytime – before departure or after you’ve left – 100% online. Eliminate last-minute bank runs!

Simple 3-Step Setup (Better Complete in China):

1.  Sign up on SkyRemit

2.  Upload documents (one-time):

• Valid passport & work permit

• Income tax payment records(Approval grants long-term transfer access)

3.  Initiate a transfer• Supports 195+ destinations & 43+ currencies

Scan to Check and Sign Up

Why Choose SkyRemit?

1. 24/7 Accessibility

• Transfers 365 days/year – no Chinese holiday restrictions

2.  Competitive Rates

• Uses XE.com mid-mark

3.  Fast Delivery• 80% transfers in 24-48hrs; select currencies in 30min4. Fully Licensed

5) Cancel Broadband

For all broadband services, if you no longer use them, need to bring your passport and internet device to the business hall to cancel your account before leaving China.

Otherwise, there will be further fees incurred. If you do not actively cancel your account, you will bear the expenses incurred.

6) Get the Contacts

Collect the email addresses and phone numbers of those you wish to stay in touch with, especially close friends and professional contacts. Make sure they have your contact information as well.

This is important because if you ever need to deactivate WeChat or if it becomes unusable due to regulatory changes in the future, you’ll still have a way to reach out to your friends.

For any former supervisors or managers, and anyone who could serve as a reference for a job, obtain their contact details and ensure they have yours too. This will be beneficial for maintaining professional relationships and networking.

7) Pet Affairs

If you decide to leave China with your pet, you need to prepare the following:

1. Booking Flight Tickets

Before purchasing flight tickets, confirm with the airline whether the desired flight has pet-in-cabin or oxygen-supply cargo hold spaces. Currently, pet tickets can only be confirmed by calling customer service.

After confirming the suitable flight, it is recommended to buy the tickets as soon as possible due to limited spots, especially during peak travel seasons. It is advisable to purchase pet tickets at least two months in advance for more options.

2. Preparation of Vaccination Certificate

More than one month before departure, ensure your pet’s rabies vaccine is valid within one year; if it is about to expire, it is recommended to get a booster shot one month before takeoff.

Veterinarians recommend waiting at least one month after vaccination before undertaking long flights.

3. Animal Health Certificate Issued by Customs (Valid for 5 Days)

Sample of the certificate

If you prefer not to go through the hassle, you can entrust a pet exit service agency through online forums, social media groups, or pet adoption websites such as RED, Xian Yu or related WeChat official accounts.

One month before departure, call the local customs hotline 12360 to inquire about the process, required documents, time, and location for handling (which may vary slightly by region).

*Note, the customs hotline does not offer English services.

If you decide not to take your pet with you when leaving China, there are several options for finding a new home for your pet.

1.  Friends or relatives

Find a new loving home for your pet by contacting friends, family, or colleagues who may be willing to adopt.

2.  Online Platforms 

Utilize online forums, social media groups, or pet adoption websites such as RED, Xian Yu or related WeChat official accounts to find potential adopters.

8) Bucket List

Dive into your bucket list of activities you’ve always dreamed of experiencing in China but never found the time for.

Whether it’s walking along the Great Wall, exploring the historic Forbidden City, or tasting authentic street food in bustling markets, countless adventures are waiting for you.

Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in cultural festivals, traditional tea ceremonies, and ancient temples.

These unique experiences offer a glimpse into a rich heritage and lifestyle that you won’t easily find outside of China. Enjoy every moment and create unforgettable memories.

9) Recommendation Letter 

Sample of recommendation letter

In the following conditions, you may need a recommendation letter.

a. Work or Study: If foreigners are working or studying in Chinese companies or schools, and need recommendation letters to apply for work or study opportunities in other countries, then recommendation letters may be necessary

.b. Visa Application: In some cases, foreigners may need recommendation letters as part of the visa application process, especially when applying for work or student visas.

c. Professional Certification: Certain professional fields may require foreigners to continue working in related jobs after leaving China, and in such cases, recommendation letters may be needed to prove their professional capabilities and experience.

d. Personal Development: Recommendation letters can sometimes be part of personal development, such as applying for scholarships, attending professional conferences, or engaging in academic exchanges.

e. Other Specific Purposes: In some specific situations, such as applying for certain specific projects or opportunities, recommendation letters may be required.

There are strict regulations on the content of the recommendation letter, such as the job position, working time, and signature and seal of recommender or official seal.

10) Employment Separation Certificate 

Sample of employment separation certificate

Before leaving a company in China, you should ask for a certificate of separation or work experience from the company.

This certificate should have your name, passport number, job dates, job title, company contact info, and the company’s stamp.

If you want to work in China again or need a work permit, this certificate is very important. Following the Labor Contract Law, the company must give the employee a separation certificate.

As you might need a notarized work certificate when applying for jobs or permanent residency in another country in the future, it’s also a good idea to get this certificate notarized.

11) Work Permit Cancellation Certificate

Sample of work permit cancellation certificate

There are two situations:

a. If your last working day is on or close to the work permit’s expiration date(e.g., within 3 days of the expiration date), you don’t need to cancel the work permit (because cancellation must be done a few days before you leave).

b. If there is a long gap between your last working day and the work permit’s expiration(e.g., more than 30 days), you must cancel the work permit and get a cancellation certificate from the Bureau of Foreign Experts Affairs.

If you return to China in a short period and apply for a domestic work permit transfer, this certificate must be provided.

Work Permit Cancellation Materials:

① Application for cancellation of work permit

② Termination certificate or termination certificate

③ Non-meeting Commitment (if applicable, can be submitted to complete the application online)

12) Apply for T Visa

Sample of T visa

After obtaining the work permit cancellation certificate, you can apply for a stay visa from the exit and entry department of the Public Security Bureau, and the duration of the stay visa will be determined based on the specific circumstances, usually 30 days.

13

Non-Criminal Record

Sample of non-criminal record

Obtaining a certificate of non-criminal record typically requires the applicant’s presence. If you have already left China, the materials needed for agent handling will be more complicated.

Foreigners in China usually need to meet the following conditions and requirements when applying for a certificate of no criminal record:

a. Residence Time Requirement: The cumulative residence in China must reach 180 days (inclusive) or more.

b. Personal application material needed on site (taking Shenzhen as an example):

①Original passport

②Temporary residence registration form

Sample of temporary residence registration form 临时住宿登记表样本

③application form (fill and sign on site)

*Please note that many foreigners do not update their records after renewing their residence permits or changing their addresses, which leads to discontinuous residence periods in the system and makes it impossible to process a certificate of no criminal record.

请注意，不少人每次在更新居留许可或变更地址后并未更新填表，导致系统里的居住时间不连续而无法办理无犯罪证明。

c. Application Department: An application should be submitted to the immigration administration department at or above the county level where the applicant resides.

3. 申请部门：应向居住地的县级以上出入境管理局提出申请。

d. Processing Time: Generally, it takes 5-10 working days to complete the process.4. 办理时间：一般情况下，办理时长为5-10个工作日办结。

If you have left China, materials needed for agent:

① The Chinese visa page of passport and residence period, must be authenticated by the Chinese Embassy or consulate.

② Temporary Accommodation registration form.

③ The power of attorney, must be certified by the Chinese Embassy or consulate.

Suppose the certificate is to be used abroad. In that case, obtaining two to three notarized copies of the certificate from a notary office after receiving it is recommended to be prepared for unforeseen needs.

14

Withdraw Social Insurance

Please be aware that you can only apply for social security surrender once the company has stopped your payments. 

Generally, if the social security for the current month has been paid, the company can only stop the payments in the last few days of the month. Therefore, please plan your time carefully.

Offline Social Security Bureau window application:(taking Shenzhen as an example)

Documents needed of withdrawing Social Insurance:

① Passport

② A bank card issued in China’s Mainland

③ Work permit cancellation certificate or separation certificate

④ Financial social security card, no need if not available

⑤ Social insurance relationship settlement application form (signed by the insured, such as the unit agent, need to stamp official seal if company handled it instead of.) 

The application form is as follows:

Q: How much money can I claim back?

A: You can log in to the personal social security system account to inquire, or to the Social Security Bureau front window to inquire. Any part paid by an individual can apply for withdrawal.

15) Withdraw Housing Fund

If your company has purchased the housing fund for you, you can withdraw the balance of all the housing fund before leaving.

For housing fund withdrawal, you can apply online or offline. It is recommended to apply offline, as online applications do not have the option of departure withdrawal and usually take several months to receive.

Online Apply: You can try searching for ‘公积金提取’ on Alipay, but if that doesn’t work out, we recommend going offline to handle it.

Offline application for the withdrawal of housing fund material (taking Shenzhen as an example):

① Original passport

② Original Housing fund card (if no, use other Chinese bank cards instead)③ Housing Fund Withdrawal business personal authorization, commitment letter (fill in bank window site)

16) Handle Individual Income Tax

Individuals in China are responsible for personal income tax. Before leaving, verify your tax records to ensure your employer has fully withheld and paid the corresponding personal income tax for you.

If there’s a shortfall, coordinate with your employer to settle it promptly to avoid late fees, penalties, and credit damage in China. Seeking help from a tax professional or service is advisable.

If your taxpayer status changes before departure: a resident becomes a non-resident, or a non-resident becomes a resident, resulting in a discrepancy between the tax paid and the tax payable, in this case, you need to go to the tax Bureau for a tax refund before departure.

If you are a resident taxpayer and you have used the eight eligible subsidy policies to refund the tax in the following year, you need to prepare relevant information before leaving the country.

If you have used the qualified rent subsidy, you need to collect the rent invoice, lease contract and other information before leaving the country, to handle the personal settlement from March to June of the following year. Provide supporting documents to the tax office.

17) Personal Income Tax Payment Certificate

Sample of the certificate

To comply with tax obligations in your home country or a third country where you may work, it’s advisable to secure documentation of your income and tax payments from your employment in China before you leave.

This proof of tax payment can be essential for demonstrating compliance with tax laws in other jurisdictions.

 

The post The 2026 Essential Checklist for Expats Leaving China for Good appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

We often resort to screenshots of the style we want or shots from a few angles of our last good cut in order to communicate our desired effect to the hairstylist. 

People have been known to scope out good places by watching the stylist work and their results for a bit before committing. Asking the stylist for photos of their work can also be a good way to judge someone’s handiwork (or have a little scroll on their WeChat profile). 

We are pretty fortunate that fashion-conscious Chengdu has a wealth of options at many price ranges, from neighbourhood spots where the basic xi-jian–chui (wash, cut, dry) service runs 20-50RMB to luxury salons that charge several hundred yuan per visit. 

Appointments at neighbourhood spots are usually not taken as customers are cared for on a first-come-first-served basis, so it pays to time visits to a popular salon during off hours. Higher-end salons usually have a sliding scale where services by less experienced stylists come at a bargain and the most experienced stylists come at a premium.  

You can also expect dye or perm services to cost quite a bit more than the basic cut. Several salons offer memberships or cards that can shave a good percentage off your bill; if you find a good place that you intend to visit regularly, this is usually well worth it. 

Below are a few good places in town to get you started 

Franck Provost

(Formerly “Partners Labs Paris Hair Salon”, “Lain Guy Paris French Hair Salon” or “Partners Labs”)

Haircut and style runs from 128RMB. Haircare, coloration, and perms, and VIP cards available.

Address:

2F, Building 1, Vanke Center, No. 188 Jirui 2nd Road, High-Tech Zone
高新区吉瑞二路 188 号高新创和中心1栋2F（酒店宾客凭房卡尊享专属1栋2F）

Tel:

15208141447 LAINGUY

Social Club by Golden Standard 黄金标准

Not only a barbershop, but also a place where you can have a drink and hang out with friends.

“A social club for everyone to relax at! This is more than a barbershop – with entertainment equipment such as a ps5, 150 inch screen, projector with Playstation and a bar, Social Club is a place to really wind down! A barbershop that provides all kinds of services to help men to create a better, healthier individual image, including customized haircut, hair skincare, styling, shaving, skincare, hair tattoo and body tattoo, etc.”

Opening Hours:

10am-9pm

Tel.:

19938016864

Address:

No. 78 East Huaxing St. Jingjiang District

锦江区华兴东街78号

And lots of other locations around town

Hair Code 芭曲发廊

Addresses:

No. 2306, 2nd Floor, Building 27, Taikoo Li, Chengdu, Zhongshamao Street

中纱帽街成都太古里27栋2层2306号

Tel: 17602891746

No. 60, Floor L3, CapitaLand Plaza Xinnan Store, Shenghe 1st Road (near Tianfu Interchange)

盛和一路凯德广场新南店L3层60号(近天府立交)

Tel: 65979615

Shop LG1039-LG1040, B1F, Pavilion B, China Merchants Cube, No. 1777, Tianfu Avenue North Section, Wuhou District

武侯区天府大道北段1777号招商大魔方B馆负1楼LG1039-LG1040号商铺

Tel: 17612863114

Many more others around the city.

 Sense Salon 意念造型

A cut and style will run around 200RMB at this fashion forward brand with a few locations around town; look for groupons for their newer locations. RMB 288 for classic cut, RMB 388 for special design.

Address:

Jinjiang District, Lan Kwai Fong, Building 4, No.4 锦江区沙河街道东大街东大路段光环购物公园
Tel:

65190069

Address:

L304c, 3rd Floor, IFS Mall, Dacisi Road, Shudu Avenue (next to CHANEL cosmetics)

蜀都大道大慈寺路IFS国金商城三楼L304c (旁边的CHANEL香奈儿彩妆)

Tel:

65190069

Toni & Guy Essensuals

Address：

Taikoo Li Chengdu, No. 8 Zhong Shamao Street, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan

四川省成都市锦江区中纱帽街8号 成都太古里

Tel.:

17608824976

Cutman Barber Shop 男士理发

(Tangba Street Store 镗钯街店)

Opening Hours:

11am-8pm

Address:

No. 1, Qing’an Street, Jinjiang District (front entrance of Jinjiang Impression Community)

锦江区清安街1号附1号（锦江印象小区正门口）

(Merchants Big Cube Store 招商大魔方店)

Opening Hours:

10am-10pm

Address:

Room L4010, 4th Floor, Hall A, China Merchants Cube, No. 1777, Tianfu Avenue North Section

武侯区天府大道北段1777号招商大魔方A馆四楼L4010

Tel:

028-89895818

And several more locations around town

(Chengdu Yintai City Store 成都银泰城店)

Opening Hours:

10am-9pm

Address:

No. 11, 1st Floor, Building 6, Yintai City 2 Yuefang, No. 1999 Yizhou Avenue, Wuhou District

武侯区益州大道1999号银泰城2悦坊6栋1楼11号

And lots of other locations around town

Cover 卡伦造型

Expect to pay around 100 RMB for a haircut at this salon chain.

(Huaxi store 华西店)

10:00-20:30

Address:

No. 28, No. 3, Ruilian Road, Qingyang District No. 28, No. 3, Ruilian Road, Qingyang District

青羊区瑞联路3号附28号

Tel: 18599943463

(Youpindao Store 优品道店)

10:00-20:30

Address:

No. 6, No. 10, Hongmen Street, Wuhou District

武侯区黉门街6号附10号

Tel:18196908838

The post Hair Salons and Barbershops in Chengdu appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Ordinary passport holders from the following countries may enter China visa-free for 30 days for business, tourism, family visit, exchange and transit purposes.

1. Andorra

2. Argentina

3. Austria

4. Australia

5. Bahrain

6. Belgium

7. Bulgaria

8. Brazil

9. Canada

10. Chile

11. Brunei

12. Croatia

13. Cyprus

14. Denmark

15. Estonia

16. Finland

17. France

18. Germany

19. Greece

20. Hungary

21. Iceland

22. Ireland

23. Italy

24. Japan

25. Kuwait

26. Latvia

27. Liechtenstein

28. Luxembourg

29. Malta

30. Monaco

31. Montenegro

32. Netherlands

33. New Zealand

34. North Macedonia

35. Norway

36. Oman

37. Peru

38. Poland

39. Portugal

40. Romania

41. Russia (currently until September 14, 2026)

42. Saudi Arabia

43. Slovakia

44. Slovenia

45. South Korea

46. Spain

47. Sweden

48. Switzerland

49. United Kingdom

50. Uruguay

Notes for Unilateral Visa-Free Entry into China:

• The policy is effective until December 31, 2026 (except for Russia).
• The maximum stay allowed under visa-free entry is 30 days.
• The visa-free policy applies only to entry and exit ports in the Chinese mainland.

1. Armenia

2. Albania

3. Antigua and Barbuda

4. Azerbaijan

5. Barbados

6. Bahamas

7. Belarus

8. Bosnia and Herzegovina

9. Dominica

10. Fiji

11. Georgia

12. Grenada

13. Kazakhstan

14. Malaysia

15. Maldives

16. Mauritius

17. Qatar

18. San Marino

19. Samoa

20. Serbia

21. Solomon Islands

22. Singapore

23. Suriname

24. Seychelles

25. Tonga

26. Thailand

27. UAE

28. Uzbekistan

Notes for Reciprocal Visa-Free Entry into China:

• Single stay not exceeding 30 days from the date of entry, with a cumulative stay not exceeding 90 days within 180 days.
• The visa-free policy is permanent in principle, but will be updated according to future policy changes.
• The visa-free policy applies only to entry and exit ports in the Chinese mainland.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

What’s your take?

The post China Visa-Free Entry Countries – The Full Lists appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Being able to communicate with the people around you makes living abroad way easier! So let us begin with small steps by being able to talk to your taxi driver in real Sichuanhua.

你的定位准的不？
ni3 li1 din4 wei4 zun3 li1 bu2？
Is your GPS location correct?

靠定是准的啥
kao4 din4 si4 zun3 li1 sa1
Of course it is right!

半个每小时后，师傅取消了订单
Half an hour later, the driver canceled the trip

都怪我的胖手指
dou1 guai4 ngo3 li1 pang4 sou3 zi3
My fat fingers always mess it up

A: 我们走哪边喃？
ngo3 men1 zou3 la3 bian1 lan1?
Which way should we go?
B: 掉头走那边
tiao3 tou2 zou3 la4 bian1
Make a u-turn and go that way

A: 在哪里停？是不是那儿前头？
zai3 la3 li3 tin2？si4 bu2 si4 ler4 qian2 tou2？
Where do you want me to stop? just ahead over there?
B: 就这儿凭边边停就行了
jiu4 zer4 pen1 bian1 bian1 jiu4 xin2 lo3
Pull over (to the side) & stop just here

A: 你晓不晓得咋个儿走？
ni3 xiao3 bu2 xiao3 de2 za2 ger4 zou3？
Do you know the way?
B: 晓不得，就跟到导航走
xiao3 bu2 de2，jiu4 gen1 dao4 tao4 hang2 zou3
No, follow the GPS

A: 你的定位准不？
ni3 li1 din4 wei4 zun3 bu2？
Is your gps location correct?
B: 准的
zun3 li1
Yeah, it’s right.

A: 我打起闪子嘚
ngo3 da3 qi3 san3 zi3 de4
I’ve got my blinkers on
B: 哦，要得，跟到就拢了
o3，yao4 de2，gen1 dao4 jiu4 long3 lo3
Oh, okay, I’ll be right there

A: 走下头嘛
zou3 xia4 tou2 ma3
Take the tunnel
B: 好的
hao3 li1
Aight

A: 上不上桥？
sang4 bu2 sang4 qiao2？
Should we take the overpass?
B: 上嘛，下头堵得遭不住
sang3 ma3，xia4 tou2 du3 de2 zao1 bu2 zu4
Yeah, the traffic is awful down here

A: 嫑倒拐，那塌儿在施工
biao4 dao4 guai4，la4 ter2 zai4 si1 gong1
Don’t turn, they’re doing roadworks over there
B: 好
hao3
Okay

A: 你是不是尾号0123？
ni3 si4 bu2 si4 wei3 hao4 lin2 yao1 er4 san1？
Are the last for digits of your number 0123?
B: 哦呵儿，不是我，上错车子啦！
o3 her4，bu2 si4 ngo3，sang4 co4 ce1 zi3 la1！
Oh no! That’s not me! I must have gotten in the wrong car!

A: 麻烦你了哈师傅
ma2 fan2 ni3 lo3 ha1 si1 fu4
Thanks cabbie
B: 莫得事，你慢走
mo2 de2 si4，ni3 man4 zou3
No worries, take care
A: 你慢朅
ni3 man4 qie4
Yeah, you too

Tones

Tones are kind of mental.
Every city, village, town has its own little variations. Some tones start higher, other lower, some don’t drop, some don’t rise.
With all of these variations you don’t need to be very hard on yourself or picky in general – as long as you have the basic direction most people should be able to get what you are saying.

Sam Bowden

More information from language curious founder of PricklyAsh.org and the Prickly Ash app at contact @pricklyash.org.Sam is passionate about preserving and conserving Sichuanese language materials.

The post Taxi Chat – Sichuanhua With Your Cab Driver appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Hotel Overview

• Location: Situated in Chengdu’s Panchenggang District, a dynamic enclave that seamlessly merges nostalgic, tree-lined residential neighborhoods with sleek modern cityscapes and bustling commercial hubs.
• Rooms: Boasting 258 guestrooms and suites, all positioned on floors 36 and above to deliver unobstructed panoramic views of Chengdu’s sprawling skyline, from iconic landmarks to the distant greenery of surrounding parks.
• Design: Rooted in Chengdu’s industrial heritage, the property features a curated aesthetic with brushed metal accents, supple leather textures, and locally inspired art pieces that balance retro-industrial charm with contemporary luxury.

Dining & Social Spaces

• Cafe 249: A casual bistro offering a fusion of international bistro classics and creative Sichuan-inspired dishes, plus authentic Cantonese dim sum, with a scenic outdoor terrace ideal for morning coffee or evening drinks.
• Color Palette Bar: A stylish lounge serving artisanal afternoon tea spreads by day and innovative Sichuan-themed cocktails (infused with local ingredients like prickly pear and Sichuan peppercorn) by night.
• Dongda 333: An upscale Chinese restaurant with elegantly appointed private dining rooms, where guests can savor refined Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine while taking in sweeping city vistas.

Lifestyle & Amenities

• Fitness Center: A 24-hour gym on the 36th floor, outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and framed by floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic city views during workouts.
• Pet-Friendly Rooms: Dedicated accommodations for travelers with canine companions, complete with pet-specific amenities (such as beds and treats) and private balconies for outdoor relaxation with pets.
• Events: Five flexible meeting and event spaces, paired with a scenic outdoor terrace, that cater to everything from corporate workshops to intimate weddings and private celebratory gatherings.

Opening Offer

Address:
No. 229 Tongyuan Street, Jinjiang District, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
中国四川省成都市锦江区通源街 229 号

Tel.:
+86 28 6115 8888
400 818 1212

The post Hyatt Centric The Ring Chengdu Hotel Opens in Southwest China appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Zikoland started with two French friends and food enthusiasts — chef Ziko and his partner Yohan back in 2017. Their idea was straightforward: remove the middlemen, partner directly with top importers, and offer premium products at prices that won’t make you tear up.

Basically: top-notch restaurant-grade quality products at flash-sale prices, delivered to your door.

Ziko Kitchen

Gourmet finds

 Wagyu beef, ribeyes, dry-aged steak, short rib, skirt steak, beef patties, mince, osso buco, veal, and bone marrow.

 From Sausages to imported cheeses, hams and ready-made cordon bleu or French-style dry saussisons – all are for quick and easy prep at home.

  Premium Poultry – whole turkey, Capon, Long Gang yellow chicken, pigeon, mullard duck

  Ready-to-Eat Dishes – couscous, Italian pastas, beef lasagna, parmentier, smoked brisket, chicken in foie gras sauce and more!

Seafood – king salmon,caviar, king crab legs, red crab meat, scampi XL, scallops, yellowfin tuna, sushi-grade fish, halibut, smoked salmon, oysters, mussels, squid, and bottarga.

Selected French & Italian Cheese – Gapon, tomme de Savoie, brie, made-on-demand burrata, comté, Petit Pont-l’Évêque, livarot, gruyére, Brillat-Savarin.

How To Shop

Simple: WeChat!

Join a WeChat group
Add Chef Ziko below to get started

⇣

Daily flash sales happen inside the members-only groups. You’ll get flyers with pricing for combo packs and single items, plus occasional lotteries with freebies from Ziko Kitchen.See something you want? Just order in the group or message the service account. Sales run for only 2–4 hours, so when time’s up, orders close.

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Readers’ Perks

Try your first order now

The post Ziko Kitchen: The WeChat Foodies Community for All appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge: 55km Challenge

When the ring of the start-gun resounded through Hailuogou valley, I pulled my laces tight and stepped onto the 55km trail. We’d traveled to Ganzi’s Hailuogou a few days early to adapt to the altitude—most of the race sits around 3,000 to 4,000 meters, and we didn’t want thin air to throw off our rhythm.

This was my first time tackling a race with over 5,000 meters of cumulative elevation gain, and the 1:1 ration of distance to elevation is partly what makes it so different. Friends had warned me for weeks it’d be brutal, that the altitude and climbs would push me harder than anything I’d tried before. Standing there, watching the first runners disappear into the trees, I could tell the trail ahead would test more than just my legs—it’d test how well we’d prepped. This wasn’t just a race; it was my first big mountain challenge, and I was as nervous as I was eager to see if I could keep up.

Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge: Race Day

The Trail: Half Challenge, Half Wonderland

The magic of FUGA Gongga 100 lies in its dramatic contrasts: trekking through old-growth forests, breathing in the scent of pine needles; crossing a bridge or rounding a ridge, only to face a skyline of 6,000-meter snow-capped peaks—all while treading on gravel roads slick with mud. Goats, horses, donkeys, pigs, cows and even a buffalo joined us on course – luckily though, there were no monkeys in sight.

The trickiest stretch was Longhua Mountain – the continuous steep inclines pushed my muscle endurance to the limit—no wonder the organizers call this a “King’s Trial.”

Yet the race’s thoughtful details warmed the heart: there were more checkpoints (CPs) than in regular races, which was perfect for refueling and checking/ asking about what’s ahead on the trail. Local volunteers were super helpful, and each CP had ample foods and snacks to choose from… even steamed buns and noodles made it onto the menu.

Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge: Views

FUGA Gear: My Reliable “Mountain Companion”

This trail race required more gear than I was used to — two pairs of pants, a fleece, gloves, a hat, and more. I was worried about the bulk weighing me down, but finding a reliable gear partner in Kailas FUGA made all the difference. FUGA equipment has made a name for itself in producing light-weight, professional and durable gear. It’s ideal for technical terrain and challenging environments. I had no concerns that my gear wouldn’t hold up; I could just focus on the trail ahead. The weather on the day of the race was a happy surprise —sunny and warm – meaning , I didn’t use most of the back-up gear. But here’s my review of the kit I did wear for my 13+ hour stint (yea, I’m not that fast).

The FUGA DU2 GTX Trail Shoes acted true terrain masters, living up to its “Steep Slope King” name. As a limited-edition model inspired by Gongga Glacier, its grip is reliable on tricky ground, and has high levels of comfort and stability – great not having to worry about my shoes letting me down, no matter what the path throws at me. This race didn’t rain, but I stepped through a shallow riverbed—and my feet stayed totally dry, thanks to its GORE-TEX layer.

The FUGA AIR 8 IV Trail Vest Pack is a real winner – a Lightweight “mobile supply station”. I was surprised how much gear it packs in —even though it was full, it didn’t get in the way: no bouncing, no sore shoulders. The ADF adjustment system is great—cross-chest straps locked the pack in place, even during sprint descents. Tons of pockets too, making it easy to grab essentials fast.

Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge: Gear

Conclusion: More Than A Finish Line

When I crossed the finish line, it hit me what makes the Gongga 100 so special. It’s not about beating the mountains—it’s about figuring out what I’m capable of, and having gear that doesn’t hold me back helps so much. Nothing beats having stuff you can trust when you’re pushing your limits, especially with views like Gongga’s around you.

My next challenges? Another similar 50km in cold/ rainy circumstances (see you at Siguniang Mountain!) or even a 100km race. Now I know exactly what gear I’ll bring.

Upcoming Kailas – FUGA trail races schedule

*The 10th Kailas Siguniang Mountain Ultra-Trail

Event date: October 29, 2025 (Registration closed)

Venue: Siguniang Mountain, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan.

Event categories: Offering five categories tailored to different experience levels, spanning 32km to 98km with varied altitude challenges.

*2025 Kailas FUGA · West Lake Qingzhiwu Midwinter Trail Running Race

Event date: December 14, 2025 (Sunday).

Venue: Hangzhou, Zhejiang (Registration filling fast)

Event categories: There are four categories, namely West Lake 42km (classic route linking lakes, mountains, and ancient temples), Huanglong 30km (balances urban start and mountain trails), Lingyin 20km (passes Lingyin Temple and botanical gardens) and Qingqing 10km (beginner-friendly).

Kailas FUGA Shenzhen 100 Mountain Race
Event Date: December 26-28^th
Venue: Shenzhen’s beaches (Da’e)

Event Categories: 10, 35, 60, 100, 168 KM
Registration now live on WeChat

FUGA Guangzhou 100

Event Date: January 17-19th
Venue: Guangzhou Baiyun Mountain

Event Categories: 10, 35, 60, 100KM

Lottery closed, entries to open in Nov/December on WeChat

2026 Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge
September 26 – 27, 2026

10:00，June 30，2026

100km | 60km | 40km

Available BIBS (lottery system): 3,000

Location: Hailuogou Scenic Area, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, China

The post Gongga 100 Extreme Glacier Trail Challenge Review appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

China Railway’s official ticketing platform, 12306, provides clear guidelines on bringing bicycles aboard:

1. Bicycles must be disassembled (front and rear wheels removed) and properly packaged before entering the station. The packed bicycle must comply with luggage limits: 20 kg for adults, 10 kg for children, with total dimensions not exceeding 160 cm (130 cm for high-speed trains). Items exceeding these limits must be shipped as freight.

2. Riding or pushing bicycles inside stations or train carriages is strictly prohibited, as is any conduct that endangers public safety.

3. Bicycles may not occupy aisles or seats and must be stored under seats or in designated luggage areas.

The post China: Rules about Bringing Your Bike on Trains appeared first on Chengdu Expat.

Whether you’re a budding photographer or a passionate Pontist (yes, that’s a bridge enthusiast!), you’ll want to explore some of the standout structures listed below.

Jiaozi Pedestrian Bridge 交子人行桥

The Jiaozi Pedestrian Bridge is quickly becoming one of the most iconic bridges in Chengdu as it has become an online hit since it officially opened to traffic on May 1. Located in the Jiaozi section of Jinjiang Park, this 496-meter-long bridge spans the Jinjiang River and southern Kehua Road. Not only does it showcase a modern design, but it also incorporates traditional Chinese cultural elements.

From an aerial view, the structure resembles lotus leaves floating above the river, blending seamlessly into the ecological and cultural surroundings of Jinjiang Park. Moreover, the bridge serves as both a pedestrian passageway and a vibrant public space. It features nine distinct zones for sightseeing, tea and coffee breaks, book reading, opera performances, light shows, and other outdoor activities, making it a multifunctional highlight among Chengdu’s architectural landmarks.

Address:

Beside the North Section of Tianfu Avenue, Gaoxin District, Wuhou District

交子公园 武侯区高新区天府大道北段旁

Wuchazi Bridge 五岔子大桥

The double-layer Wuchazi Bridge is an iconic bridge in Chengdu, located in the city’s Hi-tech Zone and spanning the Fuhe River. Commonly referred to as the “∞ Mobius Ring,” this uniquely designed structure draws both locals and visitors. If you fly a drone, you’ll definitely want to capture the stunning aerial view. In fact, its futuristic architecture earned it the title of Best Photo Location in Chengdu in 2020. Without a doubt, Wuchazi Bridge blends innovation and beauty, making it a must-visit bridge in Chengdu.

Address:

About 70 meters west of Fuhe Community, Xiongjiaqiao Road, Shuangliu District

​双流区熊家桥路府河小区西侧约70米

Old Chengren Bridge老成仁人行天桥

Another iconic bridge in Chengdu is the Old Chengren Bridge, it stands in the city’s South Hi-Tech Zone. Measuring 213 meters in length, it features two distinctive mushroom-shaped umbrellas that are both ornamental and practical, making it a memorable landmark for visitors and locals.

Address:

Gaoxin district, Hi-Tech Zone, near North Bingjiang road and Chengren road

高新南区府河沿线老成仁路跨锦江人行天桥

Angong Bridge 安公桥

Angong Bridge measures 89.5 meters in length and 5.3 meters in width. It is inspired by the classic Chinese legend “The carp has leaped through the dragon’s gate”. Its design reflects cultural storytelling through modern architecture. Thanks to its bright lights and reflective exterior, the bridge stands out along the riverside. As you follow the path beside it, the atmosphere truly makes it feel like the sky’s the limit!

Address:

Tianfu New District, Huayang, 4th Binghe Road

天府新区华阳滨河路四段

London Bridge Chengdu 戛纳湾风情廊桥

This European-style pedestrian bridge, built in 2012, stands out for its bold design. It is a replica of an iconic bridge in London, The Tower Bridge, only twice the size! Eight red towers rise from the water, supporting the suspension structure above the Jinjiang River. On one end, you’ll find a villa compound and on the other, Huayang’s bustling vegetable market and a large restaurant. If you enjoy running, there’s also a scenic riverside trail nearby that’s perfect for an evening jog.

Address:

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

双流区天府新区华阳街道滨河路二段

Fire Ring Bridge 交子之环

The Jiaozi Ring stands directly opposite the twin towers of Chengdu’s Financial City and is unmistakably China red. As an iconic bridge in Chengdu, it draws attention for its distinctive network-like structure, which appears as if it were woven from string. Unlike ordinary overpasses, the Jiaozi Ring is China’s first pedestrian bridge designed with multiple functions.

Interestingly, the bridge takes inspiration from the Jiaozi, the earliest form of paper currency, which originated in Chengdu during the Song Dynasty. This historical link is no coincidence, as the bridge stretches across the city’s financial district. Moreover, the bridge’s shape mimics the pattern of ancient copper coins, while its flowing curves reflect the softness of paper, reinforcing the cultural symbolism behind its modern design.

Address:

Very close to Ufun Mall No, 300, Jiaozi Dadao, Wuhou District

悠方购物中心武侯区高新区交子大道300号

Anshun Bridge 安顺廊桥

Built in 2003, Anshun Bridge is the most iconic bridge in Chengdu and often appears on postcards of the city. This bridge lights up gold at night and can be seen from Jiuyanqiao Bridge 九眼桥, making it a must-visit Chengdu landmark.

It offers a perfect spot to capture the gorgeous night views of Chengdu. The bridge’s handrails feature beautiful carvings of plum, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum, symbols of traditional Chinese folk culture. When night falls, the bridge’s lights illuminate and reflect off the rippling river below, creating a stunning scene.

Although a flood damaged the bridge in the 1980s, it now houses The Bridge Bar & Restaurant. This venue maintains the Chinese palatial style of the bridge while offering a contemporary, elegant atmosphere. You can enjoy high-end cuisine and relax in the modern whisky bar. While cocktails cost around 90 RMB each, the breathtaking views make it worth the price.

The real highlight is the outdoor terrace on the second floor, where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the river. Plus, you can look down through a tunnel into the bar below. Thanks to the outdoor bar and gas heaters, this terrace remains a popular spot all year round.

Address:

No,66 Bingjiang East Rd. Jingjiang District.
成都市锦江区滨江东路66号

If you’re fascinated by iconic bridges like Anshun Bridge, you can also explore famous bridges worldwide on Archdaily, a top resource for travel and architecture enthusiasts.

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