Jinli Ancient Street

Honestly, Jinli is a bit of a mixed bag. The architecture and lighting are gorgeous, but the sheer number of selfie sticks and loud tour groups kills the peaceful vibe you'd expect from an ancient street. I found a quiet corner near a tea house and enjoyed a nice cup of jasmine tea, but overall the experience felt too commercialized. Three stars – worth a short look but not a highlight of my trip.

If you're a foodie like me, Jinli is heaven. I practically ate my way through the street: the glutinous rice balls with brown sugar, the skewered chicken gizzards, and the iced plum juice were all fantastic. The street performers added to the lively atmosphere. Yes, it's touristy, but the energy and flavors more than make up for it. I'd come back just for the 三大炮 (three cannon balls) dessert!

What a charming street! I went around sunset and the lanterns started glowing – it was magical. Bought a hand-painted folding fan and some tea from a friendly vendor who let me sample before buying. The only downside was the restroom situation: hard to find and not very clean. But the overall experience was lovely, and I'd recommend going on a weekday to avoid the worst crowds.

Had a decent walk through Jinli but honestly felt a bit overhyped. The alleys are narrow and crowded, and most shops sell the same souvenirs you see everywhere in China. The food was okay—the stinky tofu was flavorful but the prices were higher than local spots. It's worth a quick visit for the atmosphere, but don't expect an authentic cultural immersion. A solid three stars for me.

Jinli Ancient Street is an absolute must when you're in Chengdu! The moment you step in, you're surrounded by red lanterns and ancient-style architecture that makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. I loved the street food—especially the spicy tofu skewers and the sweet osmanthus cake. Even though it was packed with tourists, the vibe was electric and everyone seemed to be having a great time. Definitely a five-star experience!