Arriving in Chengdu
After a 16-hour ride in our first sleeper train, we arrived at the East Chengdu railway station. The train sleeper was as comfortable as you would expect. Small bunk bed and constant noise only enabled us little sleep.
Welcome to Chengdu
Outside the station, the sun was shining and boiling hot. We were lucky as Chengdu is the cloudiest city in China.
Chengdu, also called the "Land of Milk and Honey", would be our starting point for the exploration of the diverse Sichuan province with its scenic towns, the Leshan Giant Buddha and Huanglong Park. But first, we needed to freshen up at our hostel: the Lazybones Hostel.
Meeting the Locals
As we were leisurely strolling around, we stopped to watch men playing Xiangqi - a Chinese version of chess. Within minutes an elderly local joined us to explain the rules of this most popular Chinese board game.
The local had spent all his lifetime in Chengdu and told us about the classics of the Sichuan cuisine. He was also keen to practice his English. Following his advice, we settled down for two essential eats.
Authentic Sichuan Cuisine
The Mapo Doufu - made of soft tofu, ground beef, chilli bean paste and a lot (and even more) of red-hot chilli oil served in a screaming-hot bowl. We could only eat a few spoons before giving it up.
The Gongbao Jiding is the original version of the world famous diced chicken with peanuts and dried chillies. You would find that dish in any Western Chinese restaurants. In Chengdu, the meal just tastes better!
Arriving in Chengdu by Sleeper Train
- Sleeper train from Xi'an: 16-hour overnight journey - expect small bunk beds and constant noise
- Prepare for limited sleep on sleeper trains - bring earplugs and eye masks
- Chengdu is known as China's cloudiest city - sunny days are a lucky surprise!
- Chengdu, the 'Land of Milk and Honey', is the perfect base for exploring Sichuan Province
- Lazybones Hostel is a good budget option for freshening up after the long train ride
- Watch locals playing Xiangqi (Chinese chess) - they're often happy to explain the rules and practice English
- Mapo Doufu (麻婆豆腐) - iconic Sichuan dish with tofu, beef, and intense chili oil. Warning: VERY spicy!
- Gongbao Jiding (宫保鸡丁) - the authentic Kung Pao Chicken tastes much better in its home province
- Sichuan cuisine is intensely spicy - even experienced spicy food lovers may struggle with authentic preparations
- Locals are friendly and eager to share food recommendations and practice English
Note:
Pin These Moments
🚂 Sleeper Train
Our first 16-hour Chinese sleeper train experience from Xi'an to Chengdu
♟️ Xiangqi Game
Learning Chinese chess from friendly locals in Chengdu's streets
🌶️ Sichuan Classics
Tasting authentic Mapo Doufu and Gongbao Jiding - Sichuan cuisine at its spiciest!
Have you taken a Chinese sleeper train? How did you survive the journey? Have you tried authentic Mapo Doufu in Chengdu? Could you handle the spice? Share your Chengdu arrival stories!