After a 16-hours ride in our first sleeper train, we highlighted in 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.
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 the Huanggang Park. But first, we needed to fresh up at our hostel: the lazybones hostel.
As we were leisurely strolling around, we stopped to watch men playing Xiangqi - a Chinese version of the chess game. Within minutes an elderly local joined us to explain the rules of the most popular Chinese board games.
The local had spent all its 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.
The `Mapo Doufu` made of soft tofu, ground beef meat, 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 taste better!