Exploring the Enchanting Sichuan

Time visited: September 2023

Time spent: Five days

Nestled in the heart of southwestern China, Sichuan Province is a land of rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights. My recent journey with my parents to this captivating region was nothing short of magical, filled with unforgettable experiences and encounters that left an indelible mark on my soul.

Chengdu: A Sanctuary for Pandas

Our adventure began in the bustling city of Chengdu, the provincial capital and gateway to the wonders of Sichuan. One cannot visit Chengdu without paying homage to its most famous residents - the giant panda. At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, I found myself amidst lush bamboo groves, observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Their playful antics and adorable clumsiness were a joy to behold. The highlight of the visit was seeing baby pandas. Through the glass, we caught sight of the tiny panda cubs, snug in their incubators, their soft fur and delicate features melting our hearts instantly. As we hurried along the designated path, our hearts raced at the knowledge that we only had a fleeting moment to catch a glimpse of these adorable newborns. Apart from the delightful pandas, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding offered a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, and panda-themed photo opportunities, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable visit for all.

Kuanzhai Alley  

Kuanzhai Alley is a bustling cultural hub in the heart of Chengdu. This historic area is renowned for its well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture, characterised by narrow alleys, traditional courtyards, and intricate wooden facades. We visited Kuanzhai Alley twice to experience its charm both during the day and at night. It was only a 15-minute walk from our hotel. During the day, the alley was bustling with activity, with locals and tourists exploring the shops and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. In the evening, Kuanzhai Alley transformed into a magical wonderland as the soft glow of lanterns illuminated the cobblestone pathways. In Kuanzhai Alley, I found numerous fascinating shops and restaurants to explore. I also discovered a plethora of panda toys, models, and various other panda-themed items. Overall, Kuanzhai Alley is indeed a must-visit destination in Chengdu.

People's Park

We spent a whole afternoon at People's Park, enjoying the serene lake view. Despite the bustling crowds at People's Park, we found a table and settled in, chatting about life and reminiscing about old memories. To make the moment even sweeter, we indulged in special cakes called TangYuan. They were shaped like pandas. As my father wasn't familiar with any food ordering app, the shop assistant helped him with the online order. It was a delightful experience, being surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the park and savoring delicious treats with loved ones by my side.

Savoring Sichuan Cuisine: Hot Pot

No trip to Sichuan would be complete without indulging in its fiery and flavoursome cuisine. We embarked on a culinary odyssey, eager to sample the renowned Sichuan hot pot. In Sichuan, the hot pot is distinct, known for its spicy broth seasoned with sesame oil. Contrasting with the Beijing version, where sesame paste is often used as a dipping sauce, Sichuan hot pot offers a fiery and flavorful experience that tantalises the taste buds with its unique blend of spices and aromatics. Trying Sichuan hot pot in Chengdu was an amazing experience. Sitting around a bubbling pot of spicy broth filled with interesting ingredients including dried red dates, goji, Sichuan dried chili collection, Sichuan pepper, dried tea tree mushroom, green onions, and traditional Chinese chicken soup. I tasted a mix of flavours that made my mouth water. Each bite, whether it was meat, vegetables, or tofu, was packed with deliciousness.  

Qiaojiao Beef  

Qiaojiao beef, originating from the picturesque town of Leshan Mountain, has become a beloved specialty dish in Chengdu. This dish features thinly sliced beef, marinated to perfection in a blend of savory spices and fragrant seasonings. During the trip, we made sure to visit a local restaurant. We randomly selected one which was very close to our hotel. The delicious soup served with the succulent and flavourful Qiaojiao beef was a culinary delight in its own right. It's a dish worth experiencing all over again. The dish looked so irresistible that it was finished before we had a chance to take a photo! 

Wenchuan: A Tale of Resilience 

Leaving the bustling metropolis behind, we travelled to the tranquil town of Wenchuan, nestled amidst the mist-shrouded mountains of western Sichuan. However, the serene beauty of this idyllic town belies a tragic past. In 2008, Wenchuan was devastated by a catastrophic earthquake that claimed thousands of lives and left a trail of destruction in its wake. 

As I wandered through the streets of Wenchuan, we were struck by the resilience and spirit of its people. Despite the scars of tragedy, the town has risen from the rubble, rebuilding itself brick by brick. Monuments and memorials serve as poignant reminders of the lives lost, while vibrant street markets and bustling town squares bear testament to the indomitable human spirit. 

In Wenchuan, we witnessed the power of resilience, the triumph of hope over despair. It was a humbling reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit to endure, adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. 

My journey through Sichuan was a tapestry of experiences – from the serene beauty of Chengdu's panda sanctuaries to the fiery intensity of its culinary delights, and the poignant resilience of Wenchuan's spirit. It was a voyage of discovery, a celebration of life and culture. As I bade farewell to this enchanting land, I carried with me memories that will last a lifetime and a deep appreciation for the wonders of Sichuan.

About the Author

Nancy was born in China and raised there until she moved to Australia for secondary education. She subsequently completed her university education in Australia.

Teaching is Nancy's passion. She is fortunate to have a career that allows her to inspire and educate students every day. She finds great joy in seeing her students grow and achieve their goals.

Beyond her professional life, she has a deep love for travel. She has had the opportunity to explore several countries, including Japan, New Zealand, and Thailand. Her extensive travels in China have taken her to many beautiful places, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Qingdao, Dalian, Xi'an and Yunnan. She has also travelled within Australia, visiting cities like Sydney, Cairns, Adelaide, Canberra, and the Gold Coast. Each destination has enriched her understanding of different cultures and traditions, broadened her mind and given her memories to cherish.

She looks forward to many more adventures, and opportunities to share her experiences with others.