Xiaotong Lane

小通巷

It is one of the many “slow life” alleys in Chengdu, and it also reflects the leisurely and gentle temperament of Chengdu.
During the fiery revolutionary years, Xiaotong Lane was the home of revolutionary workers. A factory producing thermos bottles in Chengdu was built here in the 1970s.
Today, this alley, less than 200 meters long, is filled with unique coffee shops, bars, grocery stores, etc.

Attractions Location: Qingyang District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province

Transportation:
Subway: Take Line 2 to People's Park Station and walk 400 meters to the destination. Bus: Take Line 62, 70, 93, 126, 127, 163, or 340 to Kuanzhai Alley Station.

Time reference: 1-3 hours


Recommended itinerary for Xiaotong Lane tours

1-Day Itinerary: Explore Chengdu Xiaotong Lane and Nearby Highlights

This itinerary is designed for travelers who want to soak up the charm of Xiaotong Lane, a historic and cultural alley in Chengdu, along with a few nearby key attractions.

  • Morning: Arrive at Chengdu city center and take Metro Line 2 to Chunxi Road Station (approx. 30 minutes from Chengdu East Railway Station or Tianfu International Airport).
  • Walk or take a short taxi ride (about 10 minutes) to Xiaotong Lane, explore the traditional architecture, local shops, tea houses, and street art.
  • Lunch: Enjoy Sichuan street snacks and local specialties in Xiaotong Lane's eateries.
  • Afternoon: Walk 15 minutes to People's Park, relax at the park, try local tea at Heming Teahouse.
  • Evening: Head to Jinli Ancient Street (taxi, approx. 15 minutes) for traditional food and souvenir shopping.

Accommodation/Food: Stay in downtown Chengdu near Chunxi Road for easy access. Recommended to try Sichuan hotpot and mapo tofu at local restaurants.

Souvenirs: Sichuan embroidery, panda-themed crafts, local tea, Sichuan pepper, traditional snacks.


2-Day Itinerary: Xiaotong Lane and Chengdu Cultural Exploration

Spend two days exploring Xiaotong Lane and other cultural highlights of Chengdu, including museums and historic sites.

  • Day 1: Follow the 1-day itinerary focused on Xiaotong Lane and nearby People's Park and Jinli Ancient Street.
  • Day 2: Visit Wuhou Shrine (taxi or metro Line 3 to Wuhouci Station, approx. 20 minutes), then visit Chengdu Museum (taxi, 10 minutes).
  • Afternoon: Explore Kuanzhai Alley (taxi or metro Line 2 to Kuanzhai Station, approx. 15 minutes), stroll through historic lanes and cafés.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Chunxi Road or Kuanzhai Alley. Try local snacks like dandan noodles, and sweet treats like sesame balls.

Souvenirs: Traditional paper cuts, bamboo crafts, calligraphy brushes, and local teas.


3-Day Itinerary: Xiaotong Lane, Chengdu Nature, and History

Discover Chengdu’s traditional lanes, cultural heritage, and natural beauty over three days.

  • Day 1-2: Follow the 2-day itinerary.
  • Day 3: Visit Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding (taxi or metro Line 3 to Panda Base Station, approx. 40 minutes).
  • Afternoon: Explore Wenshu Monastery (taxi, approx. 20 minutes), known for its Zen Buddhist culture and vegetarian food.

Accommodation/Food: Stay centrally; try vegetarian meals at Wenshu Monastery and street food at Xiaotong Lane.

Souvenirs: Panda plush toys, Buddhist artifacts, Sichuan spices, traditional arts and crafts.


4-Day Itinerary: Extended Chengdu with Xiaotong Lane as a Base

Enjoy a richer Chengdu experience combining Xiaotong Lane’s charm with surrounding cultural and natural attractions.

  • Days 1-3: Follow the 3-day itinerary.
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Leshan Giant Buddha (bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station, approx. 2 hours). Return in the evening.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Chunxi Road. Sample Leshan’s river fish dishes and Chengdu’s spicy cuisine.

Souvenirs: Buddhist-themed souvenirs, bamboo handicrafts, local teas, traditional Sichuan snacks.


5-Day Itinerary: Deeper Dive into Chengdu and Surroundings

Five days to enjoy Xiaotong Lane and explore nearby natural parks and ancient towns.

  • Days 1-4: Follow the 4-day itinerary.
  • Day 5: Visit Dujiangyan Irrigation System and Qingcheng Mountain (taxi or tour, approx. 1.5-2 hours each way).

Accommodation/Food: Stay centrally. Try local mountain cuisine near Qingcheng Mountain.

Souvenirs: Herbal products, mountain honey, traditional Sichuan medicines.


6-Day Itinerary: Comprehensive Chengdu and Regional Culture

Six days to immerse yourself in Xiaotong Lane’s atmosphere, Chengdu’s major attractions, and nearby cultural sites.

  • Days 1-5: Follow the 5-day itinerary.
  • Day 6: Explore Huanglongxi Ancient Town (taxi, approx. 1 hour) for historic architecture and relaxed village life.

Accommodation/Food: Stay near downtown Chengdu or Huanglongxi for a village experience. Taste local river fish and Sichuan teas.

Souvenirs: Handmade pottery, local snacks, traditional bamboo crafts.


7-Day Itinerary: Full Chengdu Experience Centered Around Xiaotong Lane

A week-long itinerary covering Xiaotong Lane, Chengdu’s urban culture, natural beauty, historic sites, and nearby ancient towns.

  • Days 1-6: Follow the 6-day itinerary.
  • Day 7: Relax in Chengdu’s tea houses and visit the Sichuan Opera for a cultural show (taxi or metro, approx. 15-20 minutes).

Accommodation/Food: Stay near Xiaotong Lane or Chunxi Road. Enjoy Sichuan hotpot, street food, and local teas.

Souvenirs: Sichuan opera masks, tea sets, panda-themed gifts, traditional Sichuan spices.


User Reviews

By Backpackers traveling in the South |

Similar to Kuanzhai Alley...

By Blue Shirt |

Not far from Kuanzhai Alley, not as atmospheric as imagined

By Maomao's wondertrip |

This street is a favorite place for young people with fresh and artistic tastes. It is right next to Kuanzhai Alley and is quite popular.

By Xiao Ya |

An alley full of life and literary style.

By I have the qualifications to be so arrogant |

It's in an alley behind Maojiaohuola! It's quiet and laid-back, with a touch of art and elegance, and graffiti everywhere. There are a few unique coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, interspersed with grocery and hardware stores.

By HXH |

Like the Palladium Street, it is a very literary old street. There is nothing fun to do here, but because there are many small shops and it is full of literary and artistic atmosphere, girls who like to take photos and check in can go and have a look.

Travelers visiting Chengdu who need tips and advice can follow me. As a backpacking enthusiast who works and runs a B&B, I can give you some local travel tips. I can also provide you with B&B accommodations, hahahaha.

By EchoKwan |

There are many independent pubs, all decorated in a warm and romantic way, which are especially suitable for gatherings and chatting with friends. The experience is much better than that of Kuanzhai Alley, and there are almost no tourists.

By Sichuan, Shaanxi and Chongqing Travel Peng Jia |

There aren't many people and not many shops, but they are all decorated in an artistic style, making them a great place for taking photos. There are many delicious foods inside and they are all very popular.

By YIYI Notes |

This quiet and artistic alley is my favorite. Its charming cafes and taverns lend it a luxurious appeal. Even more crucial is its location, right near Kuanzhai Alley. Yet, few people notice it, which in turn contributes to its unique charm.

The distinctive wall paintings are very beautiful and it is a perfect place for literary and artistic young people to relax.



The decoration style of each restaurant here is very tasteful and comfortable. It can be regarded as the best choice for couples. It is particularly fresh and clean.

By The little villain's escape plan |

Xiaotong Lane offers a different feeling. It seems to be a horizontal line separating the small and fresh shops from the residential area. Half of the lane is small and fresh shops, and the other half is urban residences.

By Wen Xiaoxiang |

At the entrance to the alley, you'll see a large sign that reads "Xiaotong Alley." It's unclear when Xiaotong Alley became so quiet, but the short street has gradually become home to a vibrant crowd of young people, who linger here, painting or smoky with smoke. The once coarse blue-shirted workers are nowhere to be found. Time has flown by, and the alley is now filled with an artistic atmosphere and the memories of those who have come. Radiating from Xiaotong Alley are a variety of specialty restaurants, large and small, three of which are now internet sensations—definitely not to be missed.

By Miyu Miyumi |

Next to Kuanzhai Alley, it used to be a quiet little street.

There are many atmospheric cafes and bars now. If you want to sit and play in the afternoon, you can go there.

There are also several private dishes that are pretty good.

By Rui Rui Rui sharp |

There are many small shops with various characteristics. It is recommended to take a walk around.

By Silu Travel |

Many friends who come to Chengdu for the first time may not know Xiaotong Alley, but Kuanzhai Alley is a household name. In fact, it is located near Kuanzhai Alley and can be reached in 10 minutes on foot. It is not a very long alley, but the details in it are loved by literary youths and photography enthusiasts. You can choose a small shop with a unique decoration style and enjoy the time under the warm sunshine.

By Travelers Without Borders |

The small street is very romantic! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !

By My little meat dumplings |

I passed by a wall and saw that all the murals on it were so beautiful. Then I kept walking and found out that they were painted by students from the primary school next door. There are so many talented people!

By biubiu |

This is actually a very ordinary alley, less than 200 meters long, but it is very popular among young people.

Before the renovation, Kuanzhai Alley and its adjacent Jishishi Street had long been a popular leisure destination for Chengdu's artistically inclined. Later, as Kuanzhai Alley developed, Xiaotong Alley, a quieter area not far from it, became a new destination.

There are many small shops with unique characteristics scattered among them, which are sandwiched between general stores and hardware stores, presenting a unique form.

The pace here is much slower than that of Kuanzhai Alley next door. You can burn incense, drink tea and talk about life to your heart's content.

By sway in the wind |

Is this place considered an old street? It's just a little fresh, feeling like Gulangyu Island, but not well-made. It's okay for young hipsters to pose there.

By Winlis |

Xiaotong Alley is located just behind the internet-famous restaurants Maojiaohuola and Huola! It's a quiet, laid-back place with a clean, artistic feel and graffiti everywhere. There are several unique coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, interspersed with grocery and hardware stores.

By Flying Pig |

Now the overall appearance of Xiaotong Lane and Mingtang is undergoing renovation and it is no longer accessible, but many shops are still operating normally.

By mumu |

Not far from Kuanzhai Alley, the residential buildings in Xiaotong Alley are full of the marks of time. The grandmother sitting at the door in the morning and the children going to school have their own flavor.

By Shawn |

Xiaotong Alley and Paulownia Street are very close to each other and have a more literary atmosphere. It's okay to walk around and take pictures.

By Arale Big Glasses |

A very artistic alley. If you come to Chengdu and don't want to be too noisy, you can go to Xiaotong Alley, which is next to Kuixinglou (a lot of food) and not far from Kuanzhai Alley. It is highly recommended by Chengdu locals.

By Charles |

It’s a gathering place for art shops, but it seems to be demolished?

By jjjjinna |

The various small alleys recommended on the Internet are really not suitable for hurried tourists like us.

This quiet alley hidden in the residential area behind Kuanzhai Alley is full of little surprises, but it takes a lot of time to slowly explore them.

By Devil May Cry |

This street is said to be a favorite destination for many foreigners (actually I don’t think so), so among a group of young people in Chengdu who like to show off their petty bourgeoisie, it has become a high-end place in Kuanzhai Alley that “locals like to go to”.

Xiaotong Alley is a truly quiet spot within the Kuanzhai Alley area. It's home to youth hostels, small bars, and mahjong parlors. It's a perfect spot for those who enjoy a quiet escape. If you're visiting Chengdu and plan to spend a day in Kuanzhai Alley, consider exploring the area in the morning, spending the afternoon at a bar in Xiaotong Alley, and then returning to Kuanzhai Alley in the evening to enjoy the night view.

By Orange, orange, you don't bloom |

There is a small alley next to Kuanzhai Alley, which is relatively quiet with few people. You can go and have a look when you have time.

By A shaking fat sheep |

It's a very small alley with some unique shops next to it, but they're not amazing. It's a small road that I walked through quickly and felt a little desolate. There are many shops of this type in Chengdu, but compared to Kuanzhai Alley, this one is indeed much quieter and there are almost no tourists.

By Lizzy |

Old streets like Xiaotong Lane are suitable for spending half a day in an in-depth tour of Chengdu and enjoying life here.

By Wanqi Qi |

A small and fresh alley is right in the city center, very close to Kuanzhai Alley.

By xin_july |

During the Spring Festival, Xiaotong Alley was deserted. Almost all shops were closed, and only three or two restaurants at the intersection were open. It was in stark contrast to Kuanzhai Alley. A bit disappointing 😔

By Honest Big Cat |

Less than ten minutes' walk from Kuanzhai Alley brings you to Paulownia Street and Xiaotong Alley. Xiaotong Alley is one of Chengdu's many "slow-life" alleys, a reflection of the city's leisurely and mellow atmosphere. While it's not very large, it's worth a stroll if you have time, but feel free to skip it if you're short.

By Guo Zheteng |

Very disappointed with this place, there is nothing here... Just an ordinary street

By A Leaf of Life |

You have to find the location, it's just over Kuanzhai Alley, there are many unique things and few people

By Qidang |

It's just a small alley, very short, it can be considered a literary street, and it's quite unique.

By Snow bubble Misszhu |

Xiaotong Alley is very quiet, without the hustle and bustle of Kuanzhai Alley. Secondly, this short alley is half residential and half fresh restaurants, and they exist in a wonderful harmony.

At first glance, the right side of the alley is full of residential houses. But when you walk into this alley full of urban life, you will find that on the other side of the alley, among the green trees and red flowers, there are all kinds of fresh and literary small restaurants. When you are tired, you can go into the restaurant to have a cup of coffee and a dessert, read a book and drink a cup of tea, and then walk out contentedly and continue shopping.

By Vera |

Xiaotong Alley seems even more famous than the previous two, and it's not far away. As the most elegant of the recommended alleys, it lives up to its reputation. Its gentle, elegant atmosphere bears a strong resemblance to Paulownia Street. At first glance, the alley appears to be just ordinary residential buildings, but upon entering, one discovers hidden cafes amidst the greenery and red flowers, as well as Factory No. 4, a former abandoned factory now housed in a stylish youth hostel. Located near the bustling Kuanzhai Alley, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere, sparsely populated, with the occasional bicycle passing through. I spent the afternoon at Duoduo Coffee when the weather suddenly improved, the sun shining through with a gentle, neither scorching nor chilly warmth, tinting every corner with a faint golden hue, a warm and joyful hue. After enjoying Duoduo's delicious cheesecake, I emerged contentedly, glancing up to see even the old awning adorned with such vibrant color...

By Tang Ziai z1A1- |

It is a very literary street, a gathering place for young artists, not far from Kuanzhai Alley.



There are many small shops with different styles, which are well decorated with retro ethnic characteristics. They have food and drinks. It is a good place to have afternoon tea with friends, or to have tea and chat with sisters.



There are many graffiti on the walls on both sides of the road. I wonder if they are still there now. You can take some pictures.

By Kiyomi |

Really good, okay? Oh my god! I can't like it more

By Thai Horrible Fun |

Located in Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, it is a new living place for Chengdu locals. The surrounding floors have been converted into small literary bookstores and coffee shops, and many foreigners also love to come here.

By Muyue |

It is quieter than Kuanzhai Alley, and the small restaurants inside are also delicious, making it suitable for a stroll in the evening.

By baker |

Xiaotong Lane is just a name for itself. It takes ten minutes to walk through it and there is nothing to see or take pictures of. The quality of the shops is also average. It is not recommended.

By Uncle Biao |

It's a relatively artistic place, and it's good for taking photos.

By Snacks |

It was still early morning and there were few pedestrians on the road. Golden ginkgo leaves covered both sides of the street, shining through with winter sunshine, making people feel warm.

Xiaotong Lane is not long and it only takes about 10 minutes to walk around. Then you can turn to Kuixinglou Street, the most popular food street in Chengdu, to try the legendary Xiong Jie Big Bowl Noodles, which is mentioned in almost every travelogue.

By Yuan Xiaoyuan |

There are many small and fresh cafes, each with its own style.

By His Majesty the Tiger King |

It's a very short and artistic street. I often went there to play when I was a child.

By 5577 |

An alley with very ordinary buildings. Because there are many outdoor shops, it is a favorite place for outdoor people and there are some special restaurants.

By GILI |

A small street with a strong outdoor atmosphere, the street is mainly composed of outdoor shops, inns, leisure bars, and specialty restaurants. It is close to Kuanzhai Alley.

By hurried |

This street has some trendy, outdoor restaurants. It's not far from Kuanzhai Alley and is safe. Also nearby are the Chengdu Artists Association and the Chengdu Hospital.

By stunning beauty |

A gathering place for hikers, there are some inns, special restaurants, and outdoor shops.

By Sunny |

Since the outdoor resort of Kuanzhai Alley was developed into a commercial street, more and more backpackers have gathered here, and there are also some special restaurants. Friends who like the outdoors can come here to stay, dine, and chat.

By stranger |

Compared to the famous Kuanzhai Alley, I prefer the atmosphere here. Although it's only one street away from Kuanzhai Alley, it has a completely different style. Kuanzhai Alley gives people the feeling of being crowded, noisy, and flashy, while Xiaotong Alley gives people a sense of art, freshness, and tranquility. There is no entrance fee, but it is home to many bars, food stores, and coffee shops, which are enough to satisfy the needs of many young people with artistic tastes.

By Hunan |

It's beautiful. Many places are closed in the afternoon. It's better to go in the evening.

By Or because |

A very artistic and fresh street, it has become popular recently.

By I want to go to all the beaches |

This category is wrong. What can you buy in Xiaotong Alley? It's clearly a street of private dishes. It should be classified as a food street! Lazy Bones and a youth hostel are also nearby. It's no more than five kilometers from People's Park and Kuanzhai Alley. It's within walking distance. A great location for food, accommodation, and transportation.

By Bunny |

There are many unique shops and graffiti walls inside.

By Weilv Youth |

Xiaotong Alley isn't big, but it's a great place for photos. The ginkgo trees are in bloom this season. It's time to go again.

By X. No. |

All I can say is don't go, you'll be disappointed.

By The forest is full of colors |

Overall, the experience was average, mainly due to the short streets. While there are some nice bars and Western restaurants, they don't create a vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, the more bourgeois entertainment venues aren't suitable for seniors. Of course, transportation is quite convenient here, as it's close to Kuanzhai Alley.

By Scattered Dust-Zeepeng |

It's a pretty good, romantic little street. Personally, I think it has more of an urban feel than Kuanzhai Alley, and is more down-to-earth and native. There are many small cafes, hot pot restaurants, youth hostels, etc. on the street, and the nightlife is also quite rich.

By A cloud in the sky |

Xiaotong Alley is not far from Kuanzhai Alley. Unlike the bustling Kuanzhai Alley, it's quite quiet, with many buildings facing demolition. The street is clean, and the shops are decorated in unique styles.

By Kindaichi-23 |

The first floors of various old houses are opened as shops. They are generally small and decorated in a more artistic style, but the food is really average.

By Tang Xiaoya |

I saw some photos posted by my classmates online before, saying it was a gathering place for art and fresh food, with all kinds of bars, cafes, dessert shops, and the shops are all quite unique, with graffiti. It is even better to go there at night. It is close to Kuanzhai Alley. From Xipu, you can take Metro Line 2 directly to Tonghuimen and walk a few hundred meters to it.

By Wang Han |

Consider considering the rabbit rabbit rabbit rabbit rabbit picture rabbit rabbit picture ah

By Shuoguo is a sunflower |

This is an alley that's neither far nor near from Kuanzhai Alley. The famous No. 4 Factory Youth Hostel is located here. There are many coffee shops in the alley. It's a very artistic alley with not many people. You can come here for afternoon tea after visiting Kuanzhai Alley.

By Dream Building |

Xiaotong Alley is an alley below Kuanzhai Alley. There are many unique shops in it that you can visit.

By small profit |

There are several youth hostels, some tea shops and jars around, and it is also close to Jinli.

By Ten Wenlong |

Drinking tea is OK, but the price is too high, roadside stalls

By blakewu |

The hotel is located here, with many coffee shops and tea houses nearby. I can go out for a walk during the day and sit down in the lobby on the first floor at night. Whether I am working or just sitting there, it is very comfortable.

By Mr. Y |

A small alley with a petty bourgeoisie atmosphere, many small courtyards are worth visiting

By Kite Path |

You can only see the left side, which has a slightly fresh feeling of Gulangyu Island. The right side is an abandoned school or factory. In short, the left and right are different worlds.

By Stop and enjoy the scenery |

This is a very romantic little street. I personally feel that it has a more urban feel than Kuanzhai Alley, and is more down-to-earth and local. There are many small cafes, hot pot restaurants, youth hostels, etc. on the street, and the nightlife is quite rich. Of course, transportation is also quite convenient.

By S Rainbow Candy🌈 |

It's a very artistic and fresh place during the day. There are many cafes, tea restaurants, some retro shops, and graffiti walls. It's more suitable for strolling. It should be more lively at night than during the day.

By kiki_hm |

There is an alley not far behind Kuanzhai Alley. The old residential area was renovated and turned into street-facing shops. There are many small restaurants, cafes, and private kitchens here. It is suitable for walking around and then finding a small shop to sit and drink tea and enjoy the afternoon.

By Lü Xingjia's Grand View Garden |

Literary alleys, cafes, book bars, everything has a sense of chance encounter


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