Nestled in the heart of Chengdu, People’s Park (人民公园, Rénmín Gōngyuán) is more than just a green space—it’s a cultural hub where locals gather to relax, socialize, and enjoy traditional Sichuan leisure activities. Unlike many tourist-heavy parks, People’s Park offers an authentic glimpse into daily life in Chengdu, blending natural beauty with vibrant community energy. Whether you’re sipping tea in a century-old teahouse, watching elderly dancers, or simply strolling through lotus ponds, this park is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the soul of the city.
A Brief History of People’s Park
Established in 1911, People’s Park is one of Chengdu’s oldest and most beloved public spaces. Originally named Shaocheng Park, it was built on the site of a former military training ground during the late Qing Dynasty. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, it was renamed to reflect its role as a recreational space for the public.
Over the past century, the park has evolved into a living museum of Chengdu’s culture, preserving traditions like tea drinking, mahjong, and folk performances while adapting to modern city life.
What to See & Do in People’s Park
**1. Heming Teahouse (鹤鸣茶社) – The Heart of Chengdu’s Tea Culture
No visit to People’s Park is complete without stopping at Heming Teahouse, the most famous teahouse in Chengdu. Founded in 1923, this open-air teahouse is always bustling with locals sipping jasmine tea (茉莉花茶) or Chengdu-style green tea (竹叶青) while snacking on sunflower seeds.
- Why it’s special:
- Experience the traditional ear cleaning (掏耳朵) service, where skilled practitioners use metal tools to clean ears (a unique Chengdu tradition!).
- Watch tea masters pour boiling water from long-spouted kettles with impressive precision.
- Relax in bamboo chairs under the shade of ancient trees.
**2. The Matchmaking Corner (相亲角) – A Unique Social Phenomenon
Every weekend, parents gather at the park’s Matchmaking Corner to post ads seeking spouses for their unmarried children. These handwritten notes list details like age, income, education, and property ownership—a fascinating (and slightly surreal) look at modern Chinese matchmaking culture.
- Tip: Even if you’re not looking for love, it’s an entertaining cultural experience!
**3. Boating on the Artificial Lake
The park’s central lake is a peaceful spot where visitors can rent paddle boats shaped like swans or ducks. Surrounding the lake are willow trees, lotus ponds, and small bridges, making it a perfect place for photos or a quiet break from the city’s hustle.
**4. Folk Performances & Dancing
Throughout the day, you’ll find groups of locals engaged in various activities:
- Square dancing (广场舞) – Elderly dancers moving to upbeat Chinese pop music.
- Traditional opera singers – Occasionally performing Sichuan opera snippets.
- Tai chi and qigong practitioners – Practicing slow, meditative movements.
**5. Monument to the Railway Protection Movement
History buffs can visit this 1913 monument, commemorating a protest against foreign control of Sichuan’s railways during the late Qing Dynasty—an important event in China’s modernization.
Food & Snacks in People’s Park
While the teahouses serve light snacks, the park also has small vendors offering classic Chengdu street food:
- Zhong Dumplings (钟水饺) – Spicy Sichuan-style dumplings with a sweet and savory sauce.
- Dan Dan Noodles (担担面) – A must-try noodle dish with minced pork and chili oil.
- Sweet Rice Balls (糖油果子) – Crispy fried glutinous rice balls coated in syrup.
For a full meal, head to nearby Chunxi Road or Kuanzhai Alley, where more dining options await.
Tips for Visiting People’s Park
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning (7–9 AM): Watch locals practicing tai chi and morning exercises.
- Late afternoon (3–5 PM): Best for tea and people-watching as the park gets livelier.
- Avoid weekends if possible—it gets crowded with families and tourists.
How to Get There
- Address: No. 12 Shaocheng Road, Qingyang District (青羊区少城路12号).
- Metro: Take Line 2 to People’s Park Station (人民公园站), Exit B.
- Taxi/Didi: Just say “Rénmín Gōngyuán.”
Entry & Costs
- Entry fee: Free (some activities like boating cost extra).
- Tea at Heming Teahouse: ~¥20–40 per person.
- Ear cleaning: ~¥30–50.
Why People’s Park is a Must-Visit in Chengdu
Unlike many tourist attractions, People’s Park isn’t about grand landmarks—it’s about atmosphere and local life. Here, you’ll see Chengdu’s famous slow-paced lifestyle (慢生活) in action: retirees playing mahjong, couples dancing, and friends laughing over tea. It’s a place where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, offering visitors a true taste of Sichuan’s culture.
Whether you spend an hour sipping tea or half a day exploring, People’s Park will leave you with a deeper appreciation for Chengdu’s charm. So grab a cup of tea, find a bamboo chair, and soak in the rhythm of local life—it’s the perfect break from sightseeing!
📍 Location: Google Maps | ⏰ Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
