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Chengdu After Dark: A Local’s 96-Hour Relaxation Itinerary Featuring Jiuyanqiao Bars & a Panda-Themed Courtyard Hotpot (Chengdu nightlife guide)

Skip the tourist crowds. Discover Chengdu’s true charm through hidden jazz bars, riverside strolls, and a serene panda-themed hotpot in a traditional courtyard. Free downloadable itinerary included.


Many travelers rush through Chengdu—pandas in the morning, spicy noodles at noon, gone by nightfall.But those who stay longer know: Chengdu reveals its soul after sunset.

As someone who’s helped hundreds of foreign visitors experience authentic Chengdu, I’ve learned that the city isn’t about ticking off landmarks. It’s about slowing down, sipping baijiu under string lights, and sharing hotpot in a moonlit courtyard.

Our “Chengdu 96 Hours Ultimate Relaxation Itinerary” was designed for exactly this kind of traveler—the one who values atmosphere over Instagram checklists.

Here’s a glimpse into Chengdu’s most enchanting evening experiences, straight from our guide:

Lively night scene with a red-lit pagoda, city skyline, and busy riverside walkway. Bright lights and tree-lined path create a festive mood.
Jiuyanqiao (Jiuyan Bridge) – Chengdu’s Nightlife Heart

🌃 Step 1: Unwind Along Jiuyanqiao (Jiuyan Bridge) – Chengdu’s Nightlife Heart (Chengdu nightlife guide

By day, Chengdu is tea houses and pandas. By night, it belongs to Jiuyanqiao, the historic bridge area turned vibrant bar district along the Jinjiang River.

Unlike the chaotic energy of Chunxi Road, Jiuyanqiao offers layered nightlife—from live jazz to Sichuan-inspired cocktails. Our itinerary highlights three standout venues:

  • Erma Bar (Er Ma Jiu Guan) – Famous for its “Sichuan Pepper Martini” and nightly folk performances. (~¥144/person)

  • Oak Nose Jazz Club – Intimate setting with professional musicians and vintage decor. (~¥118/person)

  • Chense Bar – A quiet hideaway inside Shangri-La Plaza, perfect for solo travelers or deep conversations. (~¥100/person)

💡 Tip: All are within walking distance of each other. Use Amap (Gaode Maps) and search “水津街” (Shuijin Street) for precise navigation.
A table with diverse colorful ingredients in bowls surrounds a large pot; bamboo furniture and a panda statue in a cozy, leafy setting.
Yushao Xia Panda Courtyard Hotpot

🐼 Step 2: Dinner at Yushao Xia Panda Courtyard Hotpot – Where Flavor Meets Serenity

After drinks, head to Yushao Xia Panda Courtyard Hotpot—not just a restaurant, but a restored Sichuan courtyard with koi ponds, lanterns, and garden seating.

Featured in our itinerary for three key reasons:

  1. Authentic yet accessible: Rich beef tallow broth with adjustable spice levels (ask for “wei la” = mild).

  2. Foreigner-friendly: English menu available; staff used to international guests.

  3. Instagrammable moments: Try their signature panda-shaped sweet dumplings.

📍 Location: 5th Floor, IFS International Finance Square (Chunxi Road Metro, Exit D).Perfect for post-dinner skyline views over downtown Chengdu.


🧘 Why “Relaxation” Over “Sightseeing”?

Our 96-hour plan intentionally skips crowded spots like Jinli Ancient Street during peak hours. Instead, we prioritize:

  • Quiet mornings at Du Fu Thatched Cottage (with reservation tips)

  • Riverside walks along Jinjiang Park

  • Curated bar and dining experiences that reflect local lifestyle

Because in Chengdu, travel isn’t about how much you see—it’s about how deeply you feel.



💡 Ready for the Full Experience?

This free guide is a preview of our premium Chengdu Travel Kit, which includes:

  • Hour-by-hour daily schedules with transit notes

  • Bilingual name cards for all restaurants (show to taxi drivers!)

  • Panda Base best-time-to-visit strategy + booking links

  • Bonus day-trip options to Qingcheng Mountain or Dujiangyan

📘 **Premium Guide: Only

Chengdu 96 hours Ultimate Relaxation Itinerary
$9.99
Buy Now

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