Impressions of a 6-days stay in Chengdu (#194)

To read this letter in French :https://shorturl.at/rM9jX

Podcast (14')

Summary:

This analysis focuses on the city of Chengdu in China, highlighting its rich cultural heritage, economic and technological development, and its transformation into a smart city. It explores Chengdu's tourist attractions, such as historical and heritage sites like the Sanxingdui Museum, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and Taoist temples, as well as its rise as a luxury trade center, with examples such as Chengdu IFS and SKP Chengdu. Additionally, it describes the city's smart mobility initiatives, including autonomous buses, bike-sharing systems, and self-driving taxis, along with the use of AI and big data to optimize transportation. Lastly, it emphasizes Chengdu's strategy to become a smart city, leveraging technologies such as AI, IoT, and 5G.

The Chinese Tourism Letter of this week (#194) is a reflection on my impressions as a French tourist of the wonderful city of Chengdu, where I spent a week in September on a mission for the French Institute of Tourism Development with Vincent Fayolle and MENGYIN Y.

Chengdu and Sichuan symbolize the harmonious combination of modernity and Chinese tradition, which form the two vital aspects of the city. Its incredibly rich cultural, archaeological, religious, and hydraulic heritage blends seamlessly with the ultra-modern architecture, technology, and digital advancements in the luxury sector, as well as with the Chengdu Smart City initiative.

Chengdu is notable for its iconic sites, such as the Hejiang Pavilion, the Sichuan Garden Quays, and People’s Park, which reflect the balance between history and modern development.

1/ A Rich Cultural, Archaeological, and Religious Heritage

Sanxingdui (三星堆博物馆)

Located in Sichuan province, China, 40 km north of Chengdu, Sanxingdui is one of the cornerstones of Chengdu's cultural heritage. The site houses nearly 10,000 artifacts from a previously unknown ancient civilization, the Sanxingdui civilization. This civilization, which thrived around 3,000 to 5,000 years ago, left behind bronze, jade, gold, and ceramic objects of exceptional sophistication and unique character, such as imposing bronze masks (see photo below) and statues of deities. The discovery of Sanxingdui challenged traditional theories of ancient Chinese history, proving the existence of a prosperous civilization in the Sichuan basin at the same time as the Yellow River Valley civilization, but with distinct artistic styles and cultural practices. The museum offers visitors an immersive experience into the history of this lost civilization and has become a must-visit destination for ancient history and archaeology enthusiasts.

To enhance the visitor experience, the museum has incorporated 3D glasses for virtual immersion into the Sanxingdui civilization. These glasses allow visitors to explore historical reconstructions of structures, objects, and rituals, providing contextual information and virtual interactions while protecting the original artifacts.

The Dujiangyan Scenic Area, located in Sichuan province, China, not far from Chengdu, is another highly significant heritage site for both Sichuan and Chengdu. This area is renowned for its more than 2,000-year-old irrigation system, an ancient engineering masterpiece that controls flooding and irrigates the Chengdu plains without damaging the ecosystem. The Dujiangyan Irrigation System, built over 2,000 years ago (around 256 BC), is not only one of the oldest hydraulic projects in the world but is still functioning today. This ancient engineering marvel was designed by the engineer Li Bing and his son to control floods and irrigate the Chengdu plains. Unlike other irrigation systems that rely on dams, the Dujiangyan system diverts and regulates water without harming the local ecosystem, serving as a model for sustainable water resource management.

The area is also home to the Anlan Suspension Bridge, as well as Mount Qingcheng, considered a cradle of Taoism, and the Erwang Temple, dedicated to Li Bing and his son, the creators of the irrigation system.

The natural beauty of the lush green mountains and rivers, along with the historical and cultural significance of the area, led to Dujiangyan and Mount Qingcheng being inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000.

Taoism

Taoism in Chengdu has a long history and a strong cultural influence. As one of the major Chinese religions, Taoism is centered on harmony between humans and nature, and is imbued with concepts such as the "Dao" (the Way), "Wu wei" (non-action), and the pursuit of spiritual immortality.

In Chengdu, there are several historic Taoist temples that serve as important places of worship for practitioners and as major tourist attractions. One of the most famous is the Qingyang Gong Temple, also known as the Temple of the Green Goat.

This temple, dating back to the Tang Dynasty, is one of the oldest and most significant Taoist shrines in the region. It remains an active center for Taoist ceremonies, festivals, and meditation. The temple is also renowned for its beautiful gardens, sculptures, and ancient works of art. Its architecture is a classic example of Taoist style, with spacious pavilions, courtyards, and gardens, and it houses statues of green goats symbolizing strength and wisdom. Qingyang Palace also hosts Taoist festivals, notably the Laozi Festival, and serves as an active place of worship for Taoists. Its peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for meditation and religious practice, while its historical and cultural importance makes it a must-visit destination for Chengdu visitors.

Taoism has a profound influence on local culture in Chengdu, notably through practices such as traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts (like Tai Chi), and the philosophy of living in harmony with nature. Numerous Taoist festivals are celebrated in the region, including rituals to honor Taoist deities and events marking seasonal changes, in accordance with Taoist principles of natural transformation.

Buddhism

Buddhism has had a profound influence in Sichuan for over a thousand years, particularly in the region of Mount Emei, one of the four sacred mountains of Buddhism in China. It is considered the site of enlightenment for the bodhisattva Samantabhadra (Puxian Pusa), a revered figure in Mahayana Buddhism. Mount Emei is home to many ancient temples, including Baoguo Temple, often the starting point for pilgrims, and Wannian Temple, one of the oldest on Mount Emei. In 1996, Mount Emei and the nearby Leshan Giant Buddha were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites due to their religious and historical significance.

The Leshan Giant Buddha, a global icon, is a colossal statue carved into the rock, standing approximately 71 meters tall, making it the largest Buddha statue in the world. It was constructed during the Tang Dynasty (618–907) to calm the turbulent waters of the rivers below. The creation of the Leshan Giant Buddha underscores the importance of Buddhism in this region since ancient times, and it remains a site of pilgrimage for Buddhist devotees today.

Buddhist influence in Sichuan extends across sacred sites, historical monuments, and a vibrant community of practitioners, leaving a deep imprint on the history and culture of this province.

Sichuan Culinary Tradition

Chengdu's cuisine, recognized as part of UNESCO's world gastronomic heritage, is famous for its use of chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorn (an ingredient that numbs the tongue and provides a unique sensation). Some of the most popular dishes include:

- Hot Pot (huoguo): A dish where various ingredients (meats, vegetables, tofu) are cooked in a spicy broth directly at the table.

- Gongbao (Kung Pao) Chicken: A spicy stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, chili peppers, and vegetables.

- Mapo Tofu: A spicy dish featuring tofu cooked with minced meat, Sichuan peppercorn, and chili peppers.

The flavors of Sichuan cuisine are complex, often combining spicy, salty, sweet, and numbing sensations for a unique culinary experience.

Cultural Tradition of Sichuan: Opera

Sichuan Opera is renowned for its unique "face-changing" (bian lian) technique, where performers change masks at an astonishing speed, creating a mesmerizing and dramatic effect. This skillful art form is a hallmark of Sichuan Opera and adds a layer of theatrical magic that captivates audiences.

2) Including Hejiang Pavilion, Sichuan Garden Quays, and People’s Park—Iconic Sites Reflecting the Balance Between History and Modern Development

The Hejiang Pavilion and Sichuan Garden Quays are two iconic sites in Chengdu that exemplify the harmony between nature and culture. The pavilion, located at the confluence of two rivers, is a traditional Chinese structure that offers a panoramic view of the city. These sites, with their historical significance and natural beauty, showcase the balance between Chengdu's rich heritage and its modern urban development.

The quays, lined with gardens and picturesque landscapes, are an ideal spot for relaxation, offering a perfect place to stroll and enjoy the natural and urban beauty of Chengdu.

Together, these two sites reflect the balance between history and modern development, a feature often highlighted in major Chinese cities.

People’s Park (Renmin Park, 人民公园)

People's Park is one of the most popular public parks in Chengdu, China. Located in the heart of the city, this park is not only a place for locals to relax but also a site rich in history and culture, attracting many tourists. Highlights of the park include the Heming Teahouse (鹤鸣茶馆), one of the oldest teahouses in Chengdu where people gather to chat, play cards, or mahjong; an artificial lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating; and a Matchmaking Corner, where parents post notices to help find potential partners for their children. This phenomenon is common in several parks across China and illustrates the importance that families place on arranged or parent-assisted marriages

Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding

Giant pandas are native to the mountainous regions of central China, particularly in the provinces of Sichuan (where Chengdu is the capital), Shaanxi, and Gansu. Sichuan, in particular, is home to bamboo forests, which form the staple diet of giant pandas, making it a natural region for panda conservation. The giant panda has long been a cultural symbol in China, associated with peace and nature. Historical records of pandas date back to ancient times, and they were sometimes given as "diplomatic gifts" to Chinese emperors. However, awareness of the importance of panda conservation truly began in the 20th century.

Chengdu's modern tradition as a center for panda preservation and research started in the 1980s. In 1987, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was established with six rescued giant pandas. This base was created to protect giant pandas, which were critically endangered due to deforestation and the depletion of bamboo forests. Since then, Chengdu has become globally recognized as a major hub for panda conservation. The breeding program and conservation efforts in the region have helped increase the captive panda population and improve their reintroduction into the wild.

Today, the city is an international symbol of panda protection and attracts millions of tourists who visit the research base to observe these iconic animals. The Chengdu base houses a little over 100 giant pandas in a large natural park spanning over 100 hectares.

Whether through souvenir shops for tourists or digital innovations, the panda is omnipresent in Chengdu.

Jinli Ancient Street (锦里古街)

Located in Chengdu, Jinli Ancient Street offers an immersive experience into Sichuan's traditional culture. With a history dating back over 1,800 years, the street was once a significant center of commerce and culture during the Three Kingdoms period. Today, it has been restored, featuring buildings reconstructed in a traditional Sichuan architectural style, with shops, teahouses, restaurants, and food stalls offering local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including traditional handicrafts, cultural performances, and festive events, all of which create a nostalgic and picturesque atmosphere.

3) Innovation is the second lifeblood of the city, symbolized by Tianfu Square and its universities, as well as by more recent innovations such as SKP, the Twin Towers, the Chengdu Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, the Global Center, Arthotek, advancements in Robotics, and the Chengdu Smart City, a smart city initiative.

Innovations

Tianfu Square (天府广场)

Tianfu Square is the central plaza of Chengdu and serves as the geographic and symbolic heart of the city. It is often compared to Tiananmen Square in Beijing due to its central role in Chengdu's urban life. The square features a statue of Mao Zedong and is surrounded by important buildings, including shopping centers, hotels, and the provincial government headquarters. Light and water shows add vibrancy to the public space, while an underground network connects the square to the metro system and the Sichuan Science and Technology Museum. 

Tianfu Private University (天府学院)

Tianfu University stands out for its practical focus and market-oriented programs. The institution offers a wide range of fields of study, including management sciences and engineering, business and economics, arts and design, languages, and education. The university emphasizes the employability of its graduates, providing opportunities for internships and collaborations with local and international companies. As a relatively recent private institution, Tianfu University plays a significant role in training talent that contributes to the economic and technological development of the Chengdu region. It requires all its staff members to have undergone training abroad. In the context of the IFDT, we had fascinating discussions with Kevin Yao Prof. Dr., Vice President of Tianfu College of SWUFE.

Chengdu Dayi Green Manor

Chengdu Dayi Green Manor is an organic farm located in Dayi County, near Chengdu, and is often regarded as a model of eco-agritourism in the Sichuan region. This estate combines organic farming, ecology, and sustainable tourism, offering visitors an immersive experience in a natural environment while promoting environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Chengdu Dayi Green Manor embodies a new approach to balancing sustainable food production with the tourist experience, raising awareness of the importance of sustainability while providing an idyllic setting and valuable education on ecological farming.

The manor focuses on environmental sustainability and education, offering visitors agritourism experiences such as vegetable farming and culinary workshops, along with eco-friendly accommodations in cottages. Recreational and educational activities on organic farming and biodiversity are organized for families, schools, and businesses. The estate also emphasizes local organic cuisine and adopts eco-friendly practices to reduce its carbon footprint.

Chengdu IFS (Chengdu International Finance Square)

Chengdu IFS is an urban complex located in the heart of Chengdu, combining a high-end shopping mall, Grade A office buildings, the Niccolo Hotel, and residences. Since its opening, it has won numerous awards for its architecture, design, and digital initiatives, including its "Fun in the AiR" campaign, which received a gold award at the SABRE Awards. Chengdu IFS also hosts international brands and organizes innovative events, such as the "New Kitzzz In De House" art party, which won a gold award at the Stevie Awards. In 2022, it launched "Channel IFS," an influencer platform that won the "Best Use of Influencer" award at the Event Marketing Awards. Chengdu IFS is committed to providing exceptional lifestyle experiences and sharing a better future with the city of Chengdu.

Flagship stores of French luxury brands are located there. Bernard Arnault has visited several times and opened flagship Louis Vuitton stores as well as a Louis Vuitton restaurant. Chengdu ranks as the third-largest luxury market in China, following Shanghai and Beijing.

SKP Chengdu: Underground Luxury Shopping Mall with 1,300 Brands

SKP Chengdu offers a luxury shopping experience in an immersive and artistic environment. Designed by the architecture firm Sybarite, it includes premium fashion and gourmet stores and houses over 1,300 brands. What sets SKP Chengdu apart is its underground architecture, creating a green oasis of luxury within the city.

New Century Global Center, One of the World’s Largest Buildings

The New Century Global Center in Chengdu, commonly referred to as the Global Center, is a massive multifunctional complex that features shops, the indoor tropical-themed Paradise Island Waterpark with an enormous pool, wave simulator, and fine sand, allowing visitors to relax in a tropical atmosphere without leaving Chengdu. It offers luxury hotels, entertainment spaces, as well as offices and residential apartments. This shopping complex is one of the largest buildings in the world by floor area, covering 1.7 million square meters. The project was spearheaded by Deng Hong, a Chinese billionaire and head of Entertainment Travel Group.

 Chengdu Twin Towers

The Chengdu Twin Towers, two skyscrapers under construction in the Tianfu Business District, are designed to become iconic architectural landmarks of the city. Standing at 468 meters, they will be the tallest buildings in Chengdu, housing offices, commercial spaces, luxury residences, and hotels. Their modern and futuristic design symbolizes the city’s rapid growth and its ambition to become a global economic hub. At night, the towers light up with vibrant colors and display advertisements. They were notably illuminated to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France.

La Chengdu Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone The Chengdu Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone (CDHT) is an important economic and technological center in China. It is renowned for its concentration of high-tech companies, modern infrastructure, and a supportive environment for innovation. The zone is home to numerous leading companies in sectors such as information technology, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. CDHT stands out for its commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation, fostering the creation of new businesses and technological development.

French Cultural Center in Chengdu / Orthotek

This center is a private initiative led by the Orthotek Group, chaired by Mr. LI Lei (with whom the user had the opportunity to meet on behalf of the IFDT), and is managed within the framework of a French association governed by the 1901 law, with Gilles PARGNEAUX as president and Philippe Rebeix as secretary general.

The space is divided into three main sections:

Sports and Leisure Area (3000 m²) featuring a gym, dance studio, boxing area, basketball courts, two swimming pools (one Olympic-sized), a yoga studio, and a Pilates room. Cultural Area with a French restaurant, the "Café des Arts," where French artists are exhibited, an artist's studio of 150 m², and seven private lounges for meetings and exhibitions. Business Center designed to welcome French companies interested in exploring the Chinese domestic market, its organization, and regulations, as well as finding local partners.

Autonomous Robots in Chengdu’s JingJiang Hotel

The integration of autonomous robots in hotels across China is rapidly growing. With companies like Tencent, Baidu, and Alibaba heavily investing in artificial intelligence and robotics, hotel services are being transformed. AI-powered interactions, personalized services, and IoT technologies are creating more immersive and efficient hotel experiences. Autonomous robots have become an essential asset for hotels in China, revolutionizing service delivery and making the hotel experience faster, more modern, and tailored. For example, hotel guests can order food or drinks from a local delivery service, and when it arrives at the hotel, a robot autonomously delivers the order to their room.

Initiative Chengdu Smart City

The objective is to transform Chengdu into a smart city using AI, IoT, big data, blockchain, and 5G to improve the quality of life for residents, optimize urban infrastructure, and stimulate the city's economic development. This transformation will focus on several key areas: smart mobility, optimized urban management, smart healthcare, public safety, the digital economy, and sustainable environments. These efforts aim to enhance citizens' quality of life, attract businesses and talent, and create a more sustainable and efficient city. In addition to the technological innovations highlighted in the tourism sector, such as robots and autonomous vehicles, Chengdu's smart city plan aligns with broader initiatives seen in other major Chinese cities like Shenzhen, and Asian cities like Singapore and Seoul, often referred to as the "3S" cities.

A key aspect of developing a smart city is the promotion of green and low-carbon urban development, reflecting the increasing efforts by Chinese cities to tackle climate change challenges. Chengdu's plan aims to increase the share of non-fossil energy to more than 50% of the city's energy mix by 2025, while also reducing energy consumption per unit of GDP. To achieve this, the city plans to encourage energy-intensive industries to reduce production, increase photovoltaic solar energy production, and incentivize citizens to adopt more sustainable modes of transportation. These measures include subsidies for replacing gas boilers with electric ones, financial support for building renovations, and the construction of infrastructure for electric vehicle charging stations.(source team France export rapport un article de yunnan.cn du 20 juin 2022).

Smart Mobility in Chengdu

Smart mobility is a key element of Chengdu's strategy to transform itself into a smart city. The city is upgrading its public transportation system with smart technologies, enhancing the user experience. Chengdu's metro network is being modernized with automated systems, and electric and autonomous buses are being introduced. Users can purchase tickets and pay for rides contactlessly via mobile apps and digital payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay. Mobile applications provide real-time traffic updates and information on available transportation options, making trip planning more convenient.

Chengdu is also experimenting with electric autonomous buses in certain neighborhoods, equipped with AI technologies to navigate streets, recognize obstacles, and comply with traffic signals. Companies like Mobike and Ofo have contributed to the rise of bike-sharing in Chengdu, with smart bikes equipped with GPS systems available for rent via mobile apps. These bikes are easily accessible throughout the city, helping reduce traffic congestion and pollution.

AI and Big Data for Traffic Management

AI and Big Data for Traffic Management

Chengdu utilizes AI and big data to optimize traffic flow and reduce congestion by analyzing vehicle patterns in real-time. These technologies adjust traffic signals and predict trends to streamline road management through navigation apps like Gaode (Amap) and Baidu Maps. These apps, along with around twenty others available, allow users to directly book ride-hailing services, similar to being able to order a taxi or Uber directly from Google Maps or Waze.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Chengdu strongly promotes the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its smart mobility strategy. The city has installed numerous EV charging stations integrated with smart systems that provide real-time availability and ease of payment. These stations are often located near parking lots and shopping centers, making it convenient for EV owners to access the infrastructure. Chengdu also offers subsidies and financial incentives to encourage citizens to purchase electric cars, contributing to reduced CO2 emissions. The city further incentivizes EV adoption by restricting access to certain zones for traditional combustion vehicles, requiring drivers to switch to public transportation or electric vehicles for the remainder of their journey.

Car Sharing and Smart Taxis

Car-sharing services and smart taxis, managed via digital platforms, have become commonplace in Chengdu. Ride-sharing platforms like Didi Chuxing use algorithms to connect passengers with drivers, optimizing routes to reduce congestion and travel time. Autonomous taxis (robo-taxis) are being tested and deployed by tech companies in specific areas of Chengdu, aiming to reduce transport costs and improve taxi efficiency.

Chengdu is at the forefront of autonomous vehicles, encouraging their development and adoption as part of its smart mobility vision. The city is one of the pilot locations in China for autonomous vehicle tests, with tech and automotive companies like Baidu and Pony.ai testing robo-taxis in designated areas.

Although I could not test an autonomous vehicle in Chengdu, I suggest watching the video on China's Baidu's Robotaxi (Apollo Go 萝卜快跑) for more insight into these developments.

5G

A cornerstone of Chengdu's smart mobility, 5G enables fast and reliable connections between various transport systems, particularly connected vehicles. These vehicles can communicate in real-time with road infrastructure, such as traffic lights and sensors, enhancing safety and overall traffic management.

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Chengdu stands as a model of blending tradition and modernity in China. As a cultural hub, the city boasts a wealth of heritage sites such as the Sanxingdui Museum, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, and Taoist temples, while driving economic and technological growth with projects like Chengdu IFS and SKP. The city is also becoming a leader in luxury and innovation, with modern infrastructure and a digital ecosystem focused on AI, IoT, and 5G. Chengdu’s tourism sector capitalizes on these strengths, featuring iconic attractions like the Giant Panda Research Base and Jinli Ancient Street, while emphasizing sustainable development and smart technologies. Chengdu is transforming into a smart city by integrating smart mobility, big data, and green energy to address the challenges of tomorrow.