Chengdu Chuanchuan Xiang: A World on Bamboo Skewers
If the Chengdu food scene were a martial arts movie, Chuanchuan Xiang would be the hidden master. It’s not flashy, not formal, but deeply loved by locals—and one of the most authentic ways to experience Chengdu street food.
Unlike traditional hot pot, which can feel like a full ceremony, Chuanchuan is all about freedom. No menus to stress over, no portion sizes to calculate. You simply grab a pot, pick your favorite skewers from the fridge, and start cooking. This guide will show you what Chuanchuan Xiang is, how it works, and where to eat it like a local in Chengdu.
I. What Is Chuanchuan Xiang?
Chuanchuan Xiang literally means “fragrant skewers.” It became popular in Chengdu in the 1980s, when street vendors started skewering small pieces of meat and vegetables instead of weighing them. At the end of the meal, they simply counted the bamboo sticks.
That simple idea turned into one of the most iconic forms of local food in Chengdu.
How Chuanchuan Xiang works:
- The vibe: Loud, social, and relaxed. In Chengdu, the more skewers you have on the table at the end, the better the party was.
- Two main styles:
- Hot Pot Style: You cook the skewers yourself in a bubbling pot of spicy broth.
- Cold Pot Style: The kitchen cooks everything for you and serves it in a bowl of seasoned oil—perfect if you’re short on time or want to avoid the steam.
- The sauce:
Most locals dip skewers into an “Oil Bowl” (sesame oil and garlic) to calm the heat, or a “Dry Bowl” (chili powder and crushed peanuts) for an extra kick.
II. Where to Eat the Best Chuanchuan Xiang in Chengdu
1. Steel Pipe Factory No. 5 (Xiaojungan)
- Location: No. 15 Haijiaoshi Street, Jinjiang District
- Specialty: Xiaojungan—thin-sliced chicken gizzards with a perfect crunchy snap
- Vibe: Industrial retro, filled with old photos of Chengdu
- Pro Tip: Order the brown sugar rice cakes (Ciba) to save your tongue from the spice.
2. Mao Jiao Huo La (Kuixinglou Street)
- Location: No. 33 Kuixinglou Street, near the Wide and Narrow Alleys
- Specialty: Cold pot skewers, spicy beef, rabbit kidneys
- Vibe: Busy, loud, and full of energy
- Pro Tip: Arrive before 5 PM or expect a long wait. First-timers should ask for mild spice (Wei La).
3. Ma Lu Bian Bian (339 TV Tower)
- Location: No. 94 Mengzhuiwan Street
- Specialty: Spicy beef and “Palm Treasures”—crunchy chicken joints locals love
- Vibe: Pure 1980s nostalgia
- Pro Tip: Walk to the 339 TV Tower afterward to see Chengdu at night.
4. Yuan Ji Chuanchuan Xiang (Global Flagship)
- Location: No. 432 Jinyang Road, Wuhou District
- Specialty: Cilantro beef, a classic Chengdu combination
- Vibe: Large, clean, and family-friendly
- Pro Tip: Free snack and fruit buffet included.
5. Yulin Chuanchuan Xiang (Original Main Branch)
- Location: No. 26-19 Yulin Street, Wuhou District (near Yulin Life Plaza)
- Special: Classic, old-school Chuanchuan Xiang with a rich beef tallow soup base and nostalgic flavors loved by locals.
- Vibe: Clean, friendly, and welcoming; stroll along Yulin Road after your meal.
- Pro Tip: Must-try beef series: spicy beef, Celery Beef, Pickled Pepper Beef. Open 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM; aprons provided.
IV. The Soul of Chengdu on a Stick
Chuanchuan Xiang captures Chengdu’s relaxed and creative spirit. Simple ingredients, endless combinations, and a shared table full of laughter. Whether you choose an old-school street shop or a stylish modern restaurant, every skewer tells a story. For a deeper taste of the city, visit our Chengdu Local Food Trails guide to explore traditional snacks, street food, and the everyday dishes locals truly love.
Winter Tip: In cold Chengdu weather, pair Chuanchuan with soy milk or Bingfen (ice jelly). Spicy, savory, and sweet—the Chengdu way.
Happy eating, and see you in Chengdu!
