Chengdu Local Customs

A black, leather jacket with a skull and a pink commuter bike with a basket... the same sort of "standards" of "manilness" don't really seem to apply here in China, which is somewhat refreshing, while at the same time humorous.

Keen negotiation skills are key in Chengdu as well as all of China. Never pay full price for anything including hotels, taxis and clothes. Most "western" hotels will post room rates that are at least twice what you can expect to pay. The best way to bargain is using the "good cop, bad cop" system where one person claims to really want something while the other complains about the price. Once you get a firm grasp on the prices in China you can use an abbreviated method of bargaining where you offer vendors what you think is fair and then start to walk away if they say no. 98% of the time they'll chase after you and give you the price you want. This process can be a little embarrassing at first but it is completely natural and expected in China.

This photo was shoted near Chengdu railway station, where a large small electric products market here, I guess the taperecorder is bought here! He repeat the blah-blah-blah along the street, funny!

PS:
This kind of taperecorder is primary for English major student!!! Maybe he is learning English?! This is our humor sense point...

Sichuan cuisine is world-famous and in a class of its own. The Chinese claim that it includes more than 4000 dishes, of which it is said they are famous.
Sichuan is known for its spicy food. It is often using huajiao, literally 'flower pepper', a crunchy little item that leaves a numbing and unfamiliar aftertaste. Anyone who has ever eaten in a Chinese restaurant can be assured of the knowledge that if they order an item with Sichuan in its name, they will receive something not only delicious but also something spicy.

Enjoy a cup of chinese tea in the many tea houses in Chengdu. The locals love this leisure activity very much. At some bigger tea houses, one can enjoy Chinese opera or pop songs while drinking as well.

The Sichuan Opera is quite famous and you will find touts outside almost all the budget hotels trying to sell you tickets for it. Try and ensure that these tickets are not for some show that has already past. Check the writing on the tickets from a trustworthy person.