A Day in Chengdu's People's Park: Kung Fu Tea, Opera, and a Matchmaking Corner

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The shady People’s Park is located on Shaocheng Road, in the heart of Tianfu, Chengdu, China.

Serving not only as a city park, it is also a stage for the lives of Sichuan locals. Established in 1911 on the former grounds of a Qing fortress, it became Chengdu’s first public park, covering approximately 112,639 square meters.

Inside the park, visitors can find an artificial lake for boating, flowing streams with river stones, a bonsai garden, expanses of colorful flowers, and historical monuments such as the Martyr Monument of the Railway Protection Movement.

One notable landmark is the Baolu Sichuan Movement Historical Exhibition Hall, also known as the Ginkgo Pavilion.

The Baolu Sichuan Movement Historical Exhibition Hall or also known as the Ginkgo Pavilion at People's Park, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, October 18, 2025. Tempo/RR Ariyani

Heming Teahouse: A Cultural Landmark

At the center of the park stands the Heming Teahouse, an iconic spot surrounded by buildings featuring traditional architectural designs.

The tea-drinking tradition here is said to be more than a century old. Visitors can enjoy pouring tea with long-necked teapots, known as kung fu tea, while soaking in the ambiance of classic Sichuan culture.

The attraction of pouring tea with a long-necked teapot or kung fu tea at one of the restaurants in the middle of People's Park, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, October 18, 2025. Tempo/RR Ariyani

Heming also serves as a stage for local performers. Guests can watch short Sichuan opera shows, demonstrations of kung fu tea, and, if lucky, the famed ‘face-changing’ acts. Dance and sword performances by local artists further add to the lively cultural experience.

Dance and sword performance by local artists at People's Park, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, October 18, 2025. Tempo/RR Ariyani

The Matchmaking Corner: A Unique Tradition

On another side of People’s Park, there is a unique ‘matchmaking corner.’ Here, parents display papers containing their children’s biodata, such as age, occupation, income, contact numbers, and specific preferences.

Light blue papers are for men, while pink papers are for women, and some even include photos. Many of those listed are unaware that their parents have posted their information. Despite this, the corner is never empty, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Park visitors crowding the 'matchmaking corner' at People's Park, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, October 18, 2025. Tempo/RR Ariyani

A Hub for Elderly Activities and Community Life

The park is also a favorite gathering spot for elderly residents, who practice tai chi, play mahjong, and even visit ear cleaners. With its lush greenery and comfortable climate, People’s Park offers a pleasant space for city dwellers to relax, socialize, and enjoy the simple pleasures of daily life.

Seating spots for visitors in the middle of People's Park, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, October 18, 2025. Tempo/RR Ariyani

In the midst of Chengdu’s bustling streets, People’s Park remains a living portrait of the city’s culture and traditions.

From centuries-old tea rituals and opera performances to tai chi practice and the lively matchmaking corner, the park provides a unique window into the rhythms of everyday life in Chengdu, making it an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the heart of Sichuan.

Reported by Tempo's correspondent from Chengdu, China.

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