Holiday Inn Express Gulou Chengdu, an IHG Hotel

Holiday Inn Express Gulou Chengdu, an IHG Hotel Overview

First Impressions

Walking into the Holiday Inn Express Gulou Chengdu, an IHG Hotel, you immediately get that feeling of being right where you need to be. I mean, this four-star property sits on West Daqiang Street in the Qingyang district, and honestly — the location couldn’t be better. You’re literally in the heart of Chengdu, surrounded by traditional architecture and that authentic buzz of local life. The lobby has that clean, modern Holiday Inn Express vibe, but there’s something about being in this particular spot that makes it feel special.

The Perfect Base

What really struck me about this place is how effortlessly you can explore from here. The location score of 9.0 isn’t just a number — you’ll understand it the moment you step outside. Gulou (that’s the Drum Tower area, by the way) puts you within walking distance of some incredible street food and traditional teahouses. Couples absolutely love it here, and I can see why — there’s something romantic about wandering these historic streets together. You know what’s great? Free private parking is available right at the hotel, which is honestly a huge relief in a busy city like this.

Your Room Experience

The room itself delivers exactly what you’d expect from Holiday Inn Express, but better. Clean lines, comfortable bedding, and everything actually works — which sounds basic but you’d be surprised how often that’s not the case. The air conditioning is solid (crucial during Chengdu’s humid summers), and the Wi-Fi is reliable enough for video calls back home. I particularly appreciated the blackout curtains — after a day of exploring temples and trying hotpot, you’ll want that deep sleep.

Starting Your Day Right

Breakfast here is where they really shine. The buffet spread includes both continental options and local touches, which I found perfect for easing into Sichuan flavors if you’re not quite ready for full-intensity spice at 7 AM. The coffee is decent — not artisanal, but it’ll do the job. What I loved was watching the mix of business travelers and tourists all fueling up for their different adventures in the city.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this isn’t going to be the most Instagram-worthy hotel you’ll ever stay in, but it’s exactly what you want when you’re actually traveling. The 8.7 rating reflects something important — consistent quality in a fantastic location. You’re paying for the privilege of being steps away from authentic Chengdu culture without sacrificing comfort or reliability. The staff understands international travelers but you’re still very much in local China, which creates this perfect balance. Whether you’re here for business or planning to tackle the giant pandas at the research base, you’ll appreciate coming back to a place that just works.

Facilities