Chengdu 2

But for someone who works as ear-picker, an age-old rare profession that is probably hard to find a job elsewhere, they take their job very seriously.

Although their tools remind me of my dentist's scary weapons, how can I pass on the chance to try something for the first time?!

It was certainly both eyes opening and ear opening experience to have my ear picked outside of my bathroom, by someone else, in such a complicated procedure...

Not every teahouse has to be this adventurous of course. Some people would like to compare Chengdu teahouses with coffee houses in Paris, probably not after been ear cleaned in Renmin park, more likely have enjoyed a cup of green tea in one of these kind of teahouses along Funan river,

Chengdu locals take pride in their city for good reasons. History and commerce, animal and people apparently all meet in peace.

Chengdu people love dogs, yes, as pet.

Once you step into the dog market by Funan River on a Sunday morning, you will understand why Chengdu locals prankishly call it "international dog expo". A full display of the beauty of variations--color, race, origin and character!

As a dog devotee, it surprised me that many of them even I haven't seen before...

I am so jealous of those who take a little puppy home today. You get good bargains here. Of course it takes more than just money to have a dog. You need have a comfortable living, slow paced life, contented life style. Sooner or later, I will have a dog, perhaps have to move down here then...

That's the down side of being a traveler, many things you love and care. You can't take them home.

But if you are a flea market fanatic, and happen to be in the city on Sunday. This is the best place to rummage and find some carriable bargain. Everything from old books and coins, Tang potteries to old gramophones from unidentifiable origin, you never know what you will find to take home.

Some stall owners here are hobby collectors themselves, they tend to be more nonchalant to price negotiation, but more keen in lecturing you about their "real thing",

Some others are mind readers. They look at your interest and experience then offering you a price that's just slightly out of your sustainable budget...

I am just a travel reporter, but really if you are interested in Chinese antique furniture you don't have to read a million trillion books, all you need is a feeling and a vibe. It's about picking up things, holding them, and smelling them. Conveys that kind of affinity, feel like yours? Take it home! This one? It is nice but should belong to someone else..."

I was there mostly for the fun, not the finds, but here?! Chengdu snacks, Chengdu xiaochi, something I wont miss!