The capital of China's Sichuan province, Chengdu, may be one of the fastest growing cities in the world and at the cutting edge of modern technology but nestled between the high-tech business parks and office buildings are the relics of the Qi and Shu dynasties - relics that remain largely untouched by Western visitors.

IBTimes UK has travelled to China to secure pictures of Chengdu's Kuan Zhai Xiang Zi ("Wide and Narrow Alleys") and their ancient relics.

The alleys clearly demonstrate why the Chinese say Chengdu is "the fastest growing city [with] the slowest way of life".

Keep checking IBTimes UK for more Chengdu China Special coverage.

Kuan Zhai Xiang Zi in Mandarin means “Wide and narrow alleys” and is one of three historical relic protection areas in Chengdu

It comprises three parallel alleys – Kuan Alley, Zhai Alley and Jing Alley - along with old grid pattern streets and courtyards. Both Kuan Alley and Zhai Alley are the gentrified ancient alleys from the Qing dynasty (1644-1911).

In the early Qing dynasty, the government built a walled city in Chengdu as accommodation for the Eight Banners soldiers and their families. In the 60th year of Kangxi’s reign, Gen Nian Gengyao proposed to the imperial court a permanent garrison in Chengdu of 1,600 people.

The alleys now host beautifully ornate restaurants, public and private

Cuisine is available from Sichuan province in the north to the far south of China

Pubs, bars and clubs nestle alongside more sedate tea houses

This lane is infused with modern Chinese music and bars, with western influences peppered throughout.

Not even an ancient walled city that is protected by the government can escape Starbucks.

Locals call Kuan Alley the modern people’s memory of the old Chengdu city