Chongqing Noodles Mural Celebrates Sichuan’s Urban Food Culture

Wu Yao’s award-winning illustration fuses cuisine, architecture, and tradition

The Chongqing Noodles mural, designed by Wu Yao and a multidisciplinary team, brings the bustling spirit of Sichuan’s food cities—Chengdu and Chongqing—into the heart of contemporary dining spaces. Drawing inspiration from iconic Dutch paintings such as ‘Paradise on Earth’ and ‘Tower of Heaven,’ the mural captures a wealth of visual information, echoing the complexity and vibrancy of these urban centers. The artwork’s central challenge was to seamlessly blend the region’s renowned cuisine culture with its distinctive urban landscapes, resulting in a captivating visual narrative that invites diners to pause and explore.

Executed for Encounter Small Noodles, the mural stands out for its thematic focus on the magical food cities of Sichuan and Chongqing. The design integrates not only the colorful cityscapes and natural scenery but also highlights numerous cultural landmarks, all rendered in a distinctly Chinese style. Surrounding regions are depicted in softer, more distant views, ensuring that the mural’s core remains rooted in the essence of Sichuan and Chongqing’s culinary and cultural identity.

Technically, the mural utilizes heat transfer printing, allowing for vivid color reproduction and adaptability to various store sizes. The artwork measures 1500mm by 1600mm but is available in multiple dimensions to suit different retail environments. The mural’s cool-toned palette was intentionally chosen to contrast with the warm lighting commonly found in stores, making the illustration a visual focal point that draws in customers and enhances the dining experience.

Research for the project centered on capturing the unique urban characteristics of the Chongqing region while integrating signature dishes and playful new elements, such as the “Small Noodles Master,” to boost brand recognition and customer engagement. The mural’s intricate detail encourages viewers to linger, discovering new aspects with each visit, and reflecting the dynamic interplay between food, architecture, and local culture.

The Chongqing Noodles mural was developed in Beijing between October and December 2024, with contributions from illustration and graphic designers Zhang Yuchen, Xie Boxing, Tan Zhen, Tang Wenhu, Zheng Ziyang, and 3D designer Liao Hao. The project’s innovative approach and technical excellence earned it the Silver A' Design Award in 2025, a testament to its remarkable artistry and its ability to evoke wonder and appreciation for Sichuan’s culinary heritage.

This mural not only enlivens dining spaces but also serves as a bridge between tradition and modernity, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in the flavors and stories of Sichuan and Chongqing. As diners enjoy their meals, they are surrounded by a tapestry of culture, history, and innovation—an experience that lingers long after the last noodle is savored.