Top Ancient Towns and Villages to Visit around Chengdu
As the hometown of the giant panda, Chengdu is renowned for its panda breeding research base and historic sites like Wuhou Temple, Thatched Cottage of Du Fu, and Jinli Old Street. However, many ancient towns and villages hidden around Chengdu offer distinct styles and cultural gems. Here are some classical ancient towns around Chengdu to explore:
Huang Long Xi Ancient Town – One of the Top Ten Water Towns of China
Located in Shuangliu County, 42 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, Huang Long Xi Ancient Town boasts a history of over 1,700 years. It features well-preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, ancient temples, and beautiful banyan trees.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses depart every hour from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. A day trip is sufficient, but homestays are available for RMB 15 to 40 per night.
Huai Yuan Ancient Town – Famous for Bamboo Weaving Products
Huai Yuan Ancient Town, located in Chongzhou City near Chengdu, has a history of over 1,600 years. This small town features well-preserved ancient streets and is known for its bamboo weaving products.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses from Chadianzi Bus Station or other stations in Chengdu can take you directly to Huai Yuan. It’s best visited in a day.
Yue Lai Ancient Town – Close to Xiling Snow Mountain
Yue Lai Ancient Town, situated in Heming Township, Dayi County, is a peaceful western Sichuan town with a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses from Jisha Bus Station to Dayi County, followed by a transfer to Yue Lai Town, are recommended. Don’t miss local dishes like steamed dishes and mutton soup.
Pingle Ancient Town – A Strategic Town along the Southern Silk Road
Pingle Ancient Town, located 19 kilometers southwest of Qionglai City, is known for its ancient houses, bridges, and historical significance along the Southern Silk Road.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses depart every 20 minutes from various stations in Chengdu. A visit can be done in one day.
Shangli Ancient Town – An Old Stop along the Southern Silk Road
Shangli Ancient Town is located in Yucheng District and served as a key courier station on the Southern Silk Road. Its ancient bridges and exquisite buildings reflect its historical significance.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station to Ya’an, followed by a transfer to Shangli, are available.
Yuan Tong Ancient Town – Enjoyable Stilted Architecture
Yuan Tong Ancient Town, near Chengdu, features stilted architecture and has a rich history. The town is known for its historic guild halls and scenic river views.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses from Jinsha Bus Station to Chongzhou take about 40 minutes, followed by a short transfer to Yuan Tong.
Luo Dai Ancient Town – The First Town of Hakka in Western China
Luo Dai Ancient Town, located north of Longquan County, is predominantly Hakka and features Hakka Assembly Halls and local cultural activities.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Public buses to Wugui Bus Station and then on to Luo Dai Town are recommended. Be sure to try the local Hakka cuisine.
Xi Lai Ancient Town – Famous for Thousand-Year-Old Banyan Trees
Xi Lai Ancient Town, situated in Pujiang County, features ancient architecture and 12 banyan trees over a thousand years old.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: Buses from Shiyang Bus Station to Pujiang, followed by a transfer to Xi Lai Town, are convenient.
Jie Zi Chang Ancient Town – The Back Garden of Qingcheng Mountain
Located at the foot of Fengqi Mountain, Jie Zi Chang Ancient Town combines natural beauty with cultural sights, including ancient temples and a historic bridge.
Travel Guide
- Getting There: It is accessible from Chengdu, making it a lovely day trip for nature and culture enthusiasts.
These ancient towns and villages around Chengdu offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sichuan and can be explored in a day or two from the city.
