🗺️ Tour Overview

This one-day tour in Anyang (安阳), one of China’s eight ancient capitals, brings history to life with a deep dive into the Yinxu (殷墟) archaeological site — the last capital of the Shang Dynasty (circa 1300–1046 BCE). The experience is enhanced with a walk through the nostalgic lanes of Cangxiang Street (仓巷街), where you’ll get a taste of local life through traditional architecture and beloved street foods.

Ideal for culture buffs, photographers, and anyone curious about the roots of Chinese civilization.

✨ Tour Highlights

🏛️ Yinxu Palace and Ancestral Temple Ruins (殷墟宫殿宗庙遗址)

• Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2006.

• Home to the earliest form of Chinese writing — Oracle Bone Script (甲骨文).

• Visit highlights include:

  • Simuwu Ding (司母戊鼎) replica — symbol of Shang craftsmanship and religious ritual.

  • Remains of palace foundations and sacrificial altars.

  • Fu Hao’s tomb relics (复原展示) — famous female military leader and queen.

  • Oracle bone storage pits — where China’s earliest documented divinations were discovered.

🧠 Did You Know?

The real Simuwu Ding is the largest bronze vessel in the world, weighing over 830 kg, and was unearthed at this site.

🏘️ Cangxiang Street (仓巷街)

• Historic street transformed into a cultural and gastronomic hub.

• Features restored Ming and Qing-style residences with cobbled lanes and red lanterns.

• Known locally as the “South Luogu Alley (南锣鼓巷) of Anyang”, it blends modern creativity with old-world charm.

• Popular for:

  • Local snacks.

  • Street performers and folk musicians (on weekends and holidays).

  • Antique shops and calligraphy stalls.

📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary

🌄 Morning: Time Travel to the Shang Dynasty at Yinxu (殷墟)

⏰ 9:00 AM – Arrival at Yinxu Ruins

• Entrance Fee: ¥70 (Half price with student ID).

• Begin at the Yinxu Museum, which provides context with interactive exhibits and life-size reconstructions.

• Move on to the Palace and Temple Complex:

  • Large-scale buildings with rammed-earth foundations.

  • Explore sacrificial pits, thought to be part of ancient spiritual ceremonies.

🔍 Tip:

Rent an audio guide (or hire a local English-speaking guide) for insight into:

• Oracle bone readings.

• Bronze inscriptions.

• Ritual practices of the Shang elite.

📸 Suggested Photo Spots:

• Simuwu Ding replica.

• Reconstructed wooden palace frame.

• Views from the eastern tower ruins.

🏘️ Afternoon: Street Food & Old Town Feels on Cangxiang Street (仓巷街)

⏰ 2:00 PM – Arrive at Cangxiang Street

• Take a 15–20 minute ride to Cangxiang Street (仓巷街).

• Wander at your own pace and snap away at:

  • Grey-brick residences with curved eaves.

  • Red lanterns swaying over narrow lanes.

  • Local artisans working on traditional crafts.

🍴 Street Food Must-Tries:

1. Wenji Flat Noodles (文记扁粉菜): Hearty and comforting. The chewy texture of the noodles plus flavorful duck blood and garlic-chili combo makes it unforgettable.

2. Fried Blood Cake (炸血糕): A nostalgia-evoking snack for locals — crispy on the outside, sticky rice texture inside.

3. Sanbuzhan (三不沾): A historical dessert from the imperial era made with egg yolk. Named “Three Non-Sticks” because it doesn’t stick to your plate, spoon, or teeth!

🧭 Bonus Experiences:

• Visit a paper-cutting or calligraphy shop.

• Chat with local vendors about their family recipes or house histories.

🌙 Evening: Rest and Night Market Near Wenfeng Tower (文峰塔)

🏨 Accommodation Tip:

Book a homestay or boutique inn near Wenfeng Tower (文峰塔) — known for its tranquil setting and proximity to:

• Beidajie Night Market (北大街夜市) – Just a 5-minute walk.

• Rooftop views of the lit-up ancient tower.

🍜 Dinner Highlights:

• Daokou Roast Chicken (道口烧鸡): Steamed and seasoned for hours, this chicken falls off the bone.

• Stir-Fried Cold Noodles (炒凉粉): Savory, spicy, and chewy — a Northern Henan classic.

💡 Travel Wisdom: Quick Tips for a Smooth Day

⚠️ Important Reminders:

• Yinxu last entry is at 16:30, so allocate your morning visit wisely.

• Cangxiang Street’s stone paths are uneven — wear thick-soled or cushioned shoes.

• UV rays in Anyang are strong — sun umbrellas are more effective than sunscreen during walking tours.

• Cashless payment (WeChat/Alipay) is widely used, but a few small vendors may still prefer cash.