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In Yimen Ancient Town, visitors can enjoy the historical architecture, local culture, and scenic views. Here are the top things to do:
Yimen Ancient Town is located on the north bank of the Wohe River, 22.5 kilometers west of Woyang County . According to the Yingzhou Chronicle, " Yimen was Zhenyuan County during the Tang Dynasty . " In the 10th year of the Tianbao period of the Tang Dynasty , An Lushan massacred Zhenyuan County, leaving only the Yimen Gate of the county government. Therefore, Zhenyuan was renamed "Yimen . " When Woyang County was established, " Yi " was changed to " Yi . " In ancient times, the town was home to numerous temples and scenic spots, earning it the nickname " Miaoji . "
Today, over ten temples still exist, including the Thousand Buddha Pavilion, the Xuan Emperor Temple, and a mosque. Nanyao Village, about a mile west of the town, is the hometown of Han Boyu, a filial son of the Western Han Dynasty . The " Crying Staff Shrine " stands behind the village . Due to the widespread cultivation of dried moss in Yimen, it has been designated the " Hometown of Dried Moss in China " by the state . The town is home to a large Hui Muslim community.
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Yimen Ancient Town is a historical town with a rich cultural heritage. It dates back to the Tang Dynasty and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, traditional way of life, and role in local trade and cultural exchanges over centuries. The town is an example of traditional Chinese urban planning and culture.
Yimen Ancient Town is located in Bozhou, Anhui Province. You can reach it by taxi from Bozhou city center, or by bus if you prefer public transportation. Walking around the town is ideal once you arrive, as it’s compact and pedestrian-friendly.
Yimen Ancient Town is open all day, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed experience.
The entrance to Yimen Ancient Town is free. However, some specific sites within the town, like temples or museums, may have an entrance fee, typically around 10-20 RMB. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site.
Advance booking is not necessary for most parts of Yimen Ancient Town. However, for special events or guided tours, it’s recommended to book a few days in advance.
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to explore Yimen Ancient Town thoroughly, including a walk through the streets, visiting historical sites, and enjoying local food. If you plan to visit several temples or take a boat ride, you may want to spend half a day here.
Key highlights of Yimen Ancient Town include the historical streets lined with old buildings, the ancient temples like the Tianhou Temple, and the local market area. The surrounding landscape and river views are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, offering insight into the history of the town and its architecture. Audio guides may not be available in other languages, but hiring a local guide can enrich your visit.
The best photography spots include the ancient streets, the riverbank, and the traditional courtyards of the temples. Sunset is a great time for scenic shots, as the warm light illuminates the town's historic structures.
Start your visit by walking through the main street to get a feel for the town. Then, head to the local market to experience the town's vibrant life. Finish by visiting the Tianhou Temple and taking a boat ride along the river for scenic views.
Night visits to Yimen Ancient Town are available, and the town takes on a more peaceful and picturesque ambiance in the evening. However, light shows or special nighttime tours are not common in this location.
The town can get crowded on weekends and during Chinese public holidays. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-season (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available throughout the town. Local food stalls and shops sell souvenirs, snacks, and bottled water. There are a few local restaurants offering traditional Anhui cuisine.
The town is generally accessible, but due to its ancient, cobblestone streets, it may be difficult for visitors with mobility issues. There are some stairs and uneven pathways in certain areas.
Cash is commonly used, but many vendors and shops in the town now accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay. Credit cards are less frequently accepted in smaller shops.
There are several local restaurants offering Anhui cuisine, such as braised pork and steamed fish. Many of these are within walking distance of the town center. You can also find cafes serving traditional Chinese tea and snacks.
Vegetarian food is widely available in Anhui cuisine, particularly at local restaurants. Halal options may be harder to find, but larger towns or cities in the area may have more choices.
There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near the town. For more upscale options, you can stay in Bozhou city, which offers a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Bozhou Museum, offering insights into the region's history, and the Chanyang Temple. Both can easily be combined into a day trip with Yimen Ancient Town.
Yes, there are souvenir shops offering local handicrafts, traditional Chinese clothing, and wooden carvings. Popular souvenirs include tea sets, antiques, and small trinkets representing local culture.
After visiting Yimen Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or local bus to other attractions in Bozhou or nearby towns. Renting a car offers flexibility if you want to explore further afield.
