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Tongcheng Ancient District, the seat of Tongcheng City (and Tongcheng County), boasts a history of over 1,200 years. Facing south, the ancient city is nestled against the backdrop of the Yuping, Touzi, and Longmian Mountains, and flanked by the Shihe and Longmian Rivers. The scenery is breathtakingly beautiful.
Originally named Shancheng, the ancient city was renamed Mengxia Town during the Republic of China era and Chengguan Town after the founding of the People's Republic of China. Its elegant architecture and winding streets are known as "Seven Turns, Eight Corners, Nine Lanes, and Thirteen Alleys." Preserved or restored ancient buildings within the city include: the magnificent Tongcheng Confucian Temple, embodying the unique characteristics of Tongcheng culture; the Southeast Erlao Street, with its soaring eaves and pointed corners, reflecting the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties; the exquisitely designed Gaochun Jixuan, embodying the Jiangnan style; the Zilai Bridge, with its five battlements and four arches, spanning the Longmian River; the tranquil and solemn Jingtu Lotus Society, reminiscent of a fairyland; and the legendary Xiangu Well, a millennium-old, never-drying well.
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Tongcheng Ancient Town is a historic town with deep cultural significance in Anhui Province. It dates back over 1,000 years and is known for its traditional architecture, historical sites, and as a hub of Chinese scholarly activity during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Tongcheng Ancient Town is located in the Tongcheng County of Anhui Province, near the city of Anqing. It can be reached by taxi, private car, or bus from Anqing or other nearby cities. The town is easily walkable once you arrive, with most attractions within walking distance.
The town is open year-round, with the best time to visit being during the spring or autumn months when the weather is mild. The town is relatively quiet during weekdays, with weekends and public holidays being busier.
There is generally no entrance fee to visit the ancient town itself, though certain sites, museums, and temples may charge small entry fees. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the respective attractions.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required for general visits. However, it is advisable to book tickets for special events or guided tours in advance, especially during busy seasons or public holidays.
You will need about 2-3 hours to explore the main attractions in the town, including the temples, ancient streets, and markets. If you plan to visit nearby landmarks, a half-day or full-day trip is recommended.
Guided tours are available at some of the more popular attractions within the town. Tours are generally offered in Mandarin, but you can also find some English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons.
Start by exploring the ancient streets and markets, then visit the Tongcheng Confucian Temple. Afterward, take a walk along the river to relax and enjoy the scenery. If you have extra time, consider visiting local museums or other historic buildings in the area.
The town does not typically offer night tours or light shows, but the streets and riverfront are beautifully lit at night, making it an enjoyable time for a leisurely walk and photography.
The town is relatively quiet on weekdays, with weekends and public holidays being busier. If you prefer a less crowded experience, visiting on weekdays or during the off-season is recommended.
There are public toilets available throughout the town. You will find local eateries offering Anhui cuisine, as well as rest areas and souvenir shops selling traditional crafts and snacks.
The town is mostly accessible for elderly and children, with cobblestone streets and relatively flat terrain. However, some areas may be less suitable for disabled visitors due to uneven surfaces or steps.
Cash is still commonly accepted in some small shops and markets, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the town. Credit cards are accepted at some larger establishments.
There are several local restaurants offering Anhui-style dishes like hotpot, noodles, and dumplings. For a more casual experience, there are also tea houses and snack stalls along the streets.
Vegetarian options are available in some of the local eateries. Halal food may be found in restaurants catering to Muslim visitors, though options are limited.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the town and surrounding areas, ranging from budget accommodations to more comfortable mid-range options. Some larger hotels may offer shuttle services to the town's attractions.
Souvenir shops in the town sell traditional Anhui crafts, including paper-cuttings, embroidered goods, and local snacks. You can also find hand-painted pottery and traditional clothing as mementos.
Taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip after visiting. The Anqing Railway Station is also accessible by taxi, offering connections to other cities.
