Changting Ancient City Wall

Introducing Changting Ancient City Wall

Changting Ancient City, also known as Tingzhou Ancient City, is located in Changting, Fujian Province, at the southern foot of the Wuyi Mountains. Bordered by Guangdong to the south and Jiangxi to the west, it serves as a hub on ancient roads and a strategic border crossing between Fujian, Guangdong, and Jiangxi provinces. Known as the "Western Gate of Fujian," it is one of Fujian's four famous cities. It was hailed by international scholar Rewi Alley as "China's most beautiful mountain city."

Construction began in the fourth year of the Dali reign of the Tang Dynasty. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Tingzhou ancient city wall stretched over 5,000 meters, featuring 12 gates. Nestled against the mountains and facing the stream, it formed a unique pattern of "city within the mountains, water within the city," and a "Buddha hanging beads" pattern. Its superb architectural skills and enduring artistic value fully embody the diligence, wisdom, and exceptional talent of the ancient Han working people. Nearly 3,000 meters of the well-preserved wall now connects Chaotianmen, Wutongmen, Huijimen, and Baozhumen. With a history of over 1,200 years, construction began in the fourth year of the Dali reign of the Tang Dynasty. The remaining wall, linking the three ancient gates, Chaotianmen, Wutongmen, Huijimen, and Baozhumen, stretches over 1,500 meters and is a provincial-level cultural relic protection site.

Climate and best time to travel

Mid-subtropical maritime monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Changting Ancient City Wall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Changting Ancient City Wall is a historical structure built during the Tang Dynasty, originally designed for defensive purposes. It is one of the few remaining ancient city walls in Fujian and holds great cultural significance in showcasing the region's military history and architectural style.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Changting County, Longyan City, Fujian Province, the ancient city wall is accessible by taxi or private car from the center of Changting. Public buses can also take you closer to the site, followed by a short walk.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Changting Ancient City Wall is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the site is less crowded during weekdays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for visiting the Changting Ancient City Wall is around ¥30. Tickets can be purchased at the site directly or online via local tourism platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, especially on weekdays. However, during peak tourist seasons or festivals, it's advisable to book tickets online at least 1-2 days ahead to avoid long queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore the Changting Ancient City Wall in about 1-2 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or take a guided tour, it could take up to half a day.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main preserved sections of the city wall that provide a glimpse into ancient defensive architecture.
• Nearby temples and historical buildings that complement the city wall's history.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available, and some local guides can speak English. Audio guides are typically in Mandarin, though English may be available on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the city wall, where you can get panoramic views of Changting and the surrounding countryside. The early morning or late afternoon light provides great conditions for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main city wall entrance, then walk along the preserved sections. Don’t miss nearby temples and historical sites that enhance your understanding of the city’s past. Conclude your visit with a stop at the information center for more historical context.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, there are no night visits or light shows at the Changting Ancient City Wall. It is mainly a daytime attraction.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site is generally not crowded, but it can become busier during Chinese national holidays or weekends. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the off-peak season.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets and a few rest areas near the entrance. The site has small kiosks selling snacks and bottled water. For a wider variety of food and shopping, you may need to head into the town of Changting.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, although some sections of the city wall may be challenging for those with limited mobility due to stairs and uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are accepted at most locations. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or in case mobile payment systems are not working.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the park, food options are limited to small snack stands. However, in the town of Changting, you will find a variety of restaurants offering local Fujianese cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and some vegan options can be found at local restaurants in Changting, though halal food options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Changting, ranging from budget to mid-range. Popular choices include local guesthouses or hotels near the town center for easy access to both the wall and other attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Changting Ancient County for more historical exploration.
• The Taining Earth Towers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are souvenir shops in Changting offering local crafts, tea, and traditional Fujianese products such as wood carvings or pottery.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best transportation options for continuing your trip are taxis or private cars. Public buses can take you to nearby attractions or back to the town center for further travel.