Pingle Ancient Town

Introducing Pingle Ancient Town

Pingle Ancient Town is located in Qionglai City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It is a nationally renowned historical and cultural town, famous for its "Qin and Han Culture - Western Sichuan Water Village" style, and has the reputation of "one flat, two solid, and three sandwiched passes".

Pingle Ancient Town is renowned for its quaint streets and authentic western Sichuan folk customs. Within the ancient town, old banyan trees, the Baimo River, stilt houses lining the river, bluestone-paved streets, a vast sea of ​​bamboo, and rows of ancient Qingming architecture all reflect China's rich and splendid history and civilization. Beyond the town, Lugou, Jinhua Mountain, Hualien Mountain, and the ancient Qin and Han Dynasty post roads are all imbued with a sense of rural beauty.

Climate and best time to travel

humid subtropical climate;

The weather in spring and autumn is cooler and suitable for travel

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Pingle Ancient Town

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

Pingle Ancient Town dates back over 2,000 years and was an important stop along the ancient Shu Road. The town holds great historical significance as it was once a bustling commercial hub. It showcases traditional Sichuan architecture and culture, with well-preserved historical buildings and ancient temples.

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

Pingle Ancient Town is located about 60 kilometers southwest of Chengdu, in the Sichuan province. You can reach it by taxi or private car from Chengdu, which takes about an hour. Buses also run from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Pingle Town. Walking is not recommended unless you are staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Pingle Ancient Town is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and the town may be crowded during Chinese public holidays, especially during the National Day and Chinese New Year holidays.

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

The entrance fee to the town is typically free, but some specific attractions, like temples or museum sites, may charge a small entry fee (usually around 20-30 RMB). Tickets can be bought on-site or through local tour agencies. There is no major need for online ticket purchases.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to the town, but it may be advisable to book tickets for specific attractions or tours, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays, a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need approximately 3 to 4 hours to fully explore the main areas of Pingle Ancient Town, including the streets, temples, and nearby scenic areas. If you plan to visit surrounding attractions or hike, you may want to set aside a full day.

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

• The historic streets of Pingle, lined with ancient architecture and small shops.
• The ancient temples, particularly the Pingle Confucius Temple and Taoist Temples.
• The nearby bamboo forests and scenic river views.
• The traditional tea houses, where you can enjoy local tea and Sichuan snacks.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. English-speaking tours are less common, but private tour guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides are not widely available, so a guided tour or personal research may be helpful for understanding the historical context.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The view of the river and mountains surrounding the town offers a beautiful panoramic shot, especially during sunset.
• The old wooden bridges and traditional houses provide excellent photo opportunities.
• The temples and old streets are picturesque, particularly in the early morning light when the town is quiet.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by exploring the ancient streets, taking in the old architecture and browsing the local shops.
• Visit the main temples and cultural sites, including the Confucius Temple and Taoist temples.
• Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the surrounding natural scenery.
• End the visit with a stop at a local tea house to enjoy some Sichuan tea and snacks.

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

Night visits are available, and the town is beautifully lit in the evenings. However, light shows or special night tours are not common. The evenings offer a quieter atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the local cuisine or a relaxed stroll.

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

The town can get busy during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Visiting during off-peak seasons like spring or fall will also help avoid large crowds.

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

Basic facilities such as public toilets are available throughout the town. There are also numerous restaurants and small food stalls serving local Sichuan cuisine. Water and snacks can be found at local shops. Rest areas are limited but available in tea houses and some attractions.

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

The main town area is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though there are some cobblestone streets and stairs that may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some of the temples and scenic areas may not be easily accessible for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and attractions. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, so it is best to carry some cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants serving traditional Sichuan food, including spicy hotpot and Sichuan-style noodles. Small cafes and tea houses offer a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to enjoy local tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many of the restaurants, as Sichuan cuisine offers a variety of vegetable-based dishes. Halal food options are available in some of the restaurants catering to Muslim tourists, especially in larger towns nearby.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and boutique hotels in and around Pingle Ancient Town. For more upscale accommodations, Chengdu offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, located about an hour’s drive from the town.

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

• The nearby town of Anren, known for its ancient architecture and the Anren Ancient Town Museum.
• Mt. Qingcheng, a popular Taoist mountain offering hiking trails and ancient temples, just a short drive away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops offering traditional handicrafts, pottery, and embroidered goods. Local snacks and tea are also popular souvenirs from the town.

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

From Pingle, you can take a taxi or private car back to Chengdu. Buses also run regularly from the town to Chengdu. Alternatively, you can continue to nearby attractions like Mt. Qingcheng or Anren by local transport or private car.