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Shedian Ancient Town, located in Sheqi County, Henan Province, was formerly known as Sheqidian and Sheqi Town, and is commonly known as Shedian. The town boasts a long history, originating in the Xia Dynasty, flourishing during the Han Dynasty, and becoming a nationally renowned commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Situated in the heart of the Central Plains, it boasts strategic access to both north and south, offering convenient transportation links. Connecting the east and west, it boasts extensive connectivity, making it one of China's wealthiest commercial and trade centers.
At present, the ancient town has preserved the city foundations, docks, streets, shops and houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties in a basically complete manner. It is rare and unique in China, and has basically maintained the original commercial style, vividly displaying the characteristics of the commercial port culture of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is one of the most complete existing prototypes of commercial ancient towns in China, and enjoys the reputation of " most of the shops in the world are credit shops " and " Golden Hankou, Silver Credit Shops " .
Shedian Ancient City is a rare and unique ancient city in China, with its city walls, docks, streets, shops, and residential buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties intact. The city is meticulously designed and well-preserved, with a well-organized layout of cultural relics and historical sites. It fully inherits feudal ethics and customs , highlighting the characteristics of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Suitable for all seasons
The city houses the Shanxi and Shaanxi Guild Hall, known as the " No. 1 Guild Hall in the World " , the Guangsheng Escort Agency, known as the " No. 1 Escort Agency in Central China " , the Lijin Bureau, the only remaining complete tax office from the Qing Dynasty, the Weishengchang Banknote House, the first private bank in the Central Plains, the Fujian Guild Hall, a landmark transit point on the Tea Horse Road, the most complete and largest Fire Temple in the Central Plains, the best-preserved ancient site of land and water docks in the country, the only well-preserved town-level government office in the country, and the only ancient village wall in the country with nine gates designed according to royal regulations.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
The ancient city is open to the public free of charge, but some small attractions in the scenic area require tickets.
All day
Shedian Ancient City is a historical settlement in Nanyang with over 1,000 years of history. It preserves traditional architecture and reflects the cultural, economic, and defensive aspects of ancient urban life in Henan.
Entrance fees are usually modest and can be purchased at the site. Some travel platforms may offer online ticket booking.
Booking in advance is generally unnecessary except during holidays, when 1–2 days ahead is recommended.
2–3 hours to explore walls, streets, temples, and historical buildings.
Guided tours are mainly in Chinese. Limited English-language guides may be arranged in advance.
Night visits are generally not offered; the ancient city is open during daytime only. Special events may be held occasionally.
Partially accessible; some areas with steps or uneven paths may be difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. Elderly visitors should exercise caution.
Cash is accepted. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely available.
Vegetarian options are usually available; vegan and halal options may be limited.
Souvenirs include local handicrafts, embroidered items, traditional artworks, and snacks.
