Diaoyuan Ancient Village

What are the most recommended things to do in Diaoyuan Ancient Village?

  • Stroll through the ancient streets and admire traditional Jiangxi architecture.
  • Visit historic temples, ancestral halls, and old residences.
  • Take photographs of stone streets, wooden structures, and decorative carvings.
  • Learn about local history and culture through museum displays or plaques.
  • Enjoy local cuisine and snacks at nearby eateries.
  • Shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Introducing Diaoyuan Ancient Village

Diaoyuan Ancient Village is located in Xingqiao Town, Jizhou District, Ji'an City, Jiangxi Province. It consists of two natural villages, Weixi and Zhuangshan. It is 3.6 kilometers away from Jifu Highway (provincial road), about 9 kilometers away from the exit of Ganyue Expressway, and 18 kilometers away from Ji'an City.

Diaoyuan Ancient Village is a National AAAA-level scenic spot and a National Famous Historical and Cultural Village. Home to descendants of Ouyang Xiu, a renowned Northern Song Dynasty politician and writer, the village, shaped like the Eight Diagrams (Bagua), boasts a rich cultural heritage and boasts five Jinshi (imperial jinshi) scholars (including four from a single family in the Ming Dynasty, including brothers who successively passed the imperial examinations and served as governors and provincial governors).

Most of the buildings in Diaoyuan Ancient Village are in the style of Ming and Qing Dynasties, with brick and wood structure and through-beam structure. The walls are made of two vertical and one vertical blue bricks to form hollow beam walls. The gables are rich in variations, and the various types of riding tile wind and fire walls are divided into single and double stacks, which are unique.

Climate and best time to travel

With a subtropical humid monsoon climate, Diaoyuan Ancient Village is nestled between mountains and water, offering a beautiful environment suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Diaoyuan Ancient Village boasts a well-preserved collection of Gan-style buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Key attractions include the Ouyang Clan Ancestral Hall, the Mingshan Ancestral Hall, the Wenchang Family Archway, the Eighth Elders' Villa, the Wenzhong Ancestral Hall, and the Li Clan Ancestral Hall. 190 buildings remain, including temples, ancestral halls, academies, villas, and residences. Of these, 102 date from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and 88 are modern.


It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

40 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00


Most Popular FAQs for Diaoyuan Ancient Village

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

Diaoyuan Ancient Village is a historic settlement in Ji'an, Jiangxi, preserving traditional architecture and culture from several centuries. It represents Jiangxi's heritage, showcasing old residences, ancestral halls, and streets that reflect local customs and historical lifestyles.

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

  • Located in Ji'an City, Jiangxi Province, within a rural setting.
  • Accessible by taxi or rideshare from Ji'an city center.
  • Local buses may reach nearby stops; a short walk is required to enter the village.
  • Walking is recommended to explore the village fully.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
  • Spring and autumn offer the best weather for visiting.
  • Weekdays are preferable for avoiding crowds.

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

Entrance fee is generally low or free; tickets, if required, are purchased at the village entrance offline.

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

Advance booking is usually not necessary, except for group tours or holiday periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours to stroll the main streets, visit historic sites, and enjoy local food.

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

  • Ancient streets and stone pathways
  • Traditional wooden houses with decorative carvings
  • Ancestral halls and temples
  • Small museums or cultural exhibits

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

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; English-language resources are limited, so self-guided exploration is common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Entrance gate and main street for classic village shots
  • Temple courtyards and ancestral halls
  • Decorative wooden carvings and rooftops
  • Stone bridges or small water features

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, walk along the central street, explore side alleys, visit temples and halls, stop for local snacks, and end at souvenir shops near the exit.

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

Night visits are generally not available; no regular light shows or special tours are offered.

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

Less crowded on weekdays; weekends and national holidays can be busy.

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

  • Public toilets near the entrance
  • Small eateries serving local food
  • Rest areas with benches along the main streets
  • Shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs

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

  • Mostly suitable for children and elderly with moderate mobility.
  • Uneven stone paths may be challenging for wheelchair users.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended; some shops may accept mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries and small cafes near the village entrance, serving traditional Ji'an dishes and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are typically available; vegan or halal options may require inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and budget hotels are available in Ji'an city center; a few rural inns are near the village for overnight stays.

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

  • Wuyuan Ancient Town
  • Jinggangshan Scenic Area
  • Local temples and historic sites in Ji'an

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, typical souvenirs include postcards, local handicrafts, tea, and small traditional items.

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

  • Taxi or rideshare back to Ji'an city or nearby towns
  • Local buses to other attractions in Ji'an
  • Private car or tour van for longer day trips