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Heshun Ancient Town, located 4 kilometers west of Tengchong County, is a renowned overseas Chinese hometown in Yunnan Province. It was a key town on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road and a must-stop on the Southwest Silk Road. The town's buildings are nestled in a mountainous landscape, dotted with ancestral halls, memorial archways, and ancient residences dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Li Genyuan, Acting Premier of the Republic of China, eulogized Heshun in a poem: "It surpasses Suzhou and Hangzhou."
Tengchong is known for its three treasures: Tengxuan paper, Tengyao, and Tengbian paper. At the Heshun Library, you can watch artisans crafting traditional rice paper. If you're interested, buy some to take home. The various snacks in the ancient town, such as Cun's bean powder and Aunt Lin's pine flower cake, all evoke the flavor of time. Find a restaurant and try some—it's worth the trip.
Subtropical climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Regular ticket: 80 RMB
Tips:
The ticket includes Heshun Library, Yuanlong Pavilion, Ai Siqi's former residence, Wenchang Palace, Wanlouzi Folk House Museum, Yunnan-Burma Anti-Japanese War Museum, and Heshun Alley.
All day
Heshun Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical village located in the Baoshan region of Yunnan Province. It is known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and cultural significance. The town is often referred to as the "Home of the Overseas Chinese" due to its historical connections with people who emigrated abroad. Heshun is also famous for its role as a cultural hub and the presence of the Heshun Library, which has a large collection of ancient books.
Heshun Ancient Town is located in the Baoshan region of Yunnan Province, about 15 kilometers from the city of Tengchong. The town is accessible by taxi or private car from Tengchong. There are no direct metro lines to Heshun, but you can reach it by taking a bus or taxi from Tengchong’s main bus station. The town is also walkable once you arrive, with most attractions located within walking distance of each other.
Heshun Ancient Town is open year-round, and the best times to visit are during the spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) months when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. The town’s scenic beauty is at its best during these seasons. It is recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
The entrance to Heshun Ancient Town is free; however, certain attractions like the Heshun Library and other specific cultural sites may have an entrance fee of around 20-30 RMB. Tickets for these attractions can be purchased onsite at the entrances.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry to Heshun Ancient Town. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions that require tickets, it is recommended to check for availability and book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To fully explore Heshun Ancient Town, you’ll need around 3 to 4 hours. This allows time to stroll through the ancient streets, visit the Heshun Library, explore the local attractions, and enjoy some tea or local food. If you want to explore nearby natural sites, you may need more time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the visitor center or through local tour operators. Audio guides are not commonly available, but some guides may offer English explanations. It’s best to arrange for a guide if you want deeper insights into the town’s history and culture.
Start your visit by walking through the main streets of Heshun, taking in the historic architecture. Visit the Heshun Library and then explore the nearby tea houses. Afterward, walk through the village’s traditional courtyards and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. End your visit with a relaxing tea session at one of the local tea houses.
There are no light shows or night tours in Heshun Ancient Town. The town is best experienced during daylight hours when you can fully appreciate the traditional architecture and natural beauty. Some tea houses may remain open into the evening for a quiet tea experience.
Heshun Ancient Town is generally less crowded compared to major tourist destinations, but it can get busy during weekends and public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are basic facilities available in the town, including public toilets and small rest areas. Food and water can be purchased at local shops and tea houses. Street food and traditional Yunnan snacks are available in the town, but there are no large shopping malls.
The town is generally walkable, but some areas have uneven cobblestone streets and steps, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy the town, but parents should be cautious around the more rugged areas.
Cash is widely accepted in Heshun, and mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in shops and tea houses. Credit cards are not typically accepted in smaller local establishments.
There are several traditional Yunnan restaurants and tea houses in and around Heshun Ancient Town, offering local specialties like Yunnan rice noodles, hotpot, and various tea varieties. Most of the dining options are modest and reflect the local culture.
Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in Heshun, as Yunnan cuisine offers many vegetable-based dishes. Halal options may be limited but can be found in some larger towns like Tengchong.
There are a variety of guesthouses and boutique hotels in Heshun, offering both traditional and modern accommodations. Budget options are available, as well as mid-range hotels. For more luxurious stays, you can find hotels in Tengchong, about a 30-minute drive away.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in and around Heshun, where you can buy local handicrafts such as woven items, Yunnan teas, and pottery. Traditional wooden carvings and handmade textiles are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Heshun, you can continue your trip by taxi or bus to Tengchong. From there, you can explore other nearby attractions or take a bus or flight to other parts of Yunnan Province.
