Tianbao Ancient Village

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

  • Walk through the well-preserved ancient streets and alleys to admire traditional Jiangxi architecture.
  • Visit historic residences, ancestral halls, and temples to learn about local culture.
  • Photograph the ancient village scenery, especially traditional wooden structures and stone bridges.
  • Interact with local artisans and try traditional crafts or snacks.
  • Enjoy seasonal festivals or cultural events if visiting during special occasions.

Introducing Tianbao Ancient Village

Tianbao Ancient Village, a renowned historical and cultural village in Jiangyou, is located in Tianbao Township, Yifeng County, 23 kilometers north of the county. The village boasts historical remains of Gan-style architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties, with the earliest construction dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Currently 90% intact, the village boasts a building area spanning 800,000 square meters. The Yitan Highway runs through the village, and the Wuji Expressway stretches 3 kilometers east of the village, providing convenient transportation.

In 2008, Tianbao Ancient Village was designated a Famous Historical and Cultural Village in China. Surrounded by verdant hills and crisscrossed by a moat, the village presents a natural boat-shaped landscape. The ancient village encompasses parts of Xinhui Village and Xinlian Village in Tianbao Township, collectively known as Tianbao Ancient Village. It covers approximately 2.5 square kilometers and currently has 2,067 households and a population of 5,803.

Tianbao, a thousand-year-old ancient village, has been a land of humanities, flourishing literary style, and numerous celebrities and officials since ancient times. It still retains a large number of ancillary cultural relics, such as plaques bestowed by emperors of various dynasties and the "Fukui Plaque" personally written by the patriotic general and national hero Lin Zexu, ancient ceramics, ancient daily necessities, as well as unearthed Shang Dynasty bronze bells (first level), Spring and Autumn period button bells (second level), Warring States swords, county hall bricks and other precious cultural relics. During the Agrarian Revolution, the Red Army left many revolutionary slogans on the walls of Tianbao Ancient Village in the Yifeng Soviet Area.

Climate and best time to travel

The subtropical monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianbao Ancient Village currently boasts over 230 residential buildings, including 170 Ming and Qing dynasty buildings. The remainder are imitations of traditional dwellings dating back to the early Liberation period. The houses face north and south, arranged in rows and arranged in a well-planned manner. Ming and Qing dynasty architecture is categorized into ten main types: ancestral halls, pavilions, painted brocade halls, Guanyin halls, official offices, residential buildings, stone stele archways, pagodas, and temples. The exterior features a gabled skylight, while the interior is a timber structure with either a through-beam or raised-beam style, or a combination of both. Roofs include gabled and hipped roofs. The unique and elegant architecture features wood, stone, and brick carvings, and the exquisite carvings of various flower-shaped pavilion doors, stained glass windows, gatehouses, stone piers, and stone foundations are exquisitely crafted.

The Inner Eight Scenic Spots and the Outer Eight Scenic Spots in Tianbao Ancient Village are also very famous and very attractive.

It is recommended to play for about 3 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day


Most Popular FAQs for Tianbao Ancient Village

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

Tianbao Ancient Village dates back several centuries and reflects the history and culture of Jiangxi Province. It is significant for its well-preserved architecture, ancestral halls, and traditional lifestyle, offering insight into local heritage and historical development.

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

The village is located in Yichun, Jiangxi. Visitors can reach it by local bus or taxi from Yichun city center. Walking is required to explore the village streets and alleys.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for comfortable weather and scenic photography.

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

The entrance fee is modest and can typically be purchased onsite. Online ticketing may be available through local tourism websites or apps.

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

Advance booking is optional but recommended during weekends or public holidays to avoid queues. Booking a few days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the village thoroughly typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on how many historic sites and streets you visit.

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

  • Traditional wooden residences and ancestral halls
  • Ancient stone bridges and streets
  • Local temples and cultural monuments
  • Small museums or exhibitions detailing village history

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

Guided tours in Chinese are commonly available. English or other language tours are limited, and private guides may need to be arranged in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Stone bridges over streams
  • Main streets lined with traditional buildings
  • Entrance gates and ancestral halls
  • Rooftop views for panoramic village photography

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Enter through the main gate and walk along the central streets
  • Visit key historic residences and temples
  • Take side alleys for traditional architecture and hidden corners
  • End at scenic viewpoints or plazas for photography

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

Night visits are generally not available. Occasional cultural events or festivals may feature special activities during the day.

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

The village can get busy on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

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

Basic facilities include public toilets, small food stalls, benches, and souvenir shops. Carry water for comfort while walking the streets.

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

Some areas have uneven stone paths and stairs, which may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used for small purchases, although mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are increasingly accepted in shops and stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local restaurants and tea houses are nearby, serving traditional Jiangxi cuisine and snacks. Small cafes may be available for refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local eateries. Halal options may be limited and are generally available in towns with Muslim communities.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and small hotels in nearby Yichun provide convenient accommodations for overnight stays.

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

  • Yichun People's Park
  • Tianbao Ancient Bridge
  • Local temples and scenic spots in Yichun County

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include handicrafts, traditional textiles, wooden carvings, and local snacks.

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

Return by taxi or private car to nearby towns or bus stations for further travel. Limited local buses may connect to other Yichun attractions.