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At Jinji Ancient Town, visitors can take a walk through the town’s well-preserved historical streets, explore its traditional architecture, and enjoy local crafts and street food. A visit to the ancient temples and historical sites within the town is also highly recommended. The town offers a glimpse into traditional Yunnan life and culture.
Jinji Ancient Town, located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Baoshan City, is said to be the hometown of Lü Kai, a descendant of Qin Prime Minister Lü Buwei and the governor of Yongjing County. A stone tablet dedicated to Lü Kai's hometown is visible. Located at the throat of the Bonan Ancient Road where it crosses the Lancang River and enters Baoshan, it is a renowned historical town in western Yunnan.
Jinji Ancient Town covers an area of 1 square kilometer. The two main roads intersect in a Y-shape in the center of the village. The other roads in Jinji Ancient Town extend and intersect with the main road as the base point, connecting the entire village. The houses along the streets have traditional architectural style.
Jinji Ancient Town is located on the Bonan Ancient Road, which crosses the Lancang River and enters the strategic area of Baoshan. Of the three Silk Road routes in China (the Northwest and Southwest Overland Silk Roads, and the Southern Maritime Silk Road), the Southwest Silk Road developed the earliest, opening as early as the 4th century B.C. The Southwest Silk Road begins in Sichuan, traveling west from Dali, passing through Yangbi County, and entering the Bonan Mountain area.
The subtropical monsoon climate means neither severe cold in winter nor extreme heat in summer, and there is no noticeable difference between the four seasons. All seasons are suitable for travel.
Jinji Ancient Town has Neolithic and Eastern Han Dynasty sites, Jinji Hot Springs, Lu Gong Temple, Jinji Temple, Woniu Temple, ancient theater and other scenic spots.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
free
Open all day
Jinji Ancient Town dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties and is a well-preserved example of traditional Yunnan architecture. The town is historically significant for its role in local commerce and culture, and it is renowned for its ancient temples and cultural heritage.
Jinji Ancient Town is located in Baoshan, Yunnan. To reach the town, you can take a taxi or private car from Baoshan city center. Public transport options are available, but they might require a transfer, so taking a taxi is the easiest option.
Jinji Ancient Town is open throughout the year. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Early mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded, providing a more peaceful experience.
There is no general entrance fee to the town itself, but some individual attractions or temples may charge a small fee for entry. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site, and online booking is not usually necessary.
Booking tickets in advance is not required. However, it is recommended to arrive early, especially during weekends or holidays, to avoid crowds.
Exploring Jinji Ancient Town will take approximately 2-3 hours. This allows time for leisurely walking through the town, visiting temples, and enjoying local food and souvenirs.
Key highlights include the ancient streets, traditional houses, and several historical temples, such as the Jinji Temple. The town's old architecture and vibrant local market are also worth exploring.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available upon request, but it is advisable to check availability in advance. Audio guides are generally not available.
The best photography spots are along the main street of the ancient town, where the traditional architecture can be captured against the backdrop of the mountains. The local temples and ancient houses offer great photo opportunities as well.
Start your visit by walking through the main street of the town to get a feel of its historical atmosphere. Then, visit the Jinji Temple and explore the surrounding small lanes. Take time to stop at local shops to buy souvenirs or enjoy local snacks.
Night visits and light shows are not available in Jinji Ancient Town. The town is most popular during the daytime, where you can experience the local life and culture.
The town is typically more crowded on weekends and public holidays. Weekdays, especially early mornings, are the best times to visit if you prefer a quieter experience.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small shops are available in the town. Local food vendors and cafes offer snacks and drinks, and you can find souvenirs in the market area.
The town is relatively accessible for elderly and children, although some areas might have uneven paths. The streets are narrow, so visitors with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate. It’s best to check with local staff for more detailed accessibility options.
Cash is commonly used in Jinji Ancient Town, especially for smaller transactions. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay are widely accepted, though it’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller vendors.
There are several small local restaurants and cafes offering traditional Yunnan cuisine, including rice noodles, stews, and tea. The town's cafes provide a nice spot for a break while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Vegetarian options are available, particularly in the form of rice dishes, tofu, and vegetable-based stews. Halal food options may be more limited, but some local restaurants may offer simple vegetarian or vegan meals.
There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels in the vicinity of Jinji Ancient Town. Baoshan city center, about 30-40 minutes away by taxi, offers more options for accommodations, ranging from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Heshun Ancient Town, which is about a 40-minute drive away. You can also visit the Gaoligong Mountain for a nature-focused day trip, combining cultural and natural experiences.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the town selling traditional Yunnan handicrafts, such as wooden carvings, ethnic textiles, and local teas. You can also find unique local pottery and small trinkets.
After visiting Jinji Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or public bus to Baoshan city or other nearby towns. For long-distance travel, Baoshan’s main transportation hubs offer buses and taxis to other destinations in Yunnan.
