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Explore the ancient streets of Liujiang Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance. Visit the traditional workshops to see local crafts, and enjoy scenic views along the Liujiang River. Hiking nearby hills for panoramic views of the town and surrounding nature is highly recommended, as is trying the local delicacies in traditional restaurants.
Liujiang Ancient Town, located in Hongya County, Meishan City, Sichuan Province, over 100 kilometers from Chengdu, lies en route to Wawushan National Forest Park. The town boasts a rich history, having been first built in the Southern Song Dynasty and still retains much of the atmosphere of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Nestled amidst the verdant Wawu Mountains, the Huaxi River flows around the town's unique stilt houses, reflecting the ancient style of southern Sichuan dwellings, and is surrounded by verdant hills.
Several wealthy families formed the foundation of Liujiang Town. These individual mansions blend seamlessly with the beautiful landscape, and the streets built along the waterfront create a vivid landscape painting. Important attractions include the Zeng Family Courtyard and the Slate Old Street.
Liujiang Ancient Town is nestled among the ancient banyan trees that curve along the river. Buildings are nestled among the lush greenery, one of which is said to be 200 years old. The ancient banyan tree stands tens of meters tall, lush with branches and leaves, and its flowers are fragrant. Just across the wall from this ancient tree, in the Zeng family compound, stands a unique tree, laden with long, slender fruits resembling cowpeas. No one in the area knows its name or its origin.
Strolling through the ancient town allows you to leisurely savor its unique charm and experience the slow pace of life. At night, Liujiang Ancient Town transforms into a vibrant place, offering a variety of entertainment options, including bars, karaoke, and barbecues. If you're tired of strolling, you can even enjoy a fish massage.
Suitable for all seasons, best for escaping the heat in summer
Recommended play time: about half a day
No tickets are required, but additional fees apply for projects within the scenic area
All day
Liujiang Ancient Town has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years and was a key trading hub during the Tang and Song Dynasties. The town is significant for its traditional architecture, which reflects the unique culture and history of Sichuan province. It’s a popular destination for those interested in experiencing ancient Chinese town life.
Liujiang Ancient Town is located in Meishan, Sichuan, about 45 kilometers from Chengdu. It can be accessed by bus or taxi from Chengdu, which takes around 1-1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive or take a private tour to the town. There are no metro lines directly serving the town.
The town is open year-round with no fixed opening hours, as it is an outdoor cultural site. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, avoiding the hot summers and cold winters. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
The entrance fee for Liujiang Ancient Town is typically around 50-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tourism websites. Some attractions within the town, like specific temples, may require additional fees.
It is not usually necessary to book tickets in advance unless visiting during peak seasons (such as Chinese holidays). Booking 1-2 days in advance is recommended during these times to avoid long waits.
You can fully explore Liujiang Ancient Town in about 2-3 hours, including a leisurely walk through the town’s streets, visiting temples, and stopping by local shops and restaurants.
Key highlights include the ancient town’s well-preserved streets, traditional stone houses, Liujiang River, and the historical temples scattered throughout the town. Be sure to visit the old city gate and the local market area for a truly authentic experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, providing insights into the town’s history, architecture, and cultural significance. Audio guides may also be available at some points of interest in the town.
The best photography spots are along the Liujiang River, where you can capture views of the ancient town and surrounding mountains. The temples and the old city gate are also excellent places for taking memorable photos.
Start at the ancient city gate, walk through the main street to admire the traditional architecture, visit the local markets, and then head toward the Liujiang River. Make sure to stop at the temples and the scenic spots along the river for the best views.
Night visits are available, and the town has a serene atmosphere in the evening, perfect for a peaceful stroll. However, there are no light shows or special tours currently available in the evening.
The town can get crowded on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Off-peak seasons, like winter, also offer a more peaceful experience.
Basic facilities are available in the town, including toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. There are also many local shops selling souvenirs and snacks, especially around the town’s main streets and near the river.
The town’s cobbled streets may be challenging for those with mobility issues, but the majority of the town is accessible to children and the elderly. Some areas with stairs or uneven surfaces may be difficult for wheelchairs, so it’s best to be cautious.
Cash is still widely used in Liujiang Ancient Town, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also accepted at most shops and food stalls. Credit cards are less commonly accepted in small shops.
There are several Sichuanese restaurants in and around Liujiang Ancient Town that serve local specialties, including spicy hotpot and noodles. Small cafes offer a relaxing atmosphere for enjoying tea and local snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in many Sichuanese dishes, such as stir-fried vegetables and tofu. Vegan options are also available. Halal food is not widely available, but you may find a few places in nearby cities like Meishan.
There are a number of guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Liujiang Ancient Town. For more luxurious accommodations, you can stay in Meishan city, where a wider range of hotels is available.
Nearby attractions include Meishan city, which has historical landmarks such as the Eastern Lotus Temple and the birthplace of Zhuge Liang. You can also visit the scenic areas around Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is around a 1.5-hour drive away.
Souvenir shops in Liujiang Ancient Town sell traditional handicrafts such as embroidered textiles, local pottery, and wooden carvings. You can also purchase locally produced tea and Sichuan chili products.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Meishan city or Chengdu. High-speed trains to Chengdu or other cities in Sichuan are also a convenient option if you prefer to continue your trip by rail.
