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Explore the ancient streets and traditional architecture of Lushi Ancient Town, stroll along the old city walls, visit the local temples, and experience the unique culture of the town. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and shop for traditional crafts in the markets.
Lushi Town is located in the northeastern part of Fengqing County, Yunnan Province, between the Lancang and Heihui Rivers. Known as "Jijiang," it sits 84 kilometers from Fengqing County and faces Xiaowan Town across the river to the south. The town is home to ten ethnic groups, including Han, Yi, and Miao, and is renowned as a "tea town."
Historically, Lushi served as the seat of Shunning Prefecture and the administrative headquarters of the county north of the Lancang River. Fengqing County and Lushi Town, both situated at a strategic point along the ancient Tea-Horse Road extending into Southeast Asia, are renowned throughout China and abroad as "the hometown of tea." A section of ancient bluestone road, over three meters wide, still remains in Lushi, bisecting the ancient town from east to west. Jinji Village in Lushi Town still boasts a cluster of ancient wild tea trees. Guping Village, at an altitude of approximately 2,400 meters, boasts over 3,000 wild tea trees. Since the Ming and Qing dynasties, the people of Lushi have relied on tea for their livelihood. Luo Yingcai was the first person in Lushi to cultivate tea, establishing the "Junchanghao" tea shop and continuing his long-standing tea trade. The "Fengshan Chunjian" tea from Duan Yifu's tea garden was considered one of the finest Yunnan teas of the Republican era.
The subtropical low-latitude mountain monsoon climate has a small temperature difference between the four seasons, distinct dry and wet seasons, and significant vertical changes. There is no severe cold in winter and no scorching heat in summer. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Lushi Town is centered around Sifang Street, and the connecting Hengjie Street is the main street of Lushi Ancient Town, forming a "three streets and seven alleys" pattern. Walking through the streets and alleys of Lushi, you'll deeply feel the imprint of ancient culture. The unique courtyard houses here are built with unique decorations, carvings, and paintings, reflecting folk customs and traditional culture.
Most houses face south, with courtyards typically consisting of a main courtyard, two side courtyards, and a screen wall. Siheyuan (a quadrangle courtyard) is a closed-off residence with a single entrance to the street. When this entrance is closed, the residence becomes a world of its own, ideal for private living. Within the courtyard, all four houses open onto the courtyard. Within the spacious courtyard, trees and flowers are planted, and stone landscapes are created. Paintings and poems are often found on walls facing the street or road.
The main attractions include the Ancient Tea-Horse Road, Yunnan University Library, ancient government offices, theaters, ancient residences, ancient wells, and Three Streets and Seven Alleys.
It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.
free
Open all day
Lushi Ancient Town is a historical town that has preserved traditional architecture and cultural heritage dating back several centuries. It is significant for its ancient streets, old temples, and vibrant cultural heritage that showcase the life and customs of the local ethnic groups, particularly the Han people.
Lushi Ancient Town is located in Lincang, Yunnan Province. You can reach the town by taxi from Lincang city center, or use local buses. There is no metro service, so taxis or private vehicles are the most convenient options.
The town is open to visitors throughout the day. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and pleasant. It’s advisable to visit early in the day or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
There is no official entrance fee for visiting Lushi Ancient Town. However, there may be small fees for entry to specific attractions like temples or museums. Tickets can be purchased at the respective sites, but they are generally available offline.
Booking in advance is generally not required unless you're visiting during peak tourist seasons or national holidays. It’s always a good idea to check for any special events that might require prior booking.
A visit to Lushi Ancient Town can be completed in 2 to 3 hours, allowing time to explore the streets, visit key landmarks, and enjoy the local culture. If you plan to visit several temples or museums, you may need half a day.
The must-see highlights include the well-preserved ancient streets, local temples like the Guanyin Temple, the old city walls, and the traditional market area where local crafts and foods are sold.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. While English-speaking guides may be rare, you can arrange for a private guide if needed. Audio guides are not typically available, so consider booking a local guide to gain deeper insights into the town's history.
The best photography spots include the ancient streets, the traditional wooden buildings, and the city walls, especially at sunset or sunrise. The Guanyin Temple and nearby hills also offer great viewpoints for panoramic shots of the town and surrounding landscapes.
Start by exploring the ancient streets, visiting the local shops and markets, then head to the Guanyin Temple and other historical landmarks. Make sure to stroll along the old city walls for a great view of the town and its surroundings.
Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no light shows. However, the town has a peaceful ambiance in the evenings, and you can explore the streets at night for a different experience, with fewer crowds.
Lushi Ancient Town can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon when most tourists are not around.
There are public toilets available in and around the town. You’ll find several food stalls, cafes, and small restaurants offering local delicacies. Water and snacks are easily accessible, but rest areas may be limited to certain spots like parks or temple grounds.
The town’s streets are mostly paved, but some areas with cobblestones or steps might be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It is more suitable for children and families who enjoy exploring historical sites and outdoor activities.
Cash is accepted at most places, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in shops and eateries. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payments.
There are several local restaurants serving Yunnan cuisine, including noodle shops and small eateries offering traditional dishes. Cafes serving local teas and snacks can also be found near the town’s main areas.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many local restaurants, as plant-based meals are common in Yunnan cuisine. Halal food options may be limited, but there are a few restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Lushi, providing comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices. For more luxurious stays, you may need to book a hotel in the nearby Lincang city.
Nearby attractions include Wulaoshan Forest Park and the ancient village of Wengding. Both are easily accessible from Lushi and offer excellent opportunities for exploring nature and learning about local culture.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Yunnan crafts, including handmade textiles, bamboo items, pottery, and locally produced tea. You can also find small trinkets and art pieces representing the town’s heritage.
Taxis are the most convenient option for continuing your trip. Local buses are also available, but for more comfort, consider renting a car or arranging a private tour to explore nearby attractions at your own pace.
