Moxi Ancient Town

Introducing Moxi Ancient Town

Moxi Ancient Town is located in the southern part of Luding County, Ganzi Prefecture, on the eastern slope of Gongga Mountain Scenic Area and at the entrance of Hailuogou Glacier Forest Park. It belongs to the outer protection zone of Hailuogou Scenic Area and is the tourist reception base and entrance of Hailuogou Scenic Area. It is about a 10-minute walk from Moxi Town to Hailuogou.

Moxi Ancient Town boasts a long history, having been home to ethnic groups including Han, Tibetan, and Yi since ancient times. Most of the town's buildings date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, creating a tranquil and quaint atmosphere. A notable stop is the distinctive Gothic church built by French missionaries.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The ancient town has many red classics left behind by the Red Army during the Long March, such as churches, Chairman Mao’s residence, the former site of the Moshi Conference and other buildings. At the same time, there are modern shops, pubs and other entertainment and leisure areas.

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Moxi Ancient Town

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

Moxi Ancient Town is a historic town in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan. The town is significant for its Tibetan cultural heritage and well-preserved ancient architecture. Moxi serves as a gateway to the Hailuogou Glacier, a popular tourist destination in the region. The town has a deep connection with Tibetan Buddhism and the local customs that have been maintained for centuries.

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

Moxi Ancient Town is located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China. It is about a 6-hour drive from Chengdu. The town can be reached by private car or bus, and taxis are also available from nearby cities like Kangding. Public transportation is limited, so private transportation or a guided tour is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Moxi Ancient Town is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and the town's scenery is at its best. Winter can be cold with occasional snowfall, while summer is the peak tourist season.

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

There is no entrance fee for Moxi Ancient Town itself. However, there may be fees for visiting nearby attractions such as the Hailuogou Glacier. Tickets for such attractions can be bought at the entrance or through local tour operators.

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

Tickets for Moxi Ancient Town itself do not require advance booking. However, it is advisable to book tickets for popular attractions like Hailuogou Glacier in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (summer and autumn), ideally 1-2 days prior to visiting.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can explore Moxi Ancient Town in 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or take part in cultural experiences, a full day may be required.

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

• The traditional Tibetan-style buildings and architecture throughout the town.
• The local markets, where you can buy authentic Tibetan goods and crafts.
• The scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. It is recommended to book tours in advance, especially if you require an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The town's rooftops offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• The area near the local monasteries provides great opportunities for cultural and landscape photography.
• The Hailuogou Glacier is a must-visit for stunning photos of the ice fields and glaciers.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a walk through the main street to admire the ancient Tibetan architecture. Then visit the local market to interact with the residents and buy handmade crafts. Afterward, take a short hike to one of the nearby scenic spots for photography, followed by a visit to the local monasteries.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available in Moxi Ancient Town. However, the town is known for its peaceful atmosphere at night, and stargazing can be a rewarding experience due to its low light pollution.

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

Moxi Ancient Town can get crowded during the summer months and national holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during the off-peak seasons, such as spring and autumn, or on weekdays when the town sees fewer tourists.

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

• Toilets are available in the town and at major attractions.
• Food and drink are available at local restaurants and cafes, offering Tibetan and Sichuan cuisine.
• Shops selling souvenirs and Tibetan goods are scattered throughout the town.

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

The town's terrain can be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to its narrow streets and hilly surroundings. However, the main areas are accessible, and children can enjoy exploring the town’s scenic spots with ease.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted in Moxi Ancient Town, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are also commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it is recommended to carry cash or use mobile payment methods.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering Tibetan cuisine, as well as cafes that provide a peaceful environment for visitors to relax. For more dining options, you can also visit the nearby city of Kangding.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Moxi Ancient Town, as many traditional Tibetan dishes are plant-based. Halal food is not common, but it may be found in larger cities like Kangding.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and small hotels in Moxi Ancient Town offering basic accommodations. For more variety and comfort, you can stay in Kangding, which has a broader selection of hotels and resorts.

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

• Hailuogou Glacier, famous for its ice fields and scenic landscapes.
• Gongga Mountain, which offers great hiking opportunities.
• Local Tibetan monasteries and cultural sites scattered around the area.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling Tibetan handicrafts, including traditional jewelry, Tibetan carpets, prayer flags, and other handmade goods.

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

After visiting Moxi Ancient Town, you can take a bus or taxi to Kangding city for further travel. Taxis are available for nearby scenic spots, and there are buses to Chengdu for longer trips.