Bixi Ancient Town

Introducing Bixi Ancient Town

Bixi Ancient Town is located in the northern part of Lianzhu Town, Mojiang County, Yunnan Province. The town covers an area of ​​10.37 hectares and is home to 246 households and a population of 890 people, representing a mixed population of Han, Hani, Yi, Lahu, and Dai ethnic groups. Located at an altitude of 1,400 meters, the town experiences a subtropical monsoon climate. Founded in the Ming Dynasty, it served as a key post station on the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Beautiful, quaint, and prosperous, its architecture remains intact and well-preserved. It was the seat of ancient Mojiang County and is one of Yunnan's 60 tourist towns. It lies on the route between the central Yunnan tourist area of ​​Kunming and Yuxi and the southern Yunnan tourist area of ​​Xishuangbanna. The Yuanmo Expressway and the provincial Chujiang Highway pass through the town, with a fully accessible overpass 1 kilometer away. The Tropic of Cancer landmark, the world's largest, is 9 kilometers away.

Built during the Ming Dynasty, this ancient town was a key post station on the ancient Tea-Horse Road. Beautiful, quaint, and prosperous, it boasts a well-preserved and complete structure. It was the seat of ancient Mojiang County and is listed as one of Yunnan's 60 tourist towns. It lies on the route between the central Yunnan tourism area of ​​Kunming and Yuxi and the southern Yunnan tourism area of ​​Xishuangbanna. The Yuanmo Expressway and the provincial Chujiang Highway pass through the town, with a fully accessible interchange 1 kilometer away. The Tropic of Cancer landmark, the world's largest, is 9 kilometers away.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate; Bixi Ancient Town was built in the Ming Dynasty and is an important post station on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road. The entire ancient town is beautiful and simple, and its structure is very well preserved. It is one of the must-see attractions in Pu'er and is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Bixi Ancient Town

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

Bixi Ancient Town is a historic settlement in Pu'er, Yunnan, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and cultural heritage. The town reflects the social and economic life of past centuries in this region and serves as a window into local ethnic traditions.

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

Located in Bixi Town, Pu'er, Yunnan. The town can be reached by taxi or private car from Pu'er city. Public buses connect nearby towns, and exploring the town itself is best done on foot.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Morning hours are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.

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

Entrance fees are usually nominal and can be purchased at the town entrance. Some local tours or packages may allow online booking.

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

Advance booking is not generally required. For guided tours or special cultural experiences, booking a day in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are sufficient to walk through the main streets and visit key historic sites.

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

• Main ancient streets and alleys
• Historic temples and ancestral halls
• Local markets and craft shops
• Old residential buildings showcasing traditional architecture

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

Guided tours are available, mainly in Chinese. English-language tours may need to be arranged privately. Audio guides are generally not offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Ancient town gates and arches
• Traditional streets and alleys with old houses
• Temples and ancestral halls with architectural details
• Scenic views of surrounding hills and natural landscapes

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter from the main gate, walk through the central street, explore side alleys, visit temples and markets, and finish at scenic viewpoints near the town perimeter.

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

Night visits are limited, but some festivals or cultural events may offer evening activities with lights and performances.

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

Weekdays are less crowded; weekends and public holidays see more visitors. Early mornings are the quietest time.

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

Facilities include public restrooms, small eateries, tea houses, seating areas, and souvenir shops.

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

The town has narrow, uneven streets, so mobility may be limited for some elderly or disabled visitors. Children can explore safely with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are commonly used in shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Local eateries offer Yunnanese cuisine and snacks. Small cafes serve tea and light refreshments.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants. Halal options are limited and may require prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses and small hotels in Bixi Town provide convenient accommodation for visitors.

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

• Manwan Hundred Miles Long Lake
• Pu'er tea plantations
• Local ethnic minority villages

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, teas, traditional textiles, and small cultural trinkets.

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

Private cars or taxis are recommended for visiting nearby attractions. Local buses connect to surrounding towns and Pu'er city.