Ximen Street Ancient Buildings

Introducing Ximen Street Ancient Buildings

The Ximen Street Ancient Buildings Complex is located in Jianchuan County, Yunnan Province. Jianchuan Ancient City boasts a rich history, with unearthed Western Han Dynasty Wuzhu coins. Construction began in 1390, the 23rd year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, bringing the city's history to over 600 years. The city retains its Ming Dynasty layout, with the moat bridges at the West Gate, North Gate, and South Gate still standing, retaining its ancient charm despite the passage of time. Jingfeng Park also boasts a well-preserved collection of Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings, unique ancient streets and alleys, and numerous Ming and Qing Dynasty residences.

Ximen Street's winding alleys are home to numerous historic residences, including the He Residence with its courtyard in Qiqu Alley, the Ming Dynasty-era Zhang Residence in Wumafang, the Guanglu Residence, the former residence of Zhao Bofan, and the Lu Residence, the former residence of General Jianwu of the Ming Dynasty, beneath the ancient watchtower. Residents of the ancient city still enjoy a vibrant cultural ecosystem, where ancient customs and practices persist. While richly diverse, the city retains a rich heritage of the indigenous Bai people and the unique Azhali Tantric Buddhist tradition. The predominant population is Bai, with Bai as the primary language of communication, and Bai folk customs and practices remarkably well preserved. This city, renowned for its literary heritage, boasts numerous former residences that continue to tell the stories of prominent figures throughout the ages.

On May 25, 2006, the Ximen Street ancient building complex, as an ancient building from the Ming Dynasty, was approved by the State Council to be included in the sixth batch of national key cultural relics protection units.

Climate and best time to travel

The low-latitude plateau has a monsoon climate; the ancient buildings on Ximen Street have gone through vicissitudes of life, but their ancient appearance remains. They have preserved a large number of residential buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties, making it suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zhaozhong Temple, Chen Family Compound, He Keji's Former Residence, He Guizhi's Residence, Duan Xueyan's Residence, Wang Ying's Residence, Zhang Mian's Residence, Zhang Shiyi's Residence, and General Zhao's Residence;

It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ximen Street Ancient Buildings

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

Ximen Street in Dali is renowned for its well-preserved ancient buildings, showcasing traditional Bai architecture. The street is historically significant as it served as a commercial and cultural hub for the Bai people, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich heritage and traditions.

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

Ximen Street is located in the ancient town of Dali in Yunnan Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or on foot if you're staying in the Dali Old Town area. Public buses also run from various parts of Dali to the old town, where the street is situated.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ximen Street is open year-round and can be visited any time of day. However, it is recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to enjoy the street's tranquility and beauty.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Ximen Street, as it is a public area. However, some attractions or individual shops along the street may have their own fees. Most transactions are done on-site in cash or by mobile payment methods.

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

No advance booking is required to visit Ximen Street, as it is a free, public area. However, if you plan to visit any specific attractions along the street, such as museums or galleries, it's recommended to check availability in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore Ximen Street and enjoy its atmosphere, 1-2 hours is typically enough. However, if you plan to visit shops, museums, or cafes along the way, you may want to allocate additional time for browsing and relaxing.

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

• The traditional Bai-style architecture, including beautiful wooden buildings and intricate carvings.
• Local craft shops selling handmade textiles, ceramics, and traditional artwork.
• Tea houses where you can experience local Yunnan tea culture.

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

Guided tours are available in Dali Old Town, including Ximen Street, and are usually conducted in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides can be available at certain attractions along the street, but it is advised to check in advance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the street, where you can capture the ancient buildings and lively atmosphere. The southern end of Ximen Street offers a good vantage point of the street and nearby Dali's scenic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by strolling through Ximen Street, admiring the buildings and visiting the various shops. Pause at the tea houses for a local snack and a refreshing cup of tea. Afterward, take time to explore surrounding areas like the Dali Old Town or nearby cultural spots.

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

While night visits are not specifically highlighted, the street is beautifully lit in the evening, offering a different, more peaceful vibe. Some local restaurants and cafes might have special evening events, but there are no major light shows or tours focused on night visits.

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

The area can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or late afternoon during weekdays, avoiding Chinese holidays when local tourism peaks.

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

There are public toilets along the street, as well as rest areas. Many local shops offer water and snacks, while tea houses provide a more substantial option for a meal or rest. It's recommended to bring water if you're planning to walk for an extended time.

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

The street itself is relatively flat, but some older buildings may have uneven surfaces. It is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, but disabled visitors may face challenges with accessibility in certain parts of the street due to traditional architecture.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cards are widely accepted along Ximen Street, especially in shops and restaurants. Cash is still accepted, but electronic payments are more common.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several tea houses along the street offering local Yunnan tea and snacks.
• Nearby restaurants serving Yunnan cuisine, such as Dali Hotpot or Bai-style specialties, are popular options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is available, especially in tea houses and restaurants that offer traditional Chinese vegetarian dishes. Halal options may be more limited but can be found in specific restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a range of accommodations in Dali Old Town, including guesthouses, boutique hotels, and mid-range options.
• For a more scenic experience, you can stay in hotels with views of Erhai Lake, which is a short drive away.

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

• Erhai Lake: A beautiful lake offering boating and cycling activities.
• Three Pagodas: An iconic landmark and one of the most famous Buddhist sites in Dali.
• Yunnan Nationalities Museum: A great place to learn about the cultures of the different ethnic groups in Yunnan.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are many souvenir shops along Ximen Street selling traditional Yunnan handicrafts, such as silver jewelry, embroidered textiles, and ceramics. Other popular items include Dali-style paintings and ethnic clothing.

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

• Public buses and taxis are available to continue your journey around Dali, including to the nearby Erhai Lake or Three Pagodas.
• Private car hire is another convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas or continuing your trip further in Yunnan.