Ancient Changhua City

Introducing Ancient Changhua City

Ancient Changhua City, the seat of ancient Changhua County, lies on the western coast of Changjiang County. Its original site is located in the present-day Changcheng Village of Changcheng Township. Built during the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty, it boasts a two-and-a-half-kilometer-long, six-meter-high, five-meter-thick city wall and a deep moat. Later, due to hurricanes and typhoons, the city wall was repeatedly damaged and repaired, leaving fragments of bricks and the remains of the moat clearly visible.

The ancient city of Changhua, nestled between mountains and the sea, offers stunning scenery. Two kilometers southeast of the city lies the renowned tourist attraction Changhua Ridge and Qizi Bay. Other local attractions include the Tomb of Zhao Ding (a prominent Song Dynasty official), the Zhiping Temple Stele, the Nanmen Garden Tombs, and the Junling Five Temples ruins. The area is also home to a variety of tropical fruits and crops, including coffee, coconut sugar, coconut flakes, natural coconut juice, coconut jam, and bananas.

Climate and best time to travel

tropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons, the best time to visit is from March to November

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Zhao Ding's Tomb

Located 300 meters north of Jiuxian Village in Changcheng Township, the site is bordered by rice paddies in front and to the right, a road on the left, and a canal behind. It houses a Song Dynasty tomb. Zhao Ding was prime minister during the reign of Emperor Gaozong of Song. He advocated resistance against the Jin Dynasty but was framed by the then-traitor and capitulator Qin Hui.

Zhiping Temple Stele

Located in Xincheng Village, Changcheng Township, the stele is 200 cm tall, 80 cm wide, and 10 cm thick. It contains 724 characters. Written by Tao Yuanchun, the magistrate of Changhua during the Qing Dynasty, the stele contains instructions on maintaining local governance and ensuring the people live and work in peace and contentment. The stele is intact, and the inscriptions are clearly readable.

Junlingwang Temple Ruins

There are two Junlingwang Temple ruins. One, located west of Changcheng Village in present-day Changcheng Township, was built during the Song Dynasty and covers an area of ​​approximately 500 square meters. Both temples were magnificent and intricately built, but unfortunately, they have now been completely destroyed, with only some wall foundations and rubble remaining. Artifacts such as carved bricks and iron incense burners from the Ming and Qing dynasties have been unearthed at the site.

It is recommended to spend half a day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ancient Changhua City

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

Ancient Changhua City was once a thriving urban center during the Tang and Song dynasties, known for its rich culture and strategic location. It played a key role in the historical development of Hainan as a cultural hub. The ruins are significant for understanding the region's past, with structures and artifacts that showcase its past glory.

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

Ancient Changhua City is located in Changjiang Li Autonomous County, Hainan. It is accessible by taxi or private car, as public transportation options may be limited. The city is approximately 30 minutes from the nearest major town, and walking around the site is ideal for exploration.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during the cooler months (November to April), especially in the mornings and late afternoons to avoid the midday heat. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

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

The entrance fee is around 50 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there may be an option to book in advance through the official website or local tourism platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons or public holidays. You can book at least 1-2 days ahead, especially if you prefer guided tours or specific time slots.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for about 2-3 hours to explore Ancient Changhua City, depending on how much time you spend at each site and whether you join a guided tour.

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

The must-see highlights include the preserved ancient city walls, the remnants of residential buildings, and the cultural exhibition areas. The historical artifacts displayed at the site are also key to understanding the city’s past significance.

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

Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides may also be offered in multiple languages. It’s best to book a tour in advance if you need an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are near the ancient city walls and the towers, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the historic ambiance of the site.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main entrance and ancient gates. Then, walk along the city walls and visit the key ruins of residential and administrative buildings. Finish by visiting the museum or exhibition area that displays ancient artifacts.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at Ancient Changhua City. The site is typically explored during daylight hours, with the best time being in the morning or late afternoon.

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

Ancient Changhua City is relatively quiet on weekdays, especially in the mornings. Weekends and public holidays can attract more tourists, so visiting during off-peak times is recommended for a more peaceful experience.

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

The site has basic facilities such as toilets, a small rest area, and some food vendors offering local snacks. There are no major shopping facilities, but you can find local souvenir stalls.

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

The site is relatively accessible for elderly and children, though some uneven paths and steps may require caution. It’s not fully wheelchair-friendly due to the historic nature of the site, but some areas are more accessible than others.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payment methods.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants nearby offering traditional Hainanese cuisine. The food around the site is simple, with options like rice, noodles, and seafood dishes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries around the site, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It’s best to check with restaurants in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in the Changjiang County area, including budget accommodations and mid-range hotels. For a more luxurious stay, you may need to travel to Sanya, which is about an hour away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Nanshan Temple and the Hainan Tropical Wildlife Park and Botanical Garden. These can be easily visited along with Ancient Changhua City for a full day of exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops near the site selling Hainan-themed items like handicrafts, local spices, and traditional clothing. Typical souvenirs include items made from coconut shells and seashells.

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

The best transportation options after visiting are taxis or private car rentals. Public transport is available but may not be as convenient for tourists. Consider renting a car if you plan to visit other attractions around Hainan.