Yongning Ancient City

Introducing Yongning Ancient City

Yongning Ancient Town, a premier cultural town in the Beijing suburbs, is located 18 kilometers east of Beijing's Yanqing District. Established in the Tang Dynasty, it boasts attractions such as the Jade Emperor Pavilion, ancient streets and alleys, a Catholic church, and ancient temples. Strolling through its streets and alleys, you'll discover Yongning's unique architecture, diverse surnames, diverse religions, and rich folk culture. There are gatehouses in each of the east, west, south, and north directions, along with urn-shaped city walls offering panoramic views.

Today, Yongning Ancient Town has been renovated in the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties, creating a commercial street filled with local businesses, including oil and grain stores, barber shops, clinics, and photo studios, brimming with the atmosphere of local life. The illumination at night is stunning, evoking the ancient city of Pingyao. In addition to classical Chinese architecture, Yongning Town also boasts a unique Western-style structure: the Catholic Church, also known as the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church. It is the oldest and largest church in the Beijing suburbs. The church has been renovated and features one of Beijing's most beautiful dome murals, creating a unique and picturesque setting within the ancient Chinese city.

Climate and best time to travel

The northern temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate is characterized by hot and rainy summers and cold and dry winters.

The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is suitable.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to spend about half a day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yongning Ancient City

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

Yongning Ancient City is a well-preserved historical site that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. The city was originally built as a defensive stronghold and has rich cultural heritage. It offers insights into traditional Chinese urban planning, architecture, and local customs from ancient times.

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

• Yongning Ancient City is located in the suburbs of Beijing, in the Yongning District.
• You can take a taxi or ride-hailing service from downtown Beijing, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
• Alternatively, take a bus or train to the nearest transport hubs and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the ancient city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• The city is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.
• Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid large crowds.

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

The entrance fee for Yongning Ancient City is approximately 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased directly at the entrance. Some travel agencies may offer pre-booking options online, especially during peak seasons.

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

While it’s not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it’s recommended during peak travel seasons or holidays, ideally a few days before your visit to secure a spot.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes around 2-3 hours to explore the main attractions of the city, including the ancient city walls, temples, and streets. If you wish to explore the surrounding area or take part in any activities, you may want to allocate more time.

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

• The ancient city walls and gates, which are iconic features of Yongning's military history.
• Historical temples and ancestral halls, which showcase traditional Chinese architecture and religious practices.
• The old city streets, which maintain their traditional layout and allow visitors to step back in time.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and audio guides in Mandarin may be offered. English-speaking guides or translated materials are limited but can sometimes be arranged in advance for tourists.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The city walls provide excellent vantage points for photos, offering views of the surrounding area.
• Many of the old buildings, gates, and temples are beautiful subjects for photography, with their traditional architecture and intricate details.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the city gates and walls, exploring the outer defensive structures.
• Proceed to the temples and ancestral halls to learn about the cultural significance of the area.
• Walk through the ancient streets to get a feel of the city's historical layout and local life.

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

Night visits and light shows are not common at Yongning Ancient City. However, special cultural tours or events may be held during festivals or holidays, so it’s worth checking the schedule in advance.

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

• Yongning Ancient City can be crowded during weekends and public holidays.
• Weekdays, especially mornings, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

• Basic facilities like toilets are available, but they may not be as modern as in larger tourist areas.
• There are a few small food stalls and cafes near the entrance where visitors can grab a snack or water.
• Souvenir shops are available selling local crafts and traditional items.

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

• The main areas of the city, such as the streets and temples, are accessible for elderly and children. However, the city walls may be more challenging for those with mobility issues.
• There are no specific accommodations for disabled visitors, so some areas may be difficult to access.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in the area.
• Credit cards are not typically accepted in smaller shops or for entry fees.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are several small eateries and local restaurants near the entrance to the city, offering traditional Chinese dishes.
• For more diverse food options, head to nearby districts like Haidian or the Summer Palace area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian food options are commonly available at local restaurants, especially in traditional Chinese dishes like dumplings and noodles.
• Halal options may be harder to find in this area, but there are a few halal restaurants in nearby neighborhoods.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near the ancient city in the Yongning area.
• For more luxurious accommodations, consider staying in Haidian District or near the Summer Palace.

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

• The Summer Palace is a nearby UNESCO World Heritage site and can be combined with a visit to Yongning Ancient City.
• Beijing Botanical Garden and the Beijing Zoo are also in the area and can be visited together.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• There are small souvenir shops selling traditional Chinese items like tea, pottery, calligraphy, and local handicrafts.

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

• Taxi or ride-hailing services are the best option for continuing your trip to other attractions in Beijing.
• If you're heading towards the Summer Palace or other nearby areas, you can take public transport or metro from nearby stations.