Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town

Introducing Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town

Building on the 1,200-year-old Changsha Tongguan Kiln ruins, Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town embraces historical culture, draws on ceramics, and evokes the ancient charm of the Tang Dynasty. Its products are crafted with the spirit of craftsmanship, recreating the splendor of the Han and Tang dynasties and preserving the millennia-old Hunan civilization. Spanning a total construction area of ​​1.1 million square meters, the project encompasses eight museums, five performing arts centers, three star-rated hotels, 20 B&Bs, 18 cultural attractions, and four family-friendly attractions. In addition to offering traditional tourism elements such as dining, accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment, it also integrates new tourism elements such as culture, commerce, wellness, learning, leisure, romance, and adventure.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons;

It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;

Nearby Attractions:

Tickets

09:00-20:30 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town

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

Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town is a historical site dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties, known for its ancient pottery kilns. It played a vital role in China’s ceramic production, especially in producing high-quality porcelain. The town is significant for preserving traditional ceramic craftsmanship and showcasing the history of Chinese pottery.

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

Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town is located in Changsha, Hunan Province. You can reach the town by taxi or private car from Changsha city center, which takes about 1-2 hours. Public transportation options may be limited, so a taxi or car rental is the most convenient method.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant. Weekdays tend to be less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.

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

The entrance fee is around 50 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance, and there are no known online booking options for general visits.

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

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general admission. Tickets are available for purchase on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore the town, including the kiln sites, pottery workshops, and the surrounding area. If you're interested in purchasing ceramics or learning about the pottery-making process, you may want to allocate more time.

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

Must-see highlights include the ancient kilns, where pottery has been produced for centuries, and the workshops where local artisans still practice traditional techniques. The surrounding town and its traditional architecture are also worth exploring for a full cultural experience.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide a more in-depth understanding of the kiln history and pottery techniques. Audio guides in Mandarin may also be offered to help non-Chinese speaking visitors navigate the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the ancient kilns, with the backdrop of traditional pottery production and the scenic village surroundings. Sunset or early morning light enhances the charm of the location for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the ancient kilns, then walk through the pottery workshops. Take time to interact with local artisans, and finally, explore the surrounding area to appreciate the traditional architecture. If you’re interested, visit the local shops for pottery souvenirs at the end.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available at Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town. It is mainly a daytime attraction, and special tours or events may be limited to specific times of the year.

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

The town can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in peak tourist seasons. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays or in the early morning on weekends.

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

There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Food and drink options are available at small local eateries. Several souvenir shops offer traditional pottery items and handmade ceramics.

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

The site is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, with well-maintained paths and areas. However, it may be less accessible for those with disabilities due to uneven terrain in some parts of the town. It is recommended to check in advance if specific assistance is needed.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is generally accepted, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used in the area, especially at souvenir shops and eateries. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, so it’s advisable to carry cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries offering traditional Hunan cuisine near the entrance to the site. Popular dishes include spicy fish, rice dishes, and local snacks. A few small cafes are also available for a quick coffee or tea break.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are available, especially in the local eateries serving traditional Chinese cuisine. However, halal options may be limited in the area, and it may be necessary to seek out specialized restaurants in Changsha city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are limited accommodations near Xinhualian Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town, but you can find hotels in Changsha city, which is around an hour’s drive away. Popular options include mid-range hotels and guesthouses within the city.

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

Nearby attractions include the Yuelu Mountain and Hunan Provincial Museum in Changsha. These can be easily combined in a day trip with a visit to the kiln town, offering a mix of nature, culture, and history.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops within the town selling traditional Hunan ceramics, pottery, and local crafts. Handcrafted pottery pieces are popular souvenirs, ranging from small decorative items to functional ceramics like teapots and bowls.

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

After visiting the kiln town, the best options are to take a taxi or private car to nearby attractions or return to Changsha city. Public transportation may not be convenient for tourists, so it’s advisable to use a car rental or taxi service for further travel.