Aoshang Ancient Village

What are the most recommended things to do in Aoshang Ancient Village?

Stroll through the well-preserved ancient streets and admire traditional Hunan architecture.
Visit historical residences and ancestral halls to learn about local culture and lineage traditions.
Explore old temples and watch traditional craftsmanship demonstrations.
Photograph the picturesque village scenery, including courtyards, stone pathways, and ancient gates.
Engage with local residents and experience authentic rural life and customs.

Introducing Aoshang Ancient Village

Aoshang Ancient Village, nestled in the countryside of Suxian District, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province, is a tranquil ancient settlement. The village boasts over 60 buildings dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. These traditional brick and wood structures, nestled against the hillside, are stacked in a crisscross pattern, resembling a vivid painting. Interconnected by bluestone pathways, the village's architectural ensemble features a unified style, neatly planned, compact, and meticulously laid out. The stone, brick, and wood carvings are exquisitely crafted, while the murals are exquisite and rich in meaning.

The well-preserved historical architecture here fully showcases the southern Hunan architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties. It serves as a valuable specimen for studying Ming and Qing rural architectural culture and is one of the best-preserved ancient architectural complexes in Chenzhou to date. In 2011, Aoshang Ancient Village was designated a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit. In 2015, it was named Hunan's most beautiful ancient village. In 2016, it was included in the fourth batch of the list of traditional Chinese villages.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Spring (March-May): Warm weather and blooming flowers, with pleasant temperatures, make this a great time for flower viewing and outings.
Summer (June-August): Summer can be hot, but the mountainous region is relatively cool, making it a great escape from the heat.
Autumn (September-November): The weather is crisp and the scenery is beautiful, making it a great time to admire the crimson leaves and enjoy outdoor activities.
Winter (December-February): The mountainous region may be covered in snow, offering a chance to experience the tranquility and beauty of winter. "Going to the New Year's Fair" is a traditional folk custom in Aoshang Ancient Village, Aoshang Town, Suxian District, dating back over 1,300 years to the early Tang Dynasty.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

【Recommended attractions】

→Ancient buildings

There are more than 50 houses in the village with traditional brick and wood structures in the Qing Dynasty style. These houses are built against the mountain, with compact structure and exquisite layout. There are also many well-preserved ancient buildings with exquisite sculptures.

→Bluestone Road

The ancient village's bluestone paths connect in a circular pattern, and the buildings throughout the village are uniform and neatly planned. The stone, brick, and wood carvings are exquisitely crafted, and the murals are exquisite and rich in meaning.

→Aoshang Ancient Village Cultural Wall

The cultural wall showcases the history and culture of the ancient village, allowing visitors to better understand the development process and unique charm of the ancient village.

Recommended visit time

3-4 hours

Tickets

Free and open

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

Most Popular FAQs for Aoshang Ancient Village

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

Aoshang Ancient Village is a historic settlement in Chenzhou, Hunan, with origins dating back several centuries. It reflects traditional Hunan architecture, clan culture, and local heritage, making it an important site for cultural preservation and historical study.

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

The village is located in Chenzhou City, Hunan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or ride-hailing services from the city center, as there is no direct metro line. Local buses may be available for nearby stops, followed by a short walk.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. Spring and autumn are the best seasons for comfortable weather and scenic views, with mornings being less crowded.

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

Entrance fees are generally around 40–60 CNY. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance; online booking may be available through local tourism platforms.

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

Advance booking is recommended on weekends or holidays, ideally a few days ahead, to ensure entry and avoid queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the main village, visit historic buildings, and take photographs. A longer visit allows for deeper cultural immersion.

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

Ancient streets and stone pathways.
Clan ancestral halls and historic residences.
Local temples and shrines.
Traditional workshops and craft demonstration areas.
Scenic courtyards and village gates.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available, often provided by local guides. Audio guides in English or other languages are generally limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Village entrances and main streets with traditional architecture.
Courtyards and temple interiors.
Elevated spots offering panoramic views of the village and surrounding hills.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter through the main gate and walk along the ancient streets.
Visit temples and ancestral halls along the main path.
Explore side alleys for historic residences and workshops.
End with a visit to scenic viewpoints for photos and relaxation.

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

Night visits and light shows are generally not offered. Special cultural events may occur during local festivals.

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

Weekdays, especially mornings, are less crowded. Public holidays and weekends can see higher visitor numbers.

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

Basic facilities include restrooms, small cafes or snack vendors, water stations, seating areas, and souvenir shops.

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

Most areas are accessible to elderly visitors and children. Some streets and pathways may be uneven, so mobility-impaired visitors may require assistance.