Anren Ancient Town

What are the most recommended things to do in Anren Ancient Town?

Stroll through the preserved ancient streets to admire traditional Sichuan architecture.
Visit local museums such as the Liu Qinghua Former Residence and Wu Family Courtyard.
Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and tea houses scattered throughout the town.
Sample local Sichuan cuisine and street food in historic settings.
Attend cultural performances or exhibitions if available during your visit.

Introducing Anren Ancient Town

Anren Ancient Town, located in Anren Town, Dayi County, was built in the Tang Dynasty. It has the well-preserved Liu family manor, China's largest folk museum cluster, and three ancient streets with different architectural styles, including Hongxing Street, Shuren Street, and Yumin Street, which are home to more than a dozen old mansions from the Republic of China period.

The old streets of the ancient town primarily refer to Shuren Street, Yumin Street, and Hongxing Street in the center of the town. Fourteen old mansions built during the Republican era are concentrated here. Some have been converted into museums, including Cui Yongyuan's " Movie Legend Museum . " Other old buildings have been renovated into teahouses, galleries, bookstores, and other venues, hosting occasional art exhibitions, poetry recitals, and other events.

At present, the relatively intact historical blocks and ancient manor residential buildings in Anren cover an area of about 300,000 square meters, including the Liu family manor complex and Liu Xiang Mansion from the Republic of China and Qing Dynasty; there are three ancient streets: Hongxing Street, Shuren Street, and Yumin Street; small Western-style buildings, Anren Middle School, bell tower, etc.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Jianchuan Museum

Anren Ancient Town's settlements are a major highlight. Twenty-five museums, along with surrounding sculptures, inns, teahouses, and plazas, form a grand community. This is China's largest museum complex, with all buildings designed by renowned architects and housing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary artifacts from western Sichuan.

Liu's Manor

The "Old Mansion" and "New Mansion" are renowned both in my country and abroad as the largest and most complete surviving estates of Liu Wencai's landlord family in China. Originally the private residence of the wealthy landlord Liu Wencai, they are the best-preserved examples of feudal landlord estates in China. Within the Dayi Liu Manor is a three-story "Miss's Building," also known as the "Embroidery Building," boasting exquisite architecture and unique style.

Recommended play time: about 1 day

Tickets

The ancient town is free, but some attractions in the town charge admission fees. The entrance fee to Liu's Manor is 50 yuan, the Sichuan Folk Customs Museum is 10 yuan, and the Cultural Relics Museum is 10 yuan.

Attraction opening hours

All day

Most Popular FAQs for Anren Ancient Town

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

Anren Ancient Town is a historic town in Sichuan Province, known for its well-preserved Qing and Ming dynasty architecture. It is significant for its cultural heritage, including former residences of prominent Sichuan figures and traditional lifestyle exhibits. The town offers insight into local history, art, and craftsmanship.

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

Anren Ancient Town is located in Pi County, northeast of Chengdu. Visitors can reach it by taking a bus or taxi from Chengdu city center, or driving directly. Public transport from Chengdu usually involves a combination of metro and local buses.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

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

Entrance fees vary by site; most historic houses charge 20–50 RMB. Tickets can be bought at the entrance or online through official platforms or travel apps.

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

Advance booking is recommended on weekends and holidays, ideally 1–2 days prior, to secure access to popular museums and residences.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A half-day to a full day is sufficient to explore the main streets, museums, and shops. Two days are ideal for a more relaxed pace and to attend cultural events.

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

Liu Qinghua Former Residence
Wu Family Courtyard
Ancient town streets and traditional architecture
Local art galleries and tea houses
Special cultural exhibitions

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; limited English guides may be offered. Some sites provide audio guides in Chinese and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Main ancient streets with traditional architecture
Courtyards of historic residences
Art galleries and cultural exhibition areas
Tea houses and riverside walkways

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start from the main entrance, walk along the central street to visit Liu Qinghua and Wu Family residences, explore side alleys with shops and galleries, enjoy tea at a traditional house, and end with the riverside promenade.

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

Night visits are limited, though some streets and restaurants may be illuminated. Special cultural events may occur seasonally.

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

Weekdays and non-holiday periods are less crowded. National holidays and weekends attract more visitors, particularly at main attractions and museums.

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

Facilities include public toilets, restaurants, tea houses, souvenir shops, and rest areas along the main streets. Water fountains may be limited, so bringing your own is advised.

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

Main streets are mostly flat and accessible. Some historic buildings may have steps or narrow passages, which could be challenging for wheelchair users or elderly visitors.