Langzhong Ancient City

Introducing Langzhong Ancient City

Langzhong Ancient City is a thousand-year-old county, the hometown of Chinese Spring Festival culture, and one of the four major ancient cities in China .

Langzhong Ancient City is a city rich in cultural heritage. Its construction was meticulously crafted with feng shui in mind, and the Bagua (Eight Trigrams) can be seen throughout. It is a city steeped in feng shui, and even boasts a dedicated feng shui museum. Besides the museum, the city also boasts attractions such as the Imperial Examination Hall, Zhongtian Tower, and Huaguang Tower.

When visiting Langzhong Ancient City, don't miss its vibrant folk culture. The captivating "Daqian Gun" (a type of money-beating stick) and the simple and hearty Lantern Opera and Taiping Niu Lantern (a type of ox lantern) are all part of the Langzhong tradition. The charming paper-cutting and Northern Sichuan shadow puppetry are also part of the Langzhong Nuo Opera, a living fossil of theatrical art. The soulful and beautiful folk songs and tamping songs are also part of the Langzhong Opera, which is a fascinating and thought-provoking Sichuan opera. The rhythmic and rhythmic teahouse storytelling, among other things, are truly the essence of Langzhong's folk culture.

Climate and best time to travel

Langzhong Ancient City belongs to the subtropical humid monsoon climate zone, with mild climate and abundant rainfall.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Temple of Han Huanhou

Commonly known as the Zhang Fei Temple, it is a shining pearl in the Three Kingdoms cultural tourism. The current Huanhou Temple is a quadrangular courtyard-style ancient building complex rebuilt during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Covering over 5,000 square meters, it is magnificent and beautifully constructed. It comprises a mountain gate, a Diwan Tower, left and right memorial archways, east and west wing rooms, a main hall, an rear hall, a tomb pavilion, and a tomb mound. With a total construction area of ​​2,200 square meters, it is a major Three Kingdoms cultural site.

Imperial Examination Hall

It is the most complete preserved imperial examination building in the country, consisting of Dragon Gate, Zhigong Hall, Examination Hall, Mingyuan Tower, Huijing Hall, etc. It is the largest imperial examination culture museum in the country.

Zhongtian Building

Zhongtian Tower (Wu Mingwan Sculpture Museum), also known as Sipailou, is known as the "First Tower in Langzhong for Feng Shui." Zhongtian Tower is the location of Langzhong Ancient City's feng shui coordinates and acupuncture points. From it, the streets of the ancient city unfold in a "Ten Paths of the Heart of Heaven" pattern in all directions. Climbing to the top floor offers a panoramic view of the ancient city's feng shui layout.

Huaguang Building

This landmark building in Langzhong's ancient city district is a three-story, all-wooden structure, symbolizing the three elements of heaven, earth, and man. Its three-tiered, hip-and-gable roof is majestic, refined, and elegant, imbued with the refined charm of the Tang Dynasty and boasting unique characteristics, earning it the nickname "Langyuan's First Building."

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

Tickets

The one-ticket pass costs 120 yuan per person and includes four attractions: Zhang Fei Temple, Gongyuan, Huaguang Tower (or Zhongtian Tower), and Wenmiao Temple, and also includes Tiangongyuan, North Sichuan Dao Office, and Baoning Vinegar Culture Expo Park.

Attraction opening hours

May 1st - October 7th : 8:00-18:30

October 8th - April 30th : 8:00-18:00

---

Most Popular FAQs for Langzhong Ancient City

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

Langzhong Ancient City dates back over 2,300 years and is one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. It played an important role during the Three Kingdoms period and Ming-Qing dynasties, showcasing historic architecture, city walls, temples, and traditional Chinese urban planning.

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

Langzhong Ancient City is located in Nanchong, Sichuan Province. Visitors can reach it by train or bus from major cities like Chengdu, then take a local taxi or bus to the ancient city entrance. Walking is ideal to explore the city streets.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city is open year-round, generally from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Spring and autumn are ideal for mild weather and comfortable exploration.

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

The entrance fee is about 50–80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased onsite at ticket counters or through online tourism platforms for convenience.

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

Booking is recommended during weekends, public holidays, or peak tourist seasons, ideally 1–3 days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit typically takes 4–6 hours to walk through the main streets, visit temples, museums, and enjoy the riverside.

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

• Ancient city walls and gates
• Historic temples such as Guangde Temple
• Old residences and courtyard houses
• Traditional streets with local shops and eateries
• Jialing River scenic area

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese; some local agencies may provide English tours. Audio guides are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• City walls and ancient gates for panoramic views
• Historic temples and courtyard houses
• Riverside areas along the Jialing River
• Colorful streets and local markets

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, walk through the central streets, visit key temples and museums, explore local shops, and end with a riverside walk or boat ride for scenic views.

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

Night visits are possible in some areas with illuminated streets and city gates. Special tours may be offered during festivals, but light shows are not standard.

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

The city can be crowded on weekends and holidays. Weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.

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

Facilities include public toilets, small restaurants, tea houses, souvenir shops, and resting areas along the main streets.

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

The city is walkable and mostly flat, making it suitable for children and elderly. Some historic buildings may have stairs, limiting full accessibility for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, and mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used at shops and restaurants.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several local restaurants, teahouses, and snack shops offer traditional Sichuan cuisine and local specialties inside and around the ancient city.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are widely available. Vegan or halal options are limited and may need prior inquiry.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Options include boutique hotels, guesthouses, and small inns within or near the ancient city. Booking ahead is recommended for peak seasons.

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

• Langzhong Confucian Temple
• Local traditional markets
• Jialing River scenic areas

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell traditional crafts, local snacks, postcards, and small items reflecting Sichuan culture.

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

Taxis, local buses, and private cars can take visitors to Nanchong city center, nearby attractions, or other regional destinations like Langzhong Confucian Temple.