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Qingyan Ancient Town, located in Huaxi District, Guiyang City, Guizhou Province, is Guiyang's first national 5A-level tourist attraction. Originally built during the Ming Dynasty, it boasts a wealth of well-preserved ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is considered one of Guizhou's four great ancient towns, along with Zhenyuan, Bing'an, and Longli. Nestled within the mountainside, its walls are built of massive stones on the cliffs, with four gates located in the east, west, south, and north. The town's architectural masterpieces, featuring exquisite stone and wood carvings, are a major attraction.
Qingyan Ancient Town has a subtropical monsoon climate, with an average annual precipitation of about 1,250 mm, 2,200 hours of sunshine, and an average temperature of 14°C-15°C, making it suitable for sightseeing all year round.
Nine temples, eight shrines, five pavilions, two ancestral halls, the Qingyan Academy, the Wanshou Palace, the Shuixing Tower, and memorial archways from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Back Street is Qingyan's most distinctive stone alley, lined with layers of stone walls. The narrow and quiet path follows the undulating hillside, making it an ideal photography spot. Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, and Christianity coexist in the town, and both a Christian church and a Catholic church remain.
Adult ticket: 10 RMB; Pass: 80 RMB
Tips:
The pass includes the Qingyan Ancient Town Street Area, South City Gate, North City Gate, East City Gate, West City Gate, Ancient Town City Wall, Ciyu Temple, Former Residence of the Number One Scholar, Wenchang Pavilion, Zhao Gong Ancestral Hall, Wanshou Palace, Longquan Temple, Shoufo Temple and other attractions.
Open all day
Qingyan Ancient Town has a history of over 600 years and is a well-preserved example of ancient Chinese architecture and culture. It served as an important military and cultural center during the Ming and Qing dynasties and is renowned for its beautiful layout and historical significance in Guizhou Province.
Qingyan Ancient Town is located 30 kilometers south of Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus from Guiyang. Public buses run frequently to the town, and taxis offer a more direct and convenient option. The town itself is pedestrian-friendly, so walking is the best way to explore it.
The town is open year-round. It’s best to visit during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the town is not too crowded. The typical visiting hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
The entrance fee to the main attractions within Qingyan Ancient Town is around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but it is also possible to buy them through online platforms for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but during peak travel seasons (spring and autumn), it's recommended to book online at least 1-2 days ahead to avoid long queues.
You can fully explore Qingyan Ancient Town in 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit the museums and temples, it may take up to half a day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and can be arranged at the entrance or through local tour agencies. Audio guides in Mandarin are also available for self-guided tours, though English options may be limited.
The best photography spots include the South Gate, the panoramic views from the ancient city walls, and the riverside areas where you can capture the beauty of the town’s traditional buildings against the natural backdrop.
Start at the South Gate, then wander through the ancient streets, stopping at key landmarks such as Qingyan Temple and the local museums. End your visit with a stroll by the river to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Night visits are not commonly available, and there are no light shows in the town. However, the town is beautifully illuminated in the evening, and a walk through its streets at night offers a peaceful and charming experience.
Qingyan Ancient Town can be crowded during public holidays and peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times are during weekdays, especially in the off-season (winter and early spring).
The town has basic facilities, including public toilets, water stations, rest areas, and numerous shops selling souvenirs and local handicrafts. Food stalls and small restaurants offer a variety of Guizhou snacks and traditional dishes.
Qingyan Ancient Town is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but some of the narrow stone-paved streets and stairs may be challenging for disabled visitors. It’s recommended to check for accessibility options before visiting if you have mobility concerns.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in Qingyan Ancient Town. Cash is also accepted, but using mobile payment methods is more convenient and efficient.
Vegetarian options are available, with some local dishes made with tofu and vegetables. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but it's advisable to check with restaurant staff beforehand.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, such as handwoven textiles, traditional clothing, and Guizhou silver jewelry. Local teas and preserved foods are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting Qingyan Ancient Town, taxis and private cars are the best options for continuing your trip. Guiyang city center is a short drive away, and public transportation options are available for further travel within the city.
