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Bing'an Ancient Town is located in the south-central part of Chishui City. The Chishui River flows along its banks, and the Xi-Chi Highway runs east to west through the town, serving as the essential link between Chishui and the rest of Qianzhong. It is a renowned historical and cultural village in China and a historical and cultural town in Guizhou Province. It is listed as one of the 100 classic red tourism destinations nationwide, and the Bing'an Scenic Area, centered around Bing'an Ancient Town, is one of Chishui's eight major scenic areas.
Since ancient times, Bing'an Ancient Town has been a famous post station and commodity distribution center for Sichuan salt entering Guizhou. It is praised by experts and scholars as a "living fossil of Ming and Qing architecture and history" and has the reputation of "a thousand-year-old military and commercial ancient castle."
Summers are hot and winters are mild. Summers are often dry, and early summer and late autumn are often rainy and humid.
One of Guizhou's four ancient towns, Chishui is 25 kilometers from downtown. With its ancient charm and vibrant revolutionary culture, it was the site of the Red Army's first crossing of the Chishui River. The town houses the First Red Army Corps Exhibition Hall and Lin Biao's former bedroom.
Surrounded on three sides by the Chishui River, the town boasts a spectacular display of stilt houses supported by hundreds of logs. The town itself consists of a narrow, 400-meter-long stone street, which has served as a trading hub for several surrounding villages throughout history.
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Bing'an Ancient Town dates back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture. The town was an important hub for trade and culture in Guizhou, with a rich history tied to the ethnic minorities in the region.
Bing'an Ancient Town is located in Zunyi, Guizhou Province. The town can be reached by taxi or private car from Zunyi city center. It is not accessible by metro, but buses may connect the town with nearby areas.
Bing'an Ancient Town is open year-round. The best times to visit are in the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon avoids the midday rush.
There is no entrance fee for walking through Bing'an Ancient Town, but some specific attractions, such as temples or museums, may charge a small fee. Tickets can be bought at the entrances to individual attractions, and some online platforms may offer advance booking options for tours.
Booking tickets in advance is not generally necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons. For popular attractions or guided tours, it’s a good idea to book a few days ahead, especially around holidays.
Exploring Bing'an Ancient Town can take between 2 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the local markets, temples, and taking boat rides. If you wish to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sights, plan for a half-day visit.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer limited English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not commonly available, so it's advisable to hire a local guide for a more in-depth experience.
The best photography spots are along the river, where you can capture the town with its traditional architecture against the backdrop of lush mountains. The ancient streets themselves, especially at dawn or dusk, provide beautiful photo opportunities.
Start with a stroll along the ancient streets to soak in the atmosphere, followed by a visit to the Bing'an Temple. Afterward, head to the local markets for some shopping and dining. End the day with a peaceful boat ride along the river to take in the scenic views of the town and surrounding nature.
There are no light shows or night tours specifically in Bing'an Ancient Town. However, the town is charming at night, with many buildings lit up, and the atmosphere is quieter, making it a peaceful place for an evening stroll.
Bing'an Ancient Town can get busy during weekends and national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit during weekdays or in the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn). Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter.
There are basic facilities such as public toilets, small shops selling souvenirs, and food stalls offering local snacks. You can also find rest areas for a break along the streets. Drinking water is widely available in shops and restaurants.
The streets of Bing'an Ancient Town are cobblestone, which may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, children can enjoy exploring the town, and most areas are accessible for families. It’s advisable to use caution while walking on uneven ground.
Cash is still commonly used in small shops, but mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Larger restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards.
Inside Bing'an Ancient Town, you’ll find local restaurants offering Guizhou cuisine, including spicy hotpot and rice-based dishes. Nearby Zunyi city offers a wider variety of dining options, including cafes and more upscale restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in the local restaurants offering vegetable-based dishes. Halal options may be available at select restaurants, but it is recommended to ask about the availability of specific dishes.
There are several guesthouses and budget hotels within Bing'an Ancient Town. Zunyi city, which is nearby, offers a wider range of accommodations, including mid-range hotels and some luxury options.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in the town selling handmade crafts, traditional clothing, ethnic jewelry, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include woven items, bamboo crafts, and Guizhou tea.
After visiting Bing'an Ancient Town, the best transportation options are by taxi or private car to continue your trip. Zunyi city is easily reachable by bus or train for further exploration.
