Introducing Ancient Qiang City in China
Located in Fengyi Town, Maoxian County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, the Ancient Qiang City of China preserves the original architecture, folk customs, and sacrificial rituals of the Qiang people, fully reflecting the pristine ecological environment and the unique living conditions of the Qiang people. It serves as a living display and performance area for Qiang culture, as well as a cultural leisure and experiential tourism destination in China and around the world.
The Ancient Qiang City of China is mainly composed of the China Qiang Museum, the Intangible Cultural Heritage Transmission Center, the Qiang King's Official Quarter, the Sacrifice Square, the Ancient Qiang City Gate, the Ancient Qiang City Scenic Branch Road, the Water System Landscape, the Ancient Qiang Mill, the Ancient Qiang Rope Ferry, the Ancient Qiang Wooden Bridge, the Golden Turtle Village and other landscapes, attractions and characteristic buildings. It is currently the largest, highest-specification, most fully-functional and well-equipped core display of Qiang culture in the country and even in the world.
Climate and best time to travel
Subtropical monsoon climate accompanied by plateau climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Tickets
China Ancient Qiang City Package (Ticket B): 158 yuan, including the experience of the ancient Qiang city heritage and the display of ancient Qiang folk customs;
China Ancient Qiang City Package (C Ticket): 238 yuan, including the ancient Qiang city heritage experience, ancient Qiang folk customs display, Qiang Holy Mountain sacrifice, Tiandiao blessing, sightseeing bus
Attraction opening hours
9:50-17:50 (November 1-March 31);
9:00-18:00 (April 1st-October 31st)
Most Popular FAQs for Ancient Qiang City in China
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Ancient Qiang City preserves the architecture, culture, and traditions of the Qiang ethnic group. It reflects the historical development of Qiang settlements and is a symbol of cultural heritage in Sichuan, offering insight into ethnic history, traditional building techniques, and defense architecture.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Located in Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan, China.
- Accessible by car or taxi from nearby county centers.
- Local buses may reach the site from major towns; walking is required inside the site.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best visiting months are May to October for mild weather and clear skies.
- Avoid rainy season to ensure safer walking and photography conditions.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fees are usually around 60–100 RMB per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via local travel agencies; some online ticketing platforms may also be available.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking is recommended during national holidays or weekends. A 1–3 day advance booking is usually sufficient.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
2–4 hours are sufficient to explore the main streets, cultural exhibits, and viewpoints.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Ancient stone watchtowers and defensive walls.
- Traditional Qiang houses with carved wooden gates.
- Museum areas showcasing Qiang history and culture.
- Courtyards, temples, and central squares for cultural activities.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available, mainly in Chinese. English-speaking guides can be arranged through travel agencies. Audio guides are not commonly provided.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Top of ancient watchtowers for panoramic views of the city and mountains.
- Main streets and alleys with traditional architecture.
- Decorative gates, stone bridges, and central squares.
- Courtyards during local festivals for cultural photography.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the main entrance and visit the central square.
- Walk along the main alleys to see Qiang houses and cultural exhibits.
- Climb watchtowers for panoramic views.
- Explore museum areas and end at scenic viewpoints or courtyards.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits are generally not available. Special cultural tours or festival events may be arranged during specific dates.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and holidays.
- Early mornings offer quieter exploration opportunities.
- National holidays may be busy with local tourists.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Public toilets at main entrances and along the main streets.
- Small local food stalls and cafes near entrances.
- Rest areas and seating spots throughout the site.
- Souvenir shops selling local crafts and textiles.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Lower streets and courtyards are suitable for elderly and children.
- Some areas with stairs or uneven stone paths may be challenging for disabled visitors.
- Guides can help plan accessible routes inside the city.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is useful for small vendors and entrance fees.
- Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay or Alipay may be accepted in larger facilities.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Local restaurants serving Sichuan and Qiang cuisine near the entrance.
- Small cafes and tea houses in nearby towns.
- Guesthouses may provide meals for overnight visitors.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian and halal options are available in nearby towns and some local eateries. Vegan options may be limited.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Guesthouses and boutique hotels near the Ancient Qiang City entrance.
- Traditional Tibetan-style lodges in nearby villages.
- Larger hotels available in county centers or Aba Prefecture towns.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Yaksha Snow Mountain and other alpine trails.
- Local Tibetan monasteries and cultural heritage sites.
- Nearby rivers, lakes, and ecological parks.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Handcrafted Qiang textiles, embroidered fabrics, and jewelry.
- Traditional artwork and carved wooden items.
- Local snacks and dried fruits from surrounding villages.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Private cars or taxis to nearby towns and attractions.
- Local buses connect to regional destinations.
- Guided tours can provide onward travel arrangements.