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Jiuxiang Ancient Town is known for its traditional architecture, ancient streets, and picturesque setting. Visitors can explore historical buildings, shop for local handicrafts, enjoy Sichuan cuisine at local restaurants, and visit the nearby Jiuxiang Cave, which features stunning natural formations.
Jiuxiang Ancient Town is located on the Guanma Avenue of the ancient Southern Silk Road. About one mile north along this Guanma Avenue is the famous Hanyuan Street in ancient Qingxi County.
There is a very famous stone archway in the ancient town, named Jiuxiang Stone Archway. It was built in the 29th year of Daoguang in the Qing Dynasty and took many craftsmen 9 years to complete.
The most unique feature of the archway is the sculptures. Incorporating the art of Sichuan Opera, an ancient Chinese opera, the sculptures are based on the themes of "loyalty, filial piety, chastity, and righteousness." The sculptures depict 48 traditional Sichuan Opera plays, 169 reliefs, and over 570 figures of varying sizes. Some are depicted alone, while others are grouped together. Each one is naturally realistic, with distinct features and poses, each one lifelike and meticulously carved, each detail visible.
May to August is the best time to visit, when the ancient town is filled with birdsong and flowers, and the vegetation is lush.
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Jiuxiang Ancient Town has a rich history dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It is renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture and cultural heritage, reflecting the lifestyle of ancient Sichuan communities. The town is a representation of local customs and the region's ancient way of life.
Jiuxiang Ancient Town is located in Ya'an, Sichuan. Visitors can take a bus from Ya'an city center or hire a taxi to reach the town. If you prefer a more scenic route, there are also walking trails that lead to the town.
The town is open year-round, with the best times to visit being spring and autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant. It is advisable to avoid the peak summer months to avoid large crowds.
The entrance fee to Jiuxiang Ancient Town is around 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via various travel platforms.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but booking a few days ahead is recommended during the peak tourist season (April to October) to avoid long lines.
To fully explore Jiuxiang Ancient Town, including its historical sites and nearby attractions like Jiuxiang Cave, you will need around 3-4 hours.
Key highlights include the traditional streets with ancient architecture, local temples, the Jiuxiang Cave with its stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and the various cultural exhibits showcasing local handicrafts and traditions.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages for self-guided tours.
For the best views, visit the higher parts of the town or the surrounding hills. Jiuxiang Cave also provides unique photographic opportunities, with its dramatic natural formations. The traditional streets and the ancient bridge are also popular photography spots.
A recommended itinerary would start with exploring the town’s main streets and visiting the local markets. Then, head to Jiuxiang Cave for an underground adventure, followed by a visit to one of the local temples or scenic viewpoints to wrap up your visit.
Night visits are not typically available, but the town has some beautifully lit areas in the evenings. Special cultural performances and light shows may be available on occasion during festivals.
The town can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are during weekdays in the off-season (November to March).
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls are available throughout the town. There are also souvenir shops offering local handicrafts and snacks.
The town is somewhat accessible for elderly visitors, though some parts may involve walking up steep paths. However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues due to the traditional layout of the streets and uneven surfaces.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in this region. Credit cards may not be accepted at all locations.
There are several local restaurants serving traditional Sichuan cuisine, such as hot pot and spicy noodles. You can also find tea houses and small cafes offering snacks and beverages.
Vegetarian options are available in some restaurants, but vegan and halal food options are limited. It’s recommended to ask the restaurant staff about available choices.
There are a few guesthouses and small hotels near Jiuxiang Ancient Town. For more accommodation options, you can head to Ya'an city, which has a wider range of hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Bifengxia Panda Reserve, where you can see giant pandas, and the Mount Emei Scenic Area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Both can be easily visited in a day trip from Jiuxiang Ancient Town.
Souvenir shops in Jiuxiang Ancient Town sell traditional Sichuan crafts, including wooden carvings, silk embroidery, and local tea. Handcrafted items like paper umbrellas and jewelry are also popular.
From Jiuxiang Ancient Town, taxis and buses are available to take you to nearby attractions like the Bifengxia Panda Reserve. For longer trips, you can head to Ya'an city for train or bus connections to other parts of Sichuan.
