Lizhou Ancient Town

Introducing Lizhou Ancient Town

Lizhou Ancient Town is located in the north of Xichang City and has vast fields. In 1935, the Red Army passed through Lizhou during the Long March and stayed here for 6 days. It is the township where the Central Red Army stayed the longest and had the largest number of troops stationed in Xichang.

The Central Red Army formally proposed the term "Long March" of great historical significance and determined the Long March route to northern Shaanxi. Lizhou is a famous town with special significance in the history of the Long March.

Lizhou Ancient Town boasts many Qing Dynasty buildings, constructed of brick and wood or earth and wood. Brightly lit courtyards, towering fire walls, curved backrests, and exquisite stilt houses symbolize the architectural and cultural characteristics of craftsmen from different ancestral origins. Entering the courtyards of Lizhou's residential buildings, one is struck by the rustic simplicity of their tiled roofs, beams, and carved doors and windows.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Lizhou Ancient Town

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

Lizhou Ancient Town, located in Liangshan, Sichuan, is an important historical town that dates back over 2,000 years. It has long been a cultural and commercial hub in the region. Known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, Lizhou offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient lifestyle of the Sichuanese people and the region’s ethnic diversity, especially the Yi people.

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

Lizhou Ancient Town is located in Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan. The easiest way to get there is by taking a bus or taxi from the nearby city of Xichang, which is around 60 km away. There are no metro lines, so taxis and buses are your best options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the surroundings are lush and vibrant. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for exploring, as the streets are quieter and the light is better for photography.

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

There is no entrance fee to explore Lizhou Ancient Town itself. However, there may be fees for certain attractions or cultural sites within the town, such as temples or museums. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site at the respective locations.

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

Booking in advance is generally not required for visiting Lizhou Ancient Town. However, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance for special tours or visits to specific attractions during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Lizhou Ancient Town can be completed in 3 to 4 hours. If you wish to explore the surrounding areas or take part in activities like boat rides, consider spending a full day.

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

• The ancient streets with their traditional architecture and local crafts.
• The local temples and historical landmarks that offer insight into the town's culture.
• The nearby river where you can take boat rides to admire the scenic beauty of the region.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local tour guides may speak basic English. Audio guides are not widely available, but local guides can provide insightful commentary in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The old wooden bridge that spans the river provides a scenic view of the town and surrounding countryside.
• The narrow alleyways and traditional houses make for great photography, especially during the golden hours of the day.
• Local temples and historical landmarks also provide beautiful backdrops for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the central streets of the town, admiring the architecture and browsing local markets. Then, visit the cultural sites like temples and historical landmarks. Finally, take a boat ride along the river for a relaxing end to your visit.

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

Night visits are not typically offered, and there are no regular light shows. However, the town can be quite charming in the evening, with traditional lanterns lighting the streets, creating a peaceful atmosphere.

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

The town can be quite busy during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon, and avoid national holidays when the town sees a surge in visitors.

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

Basic facilities like toilets are available throughout the town. You will find several food stalls and small restaurants offering local dishes. There are also souvenir shops selling traditional handicrafts and local products.

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

The ancient town has uneven streets and narrow pathways, which can be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments. However, children and most visitors will find the town generally accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, though many places also accept mobile payment methods such as WeChat Pay and Alipay. Credit card use is limited, especially in smaller shops and markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small local restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot, noodle dishes, and other regional specialties. Cafes are limited but can be found in nearby towns such as Xichang.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, with many dishes featuring local vegetables and tofu. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but vegetarian dishes can be customized to suit different dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels within or near the town. For more luxurious accommodations, you may want to stay in Xichang, which has more options and is about 1 hour away by car.

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

Nearby attractions include the Xichang Satellite Launch Center and the Qionghai Lake. These can be easily combined with a visit to Lizhou Ancient Town in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Lizhou Ancient Town sell traditional handicrafts such as handwoven textiles, pottery, wooden carvings, and ethnic jewelry. Local specialty products include Sichuan tea and spices.

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

After visiting Lizhou Ancient Town, you can take a bus or taxi back to Xichang for further travel. From Xichang, there are buses and trains to other parts of Sichuan or destinations like Chengdu.