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Explore the ancient watchtowers to learn about the region’s history. Take a scenic walk around the area to admire the architecture, and capture the surrounding landscapes. These watchtowers are excellent spots for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Danba County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, is known as the "Land of a Thousand Watchtowers." These towers are primarily located east of the county seat and along the banks of the Jinchuan, Dajinchuan, and Dadu rivers. Danba's ancient watchtowers feature various floor plans: four-cornered, five-cornered, eight-cornered, and thirteen-cornered. They were constructed using materials such as rock, mud, and wood. These numerous and diverse towers hold great historical, artistic, and scientific value.
Suopo boasts the highest concentration of ancient watchtowers in Danba, and perhaps even the world. These include the world's only five-cornered watchtower. The best viewing point is across the village, on the other side of the Dadu River. The towers are truly spectacular from afar, and the best time to photograph them is at dusk, when all the towers are bathed in a golden glow.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is free. When you visit the tower, the owner will charge a certain fee.
All day
The ancient watchtowers in Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture were originally built as part of the defense system to protect the region from invaders. They also served as landmarks for travelers and traders. Today, they hold cultural significance for the Tibetan people, showcasing traditional architecture and history.
The watchtowers are located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. To reach them, you can take a taxi or private car from the nearest town, or use local buses to get closer. Walking is possible once you arrive at the base of the tower area.
The watchtowers are open all day. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
The entrance fee is typically free as the watchtowers are part of the open countryside, but there may be a small fee for guided tours. Tickets can be purchased on-site.
Booking in advance is not necessary as the site is generally open without reservations, but it is recommended to book guided tours in advance if you prefer a more structured experience.
Visiting the ancient watchtowers typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the surrounding area and taking photos.
The must-see highlights are the watchtowers themselves, the views from the top, and the surrounding Tibetan landscapes. Be sure to also explore the paths leading to the towers for scenic vistas.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English. Audio guides can be arranged at the site, but it is recommended to check availability beforehand.
The best viewpoints are from the top of the towers, where you can see sweeping views of the Ganzi region and surrounding mountains. The areas around the base of the towers also offer great photo opportunities with the structure and natural scenery in the background.
Start by visiting the base of the towers and then hike up to the top for the best views. After exploring the towers, take a walk through the surrounding landscape to enjoy the natural beauty and take in more panoramic views.
Night visits are not typically available as the area is remote. However, the towers are a beautiful sight during sunset, with great lighting for photos.
The site is usually not very crowded, but the least crowded times are during weekdays and outside of national holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding any crowds.
Basic facilities such as toilets are available near the base of the towers. However, there are no food or water stations on-site, so it is recommended to bring your own supplies.
The terrain around the towers can be steep and rugged, so it may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to access the top. Children can enjoy the area but should be supervised, especially near the towers.
Cash is typically used at the site, and mobile payments may not always be accepted in remote areas. It’s advisable to carry cash when visiting.
There are few restaurants near the site. It is best to bring snacks or head to the nearby town for food options after your visit.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be available in some restaurants in nearby towns, but halal food options might be limited due to the region's predominantly Tibetan and Chinese culture.
There are several small guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns, but for more luxurious accommodations, you might need to stay in the larger cities of Sichuan and travel to the site.
Nearby attractions include the Ganzi Monastery, the scenic Tibetan villages, and the scenic Yangtze River. These can be visited as part of a day trip in the region.
Souvenir shops can be found in nearby towns where you can purchase Tibetan crafts, prayer beads, and other local handmade goods.
Taxis, buses, and private cars are available for further travel in the region. You can also rent a car for more flexibility when exploring other parts of Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.
