
Luomu Ancient Town, also known as Qinglongchang, was one of the five towns of Emei during the Song Dynasty. It boasts a rich history. Although officially established as a county during the Tang Dynasty, the area under its jurisdiction was inhabited as early as the Shang and Zhou dynasties. Located at the foot of Er'e Mountain, which was developed even earlier than the present-day Emei Mountain (Da'e Mountain), many famous historical figures were active in the area surrounding present-day Luomu during the Shang and Zhou dynasties.
Despite the passage of time and the passage of time, the town still retains its ancient charm. The town has preserved the charm of its ancient dwellings. Whether walking through Shunhe Street, Wan'an Road, or Banbian Street, you'll see old wooden houses with mortise-and-tenon beams and carved dragons and phoenixes in every street and alley in the ancient town.
The town has preserved traditional crafts. Four or five blacksmith shops line half the street. The humming of bellows and the clanging of chopping blocks add a touch of sweetness to the quiet town. Next to them are more than a dozen bamboo tool shops, where woven bamboo baskets, baskets, bamboo hats, straw scoops, steamers, and other household and production tools line the street.
Pig blood soup, steamed pork intestines with rice flour, braised beef, and tofu pudding—the town's inexpensive local snacks are everywhere. With long benches and square tables, the shops are small and affordable. When you get hungry after a stroll, just sit inside and enjoy a bowl of snow-white, tender tofu pudding, or the fragrant and spicy blood soup, golden and crispy sanzi, fried soybeans, kohlrabi, and bright red cooked chili oil. Just the sight of the condiments is enough to make your mouth water.
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Luomu Ancient Town is a historic town known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and rich cultural heritage. It was once a bustling trade hub in the region and holds deep significance for the local Tibetan and Qiang communities. The town is also home to many important Buddhist sites, adding to its cultural importance.
Luomu Ancient Town is located in Leshan, Sichuan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from Leshan city center. The town is situated around 30 km from Leshan, and there are public transportation options that connect the town with the surrounding areas.
Luomu Ancient Town is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. It can get crowded during Chinese holidays, so visiting on weekdays or off-peak times is recommended for a more relaxed experience.
There is no entrance fee for the town itself. However, some temples or specific attractions within the town may charge a small entrance fee. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site, but it is advisable to check online for any special events or tours that may require advance booking.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, but it is recommended for special events or temple visits during peak travel seasons. A few days in advance is sufficient.
A visit to Luomu Ancient Town typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on whether you plan to explore the temples, enjoy a boat ride, or browse the shops.
The must-see highlights include the ancient temples, the town's bustling marketplace, and the scenic riverside area. The town's narrow alleys and traditional buildings are also a major draw for visitors.
Guided tours may be available for a fee, and some local guides may offer tours in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides may be available at some specific sites within the town.
Some of the best photography spots are near the riverbanks, where you can capture the traditional architecture against the backdrop of natural scenery. The temples also offer picturesque settings for photos.
Start at the main entrance of the town, explore the central market area, visit the temples, and take a walk along the river for some beautiful views. Don't forget to visit the craft shops for unique souvenirs.
While night visits are possible, Luomu Ancient Town is generally quieter at night, and there are no major light shows. However, the town's atmosphere is peaceful, making it a pleasant place for evening strolls.
Luomu Ancient Town can get crowded during holidays, especially around Chinese New Year and the summer vacation period. To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon.
The town has public toilets, small cafes, restaurants, and several craft shops. There are also rest areas scattered around the town where visitors can relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
The town is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some of the narrow alleys and steep paths may be challenging. It's advisable to take caution in certain areas, especially if you have mobility concerns.
Cash is still accepted, but mobile payments (e.g., Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit cards are widely used and recommended for convenience.
There are several local restaurants and cafes inside the town offering traditional Sichuan cuisine. Nearby, you can find more dining options catering to tourists, including hotpot and noodle shops.
Vegetarian options are commonly available at most local eateries, though vegan and halal food options may be limited. It's best to check with restaurant staff if you have dietary preferences.
Nearby accommodations include local guesthouses and hotels, with some offering traditional Chinese-style rooms. For more luxurious options, you can stay in the nearby Leshan city center, which offers a wider range of hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as Mount Emei, another famous Buddhist site in the region. Both can be easily combined for a day trip from Luomu Ancient Town.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional crafts, such as handmade textiles, pottery, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include Sichuan tea, incense, and local handicrafts.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus back to Leshan city center. There are also transportation options to nearby attractions like Mount Emei and the Leshan Giant Buddha.