Longhua Ancient Town

Introducing Longhua Ancient Town

Longhua Ancient Town, located 37 kilometers south of Pingshan Town in Pingshan County, was founded in the Song Dynasty. Surrounded by water on three sides and a mountain on one side, Longhua is often described as a town surrounded by three bridges and two streams. The town's most charming feature is the quaint Liang Bridge, which rests quietly over Xiaolongxi Creek.

The most charming feature of the ancient town is the quaint Cool Bridge, nestled over Xiaolong Creek. This elegant and beautiful bridge serves as a gathering place for locals to gather, trade, and relax. Tall, ancient yellow poplar trees crisscross the bridge, lush and leafy. A cool breeze wafts over the bridge, while the clear, gurgling water flows beneath. Besides being a summer retreat, the banks are also a haven for rural women to wash their clothes.

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 Longhua Ancient Town

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

Longhua Ancient Town has a history dating back over 1,000 years, with its well-preserved traditional architecture and cultural heritage. The town was once a thriving hub for trade and culture in the region and remains an important historical site in Sichuan. Its preservation of ancient buildings, temples, and streets makes it a fascinating glimpse into traditional Chinese life.

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

Longhua Ancient Town is located in Yibin, Sichuan. You can reach the town by taxi, bus, or private car from Yibin city center. The town is relatively easy to access by road, but there are no metro services in the area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round, with no specific opening hours since it is an open-air heritage site. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a quieter experience and better photography.

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

There is no entrance fee for visiting Longhua Ancient Town itself. However, certain attractions, such as the Longhua Temple, may require a small fee. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or at specific attractions within the town.

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

No advance booking is required for general entry to Longhua Ancient Town. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions, such as the Longhua Temple, it is recommended to check if tickets are available in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Longhua Ancient Town, including its streets, temples, and surrounding areas, it typically takes about 3 to 4 hours. If you plan to visit nearby attractions or take your time exploring the shops and markets, you may need half a day.

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

The must-see highlights in Longhua Ancient Town include the Longhua Temple, ancient streets, old market areas, and traditional courtyard houses. Be sure to visit the historical buildings along Yuantong Street, where you can experience the town's history and architecture up close.

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

Guided tours may be available in Mandarin and sometimes in English during peak seasons. Audio guides are also available at some of the key attractions like the Longhua Temple. It’s advisable to check for availability at the entrance or hire a local guide for a more personalized experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots in Longhua Ancient Town include views of the ancient streets, Longhua Temple, and the traditional houses along Yuantong Street. The scenic hills surrounding the town also offer great vantage points for wide-angle shots. The temple courtyards are perfect for capturing the essence of ancient architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the ancient streets, then head towards the Longhua Temple. Walk along Yuantong Street, where you can explore shops, market stalls, and traditional architecture. Conclude your visit with a relaxing time by the scenic spots or rest areas for a peaceful experience.

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

Currently, night visits and light shows are not available in Longhua Ancient Town. However, the town looks beautiful at night with its ancient architecture and traditional street lights. It’s a peaceful place to stroll and enjoy the atmosphere in the evening.

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

Longhua Ancient Town tends to get busy during national holidays and weekends. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or during the off-season (early spring or late autumn). Early mornings or late afternoons offer the quietest experience.

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

There are public toilets available around the town. The town also has a number of shops, small cafes, and food stalls selling local Sichuan snacks and souvenirs. Rest areas are available, especially near the temple and scenic spots.

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

Longhua Ancient Town is relatively accessible for elderly and children, as most of the town is pedestrian-friendly. However, some areas, especially the temple, may have steps that could be difficult for disabled visitors. It’s recommended to check the specific accessibility needs before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Longhua Ancient Town. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local shops and markets that may not accept digital payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are local restaurants and cafes serving traditional Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot, noodles, and dumplings. For more variety, you can find restaurants offering Chinese tea and snacks within the town. More options are available in the city center of Yibin.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Some local restaurants in Longhua Ancient Town offer vegetarian and vegan options, especially dishes with tofu or vegetable hotpot. Halal food options may be more limited, but you may find some in Yibin city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and hotels near Longhua Ancient Town, including options like Yibin International Hotel and local guesthouses within walking distance. For a more traditional experience, stay in one of the traditional inns in the town.

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

Nearby attractions include the Yibin Bamboo Sea, Emei Mountain, and the Three Gorges region. These are easy to combine in a day trip, especially if you have access to private transportation.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops in Longhua Ancient Town offering items like handcrafted goods, local snacks, Sichuan tea, and traditional Chinese crafts such as silk scarves and paper lanterns.

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

You can continue your trip by bus, taxi, or private car. Yibin city center is about 30 minutes away by car, and other destinations like Mount Emei or Chengdu are accessible by train or long-distance bus.