Taiping Ancient Town

Introducing Taiping Ancient Town

Taiping Ancient Town is located in Gulin County, Luzhou City, on the south bank of the Chishui River. The ancient town is built on the mountain. Most of the existing buildings are from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The streets are distributed in steps, and the green-tiled wooden buildings are staggered in height. They are subtle and simple, and it is known as the "Pearl of Chishui".

The ancient town is comprised of three main streets: Changzheng Street, Hongjun Street, and Shunhe Street. Walking slowly along the stepped alleyways, you'll find a rich tapestry of ancient buildings on either side. Most of the houses in the town date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, featuring stilt houses and stilt houses. The gables are adorned with clay sculptures of flowers symbolizing peace, prosperity, and everlasting happiness, creating a quaint and unique atmosphere.

In addition, a monument to the Red Army's four crossings of the Chishui River has been built at the Taiping Ferry in the ancient town. There are also Red Army sites such as the "Red Army Confidential Room", "Red Army General Political Department", "General Headquarters", "Red Army Hospital", and "Red Army Bank" in the town, all of which are worth stopping by.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 2-4 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Taiping Ancient Town

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

Taiping Ancient Town has a rich history, dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is renowned for its well-preserved traditional buildings, ancient streets, and cultural heritage. The town played an important role in trade and culture during the ancient Silk Road era.

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

Taiping Ancient Town is located in the eastern part of Sichuan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from nearby cities such as Chengdu. The town itself is best explored on foot, especially the main historic area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round, with most attractions operating from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the town is less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is around 30-50 RMB, depending on the specific areas and attractions you want to visit. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but online platforms may offer discounts or group tickets.

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

Booking tickets in advance is optional, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and fall). Booking a few days ahead should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore the ancient town, allocate around 2 to 3 hours. This will give you enough time to visit the main attractions, walk around the historic streets, and enjoy the local cuisine.

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

Must-see highlights include the ancient streets, traditional courtyard houses, the river view, the local temples, and the cultural exhibitions showcasing the town's history.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are also available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides are limited. It's recommended to hire a local guide for a richer experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are near the river, with its traditional stone bridges, and from the elevated platforms near the ancient town's temples. The quaint streets lined with ancient houses are perfect for capturing the town’s essence.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the ancient streets, then visit the local temples. Afterward, enjoy the river walk and finish your tour at the cultural exhibition hall to learn about the town's history.

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

Currently, there are no major night visits or light shows in Taiping Ancient Town. The town is best experienced during the day, but some cultural performances may take place in the evening.

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

The town can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, particularly during off-peak seasons.

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

Basic facilities such as toilets, water fountains, and rest areas are available. There are also numerous shops selling local handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs along the streets.

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

The town's narrow, cobbled streets may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors, but there are more accessible paths and certain areas of the town that are suitable for families with children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in the town. However, it is still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of limited network coverage.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several traditional Sichuan restaurants and cafes inside the town offering local dishes such as spicy hotpot, noodles, and snacks. Nearby towns also have more modern dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food options are widely available, as Sichuan cuisine offers many plant-based dishes. Halal options may be found in nearby towns with Muslim populations.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and boutique hotels within walking distance of the ancient town. For more luxurious accommodations, you can stay in the nearby cities of Chengdu or Mianyang.

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

Nearby attractions include the Mount Emei Scenic Area, which is famous for its Buddhist temples and hiking trails. The Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuary is also a great option for a nature-filled day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are plenty of souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, traditional Sichuan tea, handmade textiles, and other regional crafts. Local snacks are also popular as souvenirs.

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

After visiting, taxis or private vehicles are the best options to continue your trip. Buses also run from the town to larger cities like Chengdu, where you can take a high-speed train to other destinations.