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Explore the ancient tea trade history, visit the museum showcasing tea culture, walk through the charming streets filled with traditional shops, and enjoy the local cuisine. Don't miss the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and tea fields.
Ya'an Ancient Tea and Horse City - the World Tea Culture Self-Driving Tourism City is a world-class tourism complex integrating seven aspects: Mengding Mountain International Tea Trading Center, Southwest China Self-Driving Tourism Distribution Center, charming inns, romantic bars, specialty food streets, ten cultural centers and Golden Phoebe Boutique Exhibition and Sales Center.
It takes just over an hour from Chengdu to reach the Ancient Tea Horse City. Leaving behind the congestion and bustle of the big city, the ancient and simple architecture here makes you feel like you've traveled back in time. Nearly all the buildings in the Ancient Tea Horse City are marked with symbols of the "Three Elegant Cultures": tea culture buildings on the right, horse culture buildings on the left, gates shaped like "rain," and "elegant fish" hanging on the walls. Particularly eye-catching is the Tea Horse City Inn.
The subtropical monsoon climate is suitable for travel in autumn. It is extremely pleasant to drink afternoon tea in the Ya'an Tea and Horse Ancient City and feel the autumn sunshine.
It is recommended to spend a day there. In the ancient Tea Horse City, there are many singing places, small town girls, open-air bars, nostalgia in the saxophone, romance, encounters, and chance encounters that can make you excited at any time.
free
Open all day
The Ancient Tea and Horse City has a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty and was a major hub for the tea horse trade. It was a vital point on the ancient Tea Horse Road, where tea was exchanged for horses, and has historical significance in the spread of tea culture.
The Ancient Tea and Horse City is located in Ya'an, Sichuan, about 15 km from the city center. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ya'an or Chengdu. There are no direct metro links, but buses and taxis are frequent.
The city is open year-round from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the surrounding tea fields are at their most beautiful.
The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be bought onsite, or in advance through the official website or local ticket platforms.
It's not necessary to book tickets in advance for general entry, but it's recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient.
It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the main areas, including the museum, tea markets, and scenic spots. If you plan to visit the surrounding tea fields, allow for 4-5 hours.
The must-see highlights include the ancient tea market, the museum showcasing tea culture and history, traditional tea houses, and the views from the nearby tea fields and mountains.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some English-speaking guides can be arranged if requested in advance. Audio guides may also be available in various languages.
The best viewpoints include the tea terraces, where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tea fields. The old town streets and the tea market also offer great photo opportunities.
Start by visiting the museum to understand the history of the Tea Horse Road. Then explore the tea market, followed by a walk through the streets lined with traditional tea shops. End your visit by heading to the tea terraces for scenic views.
Night visits are not generally available, but some special events or cultural performances may take place in the evenings. It's best to check the schedule for specific activities.
The site can be crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during the tea harvest season. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
The site has toilets, water stations, rest areas, and several tea houses and shops offering local products. Food is available at the tea houses and nearby restaurants.
The attraction is accessible for elderly visitors and children, with some paved paths and easy access to the main areas. However, some areas like the tea terraces may have uneven paths that could be challenging for disabled visitors.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Credit cards are also accepted at major locations, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
There are several traditional tea houses and local restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine near the Ancient Tea and Horse City. For more variety, you can head to Ya'an city center, where you’ll find more dining options.
Vegetarian options are available in the local restaurants, especially in tea houses offering plant-based dishes. Vegan and halal options may be limited, but some nearby eateries cater to diverse diets.
There are several hotels near the site, ranging from budget to mid-range options. For more luxury accommodations, Ya'an city center offers higher-end hotels and resorts.
Nearby attractions include the Bifengxia Giant Panda Base, which is a great place to see giant pandas. The Sichuan Bamboo Sea and Mount Emei are also within a few hours' drive and make for a great combination day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional tea products, tea sets, local handicrafts, and tea-related items like tea leaves and tea-infused products.
Taxi, bus, or private car services are the best options for continuing your trip. Ya'an city center and Chengdu are both easily reachable by bus or taxi.
