Shuangjiang Ancient Town

Introducing Shuangjiang Ancient Town

Shuangjiang Ancient Town, located in Tongnan District, Chongqing, lies in the economic heart of Chengdu and Chongqing, facing the Fu River and the Grand Canal. Dotted with courtyards and gardens characteristic of the Qing Dynasty, Shuangjiang Ancient Town, nestled in the lower reaches of the Fu River, a tributary of the Jialing River, is the hometown of Chairman Yang Shangkun. Strolling through the narrow streets and alleys of the ancient town, one encounters ascending stone steps and old gray-tiled houses. The traditional streets, characteristic of Qing Dynasty commercial markets, the low-roofed verandas, and the vast courtyards of various styles are all scattered throughout the area, creating a dazzling array of attractions.

There are more than 20 large-scale ancient residences with the architectural style of Qing Dynasty residences in the ancient town, including "Yuwang Palace", "Qing Dynasty Residences", "Xinglong Street Courtyard", "Yuan Taihe Courtyard", "Post Office Courtyard (the former residence of Yang Shangkun and Yang Angong)", "Changtan Sizhitang" and "Huimin Palace". They are praised by experts as "a rare Qing Dynasty residential building complex" and known as a Qing Dynasty street.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yang Shangkun's Former Residence

Also known as "Sizhi Hall" and "Changtanzi Courtyard," this is the birthplace of Yang Shangkun, the fourth President of the People's Republic of China. Construction began in 1862 during the Tongzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty, making it approximately 150 years old. With its exquisite materials, exquisite carvings, and unique design, it is a true gem of ancient residential architecture. Inside the residence, a large exhibition of historical photos and artifacts, "Yang Shangkun's Life and Achievements," vividly showcases the key moments of Yang Shangkun's life.

Yang Shangkun Mausoleum

Climbing the stairs from the memorial plaza leads to the burial area. The tomb is constructed of stacked white marble, topped with an emerald green granite wreath. The coffin is a single block of white marble, inscribed with the dates of Shangkun's birth and death (1907-1998). The burial chamber contains the ashes of Yang Shangkun and his wife, Li Bozhao. A brief biography of Li Bozhao is located behind the tomb.

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Shuangjiang Ancient Town

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

Shuangjiang Ancient Town has a rich history dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It is known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant local culture, making it a window into traditional life in rural Chongqing.

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

Shuangjiang Ancient Town is located in the Qijiang District of Chongqing. It can be reached by taxi from Chongqing city center or by bus. The town is accessible by walking once you reach the main entrance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and weekdays tend to be less crowded.

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

The entrance fee is approximately 50-80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local tourism websites.

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

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak travel seasons (such as national holidays). Booking a day or two in advance should suffice.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit can take around 2-3 hours to explore the main areas, including walking through the town's streets, visiting local shops, and experiencing the culture.

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

The must-see spots include the old streets with traditional architecture, the local temple, and the market area where you can purchase local crafts and souvenirs. The scenic spots along the river are also noteworthy.

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

Guided tours in Mandarin are available. It’s recommended to check with the local tourism office if audio guides in other languages are available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the old streets lined with traditional houses, the river views, and the temple area. The rooftops of the ancient houses also offer great vantage points.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main street where the shops and restaurants are, then visit the local temple. Afterward, take a stroll along the river to enjoy the traditional houses and scenic views.

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

Currently, the town is not known for night visits or light shows, but special cultural performances may be held during festivals. It’s best to check the local schedule before visiting.

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

The town can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning.

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

The town offers basic amenities including public toilets, food stalls, and rest areas. There are plenty of shops where visitors can buy local products and souvenirs.

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

The town is mostly pedestrian, with cobbled streets that may be challenging for people with mobility issues. It is best suited for elderly visitors who can manage light walking.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted throughout the town. Some smaller vendors may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering Chongqing hotpot, rice noodles, and other Sichuan dishes. Small cafes around the market area offer tea and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in the form of vegetable noodles or tofu dishes. Halal food options are limited but can be found in some local restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Qijiang District, which is a short drive away from Shuangjiang Ancient Town. For more upscale options, visitors can stay in Chongqing city.

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

Nearby attractions include the Qijiang River, scenic spots along the river, and the Wansheng Karst Cave. All these can be easily visited in a day trip along with Shuangjiang Ancient Town.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling handmade crafts, local artwork, and traditional items such as tea sets, embroidered goods, and paper lanterns.

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

The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or private car. Public buses can take you back to Chongqing city or to other nearby attractions in Qijiang District.