Laitan Ancient Town

Introducing Laitan Ancient Town

Laitan Ancient Town, located 28 kilometers northeast of Hechuan District, was built in the Song Dynasty. It is one of the first historical and cultural towns in China and one of the first "most beautiful towns and villages in China".

Laitan Ancient Town should actually be called Laitan Ancient Village. The village is surrounded by cliffs on three sides, with the strategic location of "one man guarding the pass, ten thousand men cannot open it". The urn city built in the first year of Tongzhi in the Qing Dynasty is the only one in Chongqing. There are four soldier caves preserved in the city, which have the effect of defending against enemies like closing the door to beat the dog and catching the turtle in the urn. The Wenchang Palace, a Qing Dynasty building, is well preserved. The wood carvings and reliefs on the outer railings of the ancient theater are breathtaking. The stone carvings and hollow carvings of the mountain gate archway are exquisite and are a rare historical and cultural masterpiece. The small green-tiled buildings with wooden structures are staggered and basically maintain the original style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, which are simple and elegant.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to spend half a day

Tickets

Free, but attractions such as Erfo Temple in the town are charged separately

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Laitan Ancient Town

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

Laitan Ancient Town has a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. It served as an important cultural and trade hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, providing a glimpse into traditional Chinese life and the region's history.

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

Laitan Ancient Town is located in the Qijiang District of Chongqing. It is accessible by taxi or private car from central Chongqing. There are also local buses that connect the town with the city center. Walking around the town is the best way to explore its narrow streets and historical sites.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round, with no specific opening hours. However, the best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild. Weekdays are less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful experience.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Laitan Ancient Town. However, some individual attractions like temples or museums may have small entry fees, which can be paid on-site.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, as the town is open to the public without restrictions. However, for any special events or tours, it's recommended to book in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Laitan Ancient Town typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. However, if you wish to explore every historical site and enjoy the local food, you may want to spend half a day.

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

• The traditional streets, lined with old shops and tea houses.
• The Chenghuang Temple, an important cultural landmark.
• The riverside areas where you can take a boat ride or simply enjoy the scenic views.
• The ancient architecture, including well-preserved homes, bridges, and alleys.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available at some historical sites in the town, but they are generally in Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The riverside walk offers beautiful views of the town and its traditional buildings.
• The Chenghuang Temple offers a scenic view of the surrounding areas and is great for photography.
• Higher vantage points on bridges or in the narrow alleys provide a unique perspective of the town.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main streets to explore the ancient architecture. Then, visit the Chenghuang Temple and nearby riverside for a relaxing boat ride. Finally, stroll through the back alleys to discover hidden shops and food stalls.

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

Night visits are available, and the town is beautifully lit at night. However, there are no light shows or special tours available after dark.

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

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

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

Public toilets are available throughout the town. There are plenty of food stalls offering local specialties, as well as rest areas where you can sit and relax. Small shops sell souvenirs and local products.

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

The town's narrow streets and traditional architecture may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, the town is relatively accessible for children, and there are plenty of child-friendly areas for exploration.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly accepted in the town, though mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used in shops and food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local food stalls serving traditional Chongqing snacks like hotpot and skewers.
• Small family-owned restaurants offering Sichuan and Chongqing cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at most local food stalls, though vegan and halal food options may be limited in this area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are small guesthouses and hotels in the nearby Qijiang District.
• For more options, visitors can stay in central Chongqing and travel to Laitan Ancient Town by car or taxi.

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

• The Qijiang River, perfect for a boat tour or riverside walk.
• Chongqing Zoo, home to giant pandas and other local wildlife.
• Jiefangbei Square, a bustling shopping and cultural area in downtown Chongqing.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in Laitan Ancient Town offering traditional crafts, local snacks, and artworks. Popular souvenirs include handmade textiles and pottery.

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

• Taxis or ride-hailing apps like Didi are available for transportation to other attractions in Chongqing.
• Local buses can also be used to connect to nearby districts or the city center.