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At Flatiron Ancient Town, visitors can explore its historical streets, admire the well-preserved ancient architecture, and learn about local culture. The town is known for its scenic walks, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. It is a perfect destination for history buffs and those who enjoy traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
Located in the mountainous area on the southern edge of Shiquan County, Yidou Ancient Town is an ancient post town on the ancient Sichuan-Chu Road. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the town's existing streets are mostly built during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Its most distinctive features are the stilt houses , known for their " giving up three feet of land to occupy an extra sliver of sky . "
The ancient town is built by the mountains and beside the water, and is tightly embraced by the Fushui River. Despite thousands of years of changes, it still retains its former tranquil, simple and elegant style, and is quite poetic and picturesque with " small bridges, flowing water, and houses " .
The town is surrounded by towering green mountains and green waters, with beautiful scenery. The Swallow Cave, known as the " No. 1 Karst Cave in Northwest China " , is located within its jurisdiction. The magnificent Swallow Cave is a group of karst caves with multiple caves interconnected. The structure inside the cave is complex, with caves on caves, and layers of caves connected to each other; large caves contain small caves, and the caves are connected to each other.
Inside the cave, stalagmites abound, with beautiful rocks hanging upside down from the top. Some resemble stone boats, requiring visitors to board and disembark ; others are spacious , like crisscrossing fields, reminiscent of a pastoral landscape; others, reflecting luster, resemble mountains of gold and silver; and there are also stone lions, tigers, umbrellas, and arhats, all meticulously carved to resemble life.
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Flatiron Ancient Town dates back several centuries and is known for its well-preserved buildings and rich cultural heritage. The town played a crucial role in trade and local administration in ancient Shaanxi and is an important historical site in the region.
Flatiron Ancient Town is located in Ankang, Shaanxi. You can reach the town by taxi or bus from Ankang city center. Public transport is the most convenient way to get there as it is well connected by road.
The town is open year-round, with visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant for walking and outdoor exploration.
The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB per person. Tickets can be bought on-site at the entrance to the town, and there are no online booking options.
Advance booking is not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance of the town.
It takes approximately 2-3 hours to explore Flatiron Ancient Town, including visiting the main attractions, walking around the streets, and taking in the historical architecture. For a more relaxed visit, you can extend your stay to half a day.
Key highlights of the town include the ancient street, traditional houses, and the historic landmarks that showcase the town's cultural significance. The central square is also a great spot to appreciate the town's charm and history.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are not offered, but local guides can provide detailed insights about the town’s history and significance.
The best photography spots are along the ancient streets where you can capture traditional architecture, the central square with its historical buildings, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from higher points in the town.
Start your visit by exploring the ancient street, then visit key historical sites such as the town's central square and ancient temples. A walk around the town will provide a complete experience of its historical charm and traditional culture.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Flatiron Ancient Town. The town is best visited during daylight hours to appreciate the historical sites and natural beauty.
The town can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the morning, especially in the off-season months like spring and autumn.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available in the town. There are small shops selling souvenirs and local snacks. It is advisable to carry water with you as food and beverage options are limited within the town.
The town is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some areas with traditional streets may have uneven surfaces. Disabled visitors may face some challenges due to the historical nature of the town's infrastructure.
Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted. It is recommended to carry both cash and a mobile phone for convenience.
There are several local eateries near the entrance of the town offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine. For more dining options, you can visit Ankang city, which has a wider variety of restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian options are available at local eateries, but halal food may be limited. Visitors may need to go to Ankang city for more variety, including halal options.
There are guesthouses and small hotels near Flatiron Ancient Town. For more luxurious accommodations, consider staying in Ankang city, where there is a broader range of hotels.
Nearby attractions include the Ankang Museum and the Jinnan Ancient Town, both of which offer a rich historical experience and can be visited on the same day.
There are souvenir shops near the entrance of the town where you can buy local crafts, traditional textiles, and snacks. Typical souvenirs include handcrafted items and local products such as tea and spices.
To continue your trip, taxis or buses are available. Taxis are the most convenient way to travel, especially if you plan to visit other nearby attractions or head back to Ankang city.
