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In Dihua Ancient Town, visitors can explore the ancient streets, admire traditional architecture, and visit historical sites. The town is also known for its vibrant local markets where you can buy traditional crafts, antiques, and snacks. It is a perfect place for a cultural walk, photography, and experiencing local life.
Dihua Ancient Town, located in Danfeng County, Shangluo, once marked the boundary between the Song and Jin dynasties and served as a key post station on the Shangyu Ancient Road. It is now the hometown of contemporary writer Jia Pingwa. The town was originally named for its abundance of kerria flowers. The Tang Dynasty poet Bai Juyi, after visiting Dihua three times, famously wrote, " I heard from afar that I dreamt of my brothers in this inn. The post station must be named Dihua . "
Dihua Ancient Town features the Song-Jin Peace Hall and the Song-Jin Bridge. Stroll through the Song-Jin border town, where the cultures of the two dynasties blended, experience the customs of the frontier, and witness the history of war. Qingfeng Old Street, formerly Dihua Old Street, is where Bai Juyi wrote about the " flowers of the Tangdi tree " and served as the inspiration for Jia Pingwa's novel "Qin Opera."
Dihua Ancient Town's most famous attraction is Qingfeng Street, a quaint street lined with period houses where local farmers sell local snacks and Danfeng specialties. A small stream, paved with bluestone, flows through the town, its water clear and gurgling.
In autumn, you can see reeds swaying in the wind, and in summer, you can enjoy lotus flowers.
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Dihua Ancient Town has a rich history as a trade center during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It was an important hub for commerce, particularly in tea, silk, and spices. Today, it is a well-preserved historical site that showcases traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
Dihua Ancient Town is located in Shaanxi Province, near the city of Ankang. You can reach the town by taxi or bus from Ankang city center, or by walking from nearby attractions within the city.
The town is open year-round, with visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the town is not overcrowded.
The entrance fee is around 30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the town. There are no online booking options available.
No advance booking is required. You can buy tickets upon arrival at the entrance of the town.
You will need around 2-3 hours to explore the key sites of Dihua Ancient Town, including the historical streets, markets, and cultural spots. For a more leisurely visit, you can extend your stay to half a day.
The must-see highlights include the ancient street with its traditional architecture, the local markets, and historical buildings such as old temples and merchant houses. Don't miss the local craft shops that reflect the town's cultural heritage.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may offer insights in English. Audio guides are not commonly available, but the guides provide a detailed experience of the town's history.
The best photography spots are along the ancient streets, especially near the old temples and traditional buildings. The town's markets also provide vibrant scenes of local life, perfect for photography.
Start by exploring the central ancient street, then visit the local markets and historical buildings. End your visit by walking around the town's scenic spots and taking in the local atmosphere.
There are no light shows or special tours available at night. However, the town is beautifully lit at night, and a stroll in the evening is a peaceful way to end your visit.
The town can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays or early in the morning, particularly in the off-season.
There are toilets, rest areas, and small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs within the town. However, food and beverage options are limited inside the town, so it's a good idea to bring your own water.
The town is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, but some areas may have uneven cobblestone streets. Disabled visitors may face challenges due to the town's historical infrastructure.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly used in the town. It's best to carry both cash and a mobile payment option.
There are a few local eateries in the town offering traditional Shaanxi cuisine. For more dining options, you can visit Ankang city, where there are numerous restaurants and cafes.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food may be limited, so it's better to check with the restaurant or head to Ankang city for more variety.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels near Dihua Ancient Town. For more luxurious options, you can stay in Ankang city, which has a wider selection of accommodations.
Nearby attractions include the Ankang Museum and Jinnan Ancient Town, both of which are easy to visit on the same day. These sites offer rich cultural experiences and historical insights.
There are souvenir shops within Dihua Ancient Town offering traditional crafts, textiles, and local snacks. Typical souvenirs include handmade items, tea, and spices.
After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car. Taxis are the most convenient option for traveling to other attractions or returning to Ankang city.
