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The Ancient Alleys in Southeast Guizhou offer a charming look into the local history and culture. The following activities are recommended:
The ancient alleys in Zhenyuan are powerful and rich in content. Unlike the hutongs in Beijing, the ancient alleys in Zhenyuan are well-behaved and stable. The gates of the mansions here are not parallel to the alleys, nor are they directly opposite the main halls. They are quite " evil " and " unorthodox " .
Most of the existing houses in the ancient alleys were built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, but the history of the alleys is more difficult to trace. It is unknown how many alleys there were in the past, but there were at least seven: Shipaifang Street, Sifangjing Alley, Fuxing Alley, Renshou Alley, Chongzikou Alley, Mimatou Alley, and Chenjiajing Alley.
In the ancient alleys that extend in all directions, if you want to go deeper, go up; if you want to retreat, go down, but every choice of the right path means saying goodbye to the unique scenery of another alley.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
free
All day
The Ancient Alleys of Southeast Guizhou are historic lanes that have been preserved for their cultural and architectural significance. They provide a glimpse into the region’s history, particularly its ethnic diversity, and traditional building styles that reflect the customs of the local Miao and Dong people.
The Ancient Alleys are located in the heart of Southeast Guizhou. They are best accessed by taxi or private transport from nearby cities like Kaili. Public transportation options may be limited, so it’s recommended to take a taxi from Kaili or other nearby towns.
The alleys are open year-round and can be visited at any time. However, the best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, as the weather is cooler and the lighting is better for photography. Avoid weekends or public holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.
There is no entrance fee for the Ancient Alleys themselves, as they are public streets. However, some specific attractions or shops within the alleys may have entrance fees or require purchases. These tickets can be bought on-site in cash or via mobile payments like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for visiting the Ancient Alleys as they are free to access. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions or stay at nearby accommodations, it is advisable to book in advance during peak seasons.
Exploring the Ancient Alleys typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend walking, shopping, or eating at local vendors.
The must-see areas include the old stone-paved alleys, the traditional wooden houses, and the small artisan shops that sell handmade crafts. The local temples and street corners are also great places to explore.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tour guides may offer services in English. Audio guides can be rented from local tourist information centers if available.
The best photography spots are the narrow alleyways themselves, especially in the morning light. Also, look for vantage points from the upper floors of old buildings where you can capture panoramic views of the surrounding streets and rooftops.
It’s best to start from one end of the alley system and wander through it at your own pace. Make sure to visit the local temples and artisan shops along the way. If time permits, try to visit some of the surrounding villages as well to get a broader sense of the local culture.
There are no light shows or night tours specifically for the alleys, but the area is still atmospheric in the evening with its traditional lanterns and night markets. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy a quiet walk after dark.
The Ancient Alleys can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it is best to visit on weekdays or during the early mornings or late afternoons on weekends.
There are small shops selling snacks, drinks, and local handicrafts. Public toilets are available in some areas, though the facilities may be basic. There are also small cafes where you can rest and enjoy traditional Guizhou snacks.
The Ancient Alleys are historic and may not be fully accessible for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven pavements and narrow passages. However, children and elderly visitors in good health can enjoy a leisurely walk through the alleys.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used and preferred for most transactions in the area. It’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases from street vendors.
There are several small local restaurants and cafes within or near the alleys, serving traditional Guizhou dishes such as spicy hotpot, sour fish soup, and rice noodles. Some restaurants also serve snacks like fried rice cakes and steamed buns.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local restaurants, especially dishes based on rice, vegetables, and tofu. Halal food options are less common but can be found in some areas, especially in larger towns nearby.
There are small guesthouses and budget hotels located in and around the Ancient Alleys. For more options, you can stay in the nearby city of Kaili, which offers a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range hotels.
Nearby attractions include:
There are souvenir shops selling traditional Guizhou handicrafts, such as embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, wood carvings, and bamboo products. These make for great mementos or gifts.
After visiting the Ancient Alleys, taxis, private cars, or buses are the best options for continuing your journey. You can travel to nearby attractions like Langde Miao Village or Kaili city center.
