Live Your Best Lives
The Stone-paved Ancient Street is ideal for cultural exploration and leisurely walks. Recommended activities include:
Built in the Ming Dynasty, the 312- meter- long Stone Slab Ancient Street is paved with 11,000 bluestones. The houses lining the street are built in the classical Ming and Qing styles of blue tiles, red walls, and carved doors and windows. The red walls and stained glass windows are staggered in height, creating a distinct layered, simple and elegant atmosphere. A pair of stone lions stand at each end of the street. It has now been developed into a tourist attraction.
In 1638 , Xu Xiake, the great Chinese explorer and traveler, visited Duyun and entered the city via this section of road. In 1992 , the stone-paved street underwent renovations, and the houses now rise alongside the winding street. The street, a quaint and elegant street with a magnificent splendor, has become a unique ancient architectural complex attracting tourists to Duyun, the southern gateway of Guizhou Province.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
All day
The Stone-paved Ancient Street dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties and represents the traditional architectural style of the region. It offers a glimpse into the local way of life from centuries ago and has cultural significance as a preserved historical site.
The Stone-paved Ancient Street is located in Guiding County, Guizhou Province. You can take a taxi or private car from nearby towns like Duyun. Public transport may be limited, so it's recommended to use a taxi or rent a car for convenience.
The street is open year-round, 24 hours a day, as it is an outdoor location. However, it is best to visit during daylight hours, especially in the morning and early afternoon, when the street is less crowded and the lighting is ideal for photography.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Stone-paved Ancient Street, as it is a public historical site. You can freely walk the street without purchasing a ticket.
No, there is no need to book tickets in advance since the attraction is free to visit. You can simply show up and explore the area.
You can explore the Stone-paved Ancient Street in about 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend shopping, taking photographs, and exploring the temples and markets.
The must-see highlights are:
Guided tours may be available, but they are typically in Mandarin. It’s best to check with local tour providers in advance for English-speaking guides.
Best photography spots include the old stone bridges, narrow alleyways, and the well-preserved historical buildings along the street. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing the vibrant street scenes.
Start your walk from the entrance of the street, then explore the main historical buildings and temples. Make sure to stop by the local shops and markets before ending at one of the scenic viewpoints overlooking the area.
There are no special night visits or light shows at the Stone-paved Ancient Street. However, the street is beautifully lit at night, and you can enjoy a quiet evening walk.
The Stone-paved Ancient Street is not usually crowded, but weekends and public holidays can see more visitors. The best time to visit is early morning on weekdays, when it’s less crowded.
There are public toilets along the street, as well as several small shops selling local products, snacks, and souvenirs. Rest areas are available, but food options may be limited to small eateries along the street or in nearby areas.
The street is mainly paved with stone, which may present challenges for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. However, it is generally accessible for children and families who enjoy leisurely walks.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted in small shops or market areas.
There are several small local restaurants near the street, offering Guizhou-style dishes such as sour fish soup and rice noodles. The options are simple but delicious.
Vegetarian food options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal choices might be limited depending on the specific restaurant.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels in Guiding County, ranging from budget to mid-range. For more luxurious stays, you can consider options in Duyun or other nearby cities.
Nearby attractions include the Jianjiang Scenery, Shuanglong Cave, and Zhenyuan Ancient Town, which are all within a reasonable distance and can be visited in a day trip from the Stone-paved Ancient Street.
There are several souvenir shops selling traditional Guizhou handicrafts, including woven textiles, ethnic jewelry, and small stone carvings. Local tea and herbal remedies are also popular purchases.
After visiting the Stone-paved Ancient Street, the best options for continuing your trip are by taxi or private car. Public transport is available, but may be less convenient for reaching other attractions.
