Qianyang Ancient Town: A Low-Key Treasure 900 Years Older Than Phoenix

Qianyang Ancient Town: A Low-Key Treasure 900 Years Older Than Phoenix

Qianyang Ancient Town is a surprisingly delightful travel destination this year. It predates Phoenix Ancient Town by 900 years but remains little known due to its low profile. It is free from crowded tourists and over-commercialization, filled with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture and a local slow-paced lifestyle. It is also the hometown of Yi Yangqianxi, and the town even has a fan-run public library.

Must-Visit Attractions

- Furong Tower: A Tang and Song dynasty style pavilion by the river. Climb the tower to enjoy views of the misty Yuan River and distant mountains.
- Nanzheng Street: A street preserving its Ming and Qing original appearance, where you can experience bamboo weaving crafts, send postcards at the ancient post office, and soak in the lively local atmosphere.
- Zhongzheng Gate: The red sandstone city wall is perfect for climbing, offering easy panoramic shots of the blue-tiled roofs.
- Bell and Drum Tower: The highest point in the ancient town, next to the thousand-year-old camphor tree "Changling Camphor."
- Chifeng Pagoda: A Qing dynasty brick and wood pagoda with seven stories and an octagonal shape. The copper bells on the top ring with the wind.
- Wanshou Palace: Near the Yuan River pier, the blue stone pier is well preserved, and the opera stage wood carvings are exquisite.

Must-Try Foods

- You’s Spring Roll and Eggplant Bun: A time-honored delicacy, the smoked tofu and cured meat flavor is exceptional.
- Spicy Duck with Blood Cake: A fusion of duck meat and blood cake, with a satisfying spiciness. This is a Hongjiang blood cake duck intangible cultural heritage dish.
- Old Street Duck Egg Noodles: Dry mixed noodles paired with fried duck egg, rich in sauce flavor and texture.
- Rice Tofu: Served cold with red oil, spicy and appetizing, a local classic snack.

Practical Travel Tips

- Transportation: Take the high-speed train to Huaihua South Station, then transfer to a bus for about 1 hour; or choose to rent a car and drive.
- Visiting Time: 3-4 hours to see the main attractions; if you want to deeply experience the slow lifestyle, staying overnight is recommended.
- Accommodation: Recommended is Hongjiang Changling Mansion, near the river with a prime location, where you can listen to the river at night and watch the mist in the morning.
- Clothing: Renting Hanfu or Miao ethnic costumes for photos is very fitting. Zhongzheng Gate and Bell and Drum Tower are excellent photo spots.