A thousand-year-old cultural pearl on the banks of the Jialing River!
by ISABEL MCLAUGHLIN
Mar 22, 2025
### Langzhong Ancient City Travel Guide
1. Introduction
Langzhong Ancient City is located in Nanchong City, Sichuan Province. It is one of the four major ancient cities in China and has a history of more than 2,300 years. The ancient city is surrounded by water on three sides and mountains on four sides, and is known as the "Langyuan Fairyland". A large number of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties are preserved here, with a profound cultural heritage. It is an excellent place to experience ancient Bashu culture.
2. Transportation Guide
1. **Plane**: The nearest airport is Nanchong Gaoping Airport. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to Langzhong Ancient City, which takes about 1.5 hours.
2. **Train**: There is a railway station in Langzhong. You can take a direct train from Chengdu, Chongqing and other places. After exiting the station, you can take a taxi or bus to the ancient city.
3. **Self-driving**: Starting from Chengdu, drive along Chengnan Expressway and you can reach Langzhong Ancient City in about 3 hours.
3. Recommended attractions
1. **Zhang Fei Temple**
The Zhang Fei Temple was built to commemorate Zhang Fei, a famous general during the Three Kingdoms period. The temple houses a statue of Zhang Fei and related historical relics, making it a good place to learn about the culture of the Three Kingdoms.
2. **Huaguang Building**
Huaguang Tower is the landmark building of the ancient city. Climbing the tower, you can overlook the entire ancient city and see the beautiful scenery of the Jialing River in the distance.
3. **Gongyuan**
Langzhong Gongyuan is one of the best-preserved ancient imperial examination venues in China, displaying the scenes and history of the ancient imperial examinations.
4. **Baba Temple**
Baba Temple is an Islamic holy place with a unique architectural style that combines Chinese and Islamic cultures. It is worth a visit.
5. Jinping Mountain
Located on the south side of the ancient city, there are many historical sites and temples on the mountain. You can overlook the panoramic view of the ancient city by climbing up, which is suitable for hiking enthusiasts.
4. Food Recommendations
1. **Zhang Fei Beef**
A specialty of Langzhong, it has tender meat and unique flavor, and is a must-try delicacy.
2. **Bonyung vinegar**
Langzhong Baoning Vinegar is one of the four famous vinegars in China. It has a moderate sweetness and sourness and can be used for seasoning or drinking directly.
3. **Sichuan jelly**
It has a smooth texture, and paired with chili oil and crushed peanuts, it is sour and spicy and appetizing.
4. **Langzhong steamed bun**
A traditional pasta dish that is soft and sweet, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
5. Accommodation Recommendations
1. **Ancient City Inn**
There are many characteristic inns in the ancient city, which are quaint and reasonably priced. It is recommended to stay in the ancient city for convenient sightseeing.
2. High-end hotels
If you are looking for comfort, you can choose a star-rated hotel outside the ancient city, which has complete facilities and thoughtful service.
6. Shopping Recommendations
1. **Bonyung vinegar**
As a specialty of Langzhong, Baoning vinegar is a great souvenir.
2. Zhang Fei Beef
Vacuum-packed Zhang Fei beef is easy to carry and suitable for giving to relatives and friends.
3. Handicrafts
There are many handicraft shops in the ancient city, selling traditional handicrafts such as paper-cutting and embroidery.
VII. Precautions
1. Most of the roads in the ancient city are paved with stone, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
2. When visiting, please be careful to protect the ancient buildings and do not touch or damage them at will.
3. The temperature in Langzhong is relatively high in summer, so please pay attention to sun protection and stay hydrated.
8. Best time to travel
The climate in spring and autumn (March to May, September to November) is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing. During the Spring Festival, the ancient city will hold a variety of folk activities, which is also a good choice.
I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip to Langzhong Ancient City. I wish you a pleasant journey!
Post by ISABEL MCLAUGHLIN | Mar 22, 2025












