The Ancient Town of Shiping: Frozen History and Art Among Flying Eaves and Bracket Sets

Real Experience

Stepping into the ancient town of Shiping feels like entering a forgotten era. The town's narrow streets are paved with weathered flagstones that produce crisp echoes underfoot. Unlike crowded tourist spots, you'll find locals casually playing cards or chatting on doorsteps, creating an exceptionally relaxed atmosphere. Well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture stands in harmonious disorder, with every brick, tile, door, and window bearing historical imprints. As you wander, the air carries the aroma of tofu – stop by a street stall to try Shiping's famous crispy-yet-tender grilled tofu while chatting with vendors, and feel time slow down.

Practical Guide

- Transportation: Shiping County has both high-speed rail and airport connections. For public transport, take high-speed rail/flight first then transfer to local transport; self-driving is more convenient (navigate directly to Shiping Ancient Town).

- Accommodation:
* Shuiyunju Inn (No.2 North Main Street) offers highly-rated courtyard stays with bridge-crossing rice noodle breakfasts
* Shifang Yunyi Train Hotel features creatively converted train carriages
* Xinhaiyi Smart Hotel (Yuping Street branch) provides easy access to the ancient town with parking

- Food: Beyond renowned Shiping tofu, try:
* BBQ skewers (meat/pork skin)
* Snacks: purple rice cake, cold rice noodles
* Specialties: bayberry spare ribs, eight-sided fried fish

- Attractions Route: Follow this cultural trail:
Wen Temple → Yuping Academy (Shiping Museum) → Zunjing Pavilion (Dafang Coffee) → Yuan Jiagu's Former Residence (Memorial) → Qihe Tower (Shiping No.1 High School)

Tips

- The town market operates on dates ending with 5 or 0 (Guanyin Temple Alley), offering affordable produce, flowers, wild herbs, and medicinal plants

- All heritage sites are free-entry; please avoid touching or damaging artifacts

- Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets

- Try various tofu preparations: stuffed, aged, fragrant, or stinky tofu with different dips for unique flavors