A must-stay Republican-era courtyard hidden in Xichang’s Jianchang Ancient City for self-driving trips

When driving from Yunnan to Sichuan, most people choose to stay one night in Xichang, this satellite city. It truly gives a different feeling year after year. The first time you come, you’ll be fixated on the shores of Qionghai Lake. Next time, you’ll find the city itself is better because it’s really super convenient and there’s also a night view to enjoy.

【Is Jianchang Ancient City very similar to Dali Ancient City?】 I personally think yes, except for the architectural style. The travel photography, snacks, cuisine, and commercialization here look pretty much the same as anywhere else. Even Dali’s popular Ji Xin Old Bread is here, along with tie-dye, ethnic travel photography, barbecue shops, and grilled rice cakes. For a moment, it feels no different from Dali Ancient City.

【What’s special here?】 🎊 We discovered a large courtyard with a Republican-era style that’s very suitable for elderly and children — 【Heyi】. We stayed one night and couldn’t stop praising it. ✅ Value: Honestly, the scale and facilities are comparable to those in Dali of the same grade and period costing 700-800 yuan. But here in Xichang, it’s only solved for 300-400 yuan. ✅ Style: A Republican-era style building used as a guesthouse is actually rare in the Yunnan-Guizhou-Sichuan-Chongqing region. It’s more common in Fujian. So this unique style makes the courtyard feel even more precious. As the elders say, “antique and charming.” ✅ Food hunting + sightseeing convenience, yet peaceful amid the bustle: As for location, this place is right on the busiest main street. Self-driving guests have a “pass” to drive in, but be sure to arrive before dinner time. Otherwise, it’s too crowded and hard to drive. There are many snack and food options. Even if you don’t want to stay in the ancient city, just drive 2-3 kilometers out and there are plenty of delicious choices. Inside, there’s “Li Small Intestine” and “Chef Descends the Mountain.” Watching people come and go outside, the courtyard remains peaceful and serene. Having barbecue under the moonlight, drinking tea in the courtyard is so cozy. ✅ Family rooms, truly family-friendly: The shower and sink are at baby height, laundry and drying are no problem, and breakfast is abundant. It takes care of children and elders, and young people will enjoy it too. 😍 Ancient city sightseeing route: Starting from the guesthouse, walk along South Street toward Datong Gate, then turn left at 【Chef Descends the Mountain】 toward Anding Gate. Then climb the ancient city wall at Anding Gate and walk back to Datong Gate. You’ll get a beautiful night view. Few people, no tiring walking.

Post by Flavorful Expeditions | Aug 27, 2025