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Are you looking for a picturesque place to "heal" your soul? Then make sure to check out the beautiful ancient towns of China, which look like something straight out of a painting, in this article!
With their cobbled streets and perfectly preserved traditional houses, each ancient town in China holds its own unique story and spirit. Join Mytour Vietnam as we explore the distinct beauty of these charming villages, immerse in the peaceful surroundings, and heal your soul while finding balance in life!
1. Fenghuang Ancient Town - A Town in Zhangjiajie, Hunan
- Location: Fenghuang County, Hunan Province, China
Nestled amidst the majestic mountains of Hunan Province, Fenghuang Ancient Town is a treasure with its timeless beauty and tranquility. With a history spanning over 1300 years, it is home to many ethnic minorities and holds a captivating historical tale.
Visitors here can explore the Hong Bridge, a historic structure that crosses the Da River and is considered the symbol of Fenghuang Ancient Town. While in the area, be sure to take a stroll through the Old Town with its timeworn wooden houses and visit the local souvenir shops and tempting eateries. Additionally, you can explore the Nongs' Temple, where the locals honor the god of agriculture, reflecting distinctive cultural elements in both architecture and spirituality.
To fully experience the charm of Fenghuang Ancient Town, it's recommended to spend at least two days walking around, savoring the local dishes, and soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the town.
2. Lijiang Ancient Town - Yunnan
- Address: Lijiang Ancient Town, Yunnan Province, China
Lijiang Ancient Town is a peaceful town nestled at the foot of the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Often referred to as the "Suzhou of the Plateau," it attracts visitors with its ancient allure, unique architecture, and rich culture, and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.
Lijiang is a melting pot of cultures from various ethnic groups such as the Naxi, Yi, Lisu, Pumi, Bai, and Tibetan. This cultural richness is vividly reflected in murals found in Baisha and Shuhe streets, as well as through traditional festivals such as the Jiazhi Festival, ancestor worship ceremonies, and the torch festivals.
You can visit Lijiang in the spring (from February to May) to enjoy the blooming rapeseed flowers, or in the autumn (from September to October) to experience the lively harvest atmosphere. Lijiang Ancient Town is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, cultural exploration, and a deep connection with nature.
3. Shui Zhen Gu Bei - A Famous Ancient Town in Beijing
- Address: Miyun District, Beijing, China
Situated at the foot of the Great Wall of China, Shui Zhen Gu Bei is a unique and captivating destination in Beijing. This place preserves the rich historical and cultural heritage of China, from the late Qing Dynasty to the period of the Republic of China.
Upon stepping into Shui Zhen Gu Bei, visitors will be enchanted by the nostalgic beauty of stone-paved streets and traditional architecture. The small canals winding through the streets create a peaceful and picturesque landscape.
When in Gu Bei, visitors should not miss the opportunity to visit the Yinghua Academy, which houses numerous Confucian classics, historical records, and philosophical works. Also, explore the Yongshun Dye House to learn about traditional fabric printing and dyeing techniques. Additionally, experience the local lifestyle by staying with residents and savoring traditional dishes such as corn egg cakes, pancakes, porridge, steamed buns, and roasted pork.
To reach Gu Bei, visitors can take a bus from Dongzhimen, a gateway to the old city of Beijing, or take the subway to Dongzhimen station and transfer to a bus. The best time to visit Gu Bei is in the autumn, when the vibrant red maple leaves create a stunning display.
4. Wuzhen, Zhejiang - One of the Most Beautiful Ancient Towns in China
- Address: Dongxiang, Jiaxing City, Zhejiang Province, China
If you have visited the famous ancient towns of China but missed Wuzhen, then you have truly missed out. This charming town captivates visitors with its ancient architecture, moss-covered bridges crossing meandering rivers, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of the period dramas you’ve seen on television.
Wuzhen is divided into two main areas: the Eastern section (Wuzhen Dongzha) and the Western section (Wuzhen Xizha). The Eastern part is vibrant with its ancient architecture, making it an ideal place to explore traditional Chinese culture. Here, you can find the Ancient Bed Museum, the Folk Custom Museum, a liquor distillery, a indigo dyeing workshop, a shadow puppet theater, and the Hua Gu stage.
The Western area offers a more tranquil and serene ambiance. This is a perfect place for those seeking peace and relaxation. You can visit the Grand Theater of Wuzhen, the Wuzhen Floating Market, the Foot Binding Culture Museum, and the Yadi Silk Workshop.
The best time to visit Wuzhen is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is cool and pleasant. It is recommended to spend at least half a day to fully explore the beauty of each area.
5. Xi'an City Wall - The Ancient City of Xi'an
- Address: Shaanxi Province, China
When exploring China's stunning ancient towns, the Xi'an City Wall is a must-visit. Located next to ancient historical sites like the Terracotta Army and the White Horse Temple, this ancient wall is a testament to the power and endurance of a remarkable civilization.
The Xi'an City Wall is a colossal architectural structure, built around the ancient city to protect Xi'an, the capital of numerous Chinese dynasties. Standing 12 meters high, 15 meters wide, and stretching 14 kilometers long, the wall was constructed with a mixture of earth, lime, and glutinous rice extract, then reinforced with bricks. Its system of retractable gates, towers, and surrounding moats was once among the most impressive military defense systems in the world.
Visitors to the city wall can stroll along its top and enjoy panoramic views of Xi'an, or cycle along the 14-kilometer-long path, discovering historical sites that date back 600 years.
6. Dongli Ancient Town - Suzhou
- Address: Wujiang District, outskirts of Suzhou, Jiangsu Province
Dongli is often referred to as the "Venice of the East", known for its intricate network of canals, narrow cobblestone streets, and ancient homes built centuries ago. It is also famous for its traditional gardens, such as Tuisi Garden, Gengle Hall, and Jiayin Hall, where architectural beauty harmonizes with nature.
To reach Dongli, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Suzhou city. The area also offers many homestays and inns for a comfortable stay. To fully experience the charm of Dongli, it is recommended to spend at least a day wandering its stone-paved streets, admiring the ancient houses, and savoring local specialties.
You can hire a boat to cruise along the canals, enjoying a different perspective of the picturesque ancient town. Be sure to visit famous landmarks such as the ancient Taiping Bridge, Jili Bridge, Changqing Bridge, and the traditional gardens.
Dongli Ancient Town is the perfect destination for those seeking peace and relaxation while exploring the timeless beauty of Chinese culture. It promises to offer unforgettable experiences.
7. Huanglongxi Ancient Town - Sichuan
- Address: Songliu County, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, China
Built nearly two centuries ago, Huanglongxi Ancient Town resembles a timeless traditional Chinese landscape painting, captivating visitors with its serene beauty and fascinating historical tales. Stepping into Huanglongxi, you’ll feel like entering a scene from a classical Chinese drama.
Huanglongxi Ancient Town is designed in the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty, featuring ancient homes, temples, and pagodas that have been carefully preserved. Traditional beauty is evident in every street, every building, with intricate carvings on the roofs and vibrant lanterns hung outside homes during bright moonlit nights.
To reach Huanglongxi, you can take a bus from Chengdu or nearby cities. The ancient town has a well-connected public transportation system, making it easy for visitors to explore and enjoy.
When in Huanglongxi, be sure to savor authentic Sichuan cuisine, known for its distinctive flavors and appealing presentation. You can also shop for unique souvenirs, such as lanterns, fans, and finely crafted handicrafts.
8. Zhenyuan Ancient Town - A Historic Town in Guizhou
- Address: Zhenyuan County, Miao and Dong Autonomous Region, Southeastern Guizhou Province, China
Zhenyuan Ancient Town is a peaceful and picturesque ancient town surrounded by the magnificent mountains of Guizhou, with fresh air and well-preserved historic buildings. It was once a town of the Miao people with a cultural history spanning over 2200 years. Zhenyuan stands as a vivid example of the harmonious fusion of culture, people, and nature.
A key feature of Zhenyuan Ancient Town is the Longqing Cave, an ancient temple complex with unique architecture that blends Central Plains style with the stilt house architecture of the Miao people. This site, known as the 'Hanging Temple of the South,' is a must-visit when in Zhenyuan.
When visiting Zhenyuan Ancient Town, don't miss the Duan Yang Dragon Boat Festival – a unique traditional festival that highlights the special culture of the local people.
To reach Zhenyuan, you can either travel by road from the Hunan border or fly to Guizhou and continue by land.
9. Jinxi Ancient Town - Jiangsu
- Address: Kunshan City, Jiangsu Province
Located about 50 kilometers from the heart of Shanghai, Jinxi Ancient Town is an ideal destination for those seeking to escape the fast pace of city life and discover the timeless beauty of ancient China. With a history spanning over 2,500 years, this ancient town boasts many architectural landmarks from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
Upon entering Jinxi, visitors are greeted by the charm of over 238 winding rivers and canals that flow between traditional houses. This distinctive feature sets Jinxi apart from other ancient towns in China. As you stroll along the streets, you can enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water or the warm hospitality of the locals, leaving unforgettable memories of your journey.
Jinxi is also known for its folk museums, such as the Red Ceramic Museum, the Changsheng Art Exhibition, the Root Carving Sculpture Museum, and the Stone Wonders Museum. These sites provide the perfect opportunity for visitors to explore the unique culture of this region.
10. Pingyao Ancient City - Shanxi
Location: Shanxi Province, China
Situated about 120 kilometers northwest of Beijing, Pingyao Ancient Town is one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the Shanxi region. With a history spanning over 600 years, this ancient town showcases classic Chinese architectural styles from centuries ago.
Visitors can explore notable landmarks such as the Pingyao Historical Site, the Memorial Hall of Dang Chancun, and the Baijia Temple. The peaceful atmosphere combined with its traditional architecture makes Pingyao Ancient Town the perfect place for travelers to delve into China’s rich cultural heritage.
To reach Pingyao Ancient Town, travelers can take public transportation like buses or trains, or opt for a private car if they prefer more flexibility in exploring the town. It’s advisable to bring snacks, drinks, and comfortable footwear, as the area is large with several points of interest to visit.
Chinese ancient towns, with their serene and timeless beauty, are treasures that have endured through the ages. From cobblestone streets and ancient houses to historic bridges and stories passed down through every brick and corner, each one exudes a unique, peaceful, and poetic charm.
In addition to picturesque ancient towns, China offers many other remarkable travel destinations to explore. Mytour Blog will help you stay updated on travel tips and attractions across the populous nation. Check out these posts for more information: China Travel Tips, 7-Day 6-Night China Itinerary, China Travel Tips, 7-Day 6-Night China Itinerary, Phoenix Ancient Town Self-Guided Tour, 5-Day 4-Night Shanghai Itinerary, Lijiang Ancient Town Travel Tips, Chengdu Travel Tips, Forbidden City Travel Tips, 25 Famous Chinese Dishes, Yunnan Travel Tips, Shangri-La Travel Tips, Chongqing Travel Tips, ...
Which ancient town in China will you visit? Check out the travel tips shared by Mytour Vietnam and start planning your China itinerary now!
