Key Takeaways about China Old Towns
- How many old towns in China?
China has over 2,800 ancient towns, each with its unique geography, culture, and history.
- What is the best old city in China?
Some of the best ancient towns include Furong, Wangxian Valley, Zhujiajiao, Zhouzhuang, Lijiang, Pingyao, Kashgar, Zhengyuan, Hongcun, Xingping, Langzhong, and Yongding Hakka Culture Village.
Among them, the Ancient City of Lijiang, the Ancient City of Pingyao, the Hongcun Village and the Hakka Cultural Village of Yongding have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- What are the four great ancient towns in China?
These include the Langzhong Ancient City in Sichuan, Shexian Ancient City in Anhui, Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi, and Lijiang Ancient city in Yunnan.
- What is the oldest town in China?
The oldest town in China is Pingyao Ancient City, which has a history of 2,700 years.
- What is the best-preserved old town in China?
The best-preserved ancient town in China is Pingyao Ancient City, a UNESCO world heritage site.
1. Furong Ancient Town - A China Old Town on the Waterfall
Pueblo Antiguo de Furong
Pueblo Antiguo de Furong
Location: Yongshun County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan
How to Get There: It is 30 minutes' high-speed train from Zhangjiajie West to Furongzhen.
Highlights: Waterfall, Tujia stilt houses, nightscape, local cuisine, etc.
Furong Ancient Town is a hidden gem in Hunan, famous for its waterfall that flows through the town, earning it the nickname "Town on the Waterfall." With over 2,000 years of history, it's a blend of natural beauty and Tujia ethnic culture.
Walk along the stone-paved streets, lined with traditional Tujia stilt houses, and don't miss the rice tofu, a local specialty featured in the movie Furong Town. At night, the waterfall is illuminated, creating a magical nightscape.
Furong is less touristy than Fenghuang Ancient Town, offering a more authentic experience. See the itinerary for a 5 Days Zhangjiajie Tour with Fenghuang Ancient Town >>
Spend a day exploring, and stay overnight in a local guesthouse to immerse yourself in Tujia culture. It's only a 30 mins' train ride from Zhangjiajie, making it a perfect side trip!
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2. Lijiang Ancient City - An Old Chinese Town at the Foot of Snow-capped Mountains
Calles románticas en la antigua ciudad de Lijiang
Calle Sifang, el corazón de la Antigua Ciudad de Lijiang
Location: Naxi Autonomous County, Gucheng District, Lijiang City, Yunnan
How to Get There: 30 minutes by car from Lijiang Sanyi International Airport, or 30 minutes by car from Lijiang Railway Station
Highlights: Snow mountain, Naxi culture, Dongba script, ancient music, UNESCO site, etc.
Nestled at the foot of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lijiang Ancient city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 800 years of history. It's the heart of Naxi culture, known for its Dongba script, ancient music, and cobblestone streets.
Explore Square Street (四方街), the bustling center of the old town, or climb Lion Hill for panoramic views of the city and mountain. Visit Mu Family Mansion (木府), a grand complex that tells the story of Naxi rulers.
It's easily accessible from Lijiang Airport or Train Station, making it a must-visit for culture lovers in Yunnan. Spend 2-3 days here to fully experience its charm, and stay in a traditional Naxi-style guesthouse.
3. Wangxian Valley: China's Viral Fairytale Town, A Mine's Rebirth!
Valle de Wangxian
Vista nocturna del acantilado Yunhai en el valle de Wangxian
Location: Guangxin District, Shangrao, Jiangxi
How to Get There: Take a train or flight to Jiangxi Shangrao (上饶), followed by a bus or private car transfer.
Highlights: Magical nightscape, fairytale world, hanging guesthouses
You've also likely seen this stunning spot trending on TikTok! Wangxian Valley (望仙谷) in Jiangxi is one of those incredible old towns in China that truly stands out.
What was once an abandoned mine has been transformed into a breathtaking "fairytale world on a cliffside" – I'm talking about an amazing revival!
Picture this: hundreds of meters of sheer cliff face dramatically embedded with hanging guesthouses, libraries, and restaurants.
By day, you can explore traditional artisan workshops, but the true magic unfolds at night. When the lights ignite, the entire valley becomes a glowing wonderland, like a scene straight out of a fantasy drama!
This blend of dramatic scenery and enchanting light makes Shangrao Wangxian Valley a unique experience. Come see the magic for yourself!
4. Zhujiajiao Water Town - A China Ancient City Near Shanghai
Pueblo del Agua Zhujiajiao
Pueblo del Agua Zhujiajiao
Location: Qingpu District, Shanghai (50 km from Shanghai city center)
How to Get There: 1 hour by car or 2 hours by metro from Shanghai
Highlights: Ancient stone arch bridge, hand-operated boat, local street food, etc.
Just an hour from Shanghai, Zhujiajiao Water Town is a charming escape into China's past. With over 1,700 years of history, it's one of the best-preserved water towns near Shanghai, often called "Shanghai's backyard."
Stroll across the iconic Fangsheng Bridge (放生桥), a 400-year-old stone arch bridge, or wander through North Street for local street food, a well-preserved Ming-Qing era lane.
Don't miss the chance to take a traditional rowing boat ride along the waterways, offering serene views of ancient houses and stone bridges. For a deeper dive into local culture, visit Kezhi Garden (课植园), a classic Jiangnan-style garden.
You can spend 3-4 hours exploring and return to Shanghai. It's a must-add to your Shanghai tour!
5. Xingping Ancient Town - An Old Chinese Town Along the Li River
Descubre la antigua ciudad de Xingping de manera relajada.
Montañas de Karst y aguas tranquilas en Xingping
Location: Yangshuo County, Guilin City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region
How to Get There: Take a 2-hour bamboo rafting trip from Guilin to Xingping.
Highlights: Bamboo rafting, hiking, fishing villages, karst landscapes, etc.
Located along the Li River, Xingping Ancient Town is a postcard-perfect destination near Guilin. Famous for its "Yellow Cloth Reflection" and the 20 RMB note backdrop, it's a must-visit for nature lovers!
Take a bamboo raft ride to soak in the stunning karst landscape, or hike up Laozhai Mountain for panoramic views, especially at sunset. Explore the ancient streets and visit nearby fishing villages to see traditional cormorant fishing.
At night, the town transforms into a tranquil haven with lantern-lit streets. Stay overnight in a riverside inn for a peaceful retreat!
6. Hongcun Village - An Old China Village with Unique Huizhou Architecture
Pueblo de Hongcu
Hongcun en otoño
Location: Hongcun Town, Yixian County, Huangshan City, Anhui
Cómo llegar: Fácil de llegar en coche desde la Estación de Tren de Huangshan o el Aeropuerto de Tunxi. El viaje toma aproximadamente 1 hora y media.
Destacados: Sitio de la UNESCO, arquitectura de Huizhou, lagos, cocina local, etc.
Bienvenidos a Hongcun, un Sitio de la UNESCO Patrimonio de la Humanidad y la encarnación de la arquitectura de Huizhou. Este pueblo de 900 años es una pintura en vivo, a menudo llamado "un pueblo en una pintura china".
Pasee por el Lago Sur (南湖), donde las casas tradicionales de Huizhou se reflejan en el agua, o visite la Casa Chengzhi (承志堂), una mansión imponente conocida como la "Ciudad Prohibida popular". Para sumergirse más en la cultura local, intente suerte en la tejeduría de bambú o la fabricación de tinta en la Academia Nanhu.
Amantes de la comida, no pierdan la pescado mandarín apestoso y las tortillas de verduras de ciruela!
Complementen su visita con un viaje al Monte Huangshan para la experiencia definitiva. Solo toma un viaje de 40 minutos en coche.
7. Aldea Cultural Hakka de Yongding - Una antigua ciudad china con únicos Tulous de Fujian
Clúster de Tulou de Yongding Gaobei
Grupo de Tulou de Chuxi, Yongding
Ubicación: Distrito de Yongding, Ciudad de Longyan, Provincia de Fujian
Cómo llegar: Accesible en tren, un viaje de 3 horas y media desde Xiamen Norte a Yongding. Luego tome un coche para el destino final, aproximadamente 30 minutos.
Destacados: Cultura Hakka, arquitectura Tulou, un Sitio de la UNESCO Patrimonio de la Humanidad, etc.
¡Hola, aventureros! Si están fascinados por la arquitectura única, la Aldea Cultural Hakka de Yongding en Fujian es un must-see. Es hogar del icónico Tulou, enormes edificios de tierra circulares que son un Sitio de la UNESCO Patrimonio de la Humanidad.
- Comience con el Clúster de Tulou de Hongkeng (洪坑土楼群), donde encontrará el Zhencheng Lou (振成楼), apodado el "Príncipe de Tulou". Su diseño de doble anillo es un sueño para fotógrafos.
- A continuación, visite el Clúster de Tulou de Gaobei (高北土楼群) para ver el Chengqi Lou (承启楼), el Tulou más grande del mundo y una ubicación de rodaje para la película animada china Big Fish & Begonia.
- Para una atmósfera más auténtica, diríjase al Clúster de Tulou de Chuxi (初溪土楼群), donde puede probar actividades prácticas como la fabricación de papel y la tejeduría de bambú.
- O camine por el Clúster de Tulou de Nanxi (南溪土楼群), conocido como la "Gran Muralla de Tulou", con cientos de edificios como Zhengfu Lou (振福楼) que es conocido como la "Princesa de Tulou", en un impresionante telón de fondo de montañas.
Estos Tulou no son solo maravillas arquitectónicas; son sostenibles, eficientes energéticamente y construidos para la vida comunitaria. Pase un día o dos aquí y pernoctar para experimentar la hospitalidad Hakka. ¡Es un viaje a la historia y la cultura que no olvidarás!
8. Pingyao Ancient City - The Best-preserved Old City in China
Ciudad Antigua de Pingyao con 2.700 años de historia.
Banco Rishengchang, antigua ciudad de Pingyao
Location: Pingyao County, Jinzhong City, Shanxi
How to Get There: You can get there easily by high-speed train. It takes 45 minutes by train from Taiyuan, 3.5 hours from Datong, or 3 hours from Xian.
Highlights: Ming-Qing architecture, Jin merchant culture, local dishes, UNESCO site, etc.
Step into the past in Pingyao, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China's most well-preserved ancient cities. With over 2,700 years of history, it's a living museum of Ming-Qing architecture and Jin merchant culture.
Walk along the ancient city walls, stretching 6 kilometers, or visit Rishengchang (日升昌票号), China's first draft bank. Stroll through Ming-Qing Street, lined with traditional shops selling local specialties like Pingyao beef and lacquerware.
Don't miss the immersive show "See Pingyao Again," which brings the city's history to life.
Spend 1-2 days exploring and stay in a traditional courtyard inn for an authentic experience. Combine this with a Xian tour. Follow a classic Xian - Pingyao travel route >>
9. Kashgar Old City - The Most Exotic Ancient City in China
Ciudad Vieja de Kashgar
Ciudad Vieja de Kashgar
Location: Kashgar Region, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
How to Get There: It's only 30 minutes from Kashgar Airport or Kashgar Railway Station.
Highlights: Uyghur culture, heritage of China Silk Road, Bazaar, Gaotai Homes, local food, etc.
If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, Kashgar Old City in Xinjiang is a must-visit. Known as the "Heart of the Silk Road," this ancient town is over 2,000 years old and blends Uyghur culture, Islamic heritage, and Silk Road traditions.
Start at the Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺), the largest mosque in Xinjiang, to soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Wander through the Kashgar Bazaar (巴扎), where you can shop for handmade crafts, spices, and dried fruits.
Don't miss the Gaotai Homes (高台民居), traditional Uyghur houses perched on high platforms, offering a glimpse into local life. Foodies, you're in for a treat! Try samsa (baked lamb pies), polo (pilaf), and kebabs.
Why not spend a day or two exploring the Uyghur culture? We really recommend taking a day trip to Tashkurgan to see the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau and visit a lovely Tajik family.
10. Zhouzhuang Ancient Town - No. 1 Old Water Town in China
Pueblo del Agua Zhouzhuang
Navega y relájate en el barco mientras exploras Zhouzhuang.
Location: Southwest of Kunshan, Suzhou City, Jiangsu
How to Get There: 1-1.5 hours by car from Shanghai, or 30 minutes by bullet train from Shanghai to Suzhou South + 20 minutes by car from Suzhou South to Zhouzhuang
Highlights: Ancient double bridges and grand mansions, boat ride, local food, etc.
Known as the "No. 1 Water Town in China," Zhouzhuang is a picturesque escape just an hour from Shanghai. With over 900 years of history, it's famous for its double bridges (Shide and Yong'an), made iconic by the painting "Memory of My Hometown."
Explore Shen Hall (沈厅) and Zhang Hall (张厅), grand mansions showcasing the wealth of Jiangnan merchants. A rowing boat ride through the narrow canals is a must for soaking in the town's tranquil beauty. At night, Zhouzhuang transforms into a dreamy wonderland with lights reflecting on the water.
Don't forget to try the local delicacy, Wansan Pig Trotter, a savory treat.
We suggest you spend a day or two here and combine it with a poetic Jiangnan tour that includes the other destinations such as Shanghai and Hangzhou.
11. Zhenyuan Ancient Town - A China Old Town to Experience Miao Culture
Villa Antigua de Zhenyuan en Guizhou
Villa Antigua de Zhenyuan en Guizhou
Location: Zhenyuan County, Qiandongnan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, Guizhou
How to Get There: The best way to get to Zhenyuan is by train. From Guiyang, the train ride to Zhenyuan takes about 4 hours. Then take a car to Zhenyuan Ancient Town, taking about 20 minutes.
Highlights: Architecture, night boat ride, local food, Miao ethnic clothing, etc.
Located in Guizhou, Zhenyuan Ancient Town is a hidden gem with over 2,000 years of history. Known for its unique layout—"nine mountains embrace one river, dividing the town into two"—it's a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Explore the Qinglong Cave, a stunning complex of ancient Taoist architecture hanging over the Wuyang River. Wander through Fangjing Lane and Chongzikou Lane, where cobblestone streets lead to Ming-Qing era houses. At sunset, head to Zhusheng Bridge for a romantic vibe, often accompanied by traditional music.
Take a night boat ride to see the town lit up, or hike along the riverside trails. Try local dishes like sour fish soup and tofu balls, and don't miss the chance to dress in Miao ethnic clothing.
12. Langzhong Ancient City - An Old City Where Chinese New Year Is Born
Ciudad Antigua de Langzhong
Ciudad Antigua de Langzhong
Location: Langzhong City, Nanchong, China
How to Get There: It's a 2.5-hour train ride from Chengdu to Langzhong.
Highlights: Three Kingdoms culture, Zhang Fei Temple, local food, Chinese New Year folklore events, etc.
Tucked away in Sichuan, Langzhong Ancient City is one of China's "Four Great Ancient Towns" but remains off the beaten path. The other three are Shexian Ancient City in Anhui, Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi and Lijiang Ancient city in Yunnan.
With over 2,300 years of history, it's a treasure trove of Three Kingdoms culture and feng shui architecture. Walk along the ancient city walls for stunning views, or visit Zhang Fei Temple to learn about the legendary Three Kingdoms general.
Langzhong is one of the birthplaces of Chinese New Year culture and holds a grand Chinese New Year folklore event every year. If you're here during Spring Festival, join the lively celebrations with dragon dances, lanterns, and local performances.
Foodies, try the "Three Treasures of Langzhong"—Zhang Fei beef, Baoning vinegar, and steamed buns.
It's easily accessible from Chengdu by train, making it a perfect cultural getaway!
How to Avoid Crowds in China Old Towns?
China is a populated country. To avoid crowds in China's ancient towns, consider the following strategies:
- Visit During the Off-Season
Travel between November and February (except for regions like Heilongjiang Harbin and Hainan where the peak season is winter), early March to May (especially early March and mid-May after the flower bloom), or during non-peak periods in June to September (before and after school holidays).
Steer clear of Chinese New Year (New Year's Eve to the 5th day of the first lunar month), Labor Day (May 1-5), Summer Vacation (July to August/early September), and National Day (October 1-7), as these are peak travel times.
- Explore Less Crowded Towns
Consider visiting lesser-known ancient towns like Furong, Zhengyuan, Xingping, or Yongding Hakka Culture Village, which see fewer tourists.
- Use the Early or Late Visit Strategy
Be among the first visitors in the morning or visit in the late afternoon when large crowds are leaving. This way, you can enjoy the sights without the crowds.
Plan a Chinese Old Town Tour with Asia Odyssey Travel
Excited to explore ancient towns in China? Whether you're enchanted by the tranquil water towns of Jiangnan or the iconic Tulou villages in Fujian, these places offer a peek into China's rich history and culture.
With Asia Odyssey Travel, you'll have a local guide by your side, making your journey even more immersive and hassle-free. Plus, joining a group tour means you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure without the stress of planning.
Join in Asia Odyssey Travel now! Let's make your trip to China old towns, cities or villages an unforgettable one!
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