Huanglongxi Ancient Town
Huanglongxi is an ancient town with a history of more than 1,700 years. Situated in Shuangliu County, 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) southeast from Chengdu, it is greatly admired by visitors for its beautiful natural scenery and ancient Chinese culture.
History of Huanglongxi Ancient Town
Huanglongxi can be dated back to the Western Han (206 BC-24 AD). During the Three Kingdoms Period (220-280), the town was of great military importance to the south of Chengdu (the capital of Shu Kingdom). Story has it that it was guarded by troops when Zhuge Liang, famous strategist, statesman and ideologist, led a southern expedition. The loss of this expedition speeded up the collapse of Kingdom of Shu. As a Cheng Xiang (an ancient term for prime minister) of the Shu Kingdom, he was famous in Chinese history for his talent to foresee with divine accuracy.
Seven Ancient Streets in Huanglongxi Ancient Town
With many scenic places of interest, Huanglongxi Ancient Town is worth a visit to find the old Chinese culture and customs. Seven ancient streets, which were built during the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) Dynasties, are well preserved. They are all paved with stone slabs, and the porch columns on both sides are orderly arrayed. The Gulong Temple, the Zhenjiang Temple and the Chaoyin Temple are three ancient temples in the central street. They, together with the two other temples in the outer area, attract many visitors from home and abroad.
Walking through the street, visitors will see many historical civilian residences of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. While traveling along the river, one can have a view of the stilt houses, which fully represent the pile-dwelling culture of Shu people. Six ancient trees with histories of more than 800 years cast glamour over the old town.
Other Relics in Huanglongxi Ancient Town
In a visit to Huanglongxi Ancient Town, travelers find many other antiquities, such as the Ancient Buddha Cave, the Buddha Weir and the Old Battlefield. Many Han burial cases of the Han Dynasty on cliffs, with important value for archaeological research, have been found during the recent years.
In addition, many cultural and recreational activities are going on whenever there is a festival. To explore the customs here, which hang over from the old days, is an interesting experience.
Moreover, due to its beautiful scenery and ancient architecture, Huanglongxi Ancient Town is an ideal place to make costume films. More than one hundred films and TV plays have been produced here so far, including popular ones like Rabbi Haideng, Zhuo Wenjun and Sima Xiangru, and The Songstresses.
Local Foods in Huanglongxi Ancient Town
Huanglongxi Ancient Town not only satisfies you visually. One will be tempted by foods there. Many famous local dishes are favored by visitors, such as the sesame cakes, the stonewashed bean paste and the fermented beans. Wandering around, visitors can also go shopping for its local products, such as the handmade weavings. Leisure gardens and hotels by rivers are also available.
Tips: Huanglongxi Ancient Town opens all day without admission fee.
How to get to Huanglongxi Ancient Town
Take the bus from Xinnanmen Bus Station, Chadianzi Bus Station or East Railway Station Bus Station to Huanglongxi, and it costs CNY15/16.
Chengdu Bus / Metro Search