Overview
What to Expect
Huanglongxi Ancient Town is a 1,700-year-old water town located in Shuangliu District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, just 40 kilometers from downtown Chengdu. As one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Sichuan, it features well-maintained The Ming and Qing Dynasties (Ming and Qing dynasties) architecture, stone-paved streets, and crisscrossing rivers. The town is famous for its three ancient streets, five ancient bridges, and four ancient temples, creating a typical “water town in western Sichuan” landscape. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Huanglongxi retains a peaceful atmosphere, where visitors can stroll along river banks, watch traditional folk performances, and taste local snacks like sweet potato noodles and fermented tofu. It’s an ideal day trip from Chengdu for those seeking ancient charm and slow life.
1,700-year-old water town with well-preserved The Ming and Qing Dynasties architecture
Close to Chengdu (40 mins by car), perfect day trip for families and couples
Peaceful atmosphere with less crowds compared to other ancient towns
Rich local culture: traditional folk performances and authentic snacks
Scenic river views with bamboo raft rides and river-side dining
Things to Do
- Stroll along the three ancient streets to admire The Ming and Qing Dynasties-style buildings and traditional craftsmanship shops
- Take a bamboo raft ride on Jinjiang River to experience the water town scenery from the river
- Visit ancient temples: Chaoyin Temple (Tang Dynasty) and Wanshou Palace for cultural exploration
- Watch traditional folk performances: dragon dance, lion dance, and shadow puppetry (weekends and holidays)
- Taste local snacks: sweet potato noodles, fermented tofu, and Huanglongxi rice cakes at street stalls
Suggested Itinerary
- Morning – Arrival & Ancient Streets
Take bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station to Huanglongxi (1.5 hours). Enter the town through the main gate, stroll along the ancient stone streets (Main Street, East Street) to admire The Ming and Qing Dynasties architecture and traditional shops. - Midday – River Views & Local Food
Walk to the Jinjiang River bank, take a bamboo raft ride (optional) to enjoy water town scenery. Have lunch at a river-side restaurant, try local specialties like Huanglongxi sweet potato noodles and spicy fermented tofu. - Afternoon – Ancient Temples & Return
Visit key temples: Chaoyin Temple (built in Tang Dynasty) and Wanshou Palace. Watch traditional folk performances (dragon dance, shadow puppetry) if available. In late afternoon, take bus back to Chengdu.
How to Get to Huanglongxi Ancient Town
- By bus (Recommended): Take bus No. 819 from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station to Huanglongxi Ancient Town (1.5 hours, 15-20 RMB). Buses depart every 30 minutes from 7:00-18:00.
- By subway + shuttle: Take subway Line 5 to “Huanglongxi Station”, then transfer to shuttle bus No. 5 to the town entrance (20 mins, 5 RMB).
- By private car/taxi: 40-minute drive from downtown Chengdu via Chengdu-Renhuai Expressway, about 100-150 RMB one-way. Free parking available at the town entrance.
- By tour: Many half-day tours from Chengdu include Huanglongxi (100-150 RMB including transport and guide).
Travel Tips
- Best visiting time: Visit in the morning (9-11 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Weekend afternoons tend to be busier.
- Entrance fee: The town itself is free to enter. Some small attractions (like ancient temples) charge 5-10 RMB per person.
- Comfort tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the streets are paved with stones. Bring a hat and sunscreen in summer; light jacket in spring/autumn.
- Shopping tips: Buy local specialties like fermented tofu, bamboo products, and hand-painted fans from small shops. Bargaining is acceptable.
- Photography spots: Best spots are the ancient stone bridges, river-side pavilions, and traditional courtyard gates during golden hour (early morning/late afternoon).
FAQ
Is Huanglongxi Ancient Town crowded?
Compared to other famous ancient towns in China, Huanglongxi is relatively uncrowded, especially on weekdays. It offers a more peaceful experience of ancient town life.
How long does it take to visit Huanglongxi?
Most visitors spend 3-4 hours. It’s perfect for a half-day trip from Chengdu, allowing time to explore the town, enjoy local food, and relax by the river.
Are there English signs in the town?
Major streets and attractions have basic English signs. For deeper cultural understanding, hiring a local guide (80-100 RMB) or using a translation app is recommended.
Can I stay overnight in Huanglongxi?
Yes, there are many guesthouses in the town, ranging from budget (100-150 RMB/night) to mid-range (200-300 RMB/night). Staying overnight allows you to experience the quiet town at night.
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