Qingyan Ancient Town
Qingyan Ancient Town, a well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty settlement nestled in Guizhou Province, is renowned for its cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and vibrant Miao and Buyi ethnic culture. Established in 1378 during the Ming Dynasty, the town spans 2.25 square kilometers and is encircled by 3-kilometer-long stone walls. Designated a "National Historical and Cultural Town" in 1992, it welcomes over 3 million visitors annually, offering a glimpse into China’s southwestern heritage through its architecture, cuisine, and folk traditions.
Historical Overview
1378: Founded as a military garrison by the Ming Dynasty to defend against ethnic tribes.
16th Century: Expanded with the construction of the Nine Gates and Watchtowers, many of which still stand today.
1911: Served as a revolutionary stronghold during the Xinhai Revolution, with local heroes like Ping Gang leading uprisings.
1980s–2000s: Underwent restoration, with the 2005 renovation of the East Gate and 2010 revival of traditional workshops.
2017: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Site for its cultural significance.
Structural Layout
The town’s layout follows a traditional Chinese grid system, with four main streets intersecting at the central Bell and Drum Tower.
CityWalls: Built with blue-gray stones, featuring watchtowers and arrow slits for defense.
AncientStreets: Paved with cobblestones and lined with wooden shops selling local crafts and snacks.
ResidentialHouses: Characterized by "seal-shaped" courtyards, with carved wooden windows and stone thresholds.
Major Attractions
Zhaowen Pavilion: A Ming Dynasty watchtower offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Wenchang Pavilion: A Confucian temple dedicated to the god of literature, housing ancient steles and calligraphy.
Back Street: A labyrinth of alleys where visitors can experience traditional paper-making and silver crafting.
Dragon Field Cave: A natural limestone cave with stalactites and legends of hidden treasures.SuggestedItineraries
Classic Route(2–3Hours)
Start at the East Gate to admire the city walls and stone carvings.
Stroll along Back Street to sample local snacks like rosy preserved pork and stir-fried glutinous rice cake.
Visit Wenchang Pavilion and explore the adjacent antique markets.
End at the Bell and Drum Tower for sunset views.
Cultural Depth Route(4–5Hours)
Begin with a guided tour of the city walls, learning about military strategies.
Participate in a paper-making workshop at a local studio.
Hike to Dragon Field Cave and learn about its folklore.
Attend a Miao ethnic dance performance in the evening (if available).
All-Day Exploration(FullDay)
Morning: East Gate → City Walls → Back Street workshops → lunch at a riverside restaurant.
Afternoon: Wenchang Pavilion → Dragon Field Cave → tea tasting at a traditional courtyard.
Evening: Night market tour for street food and handicrafts, followed by a riverside stroll.TicketPurchase
Online: Book via platforms like Ctrip or Meituan (¥10 for basic entry; combo tickets with workshops ¥50–80).
On-Site: Tickets sold at the East Gate (¥10; children under 1.2m free).
Guided Tours: ¥120–200 for English-speaking guides (includes access to restricted areas).
Free Admission: Seniors over 70, disabled visitors, and local residents.
Transportation
By Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Guiyang’s Jinyang Bus Station (1-hour ride, ¥10).
By Taxi: Direct to “Qīngyán Gǔzhèn” ; fare ¥80–100 from Guiyang downtown.
By Self-Drive: Follow the G75 Lanhai Expressway to Qingyan exit (parking ¥10/day).
Shuttle Bus: Operates from Guiyang’s Huaguoyuan Scenic Area (¥20 round-trip).
Best Time&Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit early morning (7–9 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) to escape tour groups.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures for walking.
Essentials:
Wear ComfortableShoes: Cobblestone streets can be slippery.
Bargain Wisely: Prices at markets are often negotiable.
Try Local Specialties: Must-eats include chicken pie and rose ice powder.
Photography: Best in golden hour near the city walls or riverside.
Prohibited Items: Drones and loudspeakers (to respect local residents).
