Langzhong ancient town

Langzhong is one of the Four Great Towns of China, boasting well-preserved architectural culture and the friendliest townspeople I encountered during my trip in China

One of the highlights from my travels in China was the enchanting experience in Langzhong. For a couple of days, I wandered through its 2300-year-old ancient town, deliberately getting lost in its historical charm.

Langzhong ancient town, nestled within the larger Langzhong City, holds historical and cultural significance. It played a pivotal role in shaping various original Chinese cultures, including Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese system harmonizing individuals with the environment. Surrounded by rivers on three sides and backed by a mountain, Langzhong ancient town occupies an auspicious location according to Feng Shui. The town’s buildings were meticulously designed in accordance with Feng Shui principles, contributing to its positive vibes and welcoming locals—the friendliest people I encountered in China.

Once the astronomical research center of China during the Han to Tang Dynasties, Langzhong is considered one of the four greatest ancient towns in China and the birthplace of the Chinese New Year. Remarkably, it is the only ancient town preserved in the Sichuan Province.

The town’s charm, architecture, and original cultures remain intact, allowing visitors to envision life hundreds of years ago. Walking its ancient streets provides an authentic sense of living in bygone eras.

Situated along the Jialing River, Langzhong boasts a beautiful natural landscape, complemented by the nearby Jinping Mountain. It truly encapsulates the essence of old China.

Unlike popular destinations such as Lijiang, Langzhong ancient town isn’t swarmed by foreign tourists. Instead, you’ll encounter Chinese travelers exploring their country. I shared an incredible dinner and evening with some local travelers in the courtyard of the traditional house where I stayed.

Throughout the old town, small teahouses and food stalls invite you to enjoy a peaceful stroll through streets closed to vehicle traffic. A night-time walk reveals captivating illuminations, creating a fantastic ambience. Interestingly, Langzhong is also the birthplace of the Chinese Lantern.

Langzhong is more than an ancient town; it’s a living testament to China’s rich history. Without a doubt, it stood out as the best place I visited in China.

An elderly woman with a joyful expression standing in front of a wooden door.

Interior of a rustic room with wooden shelves holding various bottles, a large ceramic vase with flowers, and sheer drapes partially covering a window; a person is visible in the background, seated and seemingly engaged with a handheld device.

A boy peeks around a corner with a smile.

Narrow alley in an old village with traditional wooden houses and red lanterns hanging, reflecting a wet ground after rain.

An elderly woman in a blue outfit sits on a wooden chair outside a traditional building, resting with a cane in her hands.

A person sits reading in a dimly lit shop adorned with cultural memorabilia and artwork, while traditional furnishings and decorations are arranged throughout the space.

An elderly woman with a weathered face wearing a black cap and a purple jacket over a blue garment smiles gently at the camera.

A vibrant night scene at Langzhong ancient town, adorned with red lanterns and banners, capturing a festive atmosphere.

A narrow alley in a traditional village with historical architecture, featuring lanterns, clothes hanging out to dry, and parked motorcycles.

An intricately designed circular ceiling panel with Chinese zodiac symbols and yin yang in the center, set within a traditional wooden structure in Langzhong vielle ville.

A lone individual walks down a narrow alleyway flanked by traditional buildings with tiled roofs in what appears to be an old part of a city.

An elderly man with a joyous expression, waving his hand in greeting, as he stands beside a weathered black door.

Traditional chinese building entrance adorned with red lanterns at nighttime.

Traditional multi-tiered pagoda-style architecture stands above an array of ancient tiled roofs, with a backdrop of lush green hills under a cloudy sky.