Qingyan Ancient Town - Charming Stone Town in the Mountains

With a history dating back over 600 years, Qingyan Ancient Town was originally built as a military stronghold to garrison troops during the Ming Dynasty (1368~1644). Surrounded by moats, mountains, and sturdy fortresses, the town was featured four main gates (East, West, South, and North), and further protected by high city walls capable of withstanding firearms, bows, and arrows. This design made it easy to defend and difficult to attack. Qingyan Ancient Town once served as a base in 1459 for suppressing the uprising led by Miao chieftain Gan Bazhu (干把猪). The "永镇边夷" (Eternal Pacification of the Frontier) cliff inscription remains as a testament to this campaign. With its scientific layout, robust walls, flexible street design, and complex road network, Qingyan Ancient Town stands as a remarkable example of a settlement with both military and cultural significance.

Vibrant Cultural Heritage

In its heyday, Qingyan Ancient Town was a thriving center of culture and intellect, serving as a melting pot of ideas and traditions. The town was home to renowned scholars, such as Zhao Yijiong (赵以炯), the first Number One Scholar in imperial examinations from Guizhou, whose legacy is preserved in the Zhuangyuan Mansion. Qingyan's vibrant intellectual and cultural environment was further enriched by its Confucian academies, temples, and ancestral halls, which became gathering places for learning and exchange. The town's unique blend of Han Chinese and local ethnic cultures also contributed to its reputation as a place of diversity and creativity.

Unique Coexistence of Religions

One of the unique features of Qingyan Ancient Town is its harmonious coexistence of Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, and Christianity, known as "Four Religions in One". In addition to traditional Chinese Taoist temples and Buddhist monasteries, the town is also home to a Christian church and a Catholic church, reflecting its openness and inclusiveness. The Wanshou Palace represents Taoist culture, while Ciyun Temple and Longquan Temple showcase the town's deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. The presence of the Christian church and Catholic church highlights the influence of Western missionaries. It offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the historical interplay of diverse beliefs and traditions.

The North Gate, also known as Xuanwu Gate (玄武门), is the most elaborate and imposing among the town's four gates. Its roof consists of three layers of eaves, adorned with exquisite carvings of dragons and auspicious beasts.

Climb the Ancient City Wall

Near the South Gate, visitors can climb the ancient city wall and ascend the watchtower for a panoramic view of the town. Though the climb can be steep, the breathtaking vistas of Qingyan's rooftops and surrounding landscapes make it a rewarding experience.

Savor Unique Local Snacks

Qingyan Ancient Town boasts a rich culinary tradition with dozens of unique local snacks. Among the most famous are Huaxi Beef Noodles, Qingyan Braised Pork Trotters, Rice Cake Porridge, etc. A visit to Qingyan Ancient Town is incomplete without indulging in these delicious local treats!

Experience a Hanfu Photoshoot

The town's historic buildings, stone walls, and tranquil courtyards create an ideal environment for capturing the elegance of Hanfu. Wearing Hanfu allows you to connect with China's rich cultural heritage and experience the grace of traditional fashion.

Qingyan Ancient Town, with its rich history and cultural charm, can be entered through four main gates: the North Gate, South Gate, West Gate, and East Gate.

As the largest and most prominent entrance, the North Gate is the preferred choice for most visitors. It serves as the main gateway to the town and is often the starting point for exploring its attractions. Starting at the North Gate, visitors should not miss iconic landmarks such as Longquan Temple, Wenchang Pavilion, Shoufo Temple, Zhao Lilun Centenarian Archway, South Gate, Ciyun Temple, Wanshou Palace, Zhuangyuan Mansion etc.

The East Gate area is a bustling commercial zone for locals. Here, you'll find numerous small restaurants and basic convenience stores.

Entering through the South Gate (Dingguang Gate) brings you to the town's main streets. Just a short walk in, you'll encounter the famous Back Street (背街), a narrow, stone-paved alley known for its serene beauty and timeless charm.

The West Gate is conveniently located near significant cultural and religious sites, including the Catholic Church and Wanshou Palace (万寿宫).

By Air: You can fly to Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport, the main airport in Guizhou Province which offers direct flights from Beijing (3hrs), Shanghai (3hrs), Xian (2hrs), Guangzhou (2hrs), Shenzhen (2hrs), etc.

By Train: Guiyang has a well-developed railway network, especially for high-speed trains. The main train stations in Guiyang are Guiyang North Railway Station, Guiyang East Railway Station, and Guiyang Railway Station. Most travellers will choose Guiyang North Railway Station since it is the largest high-speed rail hub in Guiyang with numerous train options. Visitors travelling from cities like Guilin (2.5-3hrs), Kunming (2-2.5hrs), Changsha (3-3.5hrs), Chengdu (3.5-4.5hrs), and Chongqing (2.5-3hrs) etc. often choose high-speed trains to Guiyang.

How to Get to Qingyan Ancient Town from Guiyang

By taxi: The most convenient option is to take a taxi directly from the Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport (about 35 km) or Guiyang North Railway Station (about 37 km) to Qingyan Ancient Town. .

By Public Transportation:It is more time-consuming but budget-friendly to combine metro and bus to get to Qingyan Ancient Town, which usually takes 1.5~2.5 hours.

Qingyan Ancient Town enjoys the subtropical humid and mild climate. It can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is from March to October. During this period, the weather is at its most pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the town's historic streets, cultural sites, and natural beauty. If visiting in summer, plan ahead to avoid the peak tourist crowds.

Spring (March to May): Mild weather (8°C to 25°C), with blooming flowers.
Summer (June to August): Warm but comfortable (18°C to 29°C), with lush greenery.
Autumn (September to October): Cool and crisp (8°C to 25°C), with a peaceful atmosphere.
Winter (November to February): Cold (2°C to 12°C), with fewer tourists.

Many travelers begin their Guizhou adventure in Guiyang, the provincial capital, where you will learn about Guizhou’s history and culture by visiting landmarks like Jiaxiu Pavilion, Qingyan Ancient Town, and more for 1-2 days.

Recommended Guizhou Tour Packages with Qingyan Ancient Town:

☛ 7 Days Best of Guizhou Tour with Nature & Culture Highlights
☛ 6 Days Classic Guizhou Tour to Huangguoshu & Authentic Southeast Guizhou

If you’re eager to delve into Guizhou’s rich ethnic minority cultures, you can combine some must-visits in the Qiandongnan region for 3-4 days. Explore the charming towns of Kaili, Congjiang, and Rongjiang, where you’ll find traditional villages of the Miao and Dong people.

Recommended Guizhou Tour Packages with Ethnic Villages:

☛ 5 Days Southeast Guizhou Ethnic Tour with Amazing Cultural & Hiking Experience
☛ 5 Days Guizhou Miao & Dong Minority Tour

If you want to explore more Guizhou’s natural landscapes, particularly its karst formations, you can spend 1-2 days heading to Huangguoshu Waterfall in Anshun, Seven Small Arches Scenic Area in Libo, or Wanfenglin (Ten Thousand Peaks Forest) in Xingyi. Don’t miss Mount Fanjing, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its peculiar mushroom-like rock pillars.

☛ 6 Days Guizhou Natural Wonders Exploration from Guiyang
☛ 5 Days Guiyang Fanjingshan Tour with Huangguoshu Waterfall