[2025 Tongling Attraction] Travel Guide for Datong Ancient Town (Updated Jun)

When I passed through Datong Ancient Town in Tongling, it was already around four or five o'clock. This timing was a bit awkward—too late to see the finless porpoises, yet too early to chase the sunset glow. Plus, perhaps because the Golden Week holiday had just ended, Lanxi Old Street seemed somewhat deserted, with only a few scattered shops open. The old man said it was quite boring, but I thought it was nice. The quietness at dusk was exactly the filter I prefer for ancient towns. Datong, which can be traced back to the Western Han Dynasty, was established as a water post station during the Tang Dynasty and became a town during the Song Dynasty. By the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, it was one of Anhui's "Four Major Commercial Ports" alongside Anqing, Wuhu, and Bengbu. Due to its unique geographical position where "the river turns north and the sea turns back," it once flourished and was not only known as "Little Shanghai" but also served as the backdrop for important events like the Self-Strengthening Movement and the Reform Movement. However, like many towns that rose and fell with their shipping status, Datong has shed its former glory. There are no eternal grand waves—Datong too must move toward a new stage of life. The evening sun's glow falls on the square stone slabs of the old street, and fishing tackle shops visible everywhere silently tell the story of Datong's past and present. The sesame fragrance of small-pressed sesame oil permeates the air, while old buildings awaiting demolition or renovation carry memories and reshape the future. The century-old Datong barbershop still maintains its original appearance—old tables and chairs, old furnishings, old barbers—like an indelible part of the old street's imprint. 📸Travel Tips: The ancient town is free to enter, car-friendly with plenty of parking spaces 🅿️ The town is small and can be explored on foot, or you can choose to take a ferry to Heyue Island. If you want to see finless porpoises, check the timing in advance.

Yongquan Town in Tongling, Anhui is a vacation destination that combines natural scenery with cultural experiences, featuring hot springs, Jiangnan gardens, and folk activities. Location and Transportation Driving: Navigate to Yongquan Town parking lot, with convenient parking within the scenic area. High-speed Rail: Arrive at Tongling Station (15 minutes from the scenic area) or Tongling North Station (30 minutes away), then take a taxi directly to the destination. Key Attractions and Experiences Twelve Scenes of Jiangnan Jiangnan garden landscapes based on karst topography, including bamboo forests, streams, and ancient paths. In spring, you can enjoy vast fields of azaleas. Cloud ladders make mountain climbing less strenuous, suitable for family trips. The evening light show transforms the forest into a fairy tale world, and you can take slides down the mountain. Nine Treasure Hot Springs Multiple natural outdoor hot spring pools with water sourced from genuine underground hot springs. The pools are designed to blend with the garden landscape, perfect for relaxation. Jiangnan Flavor Food Street Unique "copper coin transaction" model where you can exchange coins for specialties like stove-cooked rice, crayfish, and hot pot. You can also watch traditional snack-making processes, such as rolling noodle skins and drying bean curd sheets. Bonfire Party Evening activities center around bonfires with singing and dancing, combined with interactive events like hometown performances and popcorn making, creating a lively atmosphere. Accommodation Recommendations Jiangnan Guesthouses: Accommodations within the scenic area, some rooms equipped with private hot springs, including a sumptuous buffet breakfast. Travel Tips Recommended Seasons: Spring (when azaleas bloom) and summer (for firefly viewing). Suggested Equipment: Comfortable athletic shoes, mosquito repellent (Florida water), and warm clothing for mornings and evenings. Hidden Activities: Hanfu (traditional Chinese clothing) experience unlocks special photo opportunities. Nearby Extensions Lishui Ancient Town: Watch traditional iron flower performances. Datong Ancient Town: Wild finless porpoise observation point. Tongzhi Food Street: Experience local night market cuisine.

Departing from Hefei Airport by rental car via Tongling-Chizhou-Anqing Sanhe Ancient Town is another reconstructed ancient town similar to many others. Entry is free, but separate tickets are required for memorial halls and former residences. Package tickets are available at the entrance. Datong Ancient Town Scenic Area, about a 40-minute drive away, truly embodies what an ancient town should be in my opinion. You need to take a ferry to enter and exit the town. There are no cars, only electric tricycles. Few residents remain, with most houses collapsed or abandoned. Only a few elderly residents still make their living by fishing in the Yangtze River. It was raining all day, and walking through the quiet town with barely anyone in sight felt wonderful and peaceful. Along the drive, the roadside rape flowers are in full bloom this season, creating a beautiful golden landscape. Chizhou is a very small city that combines the style and climate of both Jiangnan and Huainan regions. It's particularly pleasant when there's a light rain. Jindizang Temple, located at the foot of Qi Mountain in the northeast of the city, is a newly built temple currently under renovation. It's an exquisite place where locals come to worship. Navigate to Pingtian Lake National Wetland Park and you can drive through the entire scenic area. You'll pass by the popular "Sky Road on Water," though without a drone you won't be able to capture its true beauty. The drive offers lovely views with plenty of spots to stop along the way. The only downside was the weather. You can drive across Pingtian Lake, which brings you back near Jindizang Temple. It's less than an hour's drive from Chizhou to Anqing. Anqing is much more prosperous than Chizhou. The first stop was Yingjiang Temple and Zhenfeng Tower along the Yangtze River embankment. Admission is CNY 10. There is roadside parking but spaces are limited, so taking a taxi or public transportation is recommended. Not far from Yingjiang Temple is the historic Anqing No. 9 Dock Ferry Terminal. It costs CNY 4 per person (recently increased from CNY 3) for a one-way 10-minute trip, with ferries departing every 30 minutes. It has become an important transportation link between Anqing and Chizhou residents (as the Yangtze River Bridge toll is CNY 20 one-way). The ferry cabin only has benches by the windows, with the rest of the space reserved for electric bikes and tricycles. The strong diesel smell and passengers chatting and smoking in the cabin represent authentic local life. Daobaoshi Pedestrian Street is beautiful at night and gets crowded. It's nice to browse the shops here. Together with Guohuo Street, it forms a tourist commercial district that's best visited in the evening. Lastly, the famous Shengjin Lake National Nature Reserve in Anhui is not a tourist attraction but a pure nature reserve. There are small villages by the lake with narrow roads. If the weather is good, it's worth visiting for the beautiful scenery. However, if the weather is poor, it's best to skip it.

🌟 Itinerary 🌅 Day 1: A Clash of History and Culture Morning: Arrive in Tongling and head to the Tongling Museum to learn about the city's history and bronze culture. The museum displays a rich collection of cultural relics and is an excellent starting point for getting to know Tongling. Noon: Savor Tongling's specialties, such as Tongling white ginger and Tongling hairy tofu, at a restaurant near the museum, and experience the local culinary culture. Afternoon: Visit the Datong Ancient Town Scenic Area and stroll through the old streets and alleys, experiencing the accumulation of history and the wisdom of the ancients. Many traditional customs and ancient buildings are preserved here, and you can experience activities such as boating. Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the ancient town and savor local specialties such as Tongling pressed duck and Tongling stewed pigeon. 🌆 Day 2: A Blend of Nature and Leisure Morning: Head to Fenghuang Mountain to admire the beautiful scenery and unique cultural heritage. It is also a great place to view peony flowers; every spring, peonies bloom all over the mountains. Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Fenghuang Mountain and enjoy local specialties such as Tongling large intestine noodles and Tongling baked sesame cakes. Afternoon: Visit Liqiao Water Town and experience the antique architectural style and tranquil water town atmosphere. You can take a boat through the waterways and enjoy the peace and comfort. Evening: Try other Tongling specialties at a restaurant in the city, such as salt and pepper pig's feet and Congyang steamed pork with rice flour. 🌄 Day 3: Exploration and Discovery Morning: Visit Yongquan Yi Jiangnan Twelve Scenic Spots to appreciate the charm of the Jiangnan water town and the beautiful natural scenery. Each scene here is like a beautiful painting, making people linger. Noon: Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant near the scenic spot, such as Tongling lobster and Tongling stewed pigeon. Afternoon: Visit Fushan Mountain and experience the magnificence and tranquility of nature. With its rolling hills and beautiful scenery, it is an ideal destination for hikers and mountaineers. Evening: Enjoy Tongling's specialty snacks at a restaurant in the city, bringing a perfect end to your journey. 🚗 Transportation Guide City Transportation: Tongling has convenient public transportation. You can choose to take buses or taxis to various attractions. Self-driving: If you choose to drive yourself, plan your route in advance. Tongling's roads are in good condition and easy to drive on. 🎒 Practical Tips Best Season: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel to Tongling, with pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. Weather Conditions: Check the local weather forecast before your trip and make corresponding preparations to ensure a smooth journey. Shopping Guide: Tongling has many characteristic handicrafts and local products available for purchase, such as Tongling white ginger and Shunan shortbread. You can choose some exquisite souvenirs to take home. Safety Precautions: Please follow local regulations and instructions when visiting attractions to ensure your personal safety. I hope this itinerary can provide some reference for your trip to Tongling. I wish you a pleasant journey and a wonderful experience!

Tongling, located in the south-central part of Anhui Province, is a city with a long history. It got its name from copper and prospered because of it, earning it the title of "Ancient Copper Capital of China, Modern Copper Production Base". It offers not only rich natural landscapes but also a profound historical and cultural heritage, making it an ideal choice for spring travel. --- Tongling in March–May From March to May, Tongling enjoys pleasant weather with an average temperature between 15°C and 20°C, plenty of sunshine, and fresh air. During this time, the peonies in Tianjing Lake are in full bloom, and the acacia trees on Fenghuang Mountain are lush and green. It is the best time to experience the blend of nature and culture. --- Transportation Guide • High-speed Rail: Tongling North Station and Tongling Station are the main high-speed rail stations, offering convenient transportation. • Car: From Hefei, take the G3 Jingtai Expressway to Tongling, approx. a 2 hr drive. • Local Transportation: There are buses to all major scenic spots within the city. The starting price for taxis is CNY 6. --- Three-Day, Two-Night Itinerary Day 1: History and Culture Tour • Morning: Arrive in Tongling and check in to your hotel. We recommend choosing a hotel in Tonggu District for convenient transportation. • Noon: Visit the Tongling Museum to learn about the city's bronze culture and history. • Afternoon: Explore Tianjing Lake Scenic Area, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and visit the Peony Garden. • Evening: Savor local specialties in Tongling's downtown area, such as Tongling white ginger and Datong dried tofu. Day 2: Nature and Ancient Sites Tour • Morning: Visit Fenghuang Mountain Scenic Area, admire the natural scenery, and see attractions such as acacia trees and Dishui Cliff. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Fenghuang Mountain. • Afternoon: Visit Datong Ancient Town Scenic Area and experience the historical charm of the old town. • Evening: Return to Tongling's downtown area and check in to your hotel. Day 3: Leisure and Nature Tour • Morning: Visit Fushan Scenic Area to admire the volcanic landscape and cliff carvings. • Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant near Fushan. • Afternoon: Visit Yongquan Town and experience the charm of a Jiangnan water town. • Evening: Conclude your Tongling trip and prepare for your return journey. --- Recommended Attractions 1. Tianjing Lake Scenic Area: A national 4A scenic area with beautiful lake and mountain scenery and blooming peonies. 2. Fenghuang Mountain Scenic Area: A national 4A scenic area with beautiful natural scenery, featuring acacia trees and Dishui Cliff. 3. Datong Ancient Town Scenic Area: A historic ancient town with many well-preserved ancient buildings. 4. Tongling Museum: Showcases Tongling's bronze culture and history. 5. Fushan Scenic Area: Features volcanic landscapes and cliff carvings, ideal for geology enthusiasts. 6. Yongquan Town: A Jiangnan water town, perfect for leisure and vacation. --- Accommodation Recommendations • Tongling International Hotel: Located in Tonggu District, Tongling, offering convenient transportation. • Hotels in Tongling Yongquan Tourist Resort: Offers a beautiful environment, suitable for leisure and vacation. --- Local Cuisine Recommendations • Tongling White Ginger: Tender and flavorful, a local specialty. • Datong Dried Tofu: Sweet and savory, a traditional snack. • Tongling Fish Noodles: Smooth and delicious, a traditional local dish. --- Tips • Sun Protection: The spring sunshine is strong, so please take sun protection measures when going out. • Warm Clothing: There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket. • Respect Local Culture: Respect local customs and traditions when visiting historical sites. • Plan Your Itinerary: Plan your itinerary in advance and avoid peak seasons.

Tongling Travel Guide Day 1: History and Ancient Towns **Morning**: Tongguanshan 1978 Scenic Area Visit the old industrial site and experience the glorious history of Tongling industry. The retro factory buildings and mechanical equipment are perfect for photos. Noon: Datong Ancient Town Visit Lanxi Old Street and Heyuezhou, each with its own unique scenery. Take a ferry to Heyuezhou (free ferry ticket) and watch the finless porpoise feeding (ticket required). Day 2: Countryside and Wetland Exploration **Morning**: Liqiao Water Town Wear a cheongsam or a new Chinese-style dress for photos. **Afternoon**: West Lake Wetland Park Explore the wetland scenery by bike or on foot. Rent a bike and ride in the park. **Evening**: Tongling Museum Visit the "Copper Capital" exhibition to learn about the glorious history of Tongling. **Night**: Tianjing Lake Park Tianjing Lake Park at night has a unique charm, perfect for a stroll and photos. Day 3: Natural Beauty and Leisure **Morning**: Phoenix Mountain Climb to the top of Phoenix Mountain and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. **Afternoon**: Wutong Flower Valley Stroll through Wutong Flower Valley and enjoy the tranquility and beauty. **Night**: Yongquan Town Go to Yongquan Town and experience the Jiangnan landscape, gardens, flavors, and people. Relax in the hot springs (Jiubao Hot Spring). Day 4: Red Culture and Heritage Morning: Tongling Martyrs Memorial Park Visit the Martyrs Memorial Park to pay tribute to the revolutionary martyrs. Afternoon: Tongling Special Branch of the Communist Party of China Exhibition Hall Learn about the revolutionary history of Tongling and experience the charm of red culture. Evening: Tianjing Town Cultural Tourism Zone Visit Tianjing Town and experience the local culture and tourism features. This Tongling travel guide covers history, ancient towns, countryside, wetlands, natural beauty, leisure, and red culture. We hope it provides valuable reference for your trip to Tongling.

| The 'Frozen' Ancient Town. I don't highly recommend coming here for a trip specifically, I just went to see it on the way to my mother-in-law's house. The scenic area is not large, and it has a rustic flavor. Walking on the old street with the river breeze, it's quite leisurely and elegant, making people unconsciously relaxed. --- ①Transportation: Self-driving navigation to Anhui Tongling Datong Ancient Town Tourist Center, starting from 700 meters away from the scenic area, there are many free parking areas on both sides of the road, or you can park in the paid parking lot inside the scenic area. --- ②Tickets: Free, open all day. If you want to take a ferry to the island, the round-trip ferry ticket is 10 yuan/person, you can buy it on the spot. --- ③Attractions Introduction: Datong Ancient Town mainly consists of two parts, one part is connected to the land, named Lanxi Old Street; the other part is across the river, named Heyue Island. --- ❤️Spanish Church Tower: You can see it on the hillside by the road before you get to the riverside of the scenic area, you can go directly up, unfortunately, the church was destroyed, only this tower is left. --- ❤️Lanxi Old Street: The street is two rows of characteristic Huizhou-style small tile houses, there are many old shops, barber shops, snack stalls, selling dried fish specialties, the street is full of sun-dried salted ducks, salted meat, dried fish, many old people are sunbathing at the door, or planting and picking vegetables, the life atmosphere is strong. ⭐️The overall street is not particularly commercialized, you can buy some special tea dry, soy sauce dry, dried fish, sesame oil, fried meat powder, rice wine, fermented bean curd, etc. to share with friends and family, the price is similar to the outside. Highly recommend fried stinky dried, 10 yuan a bowl full, different from the fried stinky tofu eaten outside. ⭐️Keep going inside, after leaving the old street, pass the river embankment (under construction when I went, you can walk but be careful), less than a kilometer there is a temple, free entry, although not large but very quiet inside, incense is also very strong. --- ❤️Heyue Island: You need to take a ferry, the island is also similar to Lanxi Old Street, there are some ancient buildings of broken walls, can be used as a background for retro photos. There is a place on the island to watch river dolphins, you can watch feeding river dolphins, very interesting, recommend to go see. Datong Ancient Town Scenic Area