Stroll through Liujiang Ancient Town and listen to the echoes of a thousand years.
Liujiang Ancient Town Travel Guide for March-April: Encounter a Spring Water Town
Liujiang Ancient Town is located in Hongya County, Meishan City, Sichuan Province. It has a history of more than 800 years and is known as "Misty Liujiang". Springtime, from March to April, is the perfect time to visit, as the ancient town is full of lush greenery and dotted with blooming flowers. Here's a detailed guide for you:
- Preparation: The temperature in Liujiang Ancient Town from March to April ranges from 15-25°C (59-77°F), but there is a large temperature difference between day and night, so bring a light jacket. Spring is also the rainy season, so remember to bring rain gear. In addition, bring sun protection such as hats and sunscreen for convenient travel.
- Transportation:
- By car: From Chengdu, take the Chengle Expressway, transfer to the Suizimei Expressway in Meishan, exit at Hongya, and then follow the county road from Hongya to Liujiang. The whole journey takes about 2 hours.
- Public transportation: Take a bus from Chengdu Xinnanmen Bus Station or Shiyangchang Bus Station to Hongya, then transfer to a bus or take a taxi to Liujiang Ancient Town. The whole journey takes about 3-4 hours.
- Attractions:
- Liujiang Old Street: Stroll along the bluestone road, with well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings on both sides of the street. Feel the rich historical charm and visit unique shops to buy souvenirs.
- Western Sichuan Stilt Houses: Built along the water, the unique architectural style provides an excellent backdrop for photos. It is recommended to visit in the morning or evening when the light is soft for better photos.
- Zeng Family Garden: A national-level cultural relic, it blends Chinese and Western architectural styles. The garden has exquisite carvings and landscaping, making it worth a visit.
- Ancient Trees: There are many towering ancient trees in the town, such as the Chinese banyan, which have witnessed the changes of time and complement the town's architecture.
- Tangba Thousand-Mu Canola Flower Field (March only): In March, the canola flowers are in full bloom. There are many photo spots set up throughout the flower field, including scarecrows, hot air balloons, and panda dolls, which contrast beautifully with the golden canola flowers, making for great photos.
- Food Recommendations:
- Sichuan Pepper Duck: A local specialty, the duck skin is reddish and shiny, the duck meat is tender, and the aroma of Sichuan pepper permeates it, leaving a lasting impression. You can buy and taste it at the "Ling Duck" shop in the ancient town.
- Wansui Liangfen: With distinct sweet, sour, and spicy layers, it is a must-have snack in summer. It is affordable and can be found on the old street of the ancient town.
- Linjiang Eel: Made with local eel and carefully cooked, the aroma is overflowing after being poured with hot oil. The eel is tender and blends with unique spices, providing a delicious treat for your taste buds.
- Liujiang Noodles: Thin noodles with crispy toppings and a unique seasoning, they have a soft and chewy texture and are worth trying.
- Accommodation:
- Liujiang Inn: Located in the center of the ancient town, it is convenient for travel, affordable, and has a rustic environment, allowing you to experience the charm of the ancient town.
- Riverside Cottage: Close to the river, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Liujiang River. The rooms are quiet and comfortable, with moderate prices, and some rooms have balconies with river views.
- Itinerary:
- One-day tour: Arrive at Liujiang Ancient Town in the morning and visit Liujiang Old Street to experience the historical atmosphere. Then visit the Western Sichuan Stilt Houses and Zeng Family Garden. Have lunch in the ancient town and try local specialties such as Sichuan Pepper Duck. In the afternoon, stroll to the ancient trees for photos and then visit the Tangba Thousand-Mu Canola Flower Field (March). In the evening, visit the night market in the ancient town and experience the nightlife before returning.
- Two-day tour: Arrive at the ancient town in the morning of the first day and check in. In the afternoon, visit Liujiang Old Street and the Stilt Houses. In the evening, enjoy local cuisine and experience the night view of the ancient town. On the second day, visit the Tangba Thousand-Mu Canola Flower Field (March) in the morning, have lunch nearby, and return to the ancient town in the afternoon for free activities, buy local products, and then return.
- Precautions: The ancient town has many stone roads, which can be slippery after rain, so it is recommended to wear comfortable flat shoes. Respect local customs. Mosquitoes are common in spring, so bring mosquito repellent.