A thousand-year-old town, a story of the Anti-Japanese War
Lizhuang Ancient Town | A Millennium-Old Pearl on the Yangtze River, a Living Fossil of Anti-Japanese War Culture
Hey friends! Are you still struggling to find a travel destination that combines rich historical and cultural heritage with a few crowds? Today, I'll take you to a hidden gem of an ancient town in Yibin, Sichuan—Lizhuang Ancient Town. Known as the "First Ancient Town of the Yangtze River," it's sure to give you an unforgettable travel experience!
1. A Millennium-Old Town, Traces of Time
Lizhuang Ancient Town was founded in the sixth year of the Datong reign of the Southern Liang Dynasty, boasting a history of over 1,400 years. It was once the political, military, economic, and cultural center for six counties in southern Sichuan. During the Anti-Japanese War, the town welcomed over a dozen universities and research institutions, including Tongji University and the Academia Sinica, with the sixteen-character telegram: "Tongji University and Datong relocate to Sichuan. Lizhuang welcomes you. All needs will be provided by the local government." It became one of the "Four Great Cultural Centers of the Anti-Japanese War," alongside Chongqing, Chengdu, and Kunming. Many masters, including Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin, worked and lived here, leaving behind countless stories.
II. Transportation Guide: Easy Access
- Driving: Navigate to the "Lizhuang Ancient Town Scenic Area" or "Lizhuang Visitor Center." Parking is conveniently located at several officially recommended parking spots around the scenic area, including the Yueliangtian underground parking lot.
- Bus: Take bus No. 45 or No. 39 to Lizhuang Tongji Hospital (2 yuan per person). Alternatively, take the Lizhuang Tourist Bus No. 01, which runs between the Lizhuang Visitor Center and Chengdu University of Technology.
- Air: Fly to Yibin Wuliangye Airport, then take a taxi or bus to the ancient town, approximately 27 kilometers away.
III. Must-See Attractions: Explore the Ancient Charm
- The Old Town: Home to the "Nine Palaces and Eighteen Temples," such as the Dongyue Temple, the Zhang Family Ancestral Hall, and the Zushi Hall, you can experience the charm of Qing Dynasty architecture and admire exquisite wood and stone carvings. The Dongyue Temple is the former site of Tongji University's School of Engineering, while the Zushi Hall is the former site of Tongji University's School of Medicine. There's also the former site of the Architectural Society of China, where Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin lived for six years and completed the first draft of their book, "A History of Chinese Architecture." Don't miss Lizhuang's "Four Wonders"—the Xuanluo Hall, Kuixing Pavilion, the Nine Dragons Stele, and the Hundred Cranes Window. Their unique architecture and stone carvings were highly praised by Liang Sicheng.
- Moon Field Scenic Area: Located on the west side of the ancient town, it's best visited in the evening for a breathtaking night view illuminated by the lights. It features attractions such as the Lizhuang Cultural Museum, the Cultural Ancient Street, and the Moon-Reflected Lotus Pond. Its unique "two museums, one site, one pond, one street, and 34 courtyards" architectural layout showcases the layered beauty and artistic beauty of Chinese architecture and gardens.
- The Anti-Japanese War Museum: Located within the Moon Field Scenic Area, it's a great place to learn about Lizhuang's history as a cultural center of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. However, please note that it's closed on Mondays.
IV. Gourmet Temptation, a Feast for the Taste
- Scrambled Eggs with Bamboo Flowers: A uniquely local seasonal delicacy, the bamboo flowers have a texture similar to lichen, bringing with them the fresh aroma of the forest. When scrambled with eggs, the eggy aroma blends with the freshness of the mushrooms, creating a refreshing and delicious taste that evokes childhood memories. This cult delicacy is often found in local restaurants in ancient towns and is a great accompaniment to rice.
- Intangible Cultural Heritage Tofu Pudding and Authentic Snacks: Intangible Cultural Heritage Tofu Pudding, exemplified by Zhang Douhua, boasts a delicate, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Paired with a secret dipping sauce blending soy sauce, vinegar, and Sichuan peppercorns, it unleashes the authentic savory flavor of southern Sichuan tofu pudding. Pastries from shops like Cao Laoyao White Cake and Shan's White Cake are renowned for their soft texture, rich rice aroma, and subtle sweetness, making them the perfect after-dinner snack.
5. Accommodation Recommendations: Enjoy a Quiet Time
- Ancient Town B&Bs: These include Yiyuan Inn, Linjiang Inn, and Yuanxianglou Inn. These B&Bs, many of which are renovated from historic buildings, offer a quaint and charming atmosphere, allowing you to fully experience ancient town life. Linjiang Inn also offers stunning river views, making it a great spot for scenic viewing.
- Serviced Apartments: Located at the entrance to the ancient town, accommodations like the Grand Hyatt Yibin Lizhuang Serviced Apartments offer convenient transportation and comprehensive facilities, making them ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.