XiaSi Ancient Town, located in GuiZhou province, is a charming and picturesque destination that offers a glimpse into China's rich cultural and historical heritage. Known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, winding streets, and vibrant local culture, XiaSi Ancient Town is a must-visit for those looking to explore the beauty and history of rural China.
History
XiaSi Ancient Town has a history that dates back over a thousand years. The town was an important commercial hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, serving as a center for trade and cultural exchange. Many of the town's buildings and structures have been carefully preserved, allowing visitors to experience the architectural styles and cultural atmosphere of ancient China.
Main Attractions
Ancient Streets
The ancient streets of XiaSi are lined with well-preserved traditional buildings, shops, and residences. These narrow, winding streets offer a charming and authentic experience, transporting visitors back in time. The architecture reflects the unique styles of the Ming and Qing dynasties, with intricate wooden carvings, tiled roofs, and stone-paved pathways.
Traditional Residences
XiaSi Ancient Town is home to numerous traditional residences that showcase the local architectural styles and building techniques. Many of these homes have been converted into museums or guesthouses, allowing visitors to explore their interiors and learn more about the town's history and culture.
Local Temples
The town features several historic temples that are important cultural and religious sites. These temples are beautifully decorated with traditional artwork and serve as places of worship and community gatherings. Visitors can explore the temples, learn about local religious practices, and enjoy the serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Market Square
The market square is the heart of XiaSi Ancient Town, bustling with activity and vibrant with local life. Here, visitors can find a variety of traditional crafts, local delicacies, and handmade souvenirs. The market is an excellent place to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly residents.
Culture and Traditions
XiaSi Ancient Town is rich in cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on preserving traditional customs and practices. The town is home to various ethnic groups, each contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of the area. Visitors can witness traditional festivals, folk performances, and artisan crafts that reflect the unique cultural identity of the region.
Activities and Experiences
Walking Tours
Explore XiaSi Ancient Town on foot by joining a guided walking tour. These tours provide valuable insights into the town's history, architecture, and culture, and are led by knowledgeable local guides. Walking through the ancient streets is a delightful way to immerse yourself in the town's unique charm.
Shopping for Local Crafts
The town's market square and shops offer a variety of traditional crafts and handmade products. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, including pottery, textiles, and wooden carvings, all crafted by local artisans. These items make for unique and meaningful mementos of your visit.
Sampling Local Cuisine
XiaSi Ancient Town is known for its delicious local cuisine, which reflects the flavors and traditions of GuiZhou province. Visitors can sample a range of traditional dishes at the town's restaurants and food stalls. Don't miss trying the local specialties, such as spicy hotpot, pickled vegetables, and handmade noodles.
Participating in Festivals
Throughout the year, XiaSi Ancient Town hosts various traditional festivals that celebrate local culture and heritage. These festivals feature music, dance, and traditional performances, offering visitors a unique and immersive cultural experience. Check the local event calendar to see if any festivals coincide with your visit.
Accommodation
XiaSi Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, including traditional guesthouses, boutique hotels, and homestays. Staying in a traditional guesthouse or homestay provides an authentic experience and allows visitors to interact with local residents. These accommodations often feature traditional architecture and décor, adding to the charm of your stay.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit XiaSi Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the town is less crowded.
Getting There: XiaSi Ancient Town is accessible by bus or car from GuiZhou's major cities. The nearest airport is GuiYang LongDongBao International Airport, which offers connections to various domestic and international destinations.
Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors year-round. Specific attractions and shops may have their own operating hours.
Entrance Fees: There may be entrance fees for certain attractions within the town. It is advisable to check the latest fees before planning your visit.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, as the town's streets are cobbled and can be uneven.
Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and cultural sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially if you plan on exploring the town extensively. It's also a good idea to bring snacks or purchase food from local vendors.
The place often referred to as the "Forbidden City" in Guiyang is QingYan Ancient Town (青岩古镇). QingYan Ancient Town is a well-preserved historical site located in the southern part of Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province. The town was originally built in 1378 during the Ming Dynasty and has since retained its ancient architectural charm and cultural heritage. Its nickname, "Forbidden City of Guiyang," stems from its historical significance and its traditional Chinese architecture reminiscent of the famed Forbidden City in Beijing.
QingYan Ancient Town Visitor Guide
Overview
QingYan Ancient Town, located in GuiYang, GuiZhou province, is one of China's most well-preserved historical towns. Founded in 1378 during the Ming Dynasty, this ancient town is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning traditional Chinese architecture. Visitors can explore a myriad of ancient buildings, temples, and stone-paved streets that tell the story of QingYan's storied past.
History
QingYan Ancient Town was established as a military fortress during the Ming Dynasty. Its strategic location and robust defense structures helped it become an important cultural and commercial center over the centuries. The town's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a blend of Han, Miao, and Dong ethnic styles, and well-preserved buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Main Attractions
Ancient City Wall
The ancient city wall of QingYan is one of its most iconic features. Built with large, sturdy stones, the wall has four gates facing north, south, east, and west, each adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Walking along the wall provides a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings.
WenChang Pavilion
WenChang Pavilion is a beautiful structure dedicated to WenChang, the Taoist god of literature. The pavilion is a popular spot for visitors to appreciate traditional Chinese architecture and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Temple of the Black Dragon
The Temple of the Black Dragon is a significant religious site in QingYan Ancient Town. This Taoist temple, with its intricate wood carvings and peaceful ambiance, is dedicated to the Black Dragon, a deity believed to protect the town from floods.
Former Residences
QingYan Ancient Town is home to several well-preserved residences of notable historical figures. These include the former residence of Zhou Yiqun, a famous scholar, and the home of Zhao Yijiong, a renowned military commander. These residences offer a glimpse into the lives of QingYan's past residents.
Culture and Traditions
QingYan Ancient Town is a melting pot of different cultures and traditions, with a significant influence from the Han, Miao, and Dong ethnic groups. The town hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts. Visitors can also experience local culinary delights, such as QingYan tofu, rice wine, and other traditional GuiZhou dishes.
Activities and Experiences
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore QingYan Ancient Town is on foot. Walking tours allow visitors to wander through the narrow, stone-paved streets, discover hidden courtyards, and take in the historical ambiance of the town.
Local Handicrafts
QingYan is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, embroidery, and silverwork. Visitors can watch local artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
Food Tasting
The town offers a variety of local delicacies that are a must-try for visitors. Sample traditional dishes like QingYan stuffed tofu, rice wine, and various Miao ethnic snacks at local restaurants and street vendors.
Accommodation
QingYan Ancient Town offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides an authentic experience and a chance to interact with the local community.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit QingYan Ancient Town is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Getting There: QingYan Ancient Town is located about 29 kilometers from GuiYang city center. It is accessible by bus, taxi, or private car. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.
Opening Hours: The town is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the town's history, architecture, and cultural significance.
Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites and former residences, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people.
Pack Accordingly: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket or umbrella, as the weather can change quickly.
Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, located in Leishan County, Guizhou Province, is the largest Miao village in China and is often referred to as the "Thousand Household Miao Village." This picturesque village is known for its well-preserved traditional Miao architecture, vibrant cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. It offers a unique glimpse into the life and traditions of the Miao people.
History and Culture
The Miao people are one of China's 56 ethnic minorities, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village is a living museum of Miao culture, where visitors can experience traditional Miao customs, clothing, music, and dance. The village is known for its grand festivals, including the Lusheng Festival, the Miao New Year, and the Sisters' Meal Festival, which feature elaborate costumes, folk dances, and traditional music performances.
Main Attractions
Miao Ethnic Museum
The Miao Ethnic Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and traditions of the Miao people. Exhibits include traditional clothing, silver ornaments, musical instruments, and artifacts from daily life.
Traditional Miao Architecture
The village is renowned for its traditional stilt houses, known as "Diaojiaolou," which are built on wooden stilts and feature intricate wooden carvings. Walking through the village, visitors can admire these unique structures and learn about their construction and significance.
Folk Performances
Daily folk performances in the village square showcase traditional Miao music and dance. These performances are an excellent way to experience the vibrant cultural heritage of the Miao people.
Festival Celebrations
Visiting during one of the major festivals, such as the Miao New Year or the Sisters' Meal Festival, provides a deeper insight into Miao culture. These festivals feature colorful parades, traditional music, and elaborate dances, making them a highlight of any visit.
Outdoor Activities
Hiking and Nature Walks
The surrounding hills and rice terraces offer excellent opportunities for hiking and nature walks. The scenic trails provide panoramic views of the village and the lush countryside, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Exploring Rice Terraces
The rice terraces around Xijiang are a testament to the agricultural ingenuity of the Miao people. Visitors can explore these terraced fields, which change colors with the seasons and offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Local Cuisine
Miao cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of local ingredients. Some must-try dishes include sour fish soup, sticky rice cakes, and various pickled vegetables. Many local restaurants and street vendors offer authentic Miao food, providing a true taste of the region.
Accommodation
Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional Miao-style guesthouses to modern hotels. Staying in a local guesthouse provides a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Miao hospitality and learn more about their way of life.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the rice terraces are most picturesque.
Getting There: The village is accessible by bus from Kaili City, which is connected to major cities like Guiyang by train and bus.
Respect Local Customs: When visiting, be respectful of local customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially during festivals and ceremonies.
Pack Accordingly: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the village and surrounding areas. A light jacket is recommended for the evenings, as temperatures can drop.
Infrastructure at its finest, China style ...
With Walk East ...
With 12 subway lines and 1 light rail line, the ChengDu metro ranks 4th largest in the world after BeiJing, ShangHai and GuangZhou.
YT comment by Helghast73 : Yeah I can see this tour will just highlight what I was saying in the last Chengdu video Max, “plan for the future and then plan some more” 😂
It’s hard to believe that all this will celebrate its 12th birthday in September. Just stop and think for a moment, 12 years ago none of it was there and fast forward to now and you’ve 373 stations network, mind blowing.
The idea of giving each line an actual visual identity is great, it’s not just a line colour on a network map but station platforms and train carriages too.
Line 8 with it’s green and white colour scheme is super bright.
Line 5 with it’s older heritage look and darker tones used but still bright.
Line 18 with it’s nods to Zaha Hadid I’d say haha superb also looks like a mini Beijing Daxing with the clinical white look.
Line 6 with it’s coral looking sub aquatic look.
Line 9 with it’s lilac scifi.
WuYuan, known as the "most beautiful countryside in China", with at least 50 old villages, is located in the northeast of JiangXi province, and near Mount HuangShan and JingDeZhen.
With Walk East ...
Max (Walk East) :
Wuyuan is home to a few of the well-preserved ancient architecture in China. Each of those ancient structures has a unique appearance as well as structure.
They emerge from among the emerald green mountains and trees, clear rivers along with the crisscrossing paths between the fields.
Those structures were built in 740 during the Tang Dynasty; its remoteness and inconvenient transportation protecting its villages' beauty from a large amount of tourists.
Local people there can enjoy the pure, clean brooks, seemingly delicate wooden buildings, unique bridges as well as the tranquil lifestyle, etc...
This village has turned into a ecological, cultural as well as tourist demonstration center of China. The ancient Architectural complexes,caves, blue water, trees as well as rural sceneries; all these form a typical Chinese countryside scene
Wuyuan has become a well known town in the world features in famous Huizhou local culture as well as charming idyllic scenery.
Beijing Opera, Hui Opera, the Luo Dance known as the "Dance Live Fossil" as well as the charming tea performance, all these make Wuyuan fascinating tourism destination.
【Likeng Village】
Likeng Village is a cluster of houses constructed along a brook. It is said to be the most scenically beautiful village in the town.
The brook is two to three meters wide spanned at different points by makeshift bridges. A rolling stream through the village lived by 260 peasant households along with ancient buildings with its pink walls, black tiles as well as beautiful girls who are washing laundry reflecting from the stream look like a natural scenery.
【Visit Local Ancient Village in Hui-style】
Wuyuan is the birthplace of the Huizhou culture. Villages around are must go, and you will be attracted by the quiet and simple countryside life there.
noticeable Huizhou-style architecture can be found in these old villages, such as, arches, stone tablets, stone bridges, ancient stages, etc.
Wuyuan is a county in northeastern Jiangxi province. It is renowned for its beautiful countryside and well-preserved ancient Huizhou villages and architecture. Many of the buildings and villages date from the Tang dynasty and have been protected by the county’s remoteness and relatively inconvenient transportation.
Highlights and Travel Tips
The area is famous for the fields of yellow rapeseed flowers that surround the villages in March and April, which are among the most beautiful in China and will delight photographers. One of the best places to see the flowers is hills surrounding the village of Jiangling.
Popular villages and sights around the county include Likeng Village, Mount Dazhang (a beautiful area filled with soaring mountains and crashing waterfalls that is as yet undiscovered by tourism), Rainbow Bridge (a covered bridge), and Jiangling Village.
Architectural design and decor inspiration 激发美好生活理念的灵感
Bonus film - Five friends each transforms a random house in the suburbs of BeiJing and their work becomes a big success 北京5個好友，改造房子後，帶火整個村
On a trip to Yunhe Terrace in Lishui, Zhejiang in 2016, mother fell in love with the beautiful views and fresh air there. Recalling that mother sold family house in hometown to raise money for his tuition to study abroad 16 years ago, Tian rent a 2-mu land 1030 meters above the sea level and built his mother a new house surrounded by mountains and clouds. The spare rooms are used to run a guesthouse.
2016年，建築師田景海帶著母親去浙江麗水的雲和梯田旅遊，母親愛上了這兒的好山好水好空氣。想起16年前母親為了籌措自己留學的學費，賣掉老家的房子，田景海便在麗水租下2畝地，在海拔1030米的雲海山間，為媽媽造了一個新宅，空餘房間則用來做民宿。
Ye Hui is a poet. He is passionate about the fate of people, and his poems have been selected many times in the "Chinese Annual Poetry". Meanwhile he is an architect, specializing in old building renovation. In 2014, Ye Hui bought a lakeview villa in Nanjing. Living in a house with 400-square-meter indoor area and an 800-square-meter courtyard, he spends most of his time in a 3-square-meter space.
葉輝是詩人，他的詩作飽含情感地關注著人的命運，多次入選《中國年度詩歌》，同時他也是一位建築師，擅長老建築改造。2014年，葉輝買下南京的一套湖景別墅，室內空間400㎡，內院800㎡，不過他最常待的工作空間，只有3㎡。
Step back in time in the ancient village of HongCun, 宏村.
HongCun is located near the south west slope of Mount HuangShan.
The architecture and carvings of the approximately 150 residences dating back from the Ming and Qing dynasties are said to be among the best in China. One of the largest residences open to visitors, ChenZhi Hall, also contains a small museum.
Together with XiDi, the village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some scenes from the movie 'Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon' were filmed on location in HongCun.
This large park presents the culture of China's ethnic groups and famous landmarks.
It is composed of two halves connected by a bridge and lies close to the Olympic Park. The nearest subway station is BeiTuCheng (lines 10 and 8).
The park features the ethnic dance and other customs of China's peoples and typical architectural styles from each region. There are many scenic spots within the beautifully landscaped grounds.
For those who want to experience the local customs, as well as the history and culture, of Beijing, a visit to the HuTongs (alleys) and SiHeYuans (courtyards) is an indispensable part of a visit to Beijing.
The HuTong
A hutong is an ancient city alley or lane, typical in Beijing, where hutongs run into the several thousand. Surrounding the Forbidden City, many were built during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. In those times, the emperors planned the city and arranged the residential areas according to systems of etiquette. The center of the city of Beijing was the royal palace - the Forbidden City.
The word 'hutong' came from the Mongolian language about 700 years ago. It originates from the word 'hottog' in Mongolian meaning 'water well'. Where there was a spring or well, there were residents. The word 'hottog' became 'hutong' after it was introduced into Beijing.
Hutongs are the passages formed by lines of siheyuans (courtyards). One hutong connects with another, and siheyuan connects with siheyuan, to form a block, and blocks join with blocks to form a neighbourhood.
In ancient China, there was a clear definition for a street or lane. A 36 m wide road was called a big street (DaJie). An 18 m wide one was called a small street (Lu). A 9 m wide lane (or smaller) was called a hutong.
The shortest hutong is just 10 m long, and the narrowest hutong is only about 40 cm wide. Some hutong have more than 20 turns. Most of the hutongs in Beijing are in east-west or south-north directions. That resulted from the need for houses to face south so as to take in more sunshine.
The Weaver and the Cowherd
There are many stories and fairy tales about hutong. Near the Forbidden City, in the heart of Beijing lies a hutong called 'Girl Weaver', which is named after a fairy from the Heavenly Kingdom, who descended to the human world and married a cowherd. Her enraged father, the Celestial Emperor, took the girl back and separated the couple with the Milky Way.
Symmetrically, on the other side of the Forbidden City, there used to be a 'Cowherd Bridge'. In part, this tale suggests that emperors living in the Forbidden City are sons of Heaven.
In the rich and historical culture of Beijing, the hutong has a very special and important position. It is not only a kind of architecture, but also serves as a window into Beijing folk life and an embodiment of the history and culture of Beijing.
The SiHeYuan
A standard siheyuan consists of houses on all four sides. The house that stands at the north end facing south is called the 'main house or 'north house'. The ones on each side are called the 'side houses', and the one which stands at the south end facing north is called the 'opposite house' or 'south house'.
The siheyuan's entrance gate is usually at the southeastern corner, in accordance with the traditional concepts of the 5 elements that were believed to compose the universe, and the 8 diagrams of divination.
Normally there is a screen wall inside the gate so that outsiders cannot see directly into the courtyard; it is also believed to protect the house from evil spirits. Outside the gate of larger siheyuan, there is a pair of stone lions, one on each side. Such a residence offers space, comfort and quiet privacy. It is also good for security as well as protection against dust and storms.
The gates are usually painted vermilion and have large copper door rings. The courtyard often contains a pomegranate or other type of tree, as well as potted plants. Usually a whole family lives in the compound. The elder generation lives in the main house, the younger generation live in the side houses, and the south house is usually the sitting room or study.
From their size and style, one can tell whether a siheyuan belongs to ordinary folk or the powerful and rich. The simple house of an ordinary person has only one courtyard with the main building on the north facing, across the court.
The mansion of a titled or rich family would have two or more courtyards, one behind another, with the main building separated from the view of the southern building by a wall with a fancy gate or by a GuoTing (walk-through pavilion). Behind the main building there would be a lesser house in the rear and, connected with the main quadrangle, small 'corner courtyards'.
Not only residences, but also ancient palaces, government offices, temples and monasteries were built basically on the pattern of the siheyuan, a common feature of traditional Chinese architecture.
Once ubiquitous in Beijing, siheyuans and hutongs are now rapidly disappearing, as entire city blocks of hutongs are leveled and replaced with high-rise modern buildings. Residents of the hutongs are entitled to apartments in the new buildings, of at least the same size as their former residences. Many complain, however, that the traditional sense of community and street life of the hutongs cannot be replaced. However, some particularly historic or picturesque hutongs are being preserved and restored by the government.
