Xinchang Ancient Town (新场古镇) is located in the western part of the Chengdu Plain and is recognized as the earliest established town in the western area of Dayi. Founded during the Eastern Han Dynasty, it flourished during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty and is one of the historically significant towns along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The town is known for its rich folk customs and agricultural culture.
As the largest and best-preserved ancient town in Sichuan, Xinchang features seven ancient streets, including Xiaozheng Street, Shangzheng Street, Taiping Zheng Street, Taiping Street, Taiping Heng Street, Xiangshi Street, and Heba Street. Additionally, there are six alleys: Shuixiangzi Alley, Zhangyi Temple Alley, Xiejia Alley, Maoshi Alley, Tongshi Alley, and Shangziku Alley. The town’s layout is a well-organized grid pattern, with a total area of ancient buildings reaching several hundred thousand square meters. Most of these structures date back to the Qing Dynasty and the Republic of China period, showcasing the town’s historical and architectural significance.
Travel Information about Xinchang Ancient Town
Ticket Information and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: Free admission.
Opening Hours: Open all day.
Best Time to Visit
The annual Spring Festival in Xinchang is exceptionally lively. From the fifth to the fifteenth day of the lunar new year, various types of lanterns are displayed, including lion lanterns, pole lanterns, high-foot lanterns, and Yaomei lanterns, along with vibrant community lantern festivals.
Transportation to the Scenic Area
- Location: Xinchang Town, Dayi County, Chengdu.
Public Transport: Take a bus to the Dayi Passenger Transport Center, then transfer to bus route 210 and get off at Chuanxi Bazi Station.
By Car: Depart from Chengdu via the Chengwenqiong Expressway, exit at Wangsi Xinchang, and drive 3.5 kilometers in the direction of Xinchang Ancient Town.
Scenic Rating
- Cultural Experience: ★★★★
- Leisure: ★★★
- Special Features: ★★★
- Beauty: ★★
- Romance: ★★
- Adventure: ★
Highlights of Xinchang Ancient Town
Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum and Jianghu Gang Museum
At the entrance of Xinchang Ancient Town, two ancient-style watchtowers stand majestically, replicating the existing ancient watchtowers from Touyan Village in Xinchang. Each tower features a three-story layout, showcasing a unique blend of European and Sichuanese architectural styles.
Three-Inch Golden Lotus Museum:This museum focuses on the historical practice of foot binding in China, which began during the Song Dynasty and lasted over a thousand years in feudal society. It exhibits more than 80 artifacts, including bound shoes and shoemaking tools, providing insight into this significant cultural tradition.
Jianghu Gang Museum: Located within the same watchtower, the Jianghu Gang Museum offers a wealth of graphic and textual materials detailing the origins, development, and changes of three major secret societies from the old society: the Paoge organization, Qing Bang (also known as the Qing Gang), and Hong Bang (Hung Men). The museum serves as a fascinating exploration of the intricate world of these historical gangs and their influence in Chinese society.
Liu Chengxun Former Residence
Liu Chengxun’s former residence is located on Lower Zheng Street in Xinchang Ancient Town. The entrance is modest, spanning just the width of a storefront, with the plaque inscribed with the words “长乐永康” (Changle Yongkang). The bronze door features a pair of gilded lion door knockers that add a touch of majesty and solemnity.
Upon entering through the narrow passageway into the front courtyard, visitors can observe the exquisite wooden and clay sculptures characteristic of Sichuan craftsmanship. The intricate patterns and fine workmanship reflect rich traditional aesthetics and local folk art. The courtyard’s serene atmosphere offers a cool respite from the blazing sun outside, while the back garden directly connects to the river.
Who is Liu Chengxun
Liu Chengxun (1883–1944), also known by his courtesy name Yujiao, was a native of Lower Zheng Street in Xinchang. After graduating from the Sichuan Military Academy in 1905, he entered the military. Liu held several important positions, including member of the Tongmenghui (Chinese Revolutionary Alliance), commander of the Third Army of Sichuan, commander-in-chief of the Sichuan Army, governor of Sichuan Province, and commander of the 23rd Army of the National Revolutionary Army, eventually achieving the rank of General. Liu Chengxun contributed significantly to the historical currents of his time, supporting the Xinhai Revolution, suppressing the Kham-Tibet rebellion, and participating in the anti-Yuan struggle.
Li Family Ancient Residence
The Li Family Ancient Residence, built in 1921, exemplifies the grandeur and ambition of the local gentry, Li Huaifen. To construct this impressive building, he hired the renowned master craftsman Zhang Wenshan and enlisted the help of skilled artisans from various trades. The residence was designed with meticulous attention to detail, with features such as the stilted shopfront modeled after the style of Jinhuajie in Chengdu. After over four years of construction, the residence was completed in 1925.
Among the exquisite carvings and details of the Li Family Residence, the two prominent paintings on the doorposts capture the most attention. The left image depicts a quintessentially Eastern landscape, featuring pavilions, terraces, and an elegant garden scene. In contrast, the right image showcases a distinctly Western architectural style, resembling a grand church with tall spires and a majestic presence.
This harmonious juxtaposition of Eastern and Western styles reflects the balanced aesthetics of Chinese architecture, emphasizing symmetry. More than a century ago, this street served as a vibrant meeting point for merchants from across the country, foreign missionaries, and local residents, who coexisted in harmony.
Bishan Temple
Bishan Temple, known as the “Gratitude Temple” of the residents of Xinchang, was established during the Wanli period of the Ming Dynasty to commemorate Li Wanchun, the magistrate of Bichuan County in Chongqing.
For centuries, Bishan Temple has served as a vital place for the people of Xinchang to worship deities and honor their ancestors. Although the temple is modest in size, it is remarkably well-designed, featuring glazed flying eaves, intricately carved railings, and elegant decorations that reflect a deep sense of history and culture.
Each year on the sixth day of the seventh lunar month, Xinchang celebrates the grand festival called “Bishan Niangniang Returns to Her Family,” where the deity from Sanxian Temple is ceremoniously welcomed back to Bishan Temple. During this festive occasion, local businesses, collectively known as the “Ten Major Trades,” invite theatrical troupes to perform Sichuan opera at the temple, creating a lively atmosphere filled with various performances.
Memory Museum of Sichuan Western Ba
The Memory Museum of Sichuan Western Ba is a two-story establishment with distinct themes on each floor.
“Impression of Xinchang”: The first floor focuses on the history and cultural heritage of Xinchang Ancient Town. It showcases various aspects, including folk customs, agricultural culture, urban culture, religious practices, architectural styles, and the area’s rich human history. Visitors will find themselves immersed in a heartwarming journey through the town’s past, offering insights into the unique cultural tapestry of Xinchang.
“Marks of Time: Old Memories of Chengdu from Canada”: The second floor features an exhibition titled “Marks of Time: Old Memories of Chengdu from Canada.” This collection comprises photographs taken by Canadian missionaries who arrived in Chengdu over a century ago. These images capture the essence of Chengdu from the late 19th century to the 1950s, providing a fascinating glimpse into the city’s historical landscape and its transformation over the years.
Xinchang Old Record Music Museum
The Xinchang Old Record Music Museum is the only rural old record music museum in China. Located in the heart of Xinchang Ancient Town, this museum was originally the luxurious residence of a wealthy merchant named Li during the Republic of China era.
The museum houses over 3,000 well-preserved original old records, showcasing a wide array of musical history and artifacts. Among its exhibits are music-themed terracotta figurines dating back to the Western Han Dynasty and horns from the Liberation War period. A special hall dedicated to the legendary singer Teresa Teng is also featured, celebrating her influence on Chinese music. One of the museum’s prized possessions is one of the earliest hand-cranked gramophones in the world, a testament to the evolution of music technology.
Visitors to the museum can enjoy more than just listening to music and learning about its history. The museum includes a cozy reading area and a courtyard where guests can sip tea, taste red wine, or swing on a swing set while enjoying the ambiance. There are also opportunities to select favorite songs on the jukebox, making it a perfect place for couples to relax together amidst fresh flower petals and reminisce with classic tunes, creating unforgettable memories.
3+2 Reading Club
The 3+2 Reading Club is a charming rural library located in Xinchang Ancient Town. Despite its modest area of less than 1,000 square meters, the library boasts a collection of over 20,000 books, all donated by caring individuals. This includes books from famous personalities, friendship donations, and private collections. Most of the staff at the 3+2 Reading Club are volunteers who work out of passion rather than for monetary compensation. In the hearts of the community, this place is more than just a library; it serves as a platform for reading, sharing, and engaging in charitable activities.
Chuan Wang Palace
Chuan Wang Palace, located by the banks of the Hujump River and just 5 kilometers from Xinchang Town, was established during the Ming Dynasty to honor Li Bing for his contributions to water management. Over the years, it has evolved into a temple that combines elements of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, boasting a history of over 400 years. The palace is currently open to the public for free and is home to many devoted worshippers.
The main hall of Chuan Wang Palace houses a statue of Li Bing, while side halls feature statues of Manjushri, Samantabhadra, Lü Chunyang, and Zhang Sanfeng. The entire structure is built from wood, consisting of over 80 rooms and covering a total area of 1,500 square meters. The main hall stands approximately 30 meters high, featuring a four-story wooden structure that offers stunning views of the Hujump River Hydropower Station across the water. Despite its age, the intricate craftsmanship of the wooden beams and the distinctive architectural style of the Ming Dynasty are still remarkably vivid throughout the complex, which includes halls, pavilions, corridors, and guest rooms.
Visitor Guide for Xincheng Ancient Town
Accommodation in Xinchang Ancient Town
Xinchang Ancient Town offers a variety of lodgings, making it easy for visitors to find suitable accommodations.
Yongpeng Inn (永鹏客栈): Located at No. 5, Heba Street, Yongpeng Inn is a typical folk-style courtyard inn with a three-story structure. It can accommodate up to 80 guests and serve 300 diners, providing a beautiful environment. This inn has the largest reception capacity in Xinchang Ancient Town.
Jinfuyi Village Hotel (锦府驿乡村酒店):This boutique cultural hotel is themed around the ancient Shu culture and is situated at No. 170, Wan Yuan Street, in Xinchang Ancient Town. As the first five-star country hotel in Dayi, it features a unique layout of four interlocking courtyards, exuding an elegant and classical Han and Tang Dynasty style.
Xinchang Bieyuan Inn (新场别院客栈):This charming courtyard inn, with its traditional design, is nestled on the picturesque Xishijie Street in Xinchang Ancient Town. It offers a quaint and refreshing atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy the gentle sound of flowing water and the lively ambiance of local life. This inn is an ideal spot for those seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural essence of the Sichuan basin.
Cuisine in Xinchang Ancient Town
Xinchang Snack Street: Located next to the Li Family Ancestral House, Xinchang Snack Street features a variety of delicious local snacks. The street is primarily managed by the renowned “Huang Laozhao,” famous for its specialties. Visitors can enjoy local favorites such as shanshen liangfen (cold noodles), dandan noodles, sandapao (rice balls), hot pot noodles, pork intestines noodles, and ice jelly. Additionally, the ancient town is home to various restaurants, hotels, and farm-stay eateries offering a wide range of culinary delights.
He Lamb Restaurant (何羊肉): Situated at No. 32-34, Upper Wanyuan Street, He Lamb is a well-established eatery specializing in lamb dishes. The lamb soup is particularly delicious, and customers can select their preferred cuts of meat, making it a great place for lamb lovers.
Lao Xu’s Tofu Rice (老徐家豆花饭): Located at No. 126, Lower Zheng Street, Lao Xu’s Tofu Rice is known for its affordable prices and popularity, often requiring customers to wait for a table. The restaurant primarily serves traditional home-style dishes, complemented by local specialties such as Xinchang blood stew and sesame oil duck, featuring a total of 25 main varieties.
Zhou Blood Stew (周血旺): A famous snack from the Dayi Xinchang area, Zhou Blood Stew is renowned for its meticulous preparation, tender and flavorful ingredients, and high quality. It combines a spicy and numbing taste, creating a dish that is both visually appealing and delicious, making it a true delicacy.
Shopping in Xinchang Ancient Town
Local Specialties: Xinchang Ancient Town offers a variety of local specialties that make excellent souvenirs. The town is renowned for its bamboo crafts, made from high-quality local bamboo and intricately woven by skilled artisans passed down through generations. Popular items include pot lids, vegetable baskets, drying tools, and various handicrafts.
Convenient Snacks: Visitors can also find many portable local snacks for sale. One highlight is Xinchang sesame oil duck, made from free-range local ducks raised in the rivers. The preparation involves three key steps: marinating in a secret spice blend, frying, and finally drizzling with sesame oil. The result is rich yet not greasy, with a smooth texture and delightful flavor.
Yellow Cake (Huang Gao): This treat is crafted from a blend of high-quality rice and glutinous rice, using the finest well water and precise cooking techniques. The cake has a shiny golden color and is free from impurities. It is tender and delicious, with a perfectly balanced sweetness that is very fragrant.
Fermented Black Soybeans: Xinchang’s fermented black soybeans are famous due to the quality of local water and beans, along with unique production methods. Strolling through the ancient town, you’ll encounter numerous soybean shops, where the distinctive aroma of fermented soybeans can be smelled from afar. Customers can sample different flavors before purchasing, offering a delightful tasting experience.
Things to Do in Xinchang Ancient Town
Bishan Temple Fair: Held annually on the sixth day of the seventh lunar month, the Bishan Temple Fair is a vibrant celebration. During the fair, many young people dress in ancient costumes, portraying lively characters from various stories. They stand on raised tables, paraded through the streets by four individuals. Additionally, performers don colorful masks and outfits, creating a lively spectacle to entertain the crowd.
Spring Festival God Inviting Ceremony: Every Spring Festival, the villagers celebrate the annual “God Inviting” activity, filled with joy and excitement. One popular aspect is the “Haba God” ceremony, where people engage in playful chasing and humorous interactions. Other similar rituals involve inviting figures like “Seven Maidens,” “Table Gods,” and “Zhang Dao Gods,” all aiming for enjoyment and amusement.
Playful Performances: Sichuan Opera and Teahouse Shows: Sichuan Opera, locally known as “Bai Wei Gu,” features short, entertaining performances that are beloved by audiences. These acts typically take place in teahouses and are often referred to as “bench plays.” They focus on vocal performances without physical action, allowing listeners to enjoy the music and storytelling.