Langzhong Ancient City

Background

Langzhong lies in Nanchong, Sichuan, on the middle reaches of the Jialing River, which wraps around the ancient city on three sides; since ancient times it has been called the "Langyuan Fairyland". The city has more than 2,300 years of history: in the late Warring States period the state of Ba moved its capital here, and under the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties it was known as Baoning. In 1986 Langzhong was named a National Historical and Cultural City. The ancient city was laid out according to feng shui principles, with its streets arranged around the Zhongtian Tower, and many Ming and Qing buildings survive. The Huaguang Tower, a provincial-level protected site, is the best place to look out over the whole city; the Huanhou Temple (Zhang Fei Temple), which honours Zhang Fei, is a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level. Langzhong vinegar (Baoning vinegar) is famous for its aroma and mellowness. In 2013 the ancient city scenic area was rated a national 5A tourist attraction.

Local customs

• Walk the lanes of the ancient city and look at the Ming and Qing courtyards
• climb the Huaguang Tower to look over the city and the Jialing River
• visit the Zhang Fei Temple
• try Baoning vinegar, Zhang Fei beef and northern Sichuan liangfen
• see the lantern fair and temple fair during the Spring Festival.

Travel tips

• The core of the ancient city is mostly pedestrian lanes, so wear comfortable shoes
• combined and single ticket prices follow the scenic area's official information
• the riverside is sunny in summer, so bring sun protection
• the Spring Festival is crowded, so book accommodation in advance.
• Go to downtown Nanchong or Chengdu first, then take a bus to Langzhong
• Langzhong Gucheng Airport and highways connect it with nearby cities, with exact schedules following official information. Spring and autumn are best for strolling the ancient city
• the lantern fair is liveliest at the Spring Festival
• summer brings cool river breezes but strong sun
• winter has fewer visitors and suits a leisurely look at the buildings.