Ledao Ancient Town

Introducing Ledao Ancient Town

Ledao Ancient Town is located in Tianxian Town, Naxi District, Luzhou City, Sichuan Province, on the east bank of the Yongning River. Awarded the title of "Top Ten Most Preservable Villages in Sichuan" in the first Sichuan Most Beautiful Villages Competition, it boasts a history spanning over a thousand years.

The Zhonggu Street in the ancient town is about 300 meters long and no more than 2 meters wide. It still has one of the few well-preserved stilt houses in southern Sichuan in the style of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, as well as the Yuwang Palace built in the sixth year of the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty. Although the wind and rain of the years and the heavy burden of history have carved deep wrinkles on the stubborn stone pavement on the street, the wooden residential buildings on both sides can still reflect the splendor of the past.

The ancient street is rarely visited by outsiders during the week, though there are scattered tourists on weekends. The town has fewer than a hundred permanent residents, and most of them are elderly. A remote and profound historical street, a weathered town, where you can experience the passage of time.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ledao Ancient Town

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ledao Ancient Town, located in Sichuan, is known for its historical and cultural significance. It dates back to the Tang Dynasty and has been a thriving trade town for centuries. The town preserves many architectural styles and cultural traditions that offer a glimpse into Sichuan's rich past. It is an excellent example of a traditional ancient town that blends culture, history, and architecture.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Ledao Ancient Town is located in the eastern part of Sichuan province, near Leshan. It can be reached by bus or taxi from Leshan city. The town is easily walkable, with most attractions being within walking distance of each other. There is no direct metro service to the town, but buses from the nearby city or taxis are convenient options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ledao Ancient Town is open throughout the year. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for a peaceful visit, especially for photography, as the light is soft and the town is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is usually no entrance fee to visit Ledao Ancient Town, as it is an open-air historical area. However, some specific attractions, such as museums or temple visits, may charge a small fee. Tickets for these can be purchased on-site or online in advance, depending on the attraction.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for the general visit to the town. However, for specific attractions or during busy seasons (such as Chinese holidays), it may be a good idea to book tickets a few days ahead to avoid long waits or sold-out tickets.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Ledao Ancient Town typically takes half a day. You can leisurely explore the town, enjoy its streets, temples, and traditional shops. If you're interested in detailed cultural experiences or visiting more attractions, a full day may be ideal.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the ancient streets with traditional architecture, the old city gates, and the riverside areas. Don't miss the local temples and the historical workshops that demonstrate traditional crafts such as silk weaving and pottery making. The town's bridges and scenic views along the river are also popular photo spots.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some English-speaking guides may be found in tourist areas. Audio guides may also be available for a small fee, typically in Chinese, with some English options for tourists. It's best to check availability in advance at the tourist information center.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include the riverside areas with traditional bridges, the ancient streets lined with old wooden houses, and panoramic views of the town from higher vantage points such as the surrounding hills. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended itinerary includes starting from the main entrance of the town, exploring the ancient streets, and visiting the local temples. You can take a walk along the river to admire the traditional bridges and finish with a visit to the local craft workshops. Make sure to enjoy local snacks and explore the town's unique architecture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are available in Ledao Ancient Town, as the town takes on a different charm when lit up at night. There may be occasional cultural performances, but special light shows are not a regular feature. Evening visits are peaceful, and the atmosphere is perfect for a quiet stroll through the town's historic streets.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The town can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially in the summer and during Chinese New Year. The least crowded times are early in the morning on weekdays, particularly in the off-peak seasons like winter or late autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets throughout the town. Several local food stalls and restaurants offer traditional Sichuan cuisine. Water and snacks are available at shops along the main streets. Rest areas are available in parks and temples, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Ledao Ancient Town is mostly accessible for elderly and children, though some parts of the ancient streets may have uneven surfaces. Disabled access may be limited due to the town's traditional layout, but most main areas are accessible via paved paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still commonly accepted in Ledao Ancient Town, though mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted everywhere, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes in the town offering traditional Sichuan dishes such as hotpot, noodles, and spicy snacks. More dining options can be found in the nearby town or city, with more modern restaurants available in the surrounding areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in the form of Sichuan vegetable dishes and tofu-based meals. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in nearby cities or larger towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Ledao Ancient Town that offer affordable accommodations. For more luxurious options, hotels in nearby Leshan city are also accessible by bus or taxi. Many accommodations offer traditional décor that blends with the town's historical atmosphere.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is about 30 minutes away by taxi. Other nearby sites include Mount Emei and the surrounding temples, making it easy to combine these landmarks for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are several souvenir shops in the town selling traditional handicrafts, such as silk items, pottery, and woven goods. Local snacks and teas are also popular souvenirs. You can find small, handmade souvenirs in the local craft workshops.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Ledao Ancient Town, you can take a taxi or bus to Leshan city, where you can catch a train or bus to other destinations. For those traveling to Chengdu, there are direct buses from Leshan to Chengdu, making it a convenient departure point.