Manchuan Ancient Town

What are the most recommended things to do in Manchuan Ancient Town?

Stroll through the ancient streets to admire the traditional architecture, visit historical temples, explore the local markets, and try local snacks and street food. A boat ride along the river is also a popular activity.


Introducing Manchuan Ancient Town

Manchuan Ancient Town was formerly known as Fengyang Pass, Fengyangchuan, and also as the Barbarian Kingdom. With its water and land docks connecting to various locations, Manchuan Pass boasted a thriving business and dense population. The phrase "hundreds of boats lined up at the water dock, and thousands of horses galloping along the land dock" and the saying "connecting to Qin and Jin in the north and Wu and Chu in the south" originated from this place.

Manchuan Ancient Town is bordered by Yunling Mountain to the south, Taiping Mountain to the east, Mengzhu Mountain to the west, and Tianzhu Mountain to the north. Three rivers flow through the area: Jinqian River, Jinjia River, and Wanfu River. Behind Manchuan Street, where the town government is located, are the majestic Lingtai Mountain (commonly known as Qinglong Mountain) and Wohu Mountain. To the south lies Luofeng Mountain (commonly known as Nanpo). In front of the street, the Jinjia River flows from north to south, resembling a jade belt. On the opposite bank, Ruyi Mountain, with its golden-red soil, evokes a scene of vibrant beauty.

The unique geographical environment has created the Circular Tai Chi, the Jinjin Confluence, the Rhinoceros Watching the Moon, and the Paper Room Thread Spring. The Jinqian River Canyon boasts over ten renowned natural attractions, including the Stone Man Stargazing, Candle Mountain, and the Fish Cave. Two revolutionary memorials are located within the Jinqian River Gorge: the Martyrs' Cemetery and the Shangguan County Ruins of the Thousand Buddha Caves. Over ten religious venues (Taoist temples and monasteries) are also located within the area, including a Catholic church, an Islamic church, the Thousand Buddha Caves Buddhist Temple, the Yibaidan and Er Temples, the Wanfu Niangniang Temple, the Sanguan Hall, the Ciwang Temple, and the Niangniang Cave. Manchuan Ancient Town boasts eight natural attractions: the Circular Tai Chi, the Jinqian Ancient Ferry, the Paper Room Thread Spring, the Yunling Sunset, the Coiling Jade Belt, the Falling Phoenix on Nanshan Mountain, the Rhinoceros Watching the Moon, and the Lion Guarding the Pass.

Climate and best time to travel

The climate in Manchuan Ancient Town is subtropical monsoon and semi-humid mountainous. The seasonal changes are obvious. Spring is warm and windy, summer is hot, autumn is humid and rainy, and winter is relatively cold. Spring, summer and autumn are the best seasons for tourism, while winter is relatively cold.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Yuanyang Opera House, Thousand Buddha Caves, Buddhist Scriptures on the Anvil Stone, and the Yangshao Culture Site in Qiao Village;

Recommended 1-day tour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Manchuan Ancient Town

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

Manchuan Ancient Town is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and historical significance as a trading hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It reflects the traditional culture of Shaanxi and serves as a gateway to understanding the region's history.

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

Manchuan Ancient Town is located in Shaanxi Province, China. It is best accessed by taxi or private car from nearby cities such as Baoji. Public transportation options may be limited, but buses to the area are available.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The town is open year-round. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the streets are less crowded.

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

Entrance fees typically range from 30 to 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online through official platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is generally sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore Manchuan Ancient Town in 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the streets and visiting temples or shops.

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

The ancient streets, traditional architecture, and local temples are must-see highlights. Don't miss the market area where you can try local food and buy traditional handicrafts.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Some tours may offer English-speaking guides upon request. Audio guides are also available at certain locations in Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the ancient streets and the temples. The river view from the bridges also provides great scenic shots, especially at sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by walking through the main street to the temple area, then explore the local market. Afterward, take a boat ride along the river for a unique perspective of the town.

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

Night visits are available, with the town beautifully lit up at night. There are no regular light shows, but certain festivals may feature special cultural performances.

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

It can be crowded on weekends and during holidays. Weekdays, especially in the off-season (autumn and winter), are the best times to visit for fewer crowds.

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

There are public toilets, food stalls, and small shops throughout the town. Rest areas are available near popular tourist spots.

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

The streets can be uneven and challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, most key areas are accessible, and the town provides some benches for resting along the way.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used, but mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted in most shops and food stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local eateries in the town offering traditional Shaanxi food such as noodles, dumplings, and lamb skewers.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants. Some local eateries also offer halal food for Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and hotels in the surrounding area, particularly in the nearby city of Baoji, which is a short drive away.

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

Nearby attractions include the Famen Temple and the Qinling Mountains, which are both easily accessible from Manchuan and make for a great day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops offer traditional handicrafts, including paper fans, local teas, and pottery items. These make for unique gifts to take home.

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

After visiting, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions, or travel back to Baoji for train or bus connections to other cities.