A national 4A-level scenic area, this ancient county town dates back to the Northern Wei period of the Northern and Southern Dynasties. Dujiangyan was once called "Guan County." The Xuanhua Gate, Xingfu Street, and West Street (the starting point of the Songmao Ancient Road) are Ming and Qing-era districts themed around water culture, connected with the Dujiangyan Scenic Area for a combined visit.
A free ancient town district. The night view of South Bridge is the most photogenic spot in Dujiangyan. Since it's connected to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area by a bridge, it's a must-visit along the way.
Guanxian Ancient City is the highlight of a Dujiangyan trip. It's free and full of local life, and the Nan Bridge at night is especially unforgettable. If you have time, it's worth spending half a day strolling around.
Tickets & Transport
Tickets
- Adult ticket
- ¥0
- Child ticket
- ¥0
- Free
- Yes
- Reservation required
- No
- Ticket methods
- No ticket required, free entry
- Ticket notes
- The old town is free to enter, but Dujiangyan Scenic Area requires a separate ticket.
Opening Hours
- Opening notes
- The old town streets are open 24 hours; shops are generally open from 09:00 to 21:00. The Nan Bridge night lighting time varies by season; it is recommended to visit after dark.
Best Time to Visit
- Best time of day
- Evening to night (Nanqiao night view)
- Best day of week
- Weekdays
- Best season
- Good all year round
- Avoid times
- Daytime on public holidays, when it is crowded
- Avoid days
- National Day, Labor Day (May Day), and other statutory holidays
- Crowd level
- High
- Crowd peak time
- 10:00-16:00 on public holidays
Getting There
In Detail
Guanxian Ancient Town is connected to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area by South Bridge. The city wall at Xuanhua Gate, the Xingfu Road pedestrian street, and the teahouses and guesthouses along West Street spread out along the Min River. After nightfall, the lights of South Bridge reflect off the river, making it the perfect ending to a Dujiangyan trip.
What to expect
Visitors can wander along the bluestone streets, admiring the Ming and Qing architecture, ancient trees, and flowing streams. The city wall at Xuanhua Gate is great for taking photos, with Xingfu Road Pedestrian Street offering a range of snacks and souvenirs. Stop at a teahouse on West Street for tea and a leisurely break. In the evening, the South Bridge is brightly lit and the Min River murmurs below, making it a wonderful spot for a stroll and photography.
How to visit
Enter the ancient city through Xuanhua Gate, walk along Xingfu Road Pedestrian Street to the South Bridge, then cross the bridge to reach the Dujiangyan Scenic Area. Set aside half a day to explore the ancient city; if combined with the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, allow a full day. Walking is all you need to get around the ancient city, and no transportation is required.
Pros
Free to visit, with no entrance ticket needed; the old county town is well preserved and rich in cultural heritage; it sits right next to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, making for a convenient route; the night views are enchanting, perfect for an early evening visit.
Cons
Crowds can get large and streets congested on public holidays; the area is heavily commercialized and many shops look similar; mosquitoes are common in summer, so take precautions.
Highlights
- Xuanhua Gate City Wall: A Ming- and Qing-style city gate, a landmark of the ancient town
- Xingfu Road Pedestrian Street: A lively market street featuring specialty snacks and handicrafts
- West Street (starting point of the Songmao Ancient Trail): Bluestone lanes with teahouses and guesthouses full of historic charm
- South Bridge Night View: The illuminated covered bridge over the Min River, a must-visit photo spot
- Seamlessly connected to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area, allowing you to visit both in one trip
FAQ
Do I need a ticket for Guanxian Ancient City?
Guanxian Ancient City is open free of charge, so no ticket is needed.
What is the relationship between Guanxian Ancient City and the Dujiangyan Scenic Area?
Guanxian Ancient City is connected to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area by the South Bridge. It stands on the site of the old county town of Dujiangyan, and the two can be visited together, with the entrance to the Dujiangyan Scenic Area just a few minutes' walk away.
When is the best time to visit the ancient city?
I suggest entering the ancient city in the late afternoon. Wander the streets first, then enjoy the night views of the South Bridge once it gets dark, when the lights reflect beautifully on the river.
Field Tips
Best photo spot 1. Nan Bridge (at night): The corridor bridge lights and reflections on the Min River make for a classic night view spot. 2. Xuanhua Gate City Wall: With its ancient gate and street backdrop, it's great for portraits. 3. Xijie (West Street) flagstone road: Ming-Qing architecture and greenery give a fresh, artsy feel. 4. Xingfu Road Pedestrian Street: Bustling streets perfect for capturing everyday life.
Best entrance Xuanhua Gate (main entrance). Entering from the Dujiangyan Scenic Area direction gives the smoothest route.
Best exit Nan Bridge direction: Exit the ancient city and you're directly at Dujiangyan Scenic Area or Binjiang Road.
Location & Nearby
Nearby attractions
- Tea Creek Valley Scenic Area (9.7 km)
- Mount Qingcheng & Dujiangyan (12 km)
- Hongkou Scenic Area (13.8 km)
- Zhanqi Village Scenic Area (18.1 km)
- Jiezi Ancient Town Scenic Area (22.4 km)