Yunnan, China’s southwestern gem, is renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. While Dali and Lijiang steal the spotlight, the province hides 10 lesser-known ancient towns that offer authentic experiences away from crowds. From cliffside settlements to 茶马古道 (Tea Horse Road) relics, these destinations blend history, architecture, and natural beauty. Below, discover how to explore them with detailed transportation and accommodation tips.
1. Nuodeng Ancient Town (诺邓古镇)
Why Visit?
Nestled in Yunlong County, Nuodeng is a 1,000-year-old Bai village famous for its salt wells and Nuodeng ham . The village’s Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture clings to steep hillsides, offering panoramic views of the Bijiang River. Highlights include the Yuhuangge Taoist Complex and ancient salt warehouses.
Getting There
- From Dali: Take a bus to Yunlong County (3 hours), then hire a taxi (30 minutes).
- From Kunming: Overnight bus to Yunlong (8 hours), then taxi.
Where to Stay
- Nuodeng Ancient Village Inn: Traditional Bai courtyard with mountain views.
- Yunlong Tianchi Campsite: Eco-friendly tents near Yunlong Tianchi Lake for stargazing .
Must-Try: Nuodeng ham stir-fried with local mushrooms.
2. Baoshan Stone City (宝山石头城)
Why Visit?
This cliffside settlement in Lijiang’s Yulong County is built on a mushroom-shaped rock, with houses carved directly into the stone . It’s a living museum of Naxi culture, surrounded by terraced fields and the Jinsha River.
Getting There
- From Lijiang: Drive 110 km (3 hours) via the Yulong Snow Mountain scenic route, then hike 1 hour to the village.
Where to Stay
- Stone City Homestays: Simple guesthouses run by locals, offering Naxi-style meals.
Pro Tip: Visit in October to see golden terraced rice fields .
3. Heshun Ancient Town (和顺古镇)
Why Visit?
Known as the “Venice of Yunnan,” Heshun in Tengchong is a Ming Dynasty water town with cobblestone streets and bridges. It’s a UNESCO-listed Qiaoxiang (侨乡) blending Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Western architectural styles .
Getting There
- From Tengchong Airport: Taxi (20 minutes) or bus.
Where to Stay
- Heshun Library Guesthouse: Historic inn adjacent to China’s largest rural library.
- Tengchong Mayu Valley Hot Spring Resort: Luxury villas with hot springs .
Cultural Experience: Attend a traditional tea ceremony at a local courtyard.
4. Shaxi Ancient Town (沙溪古镇)
Why Visit?
A preserved Tea Horse Road marketplace, Shaxi is a UNESCO-listed town with ancient pagodas and the Sifang Street square. It’s ideal for slow travel, with horseback treks and sunrise views from the Wangshanyuan Observation Deck .
Getting There
- From Dali: Bus to Jianchuan County (2 hours), then taxi (30 minutes).
- From Lijiang: Private car (2.5 hours).
Where to Stay
- Shaxi Courtyard Guesthouse: Rustic Bai-style inn with a garden.
- Shaxi Rice Fields Homestay: Eco-friendly lodging overlooking rice paddies .
Local Flavor: Try Shaxi Baba (savory/sweet flatbread).
5. Weishan Ancient Town (巍山古城)
Why Visit?
Weishan, the birthplace of the Nanzhao Kingdom, is a Ming Dynasty walled city with well-preserved temples and ancient city gates. Don’t miss the Weishan Snack Festival in March, featuring 200+ local delicacies like miantang (sugar dough) .
Getting There
- From Dali: Bus (1.5 hours) or train to Weishan Station.
Where to Stay
- Weishan Ancient Town Inn: Centrally located guesthouse with Nanzhao-themed decor.
Event Alert: March 1–9, 2025: Snack Festival with live music and cultural performances .
6. Heijing Ancient Town (黑井古镇)
Why Visit?
Heijing, a salt-producing town since the Han Dynasty, boasts Ming and Qing Dynasty mansions like the Wujia Courtyard. Explore ancient salt wells and the Dalong Temple, dedicated to the salt god .
Getting There
- From Kunming: Train to Heijing Station (2 hours), then walk 10 minutes.
Where to Stay
- Heijing Ancient Town Guesthouse: Historic inn with courtyard gardens.
Unique Experience: Participate in a traditional salt-making workshop.
7. Guanglu Ancient Town (光禄古镇)
Why Visit?
Guanglu, a Tang Dynasty military hub, features the Longhua Temple and Wenchang Palace. The town’s rural landscapes and slow pace make it perfect for cycling and photography .
Getting There
- From Chuxiong: Bus to Yao’an County (1.5 hours), then taxi (10 minutes).
Where to Stay
- Guanglu Courtyard Homestay: Family-run inn with local cuisine.
8. Chengzi Ancient Village (城子古村)
Why Visit?
Chengzi in Luxi County is a Yi ethnic village with unique earth-tiled houses stacked like beehives. The village’s 24-family communal houses and panoramic rice terrace views are UNESCO-worthy .
Getting There
- From Kunming: Bus to Luxi County (3 hours), then taxi (30 minutes).
Where to Stay
- Chengzi Earthen House Inn: Traditional Yi-style lodging with rooftop terraces.
9. Bixi Ancient Town (碧溪古镇)
Why Visit?
Bixi in Mojiang County is a Tea Horse Road 驿站 with a Ming Dynasty layout and the Yuan Enyang Memorial Hall. Sample Bixi rice noodles and visit the Bajiao Tower for bird’s-eye views .
Getting There
- From Pu’er: Bus to Mojiang County (2 hours), then taxi (15 minutes).
Where to Stay
- Manyunli Homestay: Modernized Naxi house with a courtyard.
10. Zhoucheng Ancient Town (州城古镇)
Why Visit?
Zhoucheng in Binchuan County is a Ming Dynasty trading post with intact city walls and the Zhoucheng Confucian Temple. Explore local markets for handcrafted Bai textiles .
Getting There
- From Dali: Bus to Binchuan County (1.5 hours), then taxi (10 minutes).
Where to Stay
- Zhoucheng Courtyard Inn: Historic inn near the town’s central square.
Key Travel Tips
Transportation
- Buses: The primary intercity option, with frequent departures from Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang.
- Trains: Connect major cities like Kunming to Dali (2 hours) and Lijiang (3 hours).
- Rental Cars: Ideal for flexibility, but check road conditions in remote areas.
Accommodation
- Homestays: Most towns offer budget-friendly guesthouses with local hospitality.
- Luxury Options: Resorts like Lijiang Indigo Hotel blend modern amenities with traditional design .
Language & Culture
- Translation Tools: Use Google Translate for menus and signs.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly in religious sites and ask permission before photographing locals.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming flowers.
- Autumn (September–November): Clear skies and harvest festivals.
Conclusion: Uncover Yunnan’s Timeless Charm
Yunnan’s ancient towns are portals to China’s rich history and cultural diversity. Whether you’re wandering stone-paved streets in Shaxi or sipping tea in Heshun, each destination offers a unique story. By venturing beyond the tourist trail, you’ll discover the true essence of Yunnan—where tradition meets tranquility.
Ready to explore? Start planning your journey with these 10 hidden gems and create memories that last a lifetime. For more insights, follow @gotochina.guide.
Which 古镇 (ancient town) will you visit first? Share your thoughts in the comments!
