Tongren Ancient City Travel Guide
Preparation
- Documents: Bring your ID card and other possible documents such as student ID or senior citizen card for ticket purchases and discounts.
- Clothing: Prepare appropriate clothing according to the season. In summer, bring sun protection and lightweight, breathable clothes. In winter, pack warm clothing.
- Essentials: Mobile phone, camera, charger, power bank, etc. Download local maps or relevant travel apps in advance.
- Medicine: Prepare common medications like cold medicine, stomach medicine, and motion sickness pills in case of discomfort.
Transportation Guide
- External transportation: Tongren Fenghuang Airport is close to the ancient city. You can fly there and then take an airport shuttle or taxi to the ancient city. Alternatively, take a train or high-speed rail to Tongren Station or Tongren South Station, then transfer by bus or taxi.
- Internal transportation: The ancient city is best explored on foot. For nearby attractions, you can take a bus, taxi, or ride-hailing service.
Must-Visit Attractions
- Ming-Qing Old Street: Stroll along the narrow, winding cobblestone streets and admire the quaint Ming-Qing style houses, soaking in the rich historical atmosphere.
- Ming Dynasty Tongren City Wall: A well-preserved Ming Dynasty city wall with distinctive architectural features. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
- Tongren Museum: Showcases the history and folk culture of Tongren, featuring traditional brocades, handicrafts, and artifacts depicting local historical events.
- Dongshan Temple: A small, serene temple where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and views of the ancient city.
Food Recommendations
- Sour Fish Soup: A Tongren specialty with a tangy flavor and tender fish, perfect with rice.
- Rice Tofu: Smooth texture, often served with chili, soy sauce, and scallions for a spicy, savory taste.
- Fried Glutinous Rice Cake: Crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, a popular local snack.
- Shefan: Steamed glutinous rice mixed with cured meat and mugwort, offering a fragrant and flavorful dish.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Tongren State Guesthouse, Wyndham Grand Tongren Jiuyi City, etc., with complete facilities and premium services.
- Budget-friendly: Choose chain hotels or homestays in the city, such as Pinman Yun Hotel, for great value and a local experience.
Itinerary Planning
- One-day tour: Start at the Bell Tower in the morning, stroll along Ming-Qing Old Street, and admire the ancient architecture. Enjoy local cuisine for lunch. Visit the Tongren Museum in the afternoon to learn about the city's history and culture. In the evening, climb the Ming Dynasty city wall to enjoy the sunset and night views.
- Two-day tour: Spend the first morning exploring attractions within the ancient city, then head to the Jinjiang River in the afternoon for a boat ride. Enjoy snacks at the night market in the evening. On the second day, visit nearby attractions like Fanjing Mountain or Daming Border Town.