Location & How to Get There

Tai'An Ancient Town sits nestled in the lush hills of Qingcheng Mountain’s rear section, about 70 kilometers west of Chengdu. The full address is 232 Yidaojie Street, middle section of Tai'An Ancient Town, Dujiangyan City, Sichuan Province. To reach this hidden gem, most visitors drive from Chengdu (around 1.5 hours) or take a bus to Dujiangyan, then transfer to a local shuttle toward Qingcheng Mountain’s back mountain area. The town feels worlds away from the city, yet it’s surprisingly accessible!

Natural Charm: A Walkable Watertown

Tai'An Ancient Town is carved along a mountain slope, with crystal-clear streams winding through cobblestone streets. Imagine walking under wooden-lattice balconies, past shops with hanging red lanterns, while the sound of trickling water follows you. The architecture here is pure old-school China: timber-frame houses with black-tiled roofs, stone bridges arching over babbling brooks, and willow trees dipping toward the water. It’s like a living postcard, especially misty in the morning or golden at sunset.

Cultural Heart: Tai'An Temple & Street Life

At the heart of Tai'An Ancient Town stands Tai'An Temple, a centuries-old Buddhist sanctuary. Monks in maroon robes chant daily, and incense smoke curls from bronze burners—a sharp yet soothing contrast to the nearby market stalls selling spicy noodles and hand-woven crafts. The town’s history as a trade hub dates back centuries; merchants once packed these streets, and even after the 2008 earthquake damaged many buildings, the 2012 rebuild preserved its “old soul.” Today, you’ll find both: temple bells ringing beside modern teahouses where elders play mahjong.

Modern Comforts in an Ancient Setting

Don’t let the antique vibes fool you—Tai'An Ancient Town has plenty for travelers. For foodies, there’s Sichuan-style hotpot, sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, and temple-blessed vegetarian dishes. Stay overnight in a traditional courtyard inn or a cozy guesthouse. Souvenir hunters can browse handmade paper lanterns, tea, or carvings. The main street even has a few trendy cafes with mountain views!

Tips for Your Visit

  • Best Time: Spring (cherry blossoms!) or fall (crisp air) are ideal. Summer brings greenery but crowds.
  • Explore Smart: Start at Tai'An Temple, then wander south for quieter streams and fewer tourists.
  • Respect Rules: Some temple areas require modest dress (no shorts/sleeveless tops).
  • Photo Ops: Sunrise at the bridge near the temple, or sunset over the rooftops—magic!

Tai'An Ancient Town isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a time machine. One minute you’re sipping tea by a monk’s temple, the next haggling over a hand-carved fan. It’s Sichuan’s mix of heaven and earth, wrapped in history. Perfect for slow travel!