Langzhong Voyage Tips and guide

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Langzhong (阆中; Làngzhōng) is a town in northeastern Sichuan province. Langzhong is a city of about 100,000 people on the Jialing River. The main attraction is the ancient town (古镇, Gǔ zhèn), a mostly unadulterated section of ancient architecture, closed to vehicle traffic. The town is famous as the abode and headquarters of Zhangfei (张飞), a notable emperor during the years of the Han dynasty. There are also some hiking and sightseeing opportunities in the surrounding area.

Langzhong's size and offerings makes for an ideal weekend trip, but could host several days of sightseeing, especially for those interested in classical Chinese culture and architecture.

Located in the southern part of Sichuan Province, the town has a long history and is one of the important origins of Bashu culture. As the hometown of Zhuge Liang, the Prime Minister of the Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period, Langzhong has a rich historical and cultural background, with many historical sites and cultural landmarks. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Langzhong flourished and became an important commercial and cultural center in Sichuan. Today, Langzhong still preserves its rich historical heritage and attracts numerous tourists with its unique cultural charm and natural landscapes, making it a historical and cultural city in Sichuan.

Langzhong is located in the northern edge of Sichuan Basin, belongs to the subtropical humid monsoon climate, the climate is warm and humid, the four seasons are distinct, the average annual temperature is about 17 ° C. The annual precipitation is about 1000-1200 mm, and the precipitation is mostly concentrated in the rainy season in May-September, especially in June-August, and the summer is humid and hot, often accompanied by thunderstorms. Although winter is not severe cold, but wet cold and cloudy days more, the body feels colder. Less sunshine time throughout the year, high air humidity, year-round 70%-80%. Generally speaking, Langzhong has a mild climate, is suitable for living, excellent agricultural conditions, and is also an ideal place for tourism, especially in the spring and autumn seasons.

Langzhong is now connected to China's high speed rail network. One high speed train departs daily from Chengdu, departing from Chengdu East Station (2.5 hours, ¥95). There is also one slow train daily from the same station (4 hours, ¥49.5). Trains from Chongqing are much more frequent, with five high-speed trains departing daily from Chongqing North Station (2 hours, ¥88), and several slower trains departing daily from both Chongqing Station and Chongqing North Station (3 to 5 hours, 41).

The railway station is about 4 km southwest of the old city.

Three buses leave daily from Mianyang (4 hours, ¥75), departing from Fu Le bus station northeast of the city. There are also multiple buses leaving from Chengdu's Beimen station (5 hours, ¥94). Chongqing and Xi'an also offer buses to Langzhong.

The main bus station is 5 km south of the town. There is another, smaller station north of town. The two bus stations are connected by bus 89, which also passes by the old town.

Langzhong has a simple bus system with several lines serving the bus station, Grand Buddha, and old town. Taxi flag fall is ¥4.5.

The main attraction is the old town (古镇, Gǔ zhèn), a sizable section of ancient-looking buildings in classical style. It was from this town that the famed warrior-king Zhangfei administered the Kingdom of Shu during the late Han.

The town offers a combined ticket (¥120) to seven main attractions, listed below. The combined ticket is valid for 2 days. Individual tickets can also be purchased for each attraction. All sites have slightly informative English captions on some displays. Once in the old town, these sites are easy to find by either following town maps posted everywhere, or buying a town map (¥5-10).

• 31.57398105.969041 Huaguang Tower (华光楼). The tower has been closed for repairs since May 2018. A reopening date has not yet been announced. (updated Sep 2017)

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  31.57886105.964242 Zhongtian Tower (中天楼). Both this tower and the Huaguang Tower are about three storeys high and are fine locations from which to overlook the town and river. ¥20. (updated Sep 2017)
• 31.57931105.962453 Zhangfei Temple (汉桓侯祠, 张飞庙). Where the warrior king was laid to rest after being betrayed by his closest advisors. ¥58. (updated Sep 2017)
• 31.57532105.969784 Fengshui Museum (风水博物馆). An exhibition of geomantic principles including a scale model of the town. There is also a beautiful, small courtyard with well-kept vegetation and multiple levels. A (Mandarin only) fortune teller is sometimes available. The attached museum houses multiple displays without English captions. ¥40. (updated Sep 2017)

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  31.58006105.965735 Gongyuan (贡院). A preserved ancient examination hall. Up until the Communist Revolution, individuals seeking government employment memorized ancient Confucian texts and were later grilled on the quality of their memorization as the sole qualifier for employment. This hall is one where students were examined, and houses a tribute to Langzhong's top scholars. ¥55. (updated Sep 2017)

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  31.5811105.967226 Confucian Temple (文庙, 孔庙，阆中县文庙 Langzhong County Confucian Temple). It was built in the northern part of the town during the Tang Dynasty, then relocated to the East Gate during the Ming Dynasty, and moved to its present location in 1851 during the Qing Dynasty. ¥40. (updated Sep 2018)
• 31.579825105.9646087 North Sichuan Daotai Yamen (川北道署, 道台衙门 Daotai Yamen). From 1730 to the early 20th century, the yamen served as the main office and residence of the daotai (high-ranking mandarins) who were tasked with the administration of northern Sichuan. Unfortunately, the yamen was largely destroyed during the 20th century. The current building is a modern reconstruction, though nonetheless still worth a look. ¥20. (updated Sep 2018)

For the very time- or budget- conscious, a tower and the Fengshui museum will probably suffice. Otherwise, these and various other sights make for a day or more of sightseeing.

The following sights are either free or charge a fee which is not included in the price of the combined ticket:

• 31.5797105.966248 Hu Family Courtyard (胡家院), 25 Xuedao Street (学道街25号). 08:00-18:00. A classical courtyard-style residence with a history dating back to the early 18th century. There are eight rooms on display, each of which has been carefully arranged in the traditional style with antique furniture. The Hu family still live here and will usually give you a guided tour in Mandarin. ¥10. (updated Sep 2018)
• 31.57922105.965439 Langzhong Museum (阆中市博物馆). (updated Dec 2024)

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  In addition to sightseeing in the old town, there are two mountain areas south of the town, just across the river. One of these, southeast of the city, is a large mountain park. Referred to collectively as East Mountain Forest Park (东山林园, dōng shān lín yuán) it hosts three major sights:
  • Grand Buddha Temple. A large temple complex including what is described as one of Sichuan's ten largest stone-carved sitting Buddhas. The area has many lesser shrines as well as a restored but ramshackle living complex, and offers many views of the city and river. From the road, you can't miss the large parking area. ¥10. (updated Sep 2017)
  • Number 1 Scholars Cave. One of Sichuan's greatest bargains, a small grotto where several of Langzhong's greatest scholars prepared for examinations. The complex occupies a small pond and temple. In low season, you can have the place all to yourself for a mesmerizing experience. The area is not quite visible from the road; look for a parking turnoff and informational sign. ¥4. (updated Sep 2017)

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    White Tower Pagoda. A prominent spike-shaped erection conspicuously visible from town, the pagoda was originally built in the 1600s, severely damaged in the May 2008 Sichuan earthquake, only to be rebuilt by the end of that year. If the attendant is present, you can climb the stairs inside the pagoda for a small price. ¥2 to climb. (updated Sep 2017) The scenic area is accessible a number of ways. Tourist transport buses and ferries run between the town and the scenic area. The public bus also stops at the entrance to the park (bus stop: Grand Buddha Temple Park Entrance, 大佛寺园入口). From the bus stop, walk up the signed road. You can walk to the Buddha Temple (3km) or to a set of steep stairs on your right (1km) which goes to the pagoda. From there, follow signs to the remaining sights. Probably the most rewarding experience in any time of year is a few hours dedicated to wandering the streets, looking for glimpses of the goings-on of ancient China.

Langzhong, one of China’s four ancient cities, boasts a long history and rich cultural heritage. The traditional festivals here are diverse and vibrant. Below are some of the main traditional festivals celebrated in Langzhong:

• Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), from the first to the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. Langzhong is known as the “Hometown of Chinese New Year Culture.” The celebrations during Chinese New Year are abundant, including dragon and lion dances, writing Spring Festival couplets, pasting window decorations, lantern festivals, and folk performances. The Lantern Festival on the fifteenth day of the new year is particularly lively, with traditional lantern displays and riddles to guess.

• Dragon Boat Festival (Duanwu Festival), on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, in Langzhong includes traditional activities such as making zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), dragon boat races, and hanging wormwood. The dragon boat race on the Jialing River is a notable local event, attracting many visitors and locals to watch.

• Mid-Autumn Festival, on the fifteenth day of the eighth lunar month. During the Mid-Autumn Festival, people in Langzhong celebrate by admiring the full moon, eating mooncakes, and drinking osmanthus wine. In addition, the riverside moon-viewing events along the Jialing River are popular with tourists, creating a romantic atmosphere accompanied by traditional music.
• Qingming Festival (Tomb Sweeping Day), between April 4th and 6th. During Qingming, Langzhong people observe the tradition of tomb sweeping to honor their ancestors. It is also a time for people to go outdoors and enjoy the spring scenery, with Jialing River banks being a popular place for people to relax and appreciate nature.
• Zhang Fei Cultural Festival, on May 1st (during the Labor Day holiday). Langzhong is the hometown of Zhang Fei, a famous general from the Three Kingdoms period. The Zhang Fei Cultural Festival includes activities such as a grand sacrificial ceremony in honor of Zhang Fei, Three Kingdoms cultural performances, and food exhibitions. It is one of Langzhong’s unique festivals.
• Double Ninth Festival (Chongyang Festival), on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month. People in Langzhong celebrate the Double Ninth Festival by climbing mountains to pray for blessings, with Jingshan Mountain being a popular spot. It is also a day to honor the elderly, with local communities organizing various events to express respect for seniors.

• Qixi Festival (Chinese Valentine’s Day), on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, has a romantic atmosphere, with people holding prayers and wishing for love and happiness. The riverside decorations with red lanterns and the activity of making flower lanterns further enhance the festive mood.
• Langzhong Ancient City Temple Fair, during the first lunar month or other special days. Langzhong’s temple fairs feature rich folk arts, including Sichuan opera, shadow puppetry, acrobatics, and local food stalls, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

Langzhong, as a historic ancient city, has a wealth of local specialties and handicrafts, and here are some of the characteristics worth buying

• Langzhong Triad Oil Co., Ltd. Sanhe oil is Langzhong traditional specialty food, mainly made of edible oil, peanuts, sesame and other raw materials. It has a strong flavor and is often used for seasoning and cooking. It is a traditional specialty food in Langzhong and is very popular.
• Chinese pickles. Langzhong pickles are famous for their unique pickling technology, the taste is sour and delicious, and the ingredients or side dishes of writers are often used. Especially suitable for tourists who love sour food.
• Hot pot base in Langzhong Mala. Sichuan hot pot is famous all over the country, and Langzhong hot pot base material with its strong spicy taste and unique ingredients become local characteristics. Buy a Langzhong hot pot base, you can take home to make an authentic spicy hot pot.
• Old-fashioned handicrafts. Langzhong has a rich cultural heritage, so the local handicrafts are also very characteristic. You can find handicrafts such as wood carving, bamboo weaving, embroidery, etc. These are the traditional folk art of Langzhong, which is very suitable for making souvenirs or giving gifts to relatives and friends.
• Sweet Potato Products. Langzhong sweet potato because the soil is good and very sweet, many sweet potato products such as sweet potato dried, sweet potato noodles and so on become local specialty food. These sweet potato products are very delicious both as a snack and as a side dish.
• Chinese cinnamon nectar. Osmanthus nectar is a major feature of Sichuan, Langzhong region osmanthus nectar color clear, sweet taste, has a certain health care effect. It can be eaten directly or used to mix drinks or make desserts.
• Sweet Peanut Crispy in Langzhong. Langzhong peanut pastry is a very popular traditional snack, crispy inside, rich taste, both as a casual snack, but also as a gift of the good.
• Chinese wine. Langzhong also produces some traditional liquor, especially liquor represented by Langzhong Daqu wine, which is widely popular in the local area. It is rich in taste and is often used for banquets or family gatherings.
• Chinese tea. Langzhong area tea with dragon tea and other varieties famous, tea quality is superior, taste fresh. Tea picking has a long history and is an important part of Langzhong traditional agriculture.
• Dry goods of Langzhong specialty. Langzhong area dry goods are also very characteristic, including dried peppers, dried mushrooms, dried shellfish and so on. They are often used to cook Sichuan specialties with a strong local flavor.

Here are the recommended restaurants in Langzhong, along with their addresses, reasons for recommendation, and approximate coordinates

• 31.617105.97741 Langzhong Old Street Tofu Rice (阆中老街豆腐饭), Old Street. This restaurant is famous for its classic local dish, tofu rice, which features tender tofu and fragrant rice. The dishes here also reflect the local flavors, making it a great place to try authentic Langzhong cuisine. (updated Dec 2024)
• 31.616105.9782 Langzhong Flavored Snack Street (阆中风味小吃街), Near the center of Langzhong City. This area gathers many local food stalls, offering dishes like spicy noodles, hot pot tripe, sticky rice dumplings, and other classic Langzhong snacks. It’s a great spot to sample a variety of authentic Sichuan street foods. (updated Dec 2024)

• 31.6202105.97793 Langzhong Spicy Hotpot (阆中辣火锅), Jiangbei Street. Known for its rich and spicy flavor, Langzhong’s hotpot features a variety of vegetables, meats, and tofu, all cooked in a flavorful, spicy broth. It’s a must-try for anyone craving a hearty and flavorful Sichuan meal. (updated Dec 2024)
• 31.6184105.97674 Langzhong Wangfu Restaurant (阆中万福餐厅), South Dajie. This restaurant offers traditional Sichuan dishes, particularly the famous spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine, including Kung Pao chicken and fish-flavored shredded pork. The elegant environment makes it a perfect place for family gatherings and group meals. (updated Dec 2024)

There are no obvious dedicated drinking establishments within the Old Town itself. Beer can be bought at most restaurants. Coffee/milk tea bars are common in the old town.

There are many courtyard homesteads in the old town, often advertised as "so-and-so's family complex." Some, such as the Li Family Courtyard, are quite similar to the complexes where families lived in ancient times. There is no shortage of these: look for the sign 住宿, or sleeping-place, or just walk into any open, inviting looking courtyard. Most proprietors are glad to rent space to travelers for around ¥100 for a double.