Xilai Ancient Town (西来古镇, Xīlái Gǔzhèn) is a historic riverside town in **Pujiang County**, about 80 km southwest of Chengdu, Sichuan. It is known for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, old stone streets, ancient banyan trees, and local tea culture. Xilai is a good option for a half-day or full-day trip from Chengdu.
Understand
[edit]Xilai dates back more than 1,700 years and flourished during the Tang and Song dynasties as a trading hub along the ancient tea routes. Today, it retains a number of traditional residences, guild halls, and pagodas, while also serving as a weekend leisure spot for visitors from Chengdu.
Get in
[edit]- By bus: Direct long-distance buses run from Chengdu (Xinnanmen Bus Station) to Pujiang County. From Pujiang, take a local minibus or taxi (~15 minutes).
- By car: About 1.5–2 hours from Chengdu via the Chengdu–Ya’an Expressway (成雅高速).
- By train: High-speed rail to Qionglai or Pujiang stations, then continue by taxi or local bus.
Get around
[edit]The old town is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets.
See
[edit]- Ancient Streets – Flagstone alleys lined with wooden houses, teahouses, and small shops.
- Wenfeng Pagoda (文峰塔) – A seven-story pagoda with panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside.
- Ancient Banyan Tree – Said to be several hundred years old, a local landmark and popular photo spot.
- Ancestral Halls and Temples – Scattered through the old town, showcasing traditional Sichuanese architecture.
Do
[edit]- Enjoy a cup of Pujiang-grown green tea in one of the traditional teahouses.
- Browse for local snacks, handicrafts, and calligraphy.
- Visit during festivals (Dragon Boat Festival, Lantern Festival) to see lion dances and folk performances.
Buy
[edit]- Local green tea (Pujiang tea).
- Handmade bamboo crafts and traditional snacks.
Eat
[edit]- Try Sichuan small eats such as douhua (tofu pudding), spicy noodles, and roasted rabbit.
- Many family-run restaurants serve homestyle Sichuan cuisine at reasonable prices.
Drink
[edit]- Traditional teahouses along the river and main street, where locals sip tea and play mahjong.
Sleep
[edit]There are a few guesthouses and boutique inns inside the old town.
- Xilai Ancient Inn – Renovated courtyard house with simple rooms.
- Budget hotels available in Pujiang County town (15 min away).
Go next
[edit]- Pujiang – For Chaoyang Lake Scenic Area and Taiji Taoist Temple.
- Chengdu – Return for big-city attractions.
- Qionglai – Another historic town with ancient temples.
Stay safe
[edit]The old stone streets can be slippery in rain. Pickpocketing is rare but keep valuables safe during festivals.