Nestled in the colorful land of Yunnan, Dali is renowned for its romantic charm, but if you crave to explore the corners that have been gently touched by time, Jianshui, a small town with a long history, will surely bring you a unique surprise. Not only does it have a thousand-year-old cultural heritage, but it also possesses a tranquility and simplicity that has not been overly commercialized.
Jianshui, located in the southern part of Yunnan Province’s Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, is an ancient town with over 1,200 years of history. Formerly known as Lin’an, it is one of the national historical and cultural cities.
Jianshui’s history can be traced back to the Nanzhao period. Initially built as an earthen city, it was expanded into a brick city in the 20th year of the Hongwu reign of the Ming Dynasty (1387). Today, more than 50 exquisite ancient buildings are still preserved within the city, earning it the titles of “Museum of Ancient Architecture” and “Museum of Folk Dwellings.”
As a shining pearl of Yunnan, Jianshui boasts a rich cultural heritage and natural scenery. Here are 8 must-visit attractions in Jianshui, including their features, addresses, ticket information, and transportation guides:
1.Jianshui Ancient Town
With a history of over 1,200 years, the ancient town preserves more than 50 exquisite ancient buildings, such as the Confucius Temple and Zhu Family Garden, earning it the reputation of “Museum of Ancient Architecture.”
- 📍: Jianshui County, Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province.
- 🎫: Free entry to the ancient town, with separate fees for some internal attractions.
- 🚌: Take a bus or taxi from Jianshui Railway Station or Bus Station to reach the town directly.
2.Zhu Family Garden
A private garden from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, known as the “Grand View Garden of Southern Yunnan,” with an exquisite layout that combines the styles of Jiangnan courtyards and southern Yunnan architecture.
- 📍: Inside Jianshui Ancient Town.
- 🎫: 35¥/person
- 🚌: Easily accessible by foot or by taking a rickshaw within the ancient town.
3.Jianshui Chaoyang Tower
Built 28 years earlier than Tiananmen, this ancient city gate tower on the east side is an iconic building of the ancient town.
- 📍: East Gate of Jianshui Ancient Town.
- 🚌: Easily reachable by foot or rickshaw from anywhere within the ancient town.
4.Jianshui Seventeen-Arch Bridge (Shuanglong Bridge)
The largest multi-arch bridge in Yunnan, with seventeen arches reflecting in the water, creating a captivating scene.
- 📍: About 5 kilometers west of Jianshui County, spanning the Lujiang River and Tachong River.
- 🚘: Take a bus or taxi from Jianshui Ancient Town.
5.Jianshui Confucius Temple
The second-largest Confucius Temple after the one in Qufu, Shandong, showcasing the profound Confucian culture.
- 📍: Inside Jianshui Ancient Town.
- 🎫: 40¥/person
- 🚌: Accessible by foot within the ancient town.
6.Swallow Cave
A cave combining natural and cultural landscapes, famous for the scenes of swallows returning to their nests in spring and leaving in autumn.
- 📍: 20 kilometers east of Jianshui County in the Lujiang River Valley.
- 🎫: Around 60 yuan.
- Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car or join a local tour group.
7.Tuanshan Village
A well-preserved 19th-century ancient village showcasing the original features of traditional Yunnan folk dwellings.
- 📍: Xizhuang Town, Jianshui County.
- 🎫: Around 30 yuan.
- 🚘: Convenient to take a taxi or charter a car from Jianshui Ancient Town.
8.Jianshui Purple Pottery Street
A concentrated display of Jianshui’s purple pottery culture, where visitors can experience purple pottery-making and purchase handcrafted items.
- 📍: Jianshui New Town.
- 🎫: Free entry.
- 🚌: Take a bus or taxi from the ancient town, about a 15-minute ride.
Jianshui, this ancient town with a long history, not only attracts tourists with its profound cultural heritage and simple charm but also captivates food lovers with its unique culinary culture.
Steamed Chicken in Purple Clay Pot
Jianshui’s steamed chicken is a famous specialty dish in Yunnan and even throughout China. Using Jianshui’s special purple clay pot as the cooking vessel, the chicken is cooked without adding a drop of water, relying solely on the condensation of steam to cook the chicken meat, preserving the original flavor of the ingredients. The chicken meat is tender, the soup is clear and sweet, and it is nutritious and rich, making it a representative dish of Jianshui cuisine.
Grilled Tofu
Jianshui’s grilled tofu is a symbol of the ancient town’s local flavor, especially the one from the West Gate. Made from locally sourced well water, the tofu is slowly grilled over charcoal until the surface turns slightly yellow and the inside is soft and tender. Served with a special dipping sauce (garlic oil, chili peppers, etc.), the flavors are distinct and layered. It is a daily delicacy for locals and a must-try street food for tourists.
Tofu Rice Noodles
Unlike rice noodles from other places, Jianshui’s tofu rice noodles are often served with grilled tofu or with special tofu skin, along with a unique soup base, offering a rich taste experience. It is a popular choice for breakfast or late-night meals.
Bird’s Nest Pastry, Lion Cake, Lamb with Greens
These traditional desserts and specialty dishes are also not to be missed in Jianshui, showcasing the diversity and delicacy of Jianshui’s culinary culture.
