China’s diverse and unique cultural history is well preserved in many ancient towns in different parts of the country. These charming and ancient old towns present China’s unique architecture and rich history that attracts local and international tourists, enhancing their understanding of China’s ancient history and cultural heritage. A new teacher teaching in China or a visitor can take a tour around some of the old towns to reconnect with the past and China’s history while providing an opportunity to understand the lifestyle of the local Chinese people. Below are some of the most beautiful ancient towns in China.
Fenghuang, Hunan
One of China’s most beautiful ancient towns in Fenghuang, situated on the western border of Hunan province. Fenghuang is a well-preserved old town of the ethnic culture of Tujia and Miao minority groups. Over the years, Fenghuang was enriched by its strategic position, beneficial economic activities, and diverse population. Due to these attributes, people began to build a beautiful town of wooden stilt houses and winding streets. The beautiful and unique wooden houses along the Tuo River are one of Fenghuang’s most spectacular and iconic images. Visiting this town will offer you a magical sight due to the beautiful lighting of buildings lit at night.
Wuyuan, Jiangxi
Wuyuan is located in the northeastern Jiangxi province and is best known for its well-preserved ancient architecture and beautiful countryside. Many of the villages and buildings in Wuyuan date from the Tang dynasty and are protected by the county’s relatively inconvenient transportation and remoteness. The area is mainly popular due to the yellow rapeseed flower fields surrounding the villages in March and April, providing colorful views for taking beautiful pictures. One of the best places and areas to see these flowers is the hills surrounding Jiangling village. The people in Wuyuan have preserved their ancient culture and allow visitors to learn about some of their unique cultural lifestyles and traditions.
Pingyao, Shanxi
Pingyao is a well-preserved ancient city located in the mid-east part of Shanxi province. This city was a financial center of the Qing Dynasty and home to the Rishengchang Exchange Shop, which was considered China’s first draft bank. Bankers and merchants during the time generated wealth and built lavish residences and buildings which you can view and visit today. If you teach English in Beijing, you can tour this peaceful town, preserving some artistic and beautiful traditional Chinese buildings. This city has earned its place on the UNESCO world heritage list for keeping its urban layout and architecture of China’s Qing and Ming styles.
Wuzhen, Zhejiang
Wuzhen is another beautiful ancient water town well preserved in its Qing Dynasty style layout and water layout system since it’s built along rivers. This city presents an incredible blend of culture and nature. It’s a city that enjoys excellent geographical conditions and a superb climate. This city is approximately a two-hour drive from Shanghai, and travelers can visit this city to enjoy a spectacular view of ancient architecture. Visitors can also watch various activities undertaken by the people in Wuzhen, including printing, making cloth, shoes, and tobacco planting.
Many ancient towns in China are peaceful recreation towns showcasing the traditional Chinese architectural style and layout. These towns are surrounded by spectacular landscapes, natural attractions, and favorable climatic conditions to enhance a more enjoyable experience. A new tutor teaching in China will be able to learn from the cultural heritage, history, building structures, and designs of the Chinese people and their way of life. There are plenty of guest houses and accommodation areas in these towns to offer you a place to stay during your visit.