Exploring Heijing Ancient Town: A Journey Through a Thousand Years

Dear friends! If you're tired of the same old popular tourist spots and are looking for a less-traveled, charming place for an in-depth tour, then you absolutely can't miss Heijing Ancient Town! It's like an ancient book sealed by time, every page holding a story, every step transporting you back to the prosperous salt capital era. Now, let's embark on this wonderful Heijing journey together! Preparations🎒 ● Documents: Your ID card is essential. Don't forget your student ID, senior citizen card, or other discount cards; they might save you some money. ● Clothing: Heijing Ancient Town has a mild climate, but the temperature difference between day and night can be significant. If you're going in summer, bring light, breathable clothing and a light jacket; in winter, wear more warm clothes—staying warm is key. ● Other Items: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and an umbrella or raincoat, as the weather is unpredictable. Comfortable sneakers are also essential; the ancient town has many cobblestone streets, and a good pair of shoes will make your journey much easier. Transportation Guide🚗 ● By Car: If you enjoy independent travel, driving is a great option. Starting from Kunming, take the Hangrui Expressway; the entire journey is approximately 200 kilometers and takes about 3 hours. The scenery along the way is quite beautiful, and you can stop to admire it at any time. ● Public Transportation: First, go to Chuxiong City, then take a bus from Chuxiong West Bus Station to Heijing Town. There are several buses daily, and the tickets are inexpensive. However, bus schedules may change, so it's best to check with the bus station before you depart. Attractions📍 Ancient Salt Workshop This is one of the core attractions of Heijing Ancient Town. Upon entering the Ancient Salt Workshop, you'll smell a faint salty aroma, as if you've traveled back to an ancient salt-making workshop. Here, you can witness the ancient salt-making process firsthand and even experience the fun of salt production yourself, feeling the wisdom and diligence of the ancients. Wu Family Courtyard This is a typical Ming and Qing dynasty building, and one of the best-preserved residences in Heijing Ancient Town. Built against the mountain, the courtyard boasts a rigorous layout, intricate carvings, and painted rafters, showcasing the prominent status of its former owner. Strolling through it, one can almost see the splendor of the Wu family and feel the vicissitudes of that era. Feilai Temple Located on a mountain within the ancient town, the temple offers panoramic views of Heijing. Though small, it is a popular place of worship, with a unique architectural style. Here, you can find peace and tranquility, listen to the birdsong and the sound of bells, and let your soul be cleansed. Dalong Temple This is a temple dedicated to the Salt God, with a long history and simple, ancient architecture. The temple preserves many Ming and Qing dynasty inscriptions and murals, possessing high historical and artistic value. The annual Salt God worship ceremony is held here, creating a lively atmosphere. Food Recommendation 🍲 Heijing Salt-Braised Chicken This is the signature dish of Heijing Ancient Town! **Local Free-Range Chicken** Made with locally sourced chicken, carefully marinated in Heijing salt and then braised. The chicken is tender, juicy, and savory, leaving a lingering, unforgettable flavor. **Gray Tofu** This is a specialty snack made from tofu. After a special treatment, the tofu has a grayish surface, a soft texture, and a delicious flavor. It can be boiled or stir-fried, both are very tasty. **Dried Beef** Made with high-quality beef, through a series of processes including marinating and drying. The dried beef is firm, fragrant, and a great accompaniment to drinks. **Accommodation Recommendations** The ancient town has many characteristic inns and guesthouses, mostly converted from old houses, full of historical atmosphere. You can choose an inn close to the attractions for convenient travel; or a guesthouse by the river, where you can fall asleep to the sound of flowing water at night, very pleasant. The prices are also relatively affordable, offering great value for money. Travel Tips💡 ● There are many cobblestone streets in the ancient town, so be careful when walking, especially on rainy days when the surfaces can be slippery. ● When visiting attractions, it's best to hire a local guide. They can give you a detailed explanation of the town's history and culture, making your trip more meaningful. ● When enjoying local cuisine, be mindful of portion sizes to avoid stomach upset. Family members, Heijing Ancient Town is like a forgotten gem, radiating a unique charm. Come and embark on a journey through a thousand years of history! We believe you'll fall in love with this place! 💕