Step into the Qingyan Ancient Town from Ming and Qing Dynasty novels – weathered stone walls bear witness to history

Text & Photos /Daneil Cheung, Siman

Qingyan Ancient Town was built during the Ming Dynasty, originally a post station in southern Guizhou, serving as a key route to Sichuan, Hunan, Yunnan, and Guangxi, as well as a military stronghold at the time. The imperial court stationed a large garrison here, leading to a growing population and flourishing economy and culture. Today, Qingyan Ancient Town is located in the southern part of Huaxi District, Guizhou, and is developing into a new tourist destination to help more people learn about its history and local culture.

The town is built against a mountain, with paths paved in bluestone slabs and weathered stone walls that all bear witness to the history of Qingyan Ancient Town. Some writers say that walking here feels like stepping into the world of Ming and Qing Dynasty novels, as if you’ve been transported back in time.


The North Gate, also known as Dingguang Gate, is the entrance to exploring the ancient town. The city wall’s ramparts are equipped with watchtowers, battlements, and gun platforms. Although they no longer hold military value, the walls remain tall and imposing, winding through the mountains. Walking straight ahead from Dingguang Gate will take you to the South Gate. In fact, Qingyan Ancient Town has four main streets and twenty-six smaller lanes. Wander through the twists and turns nearby, and you’ll discover even more and experience deeper layers of its charm.

Driven by curiosity, my journalist friend and I bought an 80-yuan combo ticket and first entered the Wanshou Palace. Originally a ancestral hall, it gradually evolved into a Taoist temple. The subtle scent of wood adds a sense of tranquility. Next to the Wanshou Palace is the Ciyun Temple, now functioning as the Guizhou Guild Hall. The hall offers detailed introductions to Guizhou’s history, ethnic groups, paintings, handicrafts, and more, making it a great place to learn about the region’s cultural heritage.

Walking back to the main street and exploring the narrow alleys nearby, you’ll find locals making smoked tofu, children painting on walls, and women holding their babies. We often hear that Guizhou is picturesque, but its humanistic scenery is also incredibly beautiful. With a bit more exploration and a few more steps, you’ll easily discover a more authentic side of Guizhou.





● Author Daneil Cheung, a Hong Kong native born in the 1990s, calls himself a “half travel journalist” and hopes to travel the world. He runs a personal blog “The Story of a Half Travel Journalist” and has aFacebookpage.