Zhaohua Ancient Town in Guangyuan

Zhaohua Ancient City (昭化古城) is located in Zhaohua Town, Zhaohua District, Guangyuan City (广元市昭化区昭化镇). It is a national 4A-level scenic area and was historically known as Jiameng (葭萌). With the reputation of being “the First County of Bashu and the Second Capital of the Shu Kingdom”, it is one of the best-preserved ancient Three Kingdoms towns in China. Situated at the meeting point of the Bailong River (白龙江), Jialing River (嘉陵江), and Qing River (清江), the ancient city combines historic streets, traditional architecture, river landscapes, and rich Shu culture.

The ancient city streets are free and open all day. The combined ticket for attractions such as the Ancient County Office and Confucian Temple is 52 RMB, valid for two days. Exhibition halls open from 08:30 to 18:00 in summer and 08:30 to 17:30 in winter, with admission stopping at 17:00.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Recommendations

March to May: The weather is mild and comfortable, with the ancient town surrounded by fresh greenery and a pleasant atmosphere for walking.

June to August: Summers can be hot, but the riverside areas provide refreshing places to relax and enjoy the cool breeze.

September to November: Clear skies and comfortable temperatures make this the best season for sightseeing and exploring the old streets.

December to February: Visitor numbers are lower, creating a peaceful atmosphere with strong traditional festival and local cultural vibes.

Best Visiting Hours

Early morning is the best time to photograph the old streets when there are fewer visitors. At sunset, climbing the city wall offers beautiful views of the three rivers, especially when the evening lights illuminate the ancient town. A normal visit takes around 3–4 hours, while travelers seeking a deeper experience are recommended to stay overnight.

Transportation Guide

By car: Navigate to Zhaohua Ancient City Visitor Center (昭化古城游客中心). Paid parking areas are available, and the drive from downtown Guangyuan takes about 30 minutes.

By public transport: Visitors can take Guangyuan tourism bus K01 from Guangyuan Railway Station (广元站) directly to the ancient city.

Zhaohua Ancient City can be combined with Jianmen Pass (剑门关) and Cuiyun Corridor (翠云廊) to create a one-day or two-day Shu Road and Three Kingdoms cultural itinerary.

✨ Core Attractions

Zhaohua County Office (昭化县署)

The Zhaohua County Office is a well-preserved Ming and Qing Dynasty government complex that recreates the layout and functions of an ancient county administration. During peak seasons, historical performances are sometimes held here, allowing visitors to learn about traditional local governance systems and ancient official culture.

Confucian Temple and Examination Hall (文庙与考棚)

The Confucian Temple was built for worshiping Confucius, while the Qing Dynasty examination hall reflects the history of imperial examinations and education in northern Sichuan. The beautiful ancient architecture, including Zhuangyuan Bridge (状元桥) and Dacheng Hall (大成殿), provides insight into traditional Chinese scholarly culture.

Jinghou Temple (敬侯祠 / Fei Yi Tomb 费祎墓)

This site commemorates Fei Yi (费祎), an important minister of the Shu Han Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period. The ancient cypress trees surrounding the tomb create a solemn historical atmosphere, making it an important Three Kingdoms heritage site.

City Gates and Ancient City Walls (城门城墙)

The ancient city preserves important gates including Zhanfeng Gate (瞻凤门, East Gate) and Linqing Gate (临清门, West Gate). Walking along the city wall provides panoramic views of the meeting point of the three rivers and the unique natural landscape known as the “World’s First Mountain-Water Taiji” formation.

Jiandao Dam Lord and Minister Garden (剑刀坝君臣园)

This Three Kingdoms themed garden features stone sculptures of historical figures such as Liu Bei (刘备) and Zhuge Liang (诸葛亮), recreating the atmosphere of the Shu Kingdom era through landscape design and cultural displays.

Zhaohua Han City Museum (昭化汉城博物馆 / Longmen Academy 龙门书院)

Converted from a Qing Dynasty academy, the museum displays local historical materials and unearthed cultural relics from the Qin-Han period and the Three Kingdoms era, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Zhaohua’s long history.

Zhansheng Dam (战胜坝)

According to local tradition, this area is associated with the legendary battlefield where Zhang Fei (张飞) fought Ma Chao (马超) during a night battle. The surrounding old streets, stone-paved lanes, and traditional residences preserve the everyday atmosphere of a living ancient town.

Accommodation and Local Food

Visitors can stay in traditional guesthouses inside Zhaohua Ancient City or return to Guangyuan downtown for more accommodation options. Local specialties include Jianmen Tofu (剑门豆腐), Zhaohua Steamed Cold Noodles (昭化蒸凉面), and Jialing River Fish (嘉陵江鱼). The ancient streets offer many restaurants and traditional teahouses where visitors can enjoy Sichuan-style covered-bowl tea (盖碗茶).

Travel Tips

1. The ancient city streets are paved with uneven stone slabs. Wear comfortable flat shoes suitable for walking.
2. The county office, Confucian Temple, and stone inscriptions are protected cultural relics. Do not carve, scratch, or damage historical structures.
3. Exhibition halls close in the evening; after closing time, only the ancient streets remain open for visitors.
4. Zhaohua Ancient City is still home to local residents. Keep noise levels low and do not enter private homes without permission.
5. The combined attraction ticket is valid for two days. Visitors must present their ticket when entering included attractions.