Anju Ancient Town (安居古镇), located in Tongliang District, Chongqing, China, derives its name from the presence of the Da’an River (also known as Qiongjiang), symbolizing the idea of peaceful living. This historic town encompasses a core area of 3 square kilometers, along with cultural and tourist attractions like Heilongzui, Pipa Island, Huangjiaba, and Bolun Temple.
With a history dating back over 4,000 years, Anju was inhabited millennia ago. The town’s foundation can be traced to the Sui Dynasty when it was originally named Chishui County. Today, Anju Ancient Town boasts a history of more than 1,500 years and stands as a significant northern port town in Chongqing. Its rich heritage, cultural landmarks, and serene surroundings make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into China’s ancient past.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and transportation
- Highlights of Anju Ancient Town
- Vlog about Anju Ancient TOwn
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Ancient Towns in Chongqing
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
| Telephone Number | 0086-023-45363003 |
Location and transportation
Anju Ancient Town is situated in Tongliang District, 17 kilometers north of the county center. Covering an area of 56.78 square kilometers, it is approximately 66 kilometers away from the downtown area of Chongqing. The town is located on the southern bank of the confluence of the Qiongjiang and Fujiang Rivers.
For visitors coming from Chongqing, you can take buses from Chenjiaping Bus Station, Longtousi Bus Station, or Caiyuanba Bus Station to Tongliang North Gate Bus Station. From there, you can take a taxi to the South Gate Bus Station in Tongliang, where you can find buses heading to Anju Ancient Town.
Highlights of Anju Ancient Town
Bolun Holding the Moon
Located about two miles east of Anju Ancient Town stands Bolun Mountain, home to the thousand-year-old Bolun Temple. Perched atop the mountain, the temple’s main hall houses a Buddha statue carved into the rock. The statue depicts a benevolent figure with a plump form, right arm hanging down, left hand holding prayer beads close to the chest, and a gaze fixed ahead.
On Mid-Autumn Festival night, as the bright moon ascends, its radiant light pierces through the circular windows of the temple, casting a beam of light that seems to cradle the Buddha’s hand, creating the enchanting illusion of “Bolun Holding the Moon.” This breathtaking sight adds to the allure of Anju Ancient Town.
Huguang Guild Hall
Huguang Guild Hall in Anju Ancient Town has a storied history dating back to the mid-Ming Dynasty. It was initially constructed during this time but suffered destruction during the turmoil of the late Ming period. The hall was later rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty under the reign of Emperor Qianlong but faced another setback in the Xianfeng era due to a fire. It was then reconstructed with contributions from Hubei and Guangdong scholars and gentlemen during the Guangxu era.
In 2003, Anju Silk Factory in Tongliang County funded its restoration. Located to the south of Anju Ancient Town, the guild hall is nestled against a hill and features multiple layers of architectural depth. It includes a theater stage with intricately carved pillars showcasing lifelike divine and celestial figures. The layout incorporates unique courtyards and stone railings adorned with various auspicious motifs like lions, qilins, and dragons. The hall’s architecture and spacious design can accommodate gatherings of over a thousand people, making it a significant cultural and historical landmark in the area.
Numerous Temples
Anju Ancient Town’s picturesque landscape, nestled amidst mountains and water, has long been a favored destination for Buddhists and Taoists alike. Starting from the Tang Dynasty, the region saw the establishment of numerous temples, reaching its zenith during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. These temples, collectively known as the “Nine Palaces and Eighteen Temples,” are a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and architectural prowess. Some perch majestically on hilltops, while others cling to mountain slopes or stand proudly in the town’s bustling streets. Their grandeur and the perpetual fragrance of incense, accompanied by the resonant tones of temple bells, create a truly captivating ambiance, enriching the charm of Anju Ancient Town.
Folk Performance
Anju Ancient Town hosts a variety of folk performances throughout the week, from Tuesday to Sunday. Among them, the Dragon Dance is a prominent spectacle where people honor and seek blessings from the dragon by offering spring water and playfully sprinkling it on the dragon’s body.
Another captivating performance is the “Drought Boat,” featuring a “boatman” who skillfully rows and guides the boat while performing various rowing maneuvers. Passengers on the boat typically engage in rapid, rhythmic footwork during the performance, helping maintain the boat’s stable movement, creating a mesmerizing illusion of a floating vessel gliding gracefully on the water’s surface. These folk performances add vibrancy and cultural richness to the charm of Anju Ancient Town, offering visitors a delightful glimpse into local traditions.
Vlog about Anju Ancient TOwn
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Low Cost of Living: Prices in Anju Ancient Town are notably low. There is no entrance fee to the town. Visitors can opt to take a sightseeing bus for a nominal fee of 5 yuan, which transports them to Chenghuang Temple to start their exploration.
Hu Guang Guild Hall Performances: The Hu Guang Guild Hall hosts performances twice daily, at 10 AM and 3 PM. These performances include a variety of entertainment such as dance, face-changing, magic, acrobatics, and Sichuan Opera. The ticket price is 15 yuan.
Dining Options: Along the road from the parking lot to the main entrance, there are numerous dining options available, including establishments serving farmhouse cuisine. Visitors need not worry about finding food.
Xuantian Lake and Bike Rentals: Nearby Xuantian Lake offers the opportunity to rent bicycles for leisurely rides around the area, providing another activity option for visitors.
Dragon Dance Performance at Xuantian Lake Square: At Xuantian Lake’s Dragon Dance Square, there is a captivating fire dragon performance every evening at 7:30 PM, featuring traditional iron flower fireworks. This spectacle is highly recommended for tourists.
