Anren Ancient Town (安仁古镇), nestled in Dayi County, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province, spans an area of 4.1 square kilometers and boasts a history spanning over 1380 years, with its origins tracing back to the third year of the Tang Dynasty’s Wude era (620 AD) when Anren County was established.
This historic town is home to nationally protected cultural treasures, including the Liu’s Manor, a key national cultural relic site. Anren also hosts the Jianchuan Museum Cluster, the largest folk museum in China and 27 well-preserved traditional mansions blending Chinese and Western architectural influences. Additionally, the town features 48 modern museums, 16 cultural heritage sites, and 3655 first-grade national cultural relics.
Anren Town experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Springs and autumns are mild, while summers are hot, characterized by southeastern winds and concentrated rainfall. Winters are dry and cold, often accompanied by northerly winds. The average annual temperature hovers around 16°C, with precipitation concentrated from July to September, peaking in July.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Anren Ancient Town
- Vlog about Anren Ancient Town
- Other Attractions in Suburb of Chengdu
Basic Information
| website | http://www.china-anren.com/ |
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 day |
| Ticket Price | The town itself is free. The combined ticket for the attractions costs 135 RMB |
| Opening Hours | Most attractions operate from 9.00 to 18.00 |
| Area | 4.1 square kilometers |
| Telephone Number | 0086-028 – 88319116 |
Location and Transportation
Anren Ancient Town is located in the western part of the Sichuan province in China, approximately 39 kilometers (24 miles) southwest of the bustling city of Chengdu. Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the basin, this historical gem is easily accessible from Chengdu, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking a journey through time.
Surrounded by rolling hills and verdant countryside, Anren Ancient Town offers a serene escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Its strategic location along the ancient Southern Silk Road has contributed to its historical significance and cultural diversity.
To get there, tourists from Chengdu can take an express coach from Chadianzi Bus Station (茶店子车站), which departs every 30 minutes from 6.30 to 17.10 and takes less than an hour.
Highlights of Anren Ancient Town
Jianchuan Museum Cluster
The Jianchuan Museum Cluster, founded by private entrepreneur Fan Jianchuan, spans nearly 100,000 square meters and houses a collection of over 8 million artifacts, including 425 first-grade national cultural relics. With the theme “Collecting wars for peace, lessons for the future, disasters for tranquility, and folk customs for heritage,” the museum features more than 30 galleries organized into four major series: Anti-Japanese War, Folk Customs, Red Era, and Earthquake Relief. It stands as China’s largest privately funded museum, with the most extensive construction scale, exhibition area, and diverse collection, emphasizing the preservation of historical lessons and cultural heritage for the benefit of future generations. The Jianchuan Museum Cluster is a testament to the founder’s commitment to peace, education, and the conservation of China’s rich cultural tapestry.
Mansion Street
Mansion Street in Anren Ancient Town preserves a historic architectural district dating back to the Republic of China era. Comprising Shuren Street, Yumin Street, Hongxing Street, and Deren Street, the street network spans approximately 1200 meters (with Shuren Street around 300 meters, Yumin Street around 200 meters, Hongxing Street around 260 meters, and Deren Street around 440 meters). The area boasts well-preserved mansions, totaling 14, along with over 210 traditional homes. Characterized by a fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles, the grand, elegant, and spacious walled compounds are often referred to as the “exquisite cultural gem of Sichuan architecture.” Mansion Street serves as a comprehensive cultural and tourism experience hub, offering opportunities for shopping, accommodation, entertainment, leisure, dining, sightseeing, and visual appreciation.
Liu’s Manor Museum
The Liu Manor Museum comprises five mansions constructed over time by the Liu family ancestors and Liu Wencai’s brothers, covering an area of over 70,000 square meters with a built-up area of more than 21,000 square meters. This architectural ensemble embodies a fusion of Chinese and Western styles, showcasing remnants of traditional Chinese feudal estates while reflecting the closed societal structure prevalent in feudal times. It mirrors feudal orders and hierarchical relationships while incorporating elements from Western castle and church architecture, infusing Western aesthetic features into its details. The blend of Eastern and Western influences in this manor, primarily constructed with brick and wood, epitomizes the architectural evolution of modern dwellings in the western part of Sichuan in the early 20th century.
Tea Houses
In the heart of Anren Ancient Town, a tapestry of teahouses weaves a serene haven for travelers and locals alike. These charming establishments offer a respite from the bustling streets, inviting visitors to unwind and savor the time-honored tradition of Sichuan tea culture. With their rustic elegance and tranquil ambiance, Anren’s teahouses provide a unique setting to engage in contemplation, conversation, and cultural exchange. Amidst the embrace of Qing-dynasty architecture, guests can relish aromatic teas and local delicacies, fostering connections with both the past and present while basking in the town’s timeless charm.
Local Markets
Anren Ancient Town’s local markets exude a vibrant tapestry of tradition and commerce. Meandering through these bustling bazaars, visitors are greeted by a colorful array of handcrafted treasures, aromatic spices, and delectable street food that embody the essence of Sichuan’s rich heritage. Amidst the charming Qing-dynasty architecture, these markets offer a captivating blend of old and new, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local way of life, engage with skilled artisans, and relish the flavors and craftsmanship that have thrived through generations.
