Qingyan is an ancient Chinese town located in the capital city of Guiyang in the province of Guizhou. Qingyan has a rich history dating back to 1378 when it was originally constructed.
The local area is made up of a rugged rocky terrain, which has been used to construct the ancient city. There are four traditional styled gates marking the north, east, south and west of the city. Over the years the city has been modified and restored, capturing some of the Ming Dynasty from 1368 to 1644 and also the Qing Dynasty from 1644 to 1911.
The entire city is the main attraction and encompasses charming streets filled with culture and heritage. The Ciyun Temple is a must see, with fantastic stone sculptures as is Shoufo Temple, which boasts wooden carvings from the Ming Dynasty. Throughout the streets you will find tasty and traditional Chinese cuisine such as rice tofu and rose sugar.
Travel to Qingyan- getting there
With Qingyan located in the capital city of Guiyang, traveling there is relatively easy with a host of options available. Guiyang Longdongbao International Airport has flights to Macau, Hong Kong and Bangkok as well as numerous domestic cities including Beijing. Flights from Beijing take approximately an hour. Buses and trains are inexpensive and provide a reliable service from most surrounding cities and provinces.
In brief
Worth it? Yes.
What to do: check out traditional Chinese architecture, cultural activities and interesting museums.
Best time to go: the warmer months from April until October.
How long? A day or two is sufficient.
Tidbit: Qingyan is built entirely of local quarried stone.
Qingyan attractions
· Zhao Lunli Baisui Fang: is one of the eight stone tablets found around the city and represents longevity.
Side trips from Qingyan
· Guiyang City: is the capital of Guizhou Province and home to a wide array of cultural, shopping and entertainment activities.