The Most Charming Ancient Towns in China

Ancient towns in China are like time machines tucked between mountains and rivers. Wandering through their stone-paved alleys and wooden houses feels like stepping into a living history book. I have visited almost all of them, and here I made a list of the most charming and truly worth visiting, so you can choose which one to visit on your next trip to China.

These ancient towns like Lijiang, Fenghuang, and Wuzhen are carry stories from dynasties past, where culture, tradition, and architecture remain beautifully preserved. Locals still follow age-old customs, and the slow pace of life offers a peaceful escape from the modern world. Whether you’re sipping tea by a canal or watching lanterns light up at night, China’s ancient towns welcome you with warmth, history, and a sense of wonder that lingers long after your visit.

Pingyao Ancient Town

Pingyao is one of China’s best-preserved ancient towns, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like a time machine back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. This walled city was once a bustling financial hub during imperial China and is often called the birthplace of modern Chinese banking.

The charm of Pingyao lies in its ancient architecture, cobbled alleyways, traditional lantern-lit streets, and deep cultural roots. It’s a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic slice of historical China without the over-commercialization found in some other tourist spots.

Things to Do & See in Pingyao

• Walk the Ancient City Wall– Over 6 km long, with 72 watchtowers and 4 main gates. Rent a bike or stroll for stunning rooftop views.
• Rishengchang Draft Bank Museum– The first draft bank in China, founded in 1823. Learn about Pingyao’s financial legacy.
• County Government Office (Yamen)– Historic site where you can watch traditional judicial reenactments.
• Ming-Qing Street (South Street)– The bustling main street lined with souvenir shops, snack stalls, and teahouses.
• Confucius Temple– A peaceful stop filled with cultural significance and ancient calligraphy.
• Stay in a Courtyard Hotel– Experience traditional Chinese living in a beautifully preserved siheyuan (courtyard house).
• Pingyao International Film Festival (PIFF)– If visiting in October, check out this rising star event founded by filmmaker Jia Zhangke.

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Lijiang Old Town (Yunnan Province)

Lijiang Old Town is a stunning example of a well-preserved ancient town with a living history and vibrant culture. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was once a crucial stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road. The town is famous for its unique blend of traditional Naxi minority culture, picturesque canals, wooden houses, and cobbled alleys that seem to twist endlessly in every direction.

Unlike many ancient towns in China, Lijiang Old Town is still inhabited, giving it an authentic, lived-in atmosphere that adds to its charm. By day, it’s a calm place of local rhythms and scenic exploration; by night, the old town comes alive with music, lanterns, and street food.

Highlights and Things to Do

• Wander the Stone Streets and Bridges– Get lost in the maze of walkways and canals, half the fun is exploring without a set destination
• Climb to Wangu Tower on Lion Hill– Offers panoramic views of the tiled rooftops of the old town with the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
• Visit the Mu Family Mansion– The residence of Lijiang’s former ruling family, showcasing impressive architecture and history
• Explore Black Dragon Pool Park– A tranquil spot with classic views of the snow mountain mirrored in the water, especially beautiful at sunrise
• Learn about Naxi Culture– Visit the Dongba Cultural Museum or catch a Naxi music performance featuring traditional instruments and language
• Take a Day Trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain– Easily accessible from town, this scenic mountain offers glacier views, cable car rides, and cultural performances at its base
• Shop for Local Crafts– Lijiang is known for silver jewelry, batik fabrics, and handmade paper goods

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Fenghuang (Phoenix) Ancient Town (Hunan Province)

Fenghuang, meaning “Phoenix,” is one of China’s most picturesque ancient towns. Nestled beside the emerald waters of the Tuojiang River and surrounded by misty mountains, Fenghuang is renowned for its romantic riverfront architecture, iconic stilted houses, and centuries-old culture. The town dates back over 300 years and is home to the Miao and Tujia ethnic minorities, whose traditions still shape everyday life.

Time seems to slow down here. Red lanterns reflect in the calm river at night, wooden bridges connect quiet alleys, and local life unfolds against a backdrop of ancient city walls and drum towers. It’s a place where history, folklore, and natural beauty come together.

Highlights and Things to Do

Walk Along the Tuojiang River– The heart of the town, lined with stilted wooden houses and stone pathways; enjoy riverside strolls or boat rides.
Cross the Rainbow Bridge– A covered bridge with a market inside, offering photo-worthy views and local crafts.
Explore the Ancient City Wall and East Gate Tower– Dating back to the Ming Dynasty, the wall offers a panoramic overlook of the town and river.
Visit the Former Residence of Shen Congwen– The preserved home of the famous Chinese writer who romanticized Fenghuang in his novels.
Watch or Join in Local Miao Culture– Try on traditional dress, watch folk dance performances, or visit Miao embroidery workshops.
Boat Ride on the Tuojiang River– A peaceful way to experience the charm of Fenghuang from the water, especially at sunrise or nightfall.
Night Walk Through the Town– The old town lights up beautifully at night with red lanterns and gentle music floating through the streets.

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Wuzhen Water Town (Zhejiang Province)

Wuzhen is one of the most iconic and best-preserved ancient water towns in China. With over 1,300 years of history, it’s often described as a living museum where time seems to flow as gently as its canals. Traditional wooden houses line narrow stone alleys, arched bridges connect both sides of the water, and boats glide silently under lantern-lit walkways.

Unlike some tourist-heavy destinations, Wuzhen has managed to keep its charm intact, offering a peaceful and picturesque experience. The town is split into two main scenic zones — Dongzha (East) and Xizha (West) — each with its own vibe. Dongzha is more local and compact, while Xizha is spacious, atmospheric, and ideal for a longer, immersive stay.

Wuzhen is also known for hosting cultural events like the Wuzhen Theatre Festival, drawing artists and performers from around the world.

Highlights and Things to Do in Wuzhen

Stroll Through the West Scenic Area (Xizha)- Offers a beautiful layout of canals, historic homes, boutique shops, and teahouses. It’s especially magical at night when lanterns reflect off the water.

Explore the East Scenic Area (Dongzha)- A smaller, more traditional zone that feels like stepping into an old Chinese painting. Great for morning walks and people-watching.

Visit the Ancient Bed Museum and Folk Custom Museum- Learn about traditional craftsmanship, including elaborately carved furniture and local heritage.

Take a Boat Ride Through the Canals- A peaceful way to admire Wuzhen’s architecture from the water, especially during sunrise or after dark.

Catch a Shadow Puppet Show or Huagu Opera- These traditional performances give a glimpse into the cultural history of the town.

Visit the Former Residence of Mao Dun- Explore the childhood home of one of China’s most famous 20th-century writers, with exhibits on his life and work.

Enjoy Local Snacks and Tea by the Water- Try hand-pulled noodles, rice wine, and sweet osmanthus cakes in one of the many waterside eateries or teahouses

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Zhouzhuang (Jiangsu Province)

Zhouzhuang is often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” and it is one of the most famous and oldest water towns in China. With a history of over 900 years, this town is crisscrossed by narrow canals, stone bridges, and whitewashed homes with black-tiled roofs. Its charm lies not only in its postcard-perfect scenery but also in the preservation of traditional life and culture.

Unlike more modernized tourist spots, Zhouzhuang still feels intimate and immersive. Locals wash clothes by the canals, vendors sell handmade crafts, and wooden boats gently glide beneath arched bridges. It’s an ideal destination for travelers seeking a glimpse into China’s classical water town life.

Things to See and Do in Zhouzhuang

Shuangqiao (Twin Bridges)- Perhaps the most iconic landmark of Zhouzhuang, this pair of stone bridges dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is often featured in Chinese art and photography.

Zhang House- Built in the Qing Dynasty, this historic residence showcases traditional Jiangnan architecture and elegant courtyard design.

Shen House- A grand 18th-century mansion once owned by a wealthy merchant, now open for visitors to explore the lifestyle of ancient elites.

Boat Ride Through the Canals- A must-do activity offering tranquil views of bridges, buildings, and daily life from the water.

Chengxu Taoist Temple- One of the largest Taoist temples in the region, with peaceful gardens and intricate carvings.

Explore Ancient Lanes- Wander narrow stone-paved alleys and browse shops selling silk, snacks, and souvenirs.

Evening Walks- The town is beautifully lit after sunset; take a quiet stroll for a romantic and peaceful atmosphere without the daytime crowds.

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Zhujiajiao (Shanghai)

Another “Venice” in ancient towns in China, but trust me it’s not just a hype, it is real beauty and worth visiting. Zhujiajiao is a historic water town with over 1,700 years of history, blending traditional charm with modern accessibility. It’s the most famous and best-preserved ancient town near Shanghai, making it a popular day-trip destination for both locals and tourists.

Zhujiajiao features classic canals, Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, narrow stone alleys, and 36 quaint stone bridges that arch over shimmering waterways. Unlike some more remote water towns, it’s easy to access and offers a charming break from the fast pace of city life.

With its riverside tea houses, historic buildings, and relaxed vibe, Zhujiajiao is ideal for anyone looking to experience old-world China without leaving Shanghai.

Highlights and Things to Do in Zhujiajiao

Fangsheng Bridge- The most iconic bridge in town, built in 1571, with five arches and stone lion carvings. It’s a perfect photo spot, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Ke Zhi Garden- A traditional Chinese garden complete with pavilions, rockeries, and lotus ponds. Once part of a wealthy merchant’s estate.

Boat Ride Through the Canals- A relaxing way to take in the town’s architecture and bridges — short or long ride options are available.

North Street- The best-preserved street in town, filled with ancient residences, artisan shops, and local snacks.

Qing Dynasty Post Office- A small but fascinating site with displays of antique mailboxes, stamps, and communication tools.

Humanity Hall and City God Temple- Smaller cultural attractions where you can explore Taoist beliefs and local religious traditions.

Street Shopping and Snacks- Vendors offer everything from handmade crafts to quirky souvenirs and traditional foods.

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Dali Old Town (Yunnan Province)

Dali Old Town is a laid-back, scenic, and culturally rich destination nestled between the crystal-clear Erhai Lake and the cloud-covered Cangshan Mountains. With a history dating back over a thousand years, it was once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom and a vital stop on the Southern Silk Road.

Today, Dali blends ancient charm with modern bohemian energy. It’s known for its cobbled streets, Bai minority culture, traditional architecture, and artsy, youthful vibe. Whether you’re into history, hiking, café hopping, or simply soaking in mountain views, Dali offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and creativity.

Highlights and Things to Do in Dali Old Town

Wander the Old Town Streets- Explore cobblestone alleys lined with traditional Bai-style buildings, independent bookstores, coffee shops, and artisan stores.

Visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple- A short bike or taxi ride north of the old town, this iconic trio of ancient towers is over 1,000 years old and surrounded by a scenic temple complex.

Bike Around Erhai Lake- One of Dali’s top activities; rent a bike or e-scooter and cruise past rice fields, fishing villages, and quiet lakeside temples.

Take the Cangshan Mountain Cable Car or Hike the Jade Cloud Road- Offering incredible views over the lake and old town, this is a great way to escape the crowds and enjoy Dali’s natural beauty.

Explore Foreigners’ Street (Renmin Road)- A mix of Chinese and Western-style cafes, bars, and boutiques that reflects Dali’s reputation as a haven for creatives and travelers.

Visit Local Markets- The daily market just outside the old town walls is a lively place to experience Bai minority culture and try local produce.

Check Out Dali’s Nightlife- From mellow live music venues to laid-back bars, the old town offers a surprisingly vibrant evening scene.

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Xitang (Zhejiang Province)

Xitang is one of China’s most enchanting ancient water towns, known for its peaceful canals, arched bridges, and especially its covered walkways — long stone-roofed corridors that line the waterways and give the town a unique rhythm and character.

With a history of over a thousand years, Xitang has retained much of its traditional Jiangnan charm, where whitewashed walls, black-tiled roofs, and slow-moving wooden boats create a storybook setting. It’s less commercialized than some other water towns, offering a more serene and authentic experience, especially in the early morning or evening.

Xitang also gained fame as a filming location for Mission: Impossible III, adding a bit of cinematic intrigue to its timeless scenery.

Highlights and Things to Do in Xitang

Wander the Covered Walkways (Langpeng)- These ancient stone-roofed corridors stretch nearly a kilometer along the water and are unique to Xitang.

Take a Boat Ride on the Canals- Enjoy a relaxing ride through narrow waterways lined with historic homes and lantern-lit bridges.

Explore the Yanyu Corridor- A scenic promenade perfect for strolls, especially at night when reflections shimmer in the water.

Visit the West Garden and China Wine Culture Museum- Learn about local winemaking traditions and see historical tools and cellars.

Zui Garden and Shipi Lane- Zui Garden is a peaceful example of traditional landscaping, while Shipi Lane is a narrow stone alley known for its aged charm.

Check Out the Button Museum- A quirky but interesting stop that showcases thousands of vintage buttons from around the world.

Experience Nighttime in Xitang- When lanterns glow and music floats through the air, the town becomes calm and atmospheric.

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Nanxun Ancient Town (Zhejiang Province)

Nanxun is often considered one of the most underrated yet most elegant ancient towns in China. With over 750 years of history, it stands out for its unique blend of traditional Chinese and Western architecture — a legacy of wealthy merchant families during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican era.

Unlike some water towns that focus primarily on tourism, Nanxun remains a place where locals live, work, and carry on their daily traditions. It’s known for its tranquil canals, arched stone bridges, historical gardens, and beautifully preserved mansions. The slower pace and fewer crowds make Nanxun ideal for travelers looking to explore beyond the beaten path.

Highlights and Things to Do in Nanxun

Xiao Lian Zhuang (Little Lotus Garden)- Once the private garden of a silk tycoon, this space features classical Chinese landscaping, lotus ponds, and pavilions.

Liu’s Family Compound- A grand mansion showcasing the wealth and lifestyle of Nanxun’s most prominent silk merchants, with a unique East-meets-West design.

Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence- One of the best-preserved examples of late Qing architecture, combining European and traditional Chinese styles.

Walking Along the Baijian Lou (Hundred Houses Complex)- A riverside row of ancient residential buildings where many families still live — great for photography and quiet exploration.

Canal Boat Ride- A peaceful way to experience the waterways, arched bridges, and shaded stone paths.

Jili Lake and Culture Park- Just outside the old town, this area offers a scenic spot for walking, birdwatching, and relaxing by the water.

Explore Art Galleries and Silk Museums- Learn about Nanxun’s legacy as a silk and literary hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

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Huangyao Ancient Town (Guangxi Province)

Huangyao is one of southern China’s most picturesque and peaceful ancient towns. With a history stretching back nearly a thousand years to the Song Dynasty, it features a stunning backdrop of karst limestone peaks, serene rivers, and stone-flagged lanes lined with Ming and Qing dynasty buildings.

Unlike larger or more commercialized ancient towns, Huangyao feels intimate and timeless. It has been a filming location for several Chinese films and TV dramas due to its fairy-tale charm. The name “Huangyao” comes from the two dominant family clans (Huang and Yao) who once inhabited the area.

The town is ideal for travelers who love nature, history, and photography, or those simply looking to relax in a poetic and slow-paced environment.

Highlights and Things to Do in Huangyao

Wander the Stone-Paved Streets- Stroll through narrow alleyways flanked by old brick-and-wood homes, ancestral halls, and mossy stone walls.

Photograph the Arched Bridges and Streams- Over a dozen small stone bridges span the town’s streams, creating iconic reflections and postcard-worthy scenes.

Visit Ancient Temples and Halls- Highlights include Wenming Pavilion, Guangyuan Temple, and several ancestral halls with beautiful carvings and history.

Explore the Local Market- A good place to see daily life, buy local snacks, and find small handmade crafts.

Climb to Nearby Viewpoints- Short hikes outside the town offer panoramic views of the rooftops nestled in karst mountains.

Enjoy the Quiet Evenings- After the day-trippers leave, the town becomes calm and peaceful — perfect for a quiet night walk or dinner by the water.

Experience Local Culture- Huangyao still maintains strong traditions, including regional opera performances, folk customs, and ancestral rituals.

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Furong Ancient Town (Hunan Province)

Perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff, Furong Ancient Town (formerly known as Wangcun) is one of Hunan’s most scenic and culturally rich destinations. It rose to fame after serving as the setting for the classic Chinese film Hibiscus Town, and since then, it has been affectionately referred to by that name.

What makes Furong stand out is its breathtaking setting — the town is built around a spectacular waterfall that cascades right through its center, framed by traditional Tujia stilted houses perched along the cliffs. With over 2,000 years of history, Furong blends natural beauty, ethnic minority culture, and ancient architecture into one unforgettable destination.

It’s the kind of place where history is alive in the cobbled streets, and the sound of rushing water echoes through the alleys. Whether you’re a photographer, nature lover, or cultural explorer, Furong offers something unique and immersive.

Highlights and Things to Do in Furong Ancient Town

View the Furong Waterfall- The star attraction — a 60-meter-wide, multi-tiered waterfall flowing through the town and into the You River below. There’s a viewing platform behind the falls for a unique perspective.

Explore Tujia Stilted Houses- These traditional wooden homes built along cliffs and riverbanks offer a glimpse into the architecture and lifestyle of the Tujia ethnic minority.

Stroll the Ancient Street- Walk along stone-paved lanes lined with lanterns, old houses, small shops, and local eateries. Many of the buildings date back to the Qing Dynasty.

Visit the Tujia Cultural Museum- A small but fascinating museum that showcases the customs, clothing, and crafts of the Tujia people.

Enjoy a Boat Ride on the You River- Take a scenic boat trip along the calm river that flows beneath the town for great views of the waterfall and cliffside houses.

Climb to the Top of the Town- Several viewpoints around the town offer sweeping panoramas of the river gorge, rooftops, and surrounding mountains.

See Night Illuminations- At night, the town lights up with lanterns and soft lighting around the waterfall, it is a magical atmosphere worth staying for.

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Wuyuan Ancient Town (Jiangxi Province)

Wuyuan is a collection of some of the best-preserved ancient villages in China, set among hills, rivers, and farmlands. Often referred to as one of the most beautiful countryside regions in the country, Wuyuan is a paradise for photographers, nature lovers, and travelers looking to experience authentic rural Chinese life.

These villages date back to the Song and Ming dynasties, showcasing classic Huizhou architecture — think whitewashed walls, dark-tiled roofs, horse-head gables, and intricately carved wooden details. What makes Wuyuan extra special is how it blends cultural heritage with natural landscapes, seasonal beauty, and genuine local hospitality.

Highlights and Things to Do in Wuyuan

Explore Likeng Village- One of the most visited spots, this canal-side village is filled with traditional buildings, red lanterns, and peaceful walkways.

Visit Sixi Yancun- A less-touristy gem with elegant archways, stone bridges, and old merchant mansions tucked into the valley.

Admire Wangkou Village- Known for its well-preserved ancestral halls and intricate wood carvings.

Climb to Rainbow Bridge in Qinghua- A historic covered bridge offering great views of the village and river. It is a great photo opportunity.

Capture the Spring Rapeseed Flowers- March and April bring vast yellow fields of blooming canola, contrasting beautifully with the ancient architecture.

See Autumn’s Harvest Colors- In October and November, traditional houses hang red chilies, pumpkins, and corn to dry, a tradition called shaiqiu.

Go Hiking or Cycling Between Villages- Several scenic trails connect the villages through tea terraces and bamboo forests.

Visit the Wuyuan Museum- A good starting point to learn about the region’s architecture, cultural heritage, and famous scholars.

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Daxu Ancient Town (Guangxi Province)

Daxu Ancient Town is one of Guangxi’s hidden gems, offering a quieter, more authentic alternative to China’s more commercialized ancient towns. With a history of over 1,000 years, Daxu was once a thriving trading port along the Li River and played an important role in regional commerce during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Today, Daxu retains much of its historic charm, with stone-paved streets, black-tiled roofs, and weathered wooden houses. Red lanterns hang from doorways, and you’ll often see locals sitting outside playing cards, drying herbs, or chatting in the alleyways. It’s a perfect stop for travelers seeking a taste of real, slow-paced village life, just outside the bustle of Guilin.

Highlights and Things to Do in Daxu

Walk the Ancient Stone Street- The town’s main walkway is made of large stone slabs, lined with well-preserved buildings and small shops.

Visit the Longevity Bridge (Wanshou Bridge)- A 400-year-old stone arch bridge that spans a peaceful tributary of the Li River — a favorite photo spot.

Explore Traditional Courtyard Homes- Some historic residences are open to visitors and offer a peek into Qing Dynasty family life and architectural design.

Chat with Local Artisans- Daxu is known for handmade crafts like bamboo baskets, traditional medicine, and dried herbs, it is often made and sold by elderly residents.

Check Out the Local Market- Visit in the morning for a look at regional produce, dried goods, and daily life in a working rural community.

Enjoy Riverside Views- Head to the edge of town for beautiful views of the Li River and the surrounding karst hills, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Watch Local Life Unfold- Daxu is not a theme park, people still live here. Take time to observe daily life in its natural rhythm, from tea-sipping elders to school kids passing by.

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Kashgar Old Town

Kashgar Old Town is one of the most unique and culturally rich destinations in all of China. Located on the westernmost edge of the country, it has been a key trading hub on the ancient Silk Road for over two thousand years. The town reflects the deep heritage of the Uyghur people, whose Islamic customs, traditional dress, music, architecture, and cuisine give Kashgar a Central Asian flavor distinct from anywhere else in China.

The old town is a maze of narrow winding alleys, mudbrick homes, ornate wooden doors, and bustling bazaars. It’s alive with local families, open-air bakeries, mosques, and craft workshops, not just a preserved historic site, but a living, breathing cultural space.

Highlights and Things to Do in Kashgar Old Town

Explore the Ancient Alleys- Walk the  narrow lanes lined with traditional Uyghur homes, some adorned with carved wooden balconies and colorful tile work.

Visit the Id Kah Mosque- One of the largest mosques in China and the heart of religious life in Kashgar, and the square outside is often full of local activity.

Browse the Kashgar Grand Bazaar- A must-see market packed with everything from spices and dried fruits to handmade carpets, knives, hats, and jewelry.

Tour a Traditional Uyghur House- Several local families open their homes to visitors, offering a look into traditional architecture and way of life.

Check Out the Handicrafts Street- Watch artisans create copperware, musical instruments, and Uyghur-style furniture,  many families have been in the same craft for generations.

Explore the Sunday Livestock Market- Just outside the old town, this massive market is one of the last traditional animal bazaars in Central Asia, where locals trade sheep, cattle, camels, and donkeys.

Enjoy the Views from the Old City Hilltop- A small elevated park offers panoramic views over the rooftops of the old town, especially striking at sunset.

Attend a Cultural Show or Uyghur Music Performance- Ask at your hotel for recommendations, traditional dances and folk music are often performed for visitors.

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Final Words

There are so many beautiful and unique ancient towns in China that every one should visit at least two or three on their China tour. If you are planning trip to Shanghai make sure to add Zhujiajiao to your visit, or if you have trip to Eastern China, you must visit Kashgar town. On must visit list I have to add Dali Old town in Yunnan, and also read here about Yunnan villages that are one of a kind and are worth visiting. Make your trip to China memorable by adding on your list some of the ancient towns, or visit our tours and choose some of the already curated itineraries, each designed to showcase the best of China.

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