The Lesser-Known Ancient Towns Around Chengdu: Xilai Ancient Town

There are many ancient towns around Chengdu. In Pujiang, there is the very well-developed Tianfu's number one famous town, Huanglongxi Ancient Town, as well as the number one Hakka town in the west, Luodai Town, and Jiezi Town, which benefits from the spiritual mountains and beautiful waters at the foot of Qingcheng Mountain. These popular ancient towns, without exception, have a strong commercial atmosphere and are crowded with people all year round. To truly appreciate the ancient charm and enjoy the unique leisure and comfort of old Chengdu, Xilai Ancient Town, located in the mountain plains, is just right. The 'ancient' in Xilai is inherent, with the most representative being the ancient street and ancient banyan trees. The 400-meter-long ancient street is lined with Ming and Qing residential buildings, a typical Western Sichuan style, with wooden structures and tile houses, and flat streets that even cars can drive on. Next to the central stage of the ancient street is a brick and stone structure called 'Xi Zi Gong', also known as 'Wen Feng Tower', built during the Daoguang period of the Qing dynasty. It is considered the landmark building of the ancient town, with its bright yellow glazed tiles and various colorful paintings making it particularly eye-catching. Parallel to the ancient street, on the riverside, are twelve poetically beautiful ancient banyan trees, which are Xilai's priceless treasures. These ancient banyans, dating back to the Song dynasty, lean over the river, reflecting in the water like invaluable natural bonsai. In spring and summer, they still spread their branches and leaves, lush and verdant, welcoming guests from afar with a thousand postures. Under the banyan trees are people chatting and playing cards around square tables, 10 yuan for a cup of tea. Sitting by the river with a gentle breeze, one could spend the whole day here. This is also a true portrayal of Chengdu's unique slow-paced lifestyle.