Changsha has a hidden gem of an ancient town: Tongguan Kiln Ancient Town

Tongguan Kiln in Changsha, also known as Changsha Kiln or Tongguan Kiln, holds a significant place in China's ceramic history. During the Tang Dynasty to the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, it was renowned as "Southern Celadon, Northern White, Changsha Colorful." To explore Tongguan Kiln's history, here's a fun-filled itinerary: visit the Tongguan Kiln ruins, the Tongguan Kiln Museum, and shop for ceramics. ✅ Must-visit spots: Tanjiapo Ruins Museum → Tongguan Kiln Museum → Tongguan Kiln Old Street ➡️ Tanjiapo Ruins Museum: This museum recreates the appearance of the Tang Dynasty dragon kiln at Tanjiapo, showcasing the production process of Changsha Tongguan Kiln ceramics. Inside, you'll find Tang-era ceramic fragments, neatly arranged containers used for firing ceramics in the dragon kiln, cross-sections of the kiln, and scenes of workers loading ceramics—all witnessing the rise and fall of Changsha Kiln. Nearby is the Chenjiaping Ruins, worth visiting if time allows. 🎫 Admission: Free ⌚️ Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 9:00-17:00 (last entry at 16:30) 📌 Address: No. 326, Caitaoyuan Village, Tongguan Street, Wangcheng District, Changsha, Hunan ➡️ Tongguan Kiln Museum: With 7 exhibition halls, it displays the 1200-year history of Tang Dynasty Changsha Kiln ceramics. The museum houses over 1,200 artifacts, mainly from the Arabian ocean-going shipwreck "Black Stone," bearing witness to the ancient Maritime Silk Road. 🎫 Admission: 40 yuan ⌚️ Opening hours: 9:00-16:30, closed on Mondays 📌 Address: Caitaoyuan Village, Tongguan Street, Wangcheng District, Changsha, Hunan ➡️ Tongguan Kiln Old Street: This short street preserves some Ming-Qing and Republic-era architecture, including kiln chimneys. Most shops sell affordable ceramics and offer pottery-making experiences, with friendly shopkeepers—perfect for leisurely shopping. You can also observe ceramic production and try your hand at it. At the street's end is "Mengdie Villa," a picturesque Jiangnan-style water town perfect for photos. 🎫 Admission: Old Street free, Mengdie Villa 25 yuan 🅿️ Parking: Free ⌚️ Opening hours: Old Street open 24/7 (stalls may close earlier) 📌 Address: Tongguan Old Street, Caitaoyuan Village, Wangcheng District, Changsha, Hunan ✅ Nearby attraction: Tongguan Kiln Guofeng Amusement Park ☕️ Dining recommendation: Tongguan Kiln Lijing Hotel (at the park entrance) Accommodation: Stay at Guofeng Amusement Park or Lijing Hotel