Hidden in Guizhou, this thousand-year-old treasure of an ancient town is like a real-life version of the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting!

— Stepping into this ancient town feels like traveling back a millennium, entering a vivid historical scroll where every corner exudes the charm of time, breathtakingly beautiful! 🔥 Why is this ancient town hailed as the real-life "Along the River During the Qingming Festival"? ❶ A visual feast of ancient architecture The town preserves a wealth of Ming and Qing dynasty-era buildings, with winding cobblestone paths and well-arranged wooden houses. Carved doors and windows, upturned eaves—every detail showcases the artisans' exquisite craftsmanship. The wind-and-rain bridges span babbling streams, their pavilions and flying eaves resembling a dragon resting on the water, blending perfectly with the surrounding landscape to form a stunning ink-wash painting. ❷ The lively atmosphere of a bustling marketplace The streets are lined with shops, bustling with activity. There are stores selling unique handicrafts like batik, embroidery, and silver jewelry, each piece imbued with local cultural significance; fragrant food stalls offering delicacies like sour fish soup and "silk dolls" that make mouths water; and traditional teahouses where people gather to chat and share stories, brimming with vibrant local life. ❸ Rich and colorful folk customs The town hosts a variety of folk activities, such as dragon boat races and river lantern releases. During festivals, the town comes alive with people dressed in traditional attire, participating in these events, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions. 📍 Insider's guide: A 2-day, 1-night in-depth tour of the ancient town 📅 Day 1: Arrive in the ancient town → Stroll through the old streets (stay in a town inn) ▪️ After arriving at noon, check in and settle your luggage. Spend the afternoon wandering the ancient streets, admiring the architecture and soaking in the town's tranquility. In the evening, dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring local specialties while enjoying the sunset over the ancient town. 📅 Day 2: Explore nearby natural landscapes → Return home ▪️ Wake up early to visit nearby natural attractions like waterfalls and caves, marveling at nature's artistry. Return to the town by noon to pick up some unique souvenirs before concluding your delightful journey. 💡 Must-read for newbies! Pitfall avoidance + photo tips ✅ Transportation: Take a high-speed train to a nearby city, then transfer to a bus to the ancient town. Alternatively, drive and enjoy scenic views along the way. ✅ Accommodation: Book a riverside inn in advance for the soothing sound of flowing water at night. ✅ Outfits: Opt for ethnic-style clothing like Miao or Dong attire for photogenic looks. Traditional silver accessories like earrings or necklaces add flair. ✅ Food: Choose reputable restaurants for local dishes. Try street snacks in moderation to avoid stomach issues. ⚠️ Taboos: Respect local customs during cultural performances—avoid unauthorized photos or touching props. Follow instructions during hands-on activities to ensure safety.