The Hometown of Fire Dragons: Huanglongxi Ancient Town and the Hollywood of Western Sichuan

The "Hollywood" of Western Sichuan

1.Located in the Shuangliu: District, approximately 40 kilometers from downtown Chengdu and 30 kilometers from Shuangliu Airport, Huanglongxi Ancient Town is a vibrant fusion of history, culture, and entertainment. Situated at the confluence of the Luxi River and the Jinjiang River, this town boasts a history of over 1,700 years, dating back to the Han Dynasty. It is widely renowned as the "Hollywood of Western Sichuan" (or the "Film City of China's West") because its well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture and scenic waterways have served as the backdrop for over 100 movies and television series, including Zhua Zhuang Ding and Jin Yi Wei. Unlike many quiet, museum-like ancient towns, Huanglongxi is bustling with life, often described as the most lively water town in the region. Visitors here can walk the same cobblestone streets as movie stars, exploring a living set where history meets modern vibrancy,.

The Spectacle of the Fire Dragon

2.The most electrifying feature of: Huanglongxi is its status as the "Hometown of the Fire Dragon" in China. This tradition, originating from ancient rain-praying rituals, has evolved into a spectacular night performance known as "Da Tie Hua" (Molten Iron Fireworks). During major festivals, particularly the Spring Festival (Lunar New Year) and the Fire Dragon Festival (early lunar year), performers create a dazzling display by splashing molten iron heated to 1600°C into the air. When the iron hits the cool air and is struck by wooden boards, it explodes into a shower of "steel flowers" resembling a fiery dragon dancing in the night sky. This breathtaking performance, accompanied by traditional dragon dances, is a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and a must-see for anyone seeking to experience the raw passion and energy of Sichuan folk culture,.

A Water Town of Banyans and Stilt Houses

The town's layout is defined by water, often summarized as "One River, Two Tributaries, Three Temples, Seven Streets, and Nine Alleys." The core historical area features traditional Diaojiaolou (stilt houses) built along the riverbanks, characteristic of the humid Sichuan climate. These wooden structures, with their blue tiles and grey walls, overhang the green water, creating a picturesque reflection that attracts countless photographers. The town is also famous for its ancient Banyan Trees (Rong Shu). These massive trees, with roots twisting like dragons, provide shade for the riverfront teahouses. Sitting under a century-old banyan, sipping tea, and listening to the sound of the river is the quintessential way to experience the leisurely lifestyle of Huanglongxi. The Zhenjiang Bridge, a stone arch bridge, connects the banks and offers a prime vantage point for viewing the entire water town layout,.

Culinary Delights and Folk Customs

Huanglongxi is a paradise for foodies. The most famous local specialty is the "Single Strand Noodle" (Yi Gen Mian), also known as Longevity Noodle. Watching the chefs pull a single, continuous strand of noodle into a boiling pot is a performance in itself, displaying exceptional culinary skill. Other local delicacies include Sesame Pudding (Zhenzhu Douhua), which is handmade and tender, and the crispy Oil Scalded Duck (You Tang Ya). Beyond food, the town is alive with folk activities. Visitors can experience the thrill of the Water Dragon Festival in summer, where splashing water symbolizes blessing, or watch traditional Sichuan Opera Face Changing performances on the ancient stage. Whether you are exploring the Three County Government Office (San Xian Ya Men) to learn about ancient governance or simply enjoying a boat ride, Huanglongxi offers a rich tapestry of sensory experiences,.