The Gateway to the Southern Silk Road: Lizhou Ancient Town and the Living History of Anning River Valley

The "First Town of the Anning River Valley"

Located approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Xichang City in the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, Lizhou Ancient Town (Lizhou Guzhen) is a hidden gem that has preserved the pulse of history for over two millennia. Situated on the east bank of the Anning River, this town was historically a vital throat of the Southern Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road, connecting the inland of Sichuan with Yunnan and Myanmar. With an altitude of about 1,650 meters, Lizhou enjoys a mild climate and fertile surroundings. Unlike many commercially reconstructed tourist sites, Lizhou remains a "living ancient town" where the daily lives of residents intertwine seamlessly with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. It is recognized as a Provincial Historic and Cultural Town, celebrated for its authentic atmosphere, deep historical roots dating back to the Han Dynasty, and its role as a melting pot of Han, Yi, and Hui cultures.

A Museum of Ming and Qing Architecture

1.The heart of: Lizhou is its well-preserved street layout, encompassing a core protection area of about 0.5 square kilometers. The town features a one-kilometer-long main street paved with bluestone slabs, flanked by traditional dwellings that follow the "shop in front, house in back" commercial pattern of the Sichuan style. The most striking architectural features are the massive Stone Arch Gateways (Shigong Menlou). The entrance gate stands grand and imposing, leading to a series of four ancient gateways within, reaching up to 12 meters high and adorned with exquisite carvings of dragons and phoenixes. These structures symbolize the town's historical prosperity and defensive wisdom. Visitors can also explore the Ancient Opera Stage (Gu Xitai), a wooden structure with flying eaves that still hosts performances during festivals, and the Chastity Archways (Zhenjie Paifang), which reflect the deep Confucian influence of the region. Wandering through the winding alleys, one can find well-preserved courtyards like the Zhang Family Compound and the Liu Clan Shrine, offering a glimpse into the glorious past of local merchant families.

A Melting Pot of Cultures and Revolution

Lizhou is a town of diverse stories. Historically known as "Qiongdu," it was renamed Lizhou ("State of Rites") in the Eastern Han Dynasty, signifying a land of culture and education. It is also a significant "Red" destination; in 1935, the Red Army passed through here during the Long March, leaving behind revolutionary relics and slogans carved into stone walls. Culturally, the town is a harmonious blend of ethnic groups. It serves as a sub-venue for the Yi people's Torch Festival, where fire parades and traditional dances light up the ancient streets. The town is also home to a Hui community and a mosque that coexists peacefully with Han temples and shrines, showcasing a unique religious tolerance. Whether it's the lingering smoke of the Yi hearths or the call to prayer, Lizhou resonates with a rich multicultural symphony.

The Authentic Taste of Slow Life

2.What sets: Lizhou apart is its vibrant, unpretentious lifestyle. The streets are alive with the aroma of local delicacies. Visitors can sit in old-fashioned teahouses, sipping covered-bowl tea on stone benches while listening to elders chat, or taste the famous Tuotuo Meat (large chunks of boiled pork), spicy bean jelly, and savory barbecue sold at street stalls. The town is also known for traditional handicrafts, with Yi women often seen selling intricate embroidery and silver ornaments. Backed by green hills and facing the gentle Anning River, where lotuses bloom in summer, Lizhou offers a tranquil escape from the fast pace of modern life. It is a place to slow down, walk the ancient stones, and feel the warmth of a town that has stood the test of time.