The First Ancient Town of Northern Sichuan: Zhaohua and the Three Kingdoms Legacy

The "First Ancient Town of Northern Sichuan"

1.Located in Zhaohua: District, Guangyuan City, Sichuan Province, about 30 kilometers from the city center, Zhaohua Ancient Town (Zhaohua Gucheng) is a place where history flows as endlessly as the rivers that embrace it. Situated at the confluence of the Jialing River, Bailong River, and Qing River, it boasts a unique strategic geography described as "Three sides bordering water, one side leaning on mountains." This natural fortress has earned it the reputation of being the "First Ancient Town in Northern Sichuan" and a "Living Fossil of the Three Kingdoms Culture." As a National 4A Tourist Attraction and a distinguished "Historical and Cultural Town of China," Zhaohua preserves a remarkable array of Ming and Qing dynasty architecture, ancient city walls, and a layout that resembles a "Tai Chi" diagram formed by the winding rivers, offering visitors a profound journey into the heart of the Shu Road's history,.

A Strategic Stronghold of the Three Kingdoms

Zhaohua, historically known as Jiameng (Jiameng Guan), holds a pivotal place in the lore of the Three Kingdoms period. It was here that Liu Bei, the founder of the Shu Han Kingdom, launched his campaign to seize the Yi Province (Sichuan), marking the beginning of his rise to power. The town served as a critical military base and logistics hub for the Shu army. It was the headquarters for the renowned strategist Fei Yi, who served as the Grand General of Shu and oversaw the defense against the rival Wei Kingdom. Legends of General Jiang Wei defending the pass and launching Northern Expeditions from here echo through the ancient streets. Visitors can explore the Fei Yi Shrine (Fei Yi Mu), the resting place of this great statesman, and stand on the Dianjiang Tai (General Review Platform), where troops were once marshaled before battle. The town is a tangible piece of the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," witnessing the rise and fall of the Shu Han dynasty,,.

The Miracle of Water and Walls

2.The architectural charm of: Zhaohua lies in its harmonious integration of military defense and riverside commerce. The ancient City Walls, rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty and reinforced in the Qing Dynasty, stretch for about 3 kilometers, encircling the town and following the natural curves of the riverbanks. Walking along these weathered ramparts offers panoramic views of the "Three Rivers Confluence" and the lush mountains beyond. Inside the walls, the town preserves a grid of 12 ancient streets and lanes, lined with hundreds of well-preserved wooden dwellings, teahouses, and shops featuring traditional "Diaojiaolou" (stilted buildings) elements. The Ancient Wharf remains a testament to the town's past as a bustling water transport hub where merchants gathered to trade salt, tea, and timber. The seamless blend of the rugged "Shu Road" cliffs and the gentle river scenery creates a landscape that is both heroic and poetic,.

Living Traditions and Folk Culture

Beyond its stone walls and military history, Zhaohua is alive with vibrant folk traditions. The town is famous for its Confucian Temple (Wenmiao) and the Kaopeng (Examination Sheds), reflecting a deep reverence for education and the imperial examination system. During festivals, particularly the Spring Festival and the Three Kingdoms Culture Festival, the town erupts with energy. Visitors can witness re-enactments of ancient battles, traditional Sichuan Opera performances with face-changing, and the spectacular "Fire Dragon" dances. The culinary scene is equally rich, offering local delicacies like River Fish Banquets, Tai Chi Bagua Fish, and traditional Guangyuan Liangmian (Steamed Cold Noodles). Whether sipping tea by the river, listening to storytellers recount the deeds of ancient heroes, or simply wandering the cobblestone alleys at twilight, Zhaohua offers an immersive escape into the warmth and depth of Sichuan's cultural heritage,.