The beauty of small towns in China blows your mind away as much as the spectacular skyline of Chinese mega cities. Tourists often turn to the countryside to understand the cultural background of the country, learn the stories of the past, observe the ancient architecture, and appreciate the unspoiled natural attractions. We have listed some of the small towns in China that have kept older traditions and lead a peaceful life undisturbed by urbanization. Are you already planning your next trip to China? Explore the beautiful villages and towns in China this time! Book your flight tickets with iEagle and earn reward points!
Wuyuan County:
Wuyuan County, situated in the northeast of Jiangxi province, is home to some of the most beautiful villages in China that preserve the centuries-old buildings of the Ming and Qing dynasties. In fact, the architectural features of certain buildings are thought to be characteristic of the 1300-year-old Tang Dynasty. These villages feature monochrome houses with whitewashed walls and gray rooftops. The landscape looks amazing, especially during Spring when the greenery of tea estates and full-fledged flowery gardens contrast with the neutral colors of the buildings! Wuyuan County is also the favorite destination for photography enthusiasts.
Suggested Read: Top 11 China Travel Tips: Key Things to Know Before Traveling to China
Zhouzhuang Water Town:
Cuddled between Shanghai and Suzhou in Jiangsu province, Zhouzhuang is one of the beautiful towns in China that reminds you of Venice! This water town famous for its 14 arched stone bridges is best explored by taking a gondola ride. Zhouzhuang’s canals are flanked by houses constructed in classic Chinese architectural style. The night view of this small town in China looks magical with traditional red lanterns (hung on the eaves of houses) illuminating the waterways. Two other water towns, namely Wuzhen and Xitang are also commonly visited by international travelers. Book cheap flights to China now and visit these beautiful ancient towns!
Fenghuang Ancient Town:
Fenghuang Ancient Town in Hunan Province is a scenic town inhabited by Miao and Tujia ethnic groups. With verdant mountains in the backdrop and a river flowing through the town of narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses, Fenghuang Ancient Town is regarded as “the most beautiful ancient city in China” by New Zealand writer Rewi Alley. The boat ride along the Tuo River (whose banks feature ancient stilted wooden houses called Diaojiaolou) offers stunning views of this small town in China.
Yangshuo Town:
Situated on the banks of the Li River in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, the landscape of Yangshuo town is dramatically gorgeous with numerous karst mountains surrounding this popular small town in China. A noted saying in China goes as “Guilin’s scenery is peerless in the world, and Yangshuo’s scenery is the best in Guilin.” This popular small town in China with modern comforts also well-preserves the rustic charm. The most picturesque route to reach Yangshuo from Guilin is to take a boat trip along the Li River that winds its way through the karst mountains into this town. You can enjoy various outdoor activities like biking, hiking, bamboo rafting, kayaking, rock climbing, etc.
Dali Old Town:
Dali Old Town in Yunnan province is one of the most-visited tourist spots. Once the capital of the Nanzhao Kingdom and the Dali Kingdom, this small town in China is famous for its grand city gates, city walls, old streets, pagodas, towers, memorial halls, museums, and other historic sites. Comfortable tucked between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, this beautiful town is a perfect place for a peaceful vacation. Besides the culture of Bai folks and their traditional houses, the artwork of local artisans is very impressive! Great idea for souvenir shopping, right? Buy embroidered fabrics, tie-dyed cloth, wooden carvings, and handicrafts made from locally mined marble.
