One town and around
Fenghuang with Furong Town, for example.
Theme tours · Old towns & folk culture
Old towns, ancient cities and living traditions
River towns, intact city walls, minority dress and festivals… For travelers who love culture, we plan old-town and ancient-city routes to explore slowly and hear the local stories.
Old towns & folk culture
Old towns, ancient cities and living traditions
Beyond the landmarks, more travelers want to see everyday China: breakfast stalls on old streets, families washing clothes by the river, songs, dances and crafts at festival time. Much of this lives in old towns and historic quarters.
Our old-town trips include a night in an old town to see it by day and by night; guides explain local history and customs, and we can add a craft or folk experience if you are interested.
What you may wonder
Three common questions about old towns
- 01
Isn’t it too commercial?
Popular towns do have many shops; we take quieter lanes and go early or late.
- 02
Will I understand the culture?
Guides explain the buildings, dress and festivals so it makes sense and stays with you.
- 03
Any photo etiquette?
Ask before photographing residents; your guide will point out customs to respect.
A typical day
A day in an old town
The town at dawn
Before the visitors arrive, watch the riverside wake up.
Breakfast and old streets
Local breakfast, old lanes and traditional houses.
A regional lunch
Try the local specialties.
A folk or craft experience
Chosen by interest, timing kept flexible.
The town at night
Once the lights come on, it is another place.
Where to go
Recommended old towns and cities
Fenghuang
Fenghuang’s stilt houses on the Tuo River, and Furong Town above its waterfall.
View destinationXi’anA complete ancient city wall you can cycle around.
View destinationYunnan
Lijiang and Dali old towns, with Naxi and Bai culture.
Guide coming soonBeijing
Hutongs and courtyard houses — old Beijing life.
Guide coming soonHow long
How long for an old-town trip?
Old towns and landscapes
Zhangjiajie with Western Hunan — scenery and culture.
Many cultures
Different peoples and regions across China.
Recommended tours
Tours for this theme
Tours for this theme are being prepared
We are tagging each route with the travelers it suits. Browse all tours for now, or tell us what you need and a specialist will arrange it, free.
Questions
Old towns & folk culture: frequently asked questions
What are the stays like?
Old towns mostly have guesthouses that vary in rooms and facilities; your stay is confirmed before departure.
Can we see a festival?
Festivals have fixed dates; tell us when you travel and we will check.
Are old towns OK for older travelers and kids?
Expect stone paths and steps; we plan gentle routes and use boats where helpful.
Which customs should I know?
Follow signs at homes and temples and ask before photographing residents; your guide will remind you.
Can we combine themes?
Yes, old towns pair well with landscapes and food.
Create your ideal China trip
Tell us where you want to go, your dates and interests — a specialist designs a private itinerary for you, free of charge.
Start customizing