Zhenfeng Ancient City is a historic town in Guizhou Province, southwest China, with a history of more than 600 years.
As a remarkable example of Ming and Qing Dynasty historical civilization, the ancient city has preserved its original city walls, temples, streets, traditional shops, and residential buildings.
With its rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic traditions, and well-preserved architecture, Zhenfeng Ancient City has become an important historical attraction in Guizhou.
A Living Museum of Ancient Architecture and Culture
The Great West Gate and the old streets from the Ming and Qing Dynasties form the heart of the ancient city, where local residents have lived for generations.
Historic buildings such as Wenchang Palace continue to tell stories of the past, while the beautifully designed night lighting creates a charming atmosphere after sunset.
Walking through the ancient streets, visitors can see:
* Traditional red-lacquered wooden windows
* Carved wooden decorations
* Historic shop signs
* Red lanterns hanging along the streets
These details bring the traditional atmosphere of old China to life.
A Multi-Ethnic Ancient Town in Guizhou
Zhenfeng Ancient City is a unique cultural area mainly inhabited by the Buyi ethnic group, along with Han, Hui, Yi, Gelao, Miao, and other ethnic communities.
Each ethnic group has preserved its own:
* Traditional customs
* Folk culture
* Festivals
* Lifestyle
Over centuries, these diverse cultures have blended together, creating the rich historical atmosphere that defines Zhenfeng Ancient City today.
Main Attractions in Zhenfeng Ancient City
Great West Gate (Da Ximen)
The Great West Gate was once an important entrance to the ancient city and is known as the “First Gate of the Ancient City.”
Today, the surrounding area has developed into a lively cultural street featuring:
* Tea houses
* Bars
* Inns
* Traditional shops
It is a popular place for visitors to experience the local atmosphere.
Wenchang Palace
Built before the Daoguang Period of the Qing Dynasty, Wenchang Palace has a history of nearly 200 years.
The palace is closely connected with modern Chinese history. On April 17, 1935, during the Long March, Chairman Mao Zedong stayed in the side room of Wenchang Palace when the Central Red Army passed through Zhenfeng.
Today, Wenchang Palace serves as a provincial patriotism education base and remains an important symbol of local Confucian culture.
The elegant architectural complex reflects traditional Chinese values of:
* Benevolence
* Righteousness
* Courtesy
* Wisdom
* Trust
Two Guang Hall (Liang Guang Guild Hall)
The Two Guang Hall was built as a gathering place for merchants from Guangdong and Guangxi.
During the prosperous trading period, merchants traveling from distant regions used this place as a meeting point to discuss business and maintain connections.
The hall reflects the historical importance of Zhenfeng as a commercial center.
Minqiu Academy (Heart Academy)
Located at the southern end of the ancient city, Minqiu Academy was once an important cultural and educational site.
The academy represents the traditional residential and educational architecture of the region.
Because many similar historic buildings have disappeared over time, the academy has significant value for studying:
* Ancient architecture
* Local history
* Traditional lifestyles
Ancient City Attic
Built during the 10th year of the Xianfeng Period of the Qing Dynasty, the Ancient City Attic has a history of more than 160 years.
It is the oldest memorial building related to Hui culture in Zhenfeng and represents the diverse cultural heritage of the ancient city.
Catholic Church
The Catholic Church of Zhenfeng was originally located at the Fire Temple site, which was later destroyed by fire.
A new church was rebuilt nearby, and by 1930, it had developed into a large and beautifully designed Catholic church.
The building reflects the combination of Western religious architecture and local historical culture.
Why Visit Zhenfeng Ancient City?
Zhenfeng Ancient City offers travelers a chance to experience an authentic side of Guizhou beyond modern cities.
Visitors can enjoy:
* 600 years of history
* Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture
* Traditional ancient streets
* Buyi ethnic culture
* Historic temples and residences
* Peaceful local life
For travelers interested in Chinese history, traditional architecture, and ethnic culture, Zhenfeng Ancient City is one of Guizhou’s most fascinating hidden gems.