Jianshui

China

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Sunrise

6:54 AM

Sunset

7:37 PM

About

Jianshui, a charming ancient town in Yunnan, China, is famed for its well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. Its historic old town and elegant gardens are perfect for strolling and soaking up the traditional Chinese vibes. Jianshui is also rich in cultural and historical heritage with numerous temples, museums, and ancient wells that testify to the town's fascinating past. Its delicious traditional dishes and friendly locals make it one of China's most charming hidden gems.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Zhu Family Garden

This sprawling complex of traditional Chinese architecture includes a courtyard, ancestral hall, and pavilions.
2. Jianshui Confucius Temple

One of China's oldest and most well-preserved Confucius temples, this attraction features stunning architecture and beautiful indoor gardens.
3. Swallow Cave

A picturesque karst cave system with stunning natural formations and cascading waterfalls.
4. Double Dragon Bridge

Built in the Ming Dynasty, this iconic bridge features two dragon sculptures and is a popular spot for taking photos.
5. Chaoyang Tower

A striking, Gothic-style tower built in the early 20th century, now houses a museum on local history.
6. Tuanshan Village

A charming, well-preserved example of traditional architecture and culture, known for its unique vernacular style.
7. Zhang Family Garden

A beautiful, intricately designed garden filled with pavilions, bridges, and rock formations.
8. Jianshui Ancient City Wall

The city's ancient fortifications, built in the Qing Dynasty, offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
9. Baoxiang Temple

A sprawling Buddhist temple complex dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, featuring stunning architecture and artwork.
10. Jianshui Folklore Museum

This museum houses exhibits on local customs, traditions, and crafts, making it a great place to learn about the region's history and culture.
11. Shuanghe Village

A quaint village with traditional architecture, surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests.
12. Jianshui Waterwheel

This functioning waterwheel has been operating for over 300 years and is a unique testament to the area's history and infrastructure.
13. Honghe Hani Rice Terraces

These terraces offer breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains, and are a remarkable example of agriculture and conservation.
14. Xinying Street

A bustling street in the heart of Jianshui, featuring local shops, restaurants, and attractions.
15. Jianshui Ancient Theatre

This well-preserved wooden theatre dates back to the Qing Dynasty and is a testament to the area's cultural arts.
16. Linglong Pagoda

A towering, well-preserved pagoda built in the Yuan Dynasty, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
17. Twin Dragon Bridge

Another iconic bridge in Jianshui, this one features twin dragon sculptures and is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the scenery.
18. Jianshui County Museum

Housed in a historic building, this museum showcases the region's history, culture, and natural environment.
19. Dafosi Temple

This ancient temple has been rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, and features stunning architecture and artwork.
20. Jingxiu Valley

A picturesque valley with crystal-clear water, lush forests, and rocky outcroppings.
21. Luocheng Ancient City

A well-preserved example of an ancient Chinese city, featuring street markets, temples, and historic architecture.
22. Weishan Ancient City

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Weishan is a beautifully preserved example of a Ming Dynasty city.
23. Yunnan-Vietnam Railway

One of China's most scenic railway routes, this journey offers breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and forests.
24. Hump Mountain

Named for the mule trains that once transported goods over this steep mountain pass, Hump Mountain offers stunning views and hiking opportunities.
25. Wang Family Mansion

This sprawling, well-preserved mansion was the home of a wealthy merchant family and features exquisite architectural details.
26. Yuanyang Rice Terraces

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these terraces are a breathtaking example of human ingenuity and the beauty of nature.
27. Yuanjiashan Scenic Area

A mountainous area with stunning vistas, hiking trails, and cultural attractions.
28. Jiulongbi Scenic Area

This scenic area features a river, waterfalls, and dense forests, and is a popular spot for outdoor adventure.
29. Nanshan Park

A stunning park with beautiful gardens, pavilions, and a lake, offering a serene escape from the bustle of the city.
30. Double Happiness Courtyard

This historic courtyard complex is a unique example of traditional Chinese architecture and features ornate carvings and intricate details.