The most beautiful ancient town in Ganzhou is a must-visit!

On the Gongjiang River to the east of Ganzhou city, the clear waves ripple, and at the foot of seven mountains lined up in a row, seven waterways part, resembling seven 'carps' frolicking. Opposite the 'carps', lies the famous ancient town in southern Ganzhou - Qili Town. Qili ancient town has a history of over 2200 years and was an important famous town in Jiangxi during ancient times. It is the last major wharf on the Gongshui River, the main tributary of the Ganjiang River, about seven miles from the starting point of the Ganjiang River, Guijiaowei (Bajingtai). It was not only an important water hub from the Central Plains to Fujian and Taiwan but also one of the key towns on China's Maritime Silk Road. Qili Ancient Town Resort Area 🌟Highlights: The ancient Ming and Qing architectural sights in the town are endless, and there is also a fusion of architectural elements from Zhejiang and Anhui, earning it the nickname 'Little Wuzhen of Jiangxi'! 👍Most recommended: 📍Zhuangyuan (Top Scholar) Temple The Zhuangyuan Temple was built to commemorate the third top scholar from Ganzhou, Chi Mengli, who was the only top scholar from Ganzhou city and the last one in the history of the Southern Song Dynasty🥇. Legend has it that the night before Chi Mengli's examination papers were reviewed, the emperor dreamed of a carp leaping over the Dragon Gate, and in the morning he was overjoyed to have a son. When reviewing the papers, he happened to see Chi Mengli's examination paper and was so pleased that he immediately appointed Chi Mengli as the top scholar. Chi Mengli's former residence was destroyed by fire, and later the Chi clan built this Zhuangyuan Temple on the old site. 📍Wanshou Palace Wanshou Palace was built at the end of the Ming Dynasty and has three sections: the first section's large stage has collapsed due to disrepair over the years. The second section is the Jiuru Hall, later converted into the Book Burning Pavilion, and the third section is the Gaoming Hall, which later became the back garden. 📍Xian Niang Temple The Xian Niang ancient temple covers an area of over 600 square meters, with ancient gate towers carved with patterns of lotus🪷, dragons and phoenixes🐲. It has two sections; the first section has three floors, with a theater stage in the middle and Wenchang Pavilion above; the second section is the divine stage, enshrining the Three Xiao Immortal Maidens, Guanyin, and other deities. The theater stage of Xian Niang ancient temple is the only well-preserved ancient Ming and Qing theater stage in southern Ganzhou, said to have a history of over 260 years. ⏳Recommended visiting time: 3-4 hours 🚉Transportation tips: Self-driving🚗 is the most recommended and convenient option, with ample parking available nearby🅿️ 🍽Dining recommendations: The last two pictures are dining recommendations within the ancient town! Their mixed noodles are really delicious😋 Be sure to try their mixed noodles when you're there!