In Fujian, Discover a Hidden Gem—Longtan Ancient Town

Longtan Ancient Town, located in Pingnan County, Ningde City, Fujian, is a thousand-year-old town blending rustic charm with artistic vibes, often hailed as the "Jiangnan Water Town of Fujian." Here’s a detailed travel guide covering transportation, attractions, food, accommodation, and itinerary suggestions: **1. Town Overview** Built during the Song Dynasty and flourishing in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, Longtan Ancient Town preserves clusters of ancient dwellings with distinct eastern Fujian characteristics. In recent years, the introduction of cultural and creative industries has transformed it into a "Painter’s Village," attracting artists and revitalizing the area. **2. Transportation** - **Self-drive**: About 2.5 hours from Fuzhou, 4 hours from Quanzhou. - **Public transport**: Take a high-speed train to Ningde Station, then transfer to a bus to Pingnan County, followed by a taxi or private car (approx. 30 km). - **Parking tips**: Limited parking near the town; try near Shuangxi Town Government, Rural Commercial Bank, or ask locals for advice. **3. Top Attractions** **(1) Longtan Village Core Area** - **Ancient dwellings**: Ming-Qing architecture with yellow walls and black tiles, perfect for photography. - **Longtan Stream**: Crystal-clear water ideal for strolls or wading. - **Siping Opera Museum & Ancient Stage**: Learn about local traditional opera, with occasional performances. - **Huangjiu (Yellow Wine) Museum**: Sample Pingnan’s specialty and explore brewing techniques. **(2) Nearby Attractions** - **Siping Village** (2.2 km from Longtan): A quaint, garden-like hamlet for leisurely walks. - **Xiadi Village** (~1 hour drive): More rustic, featuring Pioneer Bookstore and rice fields, ideal for art lovers. - **Longtan Canyon** (Xixi Town): Offers thrilling activities like rafting and glass water slides. **4. Food Recommendations** - **Fish balls**: A Pingnan specialty, tender and flavorful. - **Hulatang (Spicy Soup)**: A sour-spicy breakfast staple. - **Leicha (Pounded Tea)**: A unique traditional tea served to guests. - **Farmhouse dishes**: Free-range chicken, duck, bamboo shoots, etc. **5. Accommodation** - **Longtan homestays**: Like "Youyuanju," clean and budget-friendly. - **Xiadi Village’s Senke Xiadi Homestay**: For a tranquil rural experience (~¥800/night). - **Pingnan hotels**: Such as Yishang Hotel, with modern amenities for higher standards. **6. Itinerary (1-2 Days)** **One-day trip**: - **Morning**: Explore Longtan (ancient houses, Siping Opera Museum, Huangjiu Museum). - **Noon**: Try local farmhouse cuisine. - **Afternoon**: Visit Siping or Xiadi Village (self-drive recommended). - **Evening**: Return to Longtan for sunset views. **Two-day trip**: - **Day 1**: Longtan + Siping Village, overnight in Longtan. - **Day 2**: Rafting at Longtan Canyon or exploring Xiadi Village. **7. Travel Tips** - **Best seasons**: Spring-summer (Apr-Jun) for greenery; autumn (Sep-Nov) for harvest scenery. - **Photography**: Rainy days enhance the misty Jiangnan ambiance; Fujifilm cameras suit vintage styles. - **Notes**: Narrow roads require cautious driving; avoid holidays for fewer crowds. Longtan Ancient Town is perfect for slow-living enthusiasts, photographers, and culture seekers, offering a harmonious blend of history, nature, and art. Plan a getaway to this serene retreat!