Songpan Ancient County
Songpan County also named 'Songzhuo' is the gateway to the scenic spots of Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong. The ancient city of Songpan is an interesting and diverse cultural experience, often referred to as the 'Gateway to Western Sichuan'. A stopover in this ancient cultural city can add a different experience to your journey. Often called 'Gateway to West Sichuan', Songpan is one of the most famous historical cities in Sichuan Province. It has been a strategic point historically. Songpan was established as a county in 618 during the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907). Later with the marriage of Princess Wencheng of Tang and King Songtsen Gampo of Tubo Kingdom in Tibet, the county became a bustling commercial market on the ancient Tea-Horse Road. The well preserved city wall was initiated in 1379 during the Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644), and was completed in 1562.
The ancient city of Songpan was built with an inner city, outer city, city wall, city gate and city tower, which are in harmony with the landforms, mountains and rivers of the county. The city has four well-preserved majestic gates.Among them North Gate and South Gate are the largest. The depth of North Gate, being 31.5 meters (103.3 feet), ranks the top of all city gates of the Ming Dynasty in China. And the South Gate, with a complete city wall, is the largest and best-preserved ancient city gate in China. The sculpture about the marriage of Princess Wencheng and Songtsen Gampo is another symbolic building at the entrance of the county.
Inside Songpan County, the river, bridges, streets, pavilions and local houses form a picturesque sight. The river traverses the county from east to west and then flows to the south. The ancient styled buildings, especially the bamboo pavilions and the Tang Dynasty style of street lanterns, are quite unique. The diverse customs of the Han, Tibetan, Qiang and Hui ethnic groups of Songpan County give the visitor another splendid experience. The distinctive pedestrian streets in the county are the best choice for shopping, dining, relaxation and appreciating the local customs.
Entrance Fee: Free
Transportation
A. By Air: Jiuhuang Airport is located in the historically well-known Chuanzhusi Town of Songpan, only about 17 kilometers (11 miles) north of the county. There are regular flights from Chengdu and Chongqing to the airport.
B. By Bus: Travellers in Chengdu can catch a long-distance bus to the county at the Ximen or Chadianzi Bus Station.
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