Anju Ancient Town (安居古镇), located in Tongliang District, is one of Chongqing’s 20 officially recognized historical and cultural towns. With a history spanning over 1,500 years, Anju Ancient Town has long been an important trade hub in northern Chongqing. Historically, it was described as “Anju, a town built upon the mountains, controlling Longmen, guarding Tie Ma, overlooking the Ba-Yu region, and with the Fu River running through for miles into the territory.”
Throughout its history, Anju has been designated as a county seat three times, leaving behind a wealth of cultural relics and historic sites. Notable landmarks include Xinghui Gate, Huguang Guild Hall, Tianhou Palace, Qian’an Mansion, the City God Temple, the former site of the Whampoa Military Academy, the Liu Bocheng Refuge Memorial, and Bolun Temple. These sites are primarily concentrated in the streets of Dannan, Huoshenmiao, and the ancient West Street.
Although the commercial development of Anju Ancient Town is still in its early stages, many old houses and traditional residences remain, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the daily lives of local residents.
Travel Information about Anju Ancient Town
Tickets and Opening Hours
Admission: Entry to the town is free, but some attractions may require an additional fee.
Opening Hours: Open all day.
Getting to the Scenic Area
Location: Anju Town, Tongliang District, Chongqing.
Transportation: Start by taking a bus from Caiyuanba, Shapingba, or Chenjiaping Passenger Transport Station to Tongliang City. From Tongliang City, transfer to a bus heading to Anju Town.
Attraction Ratings
Romance: ★★★★★
Beauty: ★★★★
Uniqueness: ★★★★
Cultural Significance: ★★★
Leisure: ★★
Adventure: ★
Highlights of Anju Ancient Town
Xinghui Gate
Anju Ancient Town features nine city gates, originally constructed with brick and wood and later rebuilt with stone. Xinghui Gate, located in the southern part of Anju Ancient Town, is situated near Wumiao Temple and the county government office. Due to the town’s geographical layout, which is higher in the south and lower in the north, this gate is the tallest among the city’s gates. Legend has it that on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, one can gaze at the moon from the gate’s tower and see it shining as white as jade, surrounded by radiant stars. If fortunate enough, visitors may even witness the magical sight of the jade rabbit seemingly leaping into their embrace.
Tianhou Palace
Tianhou Palace, also known as Mazu Temple or Fujian Guild Hall, is located on South Street in Anju Ancient Town and was built with funds raised by gentry from Fujian. This ancient structure, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, features a grand hall and majestic pavilions.
The palace is oriented southeast and faces northwest, with its front entrance opening to the street while the back is backed by a mountain, behind which lies Chuan Zhu Temple. The palace stands over 10 meters tall and is 8.8 meters wide, topped with a heavily eaved hip roof and a uniquely shaped gate tower. The roof is supported by dougong brackets, and the ground is paved with blue stone on both sides.
The facade is adorned with vivid and lifelike carvings, depicting fish, dragons, phoenixes, lions, flowers, bamboo, and other motifs symbolizing longevity and prosperity. Notable images include cranes representing longevity, magpies perching on branches, and five bats symbolizing happiness and long life, all presented in clear and intricate detail.
Who is Tianhou (Mazu)
According to historical records, Tianhou, whose surname is Lin and given name is Mo, was born in Xianliang Port, Putian, Fujian Province. From a young age, she learned to swim, understood tidal sounds, and studied the stars. As she grew up, she developed the ability to “transform wood into boats,” repeatedly rescuing those in maritime distress.
One notable instance occurred when she set fire to her own house, creating a beacon of flames to guide lost merchant ships to safety. Tragically, on the ninth day of the ninth lunar month in the year 987, she perished while rescuing shipwrecked sailors in Meizhou Bay. Even after her death, her spirit remained connected to the sea. During storms and turbulent waters, she is said to appear as a woman in red, standing among the clouds, guiding merchant vessels to navigate through danger.
The moving legend of Lin Mo’s heroism in saving lives at sea has garnered widespread admiration over the years, leading to her eventual deification. Currently, over twenty countries and regions worldwide have established Tianhou Temples, reflecting the profound influence she has had on maritime culture and worship.
Visitor Guide for Anju Ancient Town
Various Food
Anju Ancient Town is truly a paradise for food lovers. Among the most famous local snacks are Hanlin Pastries (翰林酥), Taishou Mahua (太守麻花, fried dough twists), Ancient Town Chicken Feet (古城凤爪), Chong Chong Cake (冲冲糕), and Yaba Pot Steamed Buns (哑巴锅盔). Additionally, the locally grown Anju Red Heart Oranges (安居红心橙) and crispy, sweet pomelos (脆香甜柚子) from nearby farms are also excellent choices. For those still seeking more, a visit to “Wanhong Restaurant” (万宏酒楼) is highly recommended, where you can try their celebrated dishes of Clear Water Fish (过水清波) and Homemade Yellow Wax Ding (家常黄蜡丁), both of which have earned the title of “Famous Dishes of Longxiang” (龙乡名菜) at the Longxiang Food Competition.
Things to Do at Anju Ancient Town
“Shuiyunlong” Ceremony: This unique dragon dance form in Anju Ancient Town features a beautifully designed dragon that weaves through the streets. As it passes, people honor the dragon by sprinkling it with pure spring water, praying for blessings and good fortune. The entire street transforms into a world of water, filled with celebration and joy.
County Magistrate’s Procession: The event begins with the resounding strike of a large gong, followed by the appearance of the magistrate dressed in a red robe at the city gate. He performs a few elegant movements, while the assistant waves a feather fan and theatrically calls out, “If you have grievances, speak now; if not, step aside.” The onlookers eagerly respond, echoing, “We have grievances!”
West Street Bars: Anju’s West Street is home to a variety of charming bars that come alive at night. As the sun sets, the area is illuminated, resembling a theatrical stage as the nightlife begins to bustle. Compared to bars in places like Lijiang or Fenghuang, the bars on West Street offer a more warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a drink and chatting with friends from all walks of life – a delightful experience that is hard to find in the noisy urban environment.
City God Temple Fair: On the tenth day of the fifth lunar month, the ancient town hosts a grand City God Temple fair. The highlight of the opening ceremony is the procession of the City God: leading the way are four musicians with gongs, large silk lanterns, and placards reading “Avoid Disputes,” “Maintain Silence,” “Anju Zheng Tang,” and “Fude Dawang.” Following them are flags, umbrellas, and a lively ensemble of drums and suonas. The City God, seated in a lavish palanquin and flanked by officials in costumes, makes his ceremonial appearance. The event is filled with music and excitement, drawing a larger crowd than a county magistrate’s procession. Shops and households along the streets set up altars, burn incense, and offer prayers for blessings and the dispelling of misfortunes.