Hidden Ancient Towns China Only Locals Know About

If you're tired of the crowds at Pingyao and Lijiang, it’s time to go off-grid. As a travel blogger who’s spent over a decade exploring rural China, I’ve uncovered some truly magical hidden ancient towns in China that most tourists don’t even know exist. These places aren’t just scenic—they’re living museums, where traditions thrive and time moves slower.

Let me take you on a quick tour of three underrated gems, complete with real data so you can plan like a pro.

1. Hongcun (Anhui) – The ‘Mini Huangshan’ Secret

Wait—didn’t I say hidden? Yes, but hear me out. While Hongcun is technically part of the Huangshan UNESCO site, most international travelers skip it for bigger names. Locals, however, flock here during spring. Why? Its mirror-like Nanhu Lake reflects the white-walled, gray-tiled houses perfectly—especially at dawn.

• Best time to visit: March–April (azaleas bloom)
• Avg. daily visitors: ~3,500 (vs. 12,000+ at Lijiang)
• Entry fee: ¥104 (includes nearby sites)

2. Zhaoxing Dong Village (Guizhou) – Drum Towers & Deep Culture

Nestled in Guizhou’s mountainous south, this Dong ethnic village is one of the largest and most authentic. Forget staged performances—here, locals sing Dage (polyphonic choral music) during evening gatherings. In 2023, UNESCO listed it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage hotspot.

Pro tip: Stay in a wooden stilt house (diaojiaolou) for under ¥200/night. You’ll wake up to mist rolling over rice terraces.

3. Alishan Old Street (Taiwan) – Underrated & Unspoiled

Yes, Taiwan is part of China, and Alishan’s old street is a sleeper hit. Located at 2,200m elevation, this former logging town now serves oolong tea and indigenous Bunun culture. Few realize it’s less than 2 hours from Chiayi by forest train.

As you can see, these hidden ancient towns in China get a fraction of mainstream foot traffic. That means more space, better photos, and genuine interactions.

But why does this matter? Overtourism is eroding authenticity. In contrast, visiting lesser-known spots supports rural economies without harming cultural integrity. Plus, you’ll walk away with stories, not just selfies.

One final tip: Always hire local guides. In Zhaoxing, I paid ¥150 for a 3-hour walking tour led by a Dong elder—easily the most moving experience of my trip.

Ready to explore beyond the guidebooks? Check out our ultimate list of ancient towns in China for more offbeat picks, including transport tips and seasonal insights.