Chengdu : Vintage Tram, DIY Lacquer Fans & Museums

Discover Anren: Chengdu’s Day-Long Journey into Culture and History

This tour takes you from bustling Chengdu into the tranquil beauty of Anren Ancient Town, a place so cherished it’s known as “China’s Most Beautiful Town” and proudly holds a 5A scenic spot status. For $261 per person, we get a full day of exploring historic architecture, crafting traditional lacquer fans, and soaking in local culture, all with the comfort of private transport and guides.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances hands-on cultural activities, like making a Chinese lacquer fan, with authentic sightseeing—a rare combination that leaves you both educated and creatively involved. The vintage tram ride adds a nostalgic touch, making the journey through Anren feel like stepping back in time. The flexibility to choose between visiting either Lius Manor, a beautifully preserved traditional family estate, or the Jianchuan Museum makes this tour adaptable to different interests.

One potential consideration is the paced itinerary—if you’re not a fan of long walking tours or want a more laid-back day, this might feel slightly packed. However, for curious explorers eager to experience authentic Chinese heritage and architecture, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy culture, historic architecture, and interactive workshops. It’s ideal if you want a meaningful day out that combines education, scenic rides, and local cuisine, especially if you appreciate learning hands-on traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: Hands-on lacquer fan workshop connects you deeply with traditional Chinese craft.
• Historical architecture: Explore century-old mansions blending Chinese and Western styles.
• Scenic tram ride: Vintage Dingding Tram offers a relaxed, nostalgic way to view Anren.
• Flexible cultural options: Choose to visit either Lius Manor or the Jianchuan Museum based on your interests.
• Authentic local food: Enjoy a Sichuan lunch tailored to your preferences.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable English-speaking guides enrich your understanding of local history and culture.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting in Chengdu: Smooth Pickup and Travel

Your day begins with hotel pickup in central Chengdu, ensuring a stress-free start. With private transportation and a professional driver, the journey to Anren is comfortable and efficient, allowing you to focus on the sights ahead. The entire experience is designed for a small group, making conversations personal and engaging.

Anren Ancient Town: A Step Back in Time

Once you arrive, your first stop is the Old Street of Mansions—a stretch of historic residences built in Chinese-Western styles. As we wandered through these well-preserved buildings, it was clear why Anren is called “China’s Museum Town”. The architecture is remarkable, with intricate wood and stone carvings, offering a vivid picture of local life from the past.

Many reviews highlight how the guide (Jin or Lily, depending on your group) really brings the stories to life. One traveler noted, “The guide’s knowledge made the mansions come alive, and I loved imagining what life was like for the Liu family.”

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Anren Academy: A Literary Oasis

A short walk brings us to the Anren Academy, a stunning bookstore praised as “the most beautiful bookstore in Southwest China”. Surrounded by shelves of books and tranquil ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a break. Here, you might find yourself losing track of time, just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Local Snacks and Tastes of Sichuan

Throughout the morning, we sampled local snacks—crispy pastries, spicy tofu, and sweet teas—giving us a delicious preview of Sichuan flavors. The guide’s tips on authentic dishes help you navigate local eateries confidently, making your culinary experience as memorable as the sights.

Hands-On Lacquer Fan Crafting

The highlight for many is the DIY lacquer fan workshop. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, we each crafted our own fan, choosing colors and designs. The process involves applying layers of lacquer and decorating with traditional motifs—an activity that’s as rewarding as it is educational. One guest marveled, “I never knew making a lacquer fan involved such intricate steps, and now I have a unique souvenir to remember the day.” This activity truly allows for a personal connection to Chinese craftsmanship.

Lunch: Sichuan Flavors on Your Plate

After working up an appetite, we enjoyed a Sichuan-style lunch. Our guide recommended dishes based on our preferences, which turned out to be quite a treat. While not included in the tour price, the meal offers excellent value, giving you a taste of local cuisine in a setting that complements the day’s cultural focus.

Vintage Dingding Tram Ride

Post-lunch, we boarded the vintage Dingding Tram—a charming red vehicle with the familiar “ding-ding” bell—adding a nostalgic feel to the tour. The ride is leisurely, allowing us to admire Anren’s historic streets and scenic views without the fatigue of walking. Many travelers loved this part, with one remarking, “The tram made the whole experience feel like a step back in time, and the breeze was refreshing.”

Afternoon Choice: Lius Manor or Jianchuan Museum

In the afternoon, the tour splits into two options based on your interests:

• Lius Manor: One of China’s best-preserved traditional family manors, showcasing exquisite wood and stone carvings and restored rooms that tell stories of local aristocratic life. Visitors can walk through living scenes from the past, gaining insight into regional history. Several reviews appreciated its beautiful architecture and authentic atmosphere.

• Jianchuan Museum: A collection of 55 modern museum venues covering themes like porcelain, military history, and folk customs. You can select three pavilions that appeal most, such as the Old Mansion Furniture Hall or the War of Resistance exhibits. Reviewers mention that while the museum is extensive, focusing on select pavilions makes it manageable and engaging.

Return to Chengdu: Comfort and Reflection

After a full day of exploration, your guide will arrange a comfortable ride back to Chengdu, concluding around late afternoon or early evening. Travelers often mention feeling satisfied, having gained both an appreciation for Chinese architecture and hands-on craft skills.

Analyzing the Value of This Tour

At $261, this tour offers a mix of cultural education, authentic experiences, and scenic rides. The inclusion of private guiding and transportation ensures a smooth day, free from logistical worries. The lacquer fan workshop is particularly valuable, giving you a tangible connection to traditional Chinese craft. The museum or manor visits deepen your understanding of local history and architecture, enriching your overall experience.

While meals are not included, the guide’s recommendations help you enjoy local flavors without overpriced tourist traps. The optional choice between the manor and museum caters to different interests, making the tour flexible and personalized.

This experience is most valuable for travelers who enjoy interactive cultural activities, historic architecture, and scenic rides. It suits those who like to learn while participating actively, rather than just observing from a distance.

The Sum Up

This tour provides a well-rounded day exploring Anren’s historic charm, traditional architecture, and cultural crafts—all with the comfort of private guides and transportation. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who crave authentic experiences and are eager to take home a handcrafted souvenir.

The vintage tram ride and the choice of museum or manor add layers of enjoyment and educational value. The knowledgeable guides bring the town’s stories to life, making each stop meaningful and memorable. While the pace might be a bit full for those seeking a leisurely day, it’s perfect for explorers eager to maximize their culture.

If you’re interested in Chinese architecture, traditional crafts, or historic towns, this tour offers genuine insights with plenty of opportunities to participate actively. It’s a meaningful way to see a side of Sichuan that combines history, craftsmanship, and scenic charm—all in one day from Chengdu.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, private transportation with a professional driver is included, ensuring a comfortable journey from Chengdu to Anren and back.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The hands-on lacquer fan workshop is a standout, allowing you to create a unique souvenir while connecting with Chinese craft traditions.

Can I choose between visiting Lius Manor and Jianchuan Museum?
Yes, the tour offers options for either Lius Manor or Jianchuan Museum in the afternoon, based on your interests.

How long does the trip last?
The entire experience typically takes a full day, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but the guide will recommend local restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Sichuan cuisine.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s best suited for adults and older children. People over 70 may find the pace a bit too lively.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for exploring mansions and walking along old streets.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the quieter, more historic side of Sichuan, balancing culture with scenic fun. For those eager to create, learn, and explore, it offers genuine value and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: