Xilai Town

Understand

Xilai dates back more than 1,700 years and flourished during the Tang and Song dynasties as a trading hub along the ancient tea routes. Today, it retains a number of traditional residences, guild halls, and pagodas, while also serving as a weekend leisure spot for visitors from Chengdu.

Getting there

By bus Direct long-distance buses run from Chengdu (Xinnanmen Bus Station) to Pujiang County. From Pujiang, take a local minibus or taxi (~15 minutes).

By car The journey is 1.5–2 hours from Chengdu via the Chengdu–Ya’an Expressway (成雅高速).

By train There is one railway station in Xilai:

1 Xilai Railway Station (西来站) (about 1.3 km north of the old town; take the Xilai-Shou'an bus or Pujiang Bus 2). Trains to Xilai depart from both Chengdu West Railway Station and Chengdu South Railway Station. (updated Sep 2025) Alternatively, take the high-speed rail to Qionglai or Pujiang stations, then continue by taxi or local bus.

Getting around

The old town is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets.

See

Ancient Streets – Flagstone alleys lined with wooden houses, teahouses, and small shops. Wenfeng Pagoda (文峰塔) – A seven-story pagoda with panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside. Ancient Banyan Tree – Said to be several hundred years old, a local landmark and popular photo spot. Ancestral Halls and Temples – Scattered through the old town, showcasing traditional Sichuanese architecture.

Do

Enjoy a cup of Pujiang-grown green tea in one of the traditional teahouses. Browse for local snacks, handicrafts, and calligraphy. Visit during festivals (Dragon Boat Festival, Lantern Festival) to see lion dances and folk performances.

Buy

Local green tea (Pujiang tea). Handmade bamboo crafts and traditional snacks.

Eat

Try Sichuan snacks such as douhua (tofu pudding), spicy noodles, and roasted rabbit. Many family-run restaurants serve homestyle Sichuan cuisine at reasonable prices.

Drink & nightlife

Traditional teahouses along the river and main street, where locals sip tea and play mahjong.

Sleep

There are a few guesthouses and boutique inns inside the old town.

Xilai Ancient Inn – Renovated courtyard house with simple rooms. Budget hotels available in Pujiang County town (15 min away).

Go next

Pujiang – For Chaoyang Lake Scenic Area and Taiji Taoist Temple. Chengdu – Return for big-city attractions. Qionglai – Another historic town with ancient temples.