Historic sites in Guiyang
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Qingyan Ancient Town
Qingyan Ancient Town covers an area of 3 square kilometers. The town retains a lot of historic layout and ancient buildings, from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) or Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). In the town, visitors may have the chance to see well-preserved stone-slab lanes, archways, watchtowers and battlements. Now, the ancient town is famous for its "9 temples, 8 shrines, 5 pavilions, 3 caves, 2 ancestral halls, 1 palace and 1 academy". Most of them are well preserved and are worth visiting.
The town is indeed a place made up of stone. Historic relics can be seen almost everywhere. Among its 37 tourist attractions are 9 temples, 8 shrines, 5 pavilions, 3 caves, 2 ancestral halls, 1 palace and 1 academy. There are three ancient archways too. Most of these ancient buildings are exquisitely carved with terrapins, dragons and other traditional Chinese patterns.
The ancient town has a history of more than 600 years. It was originally established as a post station in 1378. Because of its important situation, it played an important role along the ancient post route from Guangxi to Guizhou, from which government documents and military intelligence were sent to and from the post. Later, an army of solders were sent to the station and built it as their fortress. After years of changing, it became today's Qingyan town.
Qingyan owns some famous local specialties as well. One of them is Rose Candy (also known as Mia Pian Candy in Chinese) made by the Ping family in Qingyan town. History of the Candy can be traced back as early as 1874 and it is passed down through generations in the old town. Today the fragrant and sweet candy becomes a famous brand and is still liked by young and old.
Another local product is Qingyan Shuanghua Vinegar. The liquid of the vinegar is quite thick and is of the color of dark red. The vinegar tastes of slight sweetness in the mouth and the fragrance lasts long. Local Guiyang people like it very much.
