Songpan Ancient City Travel Guide
Highlights, History & Visitor Information
Located at an altitude of approximately 2,850 meters, Songpan Ancient City is a border walled city with a long history, known as the "Ancient Plateau City." Its history dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and it was formerly known as "Songzhou." It was a strategic location on the Ancient Tea-Horse Road, connecting the Central Dynasty with Tibet to the west, and was an important military base. Even today, the Ming Dynasty city walls and gatehouses, stretching over six kilometers in length, remain almost completely preserved, making it a rare place where you can actually walk along the city walls. Here, you can experience the unique atmosphere of a fusion of diverse ethnic cultures, including Han, Tibetan, and Hui people, and the romance of history.
1. Main Highlights
🏯 Highlights of the Castle Walk
The compact castle grounds are dotted with sights that give a sense of history and culture.
• Songshu Ancient City:
The symbol of Songpan is the magnificent city wall, 8.5 meters high and 6 meters thick. You can actually walk around the wall and enjoy a panoramic view of the traditional townscape inside the city and the majestic mountains outside. The view at sunset is particularly spectacular.
• Statue of Songchan Ganbu and Princess Wencheng:
The bronze statues of Tibetan hero Songtsen Gampo and Princess Wencheng, a Tang Dynasty princess, stand at the entrance to the ancient city, reminding us that Songpan was once the historic site where peace was achieved between the Tang Dynasty and Tibet.
• Old Bridge and the Tea-Horse Trail:
An old stone bridge spans the castle grounds, evoking the image of the ancient Tea-Horse Road, where horse caravans once traveled. The streets lined with old brick buildings retain a strong sense of nostalgia.
• Ethnic temples and markets:
Within the city, you'll find a mix of Tibetan temples and Hui mosques, showcasing the unique characteristics of this region, where diverse cultures and beliefs coexist. You can also find local specialty products in the bustling markets.
2.Historical Stories
📜 History and legends surrounding Songpan
• Peace and Friendship between the Tang and Tibetans: During the Tang Dynasty, the king of Tibet, Songchan Ganbu, sent an emissary to Tang China to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage. He was initially refused, but after a battle broke out in Songzhou (present-day Songpan), peace was established and Princess Wencheng was finally allowed to marry a Tibetan. This "peace and friendship" was a major historical event that contributed greatly to cultural exchange between the Han and Tibetan peoples.
• Origin of the name "Songpan": During the Ming Dynasty, many of the troops stationed here were from Songzhou and Panzhou, so the two place names were combined to form the name "Songpan."
3. Useful Information Before Your Visit
Address：Jin'an Town, Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province
Regular Opening Hours：The old castle area is open 24 hours a day, but the castle walls and other facilities are open from 8:30am to 5:30pm.
Closed：None (Open daily throughout the year).
Admission Tickets：Admission to the ancient city is free, but if you want to climb the city walls you will need a separate ticket (about 50 yuan).
Access：It is about a 1-hour drive from Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Airport and about a 2-hour drive from Jiuzhaigou.
4. Visiting Etiquette and Important Notes
• Altitude sickness precautions: Songpan is at a high altitude, so on the first day after arrival, avoid strenuous exercise and take things slowly. If you are unsure about your health, we recommend carrying an oxygen tank.
• Clothing and equipment: The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, and the weather is changeable. It is essential to bring warm clothing and rain gear. You will be walking on the castle walls, so please wear comfortable shoes.
• Respect for culture: Many Tibetan and Hui people live within the city. When visiting temples and mosques, please be sure to respect local customs and beliefs by remaining quiet and asking permission before taking photographs.
5. Pandaland Trip's Original Tour Services
At Pandaland Trip, we offer unique services to help you gain a deeper understanding of the historical value of Songpan Ancient Town and enjoy high altitude sightseeing with peace of mind.
• Guided explanation as a "living history book": Instead of just explaining the city walls, we will narrate the history of the Tang and Tibetan peace treaty, the trading routes of the Tea Horse Road, and the coexistence of multiple ethnic cultures in a way that brings history to life, all in your native language.
• Efficient tour plan including Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong: Songpan Ancient City is located on the way to Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong. We will suggest the best itinerary and route to visit these three major attractions without any stress.
• Health management support for high altitude tourism: We will always be mindful of your health and guide you through the tour at a comfortable pace. We also have oxygen tanks on hand to provide you with the best possible support.
• Local market experience guide: We will take you to a market where local people live their lives and help you enjoy highland specialties and local snacks in peace of mind.
• Complete support in your native language: From explaining historical terms to assisting with meal orders and shopping in the city, our staff will provide thorough support in your native language for every situation.
To fully understand the deep charm of the historically significant Songpan Ancient City and enjoy high-altitude sightseeing with peace of mind, Pandaland Trip’s guided tour in your native language is the best choice. Our guides, who are knowledgeable about history and local circumstances, will take you on an exciting journey through time and space. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
