Xizhou Ancient Town & Tie-dyeing Experience Private Tour

8 hours

Easy

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Xizhou Ancient Town on a guided tour. Visit the Yan Family's Courtyard and tie-dyeing museum. Experience hands-on tie dyeing and leave with a unique souvenir.

Arrive at Xizhou Ancient Town and step back into time. The bluestone-paved roads extend under your feet and the ancient stage stands quietly. With its upturned eaves, richly ornamented brackets, carved beams, and painted rafters, it fully displays the charm of Bai ethnic architecture. Choose a good angle and take pictures to capture these ancient moments.


Move on to the Yan Family's Courtyard, which is a gem of Bai ethnic folk houses and perfectly showcases the layout of "Three Rooms with One Screen Wall" and "Four Courtyards with Five Skylights". The flowers, birds, fish, and insects carved on the wooden doors and windows, as well as the auspicious beasts on the stone railings, are all vivid.


Stepping into the inner courtyard, the traditional costumes and daily necessities displayed in the folk custom exhibitions quietly tell the past of the Bai ethnic group. Observe them and immerse yourself in the ocean of culture.


Walk to the rice fields near the Linden Centre. Different seasons bring different beautiful pictures. In spring and summer, the rice seedlings are lush, like green waves rolling; in autumn, the rice ears turn golden, just like a golden carpet.


Strolling along the ridges of the fields, the gentle breeze blows, and the fragrance of rice, grass, and soil blend together. In the distance, the Cangshan Mountain is covered with a layer of greenery, and nearby, the brook flows gently, making you feel extremely comfortable.


Step into the snack street of the ancient town, where the hustle and bustle of life can be felt. Find an old store and order the classic Xizhou Baba. The sweet one is filled with rose and red bean paste. The fragrant flower flavor blends with the sweet red bean paste, and the outer crust is baked until it becomes golden and crispy.


The salty one is filled with minced meat and scallions, giving off a savory aroma. Then pair it with a bowl of cool shrimp. The soft "shrimps" float in the icy sweet sugar water, melting in your mouth immediately and bringing a refreshing coolness, making your taste buds cheer.


Visit the Puzhen Bai Ethnic Group Tie-dyeing Museum in Zhoucheng. Under the guidance of professional staff, you will have an in-depth understanding of the historical origin of Bai ethnic group's tie-dyeing. From the ancient origin legends to the modern inheritance and development, you can admire the exquisite tie-dyeing works and feel the charm of intangible cultural heritage art.


Try the hands-on tie-dyeing experience session. Under the guidance of the staff, try to design and make simple tie-dyed handkerchiefs or scarves, and leave with a unique travel souvenir.


Walk into the traditional alleys in Zhoucheng and look for a restaurant run by local families to taste one or two dishes from the characteristic "Eight Local Dishes", such as Hongqu Pork, and experience the flavor of traditional Bai ethnic group banquet dishes as well as the connotation of folk culture.

What's included?
    • English-speaking Private guide
    • Private transport
    • Customized itinerary
    • French/German/Italian/Spanish/Russian guide (extra fee)
    • Malay/Indonesian/Thai/Vietnamese/Khmer guide (extra fee)
    Exclusions
      • Tie-dyeing hands-on experience (CNY130)
      • Other handcraft activities
      • Tips and gratuities
      • Meals and beverages
      • Personal expenses
      Please note

        EXPLORING XIZHOU ANCIENT TOWN

        • LOCAL CULTURE: Xizhou is know for its Bai minority heritage, traditional courtyard homes, traditional tie-dyeing techniques, and vibrant markets.
        • TOP ATTRACTIONS: Besides the workshop, explore Xizhou’s morning market, Bai-style architecture, and local delicacies like Xizhou baba ( a savory or sweet pancake ).
        • MARKET HOURS: Visit the market early for the freshest produce and liveliest atmosphere.
        • TIE-DYEING HISTORY: The tie-dyeing craft ”Zhàrán” (扎染) dates back over 1,000 years, using natural indigo dyes and intricate folding techniques.

        WORKSHOP DETAILS

        • SKILL LEVEL: The tie-dye workshop is beginner friendly and suitable for all ages.
        • CREATION TIME:
          •   The workshop lasts about 1-2 hours, but drying the fabric may take longer. Check if expedited drying or packaging is available in the workshop. 
          • If you create a large tie-dye piece, inquire about drying time and shipping options if it’s not ready before your departure.
        • SOUVENIRS: Some workshops sell pre-made tie-dye items, so bring extra cash if you want to shop.
        • EXPERIENCE: 
          • This experience is excluded in this tour package, but can help you book if you are interested to the activity. 
          • Tie-dye experience cost CNY 130.

        ACCESSIBILITY AND LANGUAGE

        • MOBILITY CONSIDERATION: Cobblestone streets and older building may not be wheelchair-friendly. Confirm with us if accessibility is a concern.
        • CHILD-FRIENDLY: Tie-dyeing workshops are generally great for kids.
        • PRIVATE GUIDE: Most guides speak Mandarin and English. If you need other language, confirm availability when booking.

        TIMING AND SEASON

        • BEST TIME TO VISIT
          • March-May (Spring) and September-November (Autumn): Offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
          • Morning Tours: These are ideal to catch the lively atmosphere of Xizhou’s morning market.
          • July-August (Rainy Season): Be prepared for sudden rain; bring a lightweight raincoat or umbrella.

        TIPS FOR A GREAT EXPERIENCE 

        • BE CREATIVE: Don’t be afraid to experiment with tie-dye patterns. Instructors can guide you, but unique designs are part of the fun.
        • RESPECT LOCAL CUSTOMS: Ask for permission before taking photos of people or their homes.


        What to bring

          ESSENTIALS FOR EXPLORING XIZHOU ANCIENT TOWN

          • COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES
            • Xizhou has cobblestone streets, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
          • LAYERED CLOTHING
            • Weather in Xizhou can vary, so wear light layers for comfort. Bring a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.
          • SUN PROTECTION
            • Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide brimmed hat to protect yourself from the high altitude sun.
          •   RAIN GEAR (Seasonal):
            • If visiting during the rainy season (July-August), carry a compact umbrella or raincoat.

          FOR THE TIE-DYEING EXPERIENCE 

          • CLOTHES YOU DON’T MIND STAINING
            • Indigo dye can stain, so wear older clothing or an apron if provided in the workshop.
          • REUSABLE BAG
            • Handy for carrying your finished tie-dye piece and any extra souvenir.
          • GLOVES (optional)
            • Some workshops provide gloves, but you can also bring your own if you want.

          TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

          • CASH
            • Most local vendors and small businesses accept only Chinese Yuan (CNY). Bring enough for food, souvenirs, or extra tie-dye materials.
          • CAMERA OR SMARTPHONE
            • Xizhou is picturesque, with its traditional Bai architectural and vibrant markets. Don’t forget a portable charger or power bank.
          • WATER BOTTLE
            • Stay hydrated while exploring and during the workshop.

          HEALTH AND COMFORT

          • HAND SANITIZER AND TISSUES
            • Public restrooms may lack basic supplies.
          • FIRST AID KIT
            • Bring any personal medications, along with band-aids/plaster or antiseptic wipes for emergencies.
          • SNACKS
            • Pack light snacks or energy bars in case you get hungry during the tour.
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