In the heart of Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, there lies a unique small town. Although it is located in Sichuan, it seems to be imbued with a touch of the tenderness and charm of Yunnan. This is Huili Ancient City.

Huili Ancient City faces Yunnan across the Jinsha River. Standing at a high point in the ancient city and looking out, the Jinsha River is like a silver ribbon winding its way among the mountains. One can have a panoramic view of the scenery of Sichuan and Yunnan. This geographical location enables Huili Ancient City to retain Sichuan’s local culture while also absorbing the diversity and inclusiveness of Yunnan, forming its own unique cultural style.

As an important post on the ancient Southern Silk Road, Huili Ancient City has witnessed countless historical moments of business travel and cultural exchanges. A large number of ancient buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties are well – preserved within the ancient city, such as the Bell and Drum Tower, the North Gate Tower, Kejia Lane, etc. The Bell and Drum Tower is still in use today. Every day at 7 – 9 am, the bell of the Bell and Drum Tower rings.

Huili Ancient City is also a “city of immigrants”. There are 35 ethnic groups including the Yi, Hui, Dai, etc. The residents are mainly Yi and Han ethnic groups, living in a multi – ethnic mixed community, creating a diverse and harmonious cultural atmosphere. In the ancient city, people in traditional costumes can be seen bustling around the streets and alleys everywhere. There are also numerous authentic Yi cuisine and local special snacks. Many traditional folk activities and festivals, such as the Torch Festival, are still preserved in the ancient city.

Although the ancient city is located in Sichuan, here you can always feel a bit of the charm of Yunnan. This charm is not only reflected in the close geographical location but also in many aspects such as culture, food, and architecture. In the ancient city, you can see many architectural styles that integrate elements of Yunnan and Sichuan. In terms of food, Huili Ancient City has also absorbed Yunnan’s cooking techniques and characteristics of ingredients, creating a series of unique delicacies, such as Huili shredded chicken and ham noodles. These elements blend and permeate each other, making Huili Ancient City a small Sichuan town full of the “flavor of Yunnan”.