Huili Ancient City, an underrated and lesser-known ancient city in Sichuan. It was a post station on the ancient Southern Silk Road and an important border town in the Ming Dynasty.

Huili is an ancient town that retains its original charm. There are neither commercial tour groups nor backpackers. Locals can be seen everywhere on the streets selling cured pork by the roadside. And of course, there is also no lack of various fresh fruits.

Huili Ancient City has witnessed countless historical moments of merchants coming and going as well as cultural exchanges.

A large number of ancient architectures from the Ming and Qing Dynasties are preserved in the ancient city, such as the Bell and Drum Tower, the Gate Tower of the North Gate, and Kejia Lane. Up to now, the Bell and Drum Tower is still in use. Every morning at the hour of Chen (around 7-9 a.m.), the bell of the Bell and Drum Tower will ring.

There are thirty-five ethnic groups living here, including the Yi, Hui, and Dai ethnic groups. Most of the residents are of the Yi and Han ethnic groups, and it is a place where multiple ethnic groups live together, forming a diverse and harmonious cultural atmosphere.

In the ancient city, people dressed in traditional costumes can be seen everywhere busying themselves in the streets and alleys. There are also numerous authentic Yi ethnic cuisines and local characteristic snacks.

Moreover, many traditional folk activities and festival celebrations, such as the Torch Festival, are still retained in the ancient city.