Dukezong Ancient City
- Chinese name: 独克宗古城
- Location: Kangzhu Avenue, Shangri-La City, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan Province
- Location: 云南省迪庆州香格里拉市康珠大道
- Opening hours: January 1st-December 31st Open all day
- Area: 1.6 km²
- Scenery: DukeZong Hua Alley,Guishan Park
Dukezong Ancient City
Discover the Timeless Beauty of Dukezong Ancient Town
Nestled in the heart of Shangri-La, Yunnan, Dukezong Ancient Town is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Steeped in over 1,300 years of history, this ancient Tibetan town offers visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in a world of tradition and serenity.
A Living Museum of Tibetan Culture
Dukezong Ancient Town is one of the oldest and best-preserved Tibetan towns in China. Its name, meaning “Moonlight City,” reflects its ethereal charm, especially when the soft evening glow illuminates the town’s cobblestone streets and traditional wooden houses. As you wander through its labyrinthine alleys, you’ll discover intricately designed prayer wheels, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the vibrant local marketplace buzzing with activity.
Highlights Not to Miss
- Giant Prayer Wheel: Towering above the town is the world’s largest prayer wheel, a golden masterpiece that symbolizes peace and prosperity. Join locals and pilgrims in turning this monumental wheel to experience a moment of spiritual connection.
- Turtle Hill (Guishan): Ascend to the top of Turtle Hill for panoramic views of the town and the surrounding Himalayan foothills. The sight of the ancient rooftops against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains is nothing short of magical.
- Local Cuisine and Crafts: Taste traditional Tibetan delicacies, such as yak butter tea and barley pancakes, at cozy local restaurants. Don’t forget to explore the artisan shops offering handmade jewelry, Thangka paintings, and other unique souvenirs.
A Gateway to Shangri-La’s Wonders
Dukezong Ancient Town is not just a destination; it’s a starting point for exploring the wonders of Shangri-La. From here, you can embark on adventures to the stunning Songzanlin Monastery, Napahai Lake, and the pristine wilderness of the Meili Snow Mountains.
Why Visit Dukezong?
Dukezong Ancient Town is more than just a historical site—it’s a journey into the heart of Tibetan culture and spirituality. Whether you’re seeking peace, adventure, or a deeper understanding of this fascinating region, Dukezong offers an unforgettable experience. Come and discover the Moonlight City, where every corner tells a story, and every moment feels like a step into a timeless dream.
Dukezong Ancient City Tourist Map
Dukezong Ancient City Video
Dukezong Ancient City Photo
Dukezong Ancient City Travel Guide
Things To Do
Guishan (Turtle Mountain) Park – Prayer Wheel
If you visit during the day, there will generally be fewer people. In the evening, it tends to get crowded, so it’s best to go around 9 p.m.; after that, there are fewer people, which might make turning the prayer wheel more challenging. Be mindful of the many steps, especially at night, to ensure safety.
Guishan (Turtle Mountain) Park -Square
The plaza in Turtle Mountain Park also has many singing booths where you can sit on the provided chairs and enjoy the music. If you’d like, you can even sing yourself. However, selecting a song or performing on stage comes with a fee, usually ranging from 15 to 30 yuan. Simply sitting and listening is free of charge.
Sifang Street – Guozhuang Dance
Dancing takes place almost every day at Sifang Street in the Old Town. The inner circle is mostly locals, and you’re welcome to join in! The atmosphere is very lively and cheerful 😃. However, the dancing ends at 9 p.m., so be sure to arrive a bit earlier if you want to participate.
Shambhala
Located right next to the dancing plaza, near the entrance to the snack street. Be sure to give it a try! Personally, I recommend “Rizhao Meili”(日照梅里)—after ordering milk tea, you can head up to the second floor for a better view. From there, you can see the entire plaza, making the experience of watching the Guozhuang Dance even more impressive.
Tibetan Costume Photoshoot
You can rent traditional Tibetan clothing with makeup included, typically costing around 100 yuan per person, plus additional fees for the photographer. It’s best to compare options and visit the shop in advance to discuss your preferences. If you’re not a fan of exaggerated, trendy makeup styles, you can do your own basic makeup and add touches later. Be sure to communicate with the makeup artist throughout to ensure the look matches your expectations.
Thangka Experience
There are both free official experiences and paid ones available. Even if you have no background in painting, it’s no problem—kids can join the fun too!
The official experience center is the highlight—because it’s free! You’ll enjoy professional explanations and hands-on activities. Volunteers will explain Tibetan incense culture and demonstrate the production process. The most fascinating part? Learning for the first time that Tibetan incense is edible! Made entirely from medicinal herbs, its taste can even help assess your health condition.
- Bitter: Normal.
- Spicy: Indicates weaker digestive functions, so avoid raw or cold foods.
- Tingling sensation: Could point to spleen or kidney weakness (I experienced all of these…).
It’s truly interesting, almost like a visit to a traditional Chinese medicine doctor!
Painting Styles and Their Meanings
Each Thangka design has a unique meaning. You can ask the volunteers about their symbolism to choose one that resonates with you.
I picked a design that felt appealing and had a nice meaning. Then I started coloring it. Afterward, the instructor at the shop added finishing touches by outlining and refining it, transforming the piece into something magical!
Large prayer flags
