Suji Ancient Town:A Culinary Quest—From a Thousand-Year-Old River Port to a Vibrant Gastronomic Haven

A Name of Antiquity—Legends of Hermits and Literary Giants
The name"Suji"boasts a deep and enduring history,giving rise to various romantic interpretations dating back to the Tang and Song Dynasties.One theory suggests the town was named after a hermit—a man named Su Ji—who chose this spot to withdraw from the world;out of admiration for his noble character,the locals named the town in his honor.A grander narrative offers a different explanation:legend has it that the renowned literary giant Su Dongpo once traveled through this region.While here,he reportedly engaged in Jigu—the scholarly study of antiquity and history—and inadvertently left behind a treasured inkstone within the mountains.Thus,the place came to be known as"Suji."Historical records indicate that Suji took shape during the Sui Dynasty.Originally known as"Guihuachang,"it served as a vital garrison post during the Tang Dynasty;by the Song Dynasty,it had been officially designated a town.Its marketplaces bustled with activity and heavy traffic,establishing it as a major hub along the Emei River.During the Southern Song Dynasty,the renowned official Fan Chengda spent a night in Suji and penned a poem reflecting on the experience:"The roar of the rapids sounds mournful,while night cicadas sob;together they drift through the small window,keeping me from sleep."This verse vividly captures the soundscape and atmosphere of the ancient town in days gone by.Furthermore,the town boasts an exceptional geographical location;historically,it served as the indispensable starting point for pilgrims journeying to worship at Mount Emei—a role that earned it the moniker,"The First Bow of the Emei Pilgrimage."

Echoes of Commerce:The Flourishing Splendor of the Waterfront Wharf
For centuries,Suji's prosperity has been inextricably linked to the Emei River that flows quietly by its side.As a pivotal ancient ferry crossing connecting Leshan to Mount Emei,the Yang Wharf—with its tiers of stone steps—once stood as a living testament to a bustling era of waterborne trade.This region is renowned as a"Land of Silk,"being the birthplace of the world-famous"Jiading Great Silk."Clustered along the riverbanks lie sprawling courtyards of traditional Southern Sichuan residences—quadrangular compounds featuring chuan-dou(pier-and-tie)timber framing,intricately carved doors,and latticed windows.The owners of these grand estates were typically wealthy merchants who amassed their fortunes through the silk trade or river transport.Today,as one strolls through the ancient town,the rhythmic chants of the boat-haulers that once echoed at Yang Wharf have long since been scattered by the wind;yet,the tranquil surface of the Emei River—along with the opulent Wang Family Courtyard,with its painted beams,carved pillars,and winding,secluded pathways—continues to whisper tales of the wharf's glorious commercial past.

>Deep Dive:Explore More Millennia-Old Towns in Sichuan>> [Huanglongxi Ancient Town]

The Fabric of the Ancient Town:The Serene Poetry of the Emei River
The beauty of Suji Ancient Town lies deeply embedded within the calm,steady flow of the Emei River.This river serves as the very natural pulse of the ancient town.

The Spirit of Water:The Gentle Essence of the Ancient Town
The Emei River originates at the eastern foot of Mount Emei;after winding its way for over a hundred li,it enters the territory of Leshan,where it seems to let time settle and slow down,thereby creating the leisurely tranquility that defines Suji.The river here is broad and gentle,reflecting the wooden residences lining its banks—structures of varying heights standing shoulder-to-shoulder in neat rows—as well as the majestic,ancient banyan trees that proudly overhang the water.Unlike the grandeur of a thundering waterfall,the water here possesses an ethereal elegance—a beauty that seems detached from the mundane world—yet it also embodies a serene composure that is fully at ease within it.The ultimate experience awaits during the summer months when the river flows gently:sit upon the stone piers spanning the river,allowing the cool water to wash over your ankles,or settle into one of the riverside teahouses to listen to the murmuring water while sipping tea—a perfect way to savor the unique,unhurried comfort(Anyi)of the Sichuan-Shu region.

Marks of Stone:The Century-Long Saga of Rugong Bridge
Built during the Qing Dynasty,Rugong Bridge stands as the spiritual landmark of this ancient town.The bridge spans approximately 100 meters in length and 4 meters in width;supported by 16 piers,it features 17 arches,lying across the Emei River like a long,graceful rainbow,silently connecting the two banks of the ancient town.The bridge features a unique"submersible"stone design—lacking high handrails or guardrails—so that whenever the rainy season arrives,the river waters often rise to flow right over the broad bridge deck,creating a spectacular and singular cultural spectacle known as"walking across the bridge through the water."

Photography Tip:
Dress in simple,solid-colored clothing and either stroll across the bridge or wade through the water;with the picturesque backdrop of the town's staggered,grey-tiled rooftops,you can capture stunning,vintage-style images that perfectly embody the unique"water town"charm of Southern Sichuan.For an added touch,incorporate some steaming-hot local delicacies fresh from the pot to create a superb atmospheric shot capturing the vibrant"smoke and fire"(renjian yanhuo)—the lively,down-to-earth spirit—of daily life.

Cultural Gastronomy:Living Intangible Cultural Heritage on the Tip of Your Tongue
For Suji,the most captivating cultural scenery is not to be found amidst carved beams and painted rafters,but rather at the steaming stoves and chopping blocks where the town's culinary traditions come to life.

The Birthplace of Qiaojiao Niurou(Beef Stew):
The Soul-Deep Flavor of Suji.Legend has it that during the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty—or perhaps in the early years of the Republic of China era—a local butcher and a practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine(TCM)began taking the beef offal and internal organs that were typically discarded as waste.They simmered these ingredients in a broth infused with over twenty different aromatic spices and medicinal herbs,serving the hearty stew to the laborers at the river docks and the common people of the town.It earned its name—"Qiaojiao"(Crossed-Leg)Beef—because,due to a lack of tables and chairs in its early days,diners would often stand on one leg while resting the other foot on the crossbeam beneath the table,eating with their legs"crossed."Today,the ancient town has elevated this dish—which originated in the bustling streets and folk traditions—into a grand"All-Beef Banquet"featuring delicacies such as beef tongue,bone marrow,and marbled beef slices.The soup base also boasts medicinal properties,offering a flavor that is both fresh and rich.

Exploring the Gastronomic District:
Centered around"Qiaojiao Beef"—a Provincial-level Intangible Cultural Heritage—this district gathers a host of renowned traditional snacks,including Sweet-Skin Duck,Bobo Chicken,Sesame Rice Crisps,and Brown Sugar Guokui.Together,they form a rich,unique,and diverse culinary tapestry.

Qiaojiao Beef Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum:
Located within a traditional courtyard(Siheyuan)adjacent to Yang Wharf,this museum offers free admission.Spanning an exhibition area of​​approximately 1,000 square meters,it traces the historical lineage of this century-old delicacy,revealing its origins,evolution,and enduring legacy through a comprehensive narrative display.

Featured Product Recommendations:
Sesame Rice Crisps:
Crafted from select local glutinous rice and enriched with fresh pork fat,these crisps are glossy and plump.They offer a delightful crunch that melts in the mouth,delivering a fragrant flavor that is rich yet never greasy—making them the quintessential souvenir to bring home from the ancient town.
Sweet-Skin Duck:
The skin is delightfully crispy and slightly sticky(forming fine strands when pulled),while the duck meat is aromatic,dry-roasted,and subtly sweet.The interplay between the maltose glaze and the savory braising spices creates a truly unique textural and flavor profile.

Photography&Culinary Quest Tips:
The best vantage point for a panoramic shot is from the newly constructed scenic covered bridge,offering a 360-degree view of the Emei River as it winds through the town,flanked by rows of traditional residences.
Ru Gong Bridge is the ideal spot for capturing profile shots of people,allowing you to utilize the reflections on the wet bridge surface and the bustling crowds to create a dynamic interplay between stillness and motion.
For the most visually striking photos of Qiaojiao Beef,try to capture the exact moment the meat slices are dipped into the bubbling hot pot;the rising steam creates a highly appetizing and aesthetic visual effect.
When dining,be sure to first enjoy a bowl of the fresh,clear soup base before dipping the meat slices into the chili powder condiment—this allows you to fully appreciate the complex,layered flavors characteristic of Sichuan cuisine.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Complete Ancient Town Experience
1.Embark on a Culinary Journey:An Intangible Cultural Heritage Feast for the Palate

The Centerpiece:Qiaojiao Beef.The ancient town boasts over 80 beef restaurants alone,and the very air is saturated with their savory aroma;diners are free to choose any of the packed,long-established eateries that best suit their tastes.
Must-Try Pairings:A steaming hotpot featuring freshly sliced​​beef and crisp tripe,accompanied by freshly baked brown sugar pastries.Add a serving of the ancient town's signature Lianggao(chilled rice cake)or some deep-fried skewers,and you're guaranteed a culinary journey that takes you from one end of the street to the other.

2.Embark on a Picturesque Riverside Stroll

The Key:Tranquility—that is the true essence of Suji.There is no need to rush;simply find a riverside tea stall or a charming courtyard tucked away on Gelaochang Street to rest your feet.
The Experience:Sit beneath a century-old banyan tree and watch the local elders leisurely playing"Erqishi"(a traditional card game).Order a cup of local Gaiwan tea or a handcrafted coffee,and feel time slip quietly away amidst the rhythmic sounds of oars and the dancing reflections of lanterns on the Emei River.

3.Spend a Night in a Charming Courtyard Inn

Ancient Town Luxury:Both within and just outside the ancient town,you'll find a scattering of stylish,design-forward courtyard inns—such as"My Courtyard"and"Wanzhao Coffee."Some are hidden amidst the bustling streets,while others are set against a backdrop of pastoral scenery—perfect for unwinding and quiet contemplation.
Return to Simplicity:Alternatively,you can choose to stay in a guesthouse hosted by local residents.Here,you can experience the simple,nostalgic charm of the countryside:the sound of footsteps on stone slabs awakening the town at dawn,and wisps of cooking smoke curling into the night sky.

4.Capture Timeless Photos in Retro-Traditional Style

Best Time:Between 4:00 and 6:00 PM.As the sun begins to set,the river sparkles with dancing light,and the traditional blue-tiled rooftops of the local homes are bathed in a soft,golden glow.
Prime Locations:Step onto the century-old Rugong Bridge,using the vast expanse of the Emei River as a soft,blurred backdrop;or wander through the narrow alleys nestled between the traditional wooden houses.With Hanfu(traditional Chinese attire)rental shops found everywhere,you can quickly arrange your outfit and styling on the spot.

5.Enjoy a Journey Blending Cultural Creativity with Pastoral Charm

Seasonal Exclusive:In early spring each year—should you be lucky enough to visit when the thousand acres of rapeseed flowers along the Emei River are in full bloom—bring along a kite and step into this secluded,flower-filled paradise.Handcrafted Treasures:As you wind through the charming,crisscrossing residential alleys,you'll often stumble upon small shops selling exquisite handmade ceramics or local specialties—perfect for unearthing unique travel souvenirs.

Suggested Itinerary
One-Day"Eat&Explore"Wander(Ideal for Weekend&Leisure Travelers):
Arrive at the ancient town before 10:30 AM→Stroll along Yang Wharf and past the riverside residences(1 hour)→Cross Ru Gong Bridge to the opposite bank;learn about the ancient bridge's history and snap some photos(30 minutes)→At 12:00 PM sharp,head straight to a long-standing"Qiaojiao Beef"restaurant to feast on this must-try Intangible Cultural Heritage delicacy(1.5 hours)→In the afternoon,wander through the food street to sample rice-puff candy and Sweet-Skin Duck,while visiting the roadside Intangible Cultural Heritage Museum to help digest your meal(1 hour)→At 3:00 PM,duck into a charming courtyard caféor riverside tea stall on Ge Lao Chang Street to brew tea over a charcoal stove or simply zone out with a cold drink(1.5 hours)→At 5:00 PM,head to the Covered Bridge to capture panoramic views of the ancient street while waiting for the perfect sunset lighting(30 minutes)→At 6:30 PM,bid farewell to the ancient town—or linger until dusk falls to enjoy one last leisurely stroll by the tranquil waters and stone bridges before heading home.

IntoTravelChina Tip:This itinerary follows a leisurely pace.We can provide a detailed digital guide map highlighting the most reliable,time-tested eateries and the most photogenic spots—ensuring that even first-time visitors can explore and dine with the confidence of a local.

Two-Day"Micro-Vacation"Comprehensive Tour(Highly Recommended as a Combo Trip with the Leshan World Heritage Sites):
Day 1(Flavors of the Ancient Town):Arrive in Leshan in the morning and check into a charming courtyard guesthouse or a riverside hotel→At lunchtime,dive deep into a"Qiaojiao Beef"feast,followed by an exploration of Sweet-Skin Duck and other local snacks→In the afternoon,embrace a state of total relaxation while sipping tea by the banks of the Emei River→In the evening,seek out a long-standing local spot for Leshan-style deep-fried skewers or Malatang(spicy hot pot skewers)to enjoy as a late-night snack.Day 2(Pilgrimage to the Dual Heritage Sites):Depart from Suji early in the morning—a drive of approximately 30 minutes—to reach the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area(alternatively,you may choose to head to Baoguo Temple on Mount Emei instead).→At midday,return to the Zhanggong Bridge or Shangzhongshun food districts to continue your culinary exploration.→In the afternoon,purchase your souvenirs;then,with your luggage filled with fine goods and your palate satisfied,begin your journey home.

IntoTravelChina Advantage:We can book the perfect accommodation to suit your needs,seamlessly coordinate the transitions between all your activities,and provide detailed hiking route maps along with safety guidelines.

Professional Guides:IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries,including a dedicated private guide,transportation,and activity arrangements,ensuring a deeply immersive and worry-free travel experience.>> [Consult for Customization Now]

How to Get There:A Stopover on the World Heritage Corridor
Suji Ancient Town is situated on the outskirts of downtown Leshan.It does not have its own airport;Leshan City serves as the sole transit hub for visitors.

Traveling from elsewhere in the country:We recommend flying to either Chengdu Shuangliu(CTU)or Tianfu(TFU)International Airport,then transferring to a high-speed train bound for Leshan Station.Travel Tip:Upon exiting the station,a taxi ride takes approximately 15–20 minutes to reach Suji,costing around 20 RMB.Alternatively,you can take Leshan city buses No.3,9,or 12 directly to the town.

Traveling from downtown Leshan:We recommend driving yourself or taking a taxi;the journey takes about 20–30 minutes.Travel Tip:Navigate directly to the"Suji Ancient Town Visitor Center."Parking is available on-site,with a fee of approximately 10 RMB per day.

Traveling from nearby famous attractions:We recommend driving yourself or carpooling.Estimated travel times are:Leshan Giant Buddha(0.5 hours),Mount Emei(0.8 hours),and Chengdu(2 hours).Travel Tip:Located right on the main transport route between Leshan and Mount Emei,Suji is perfectly positioned to be incorporated into a"Golden Triangle"sightseeing itinerary.

Important Return Travel Note:Local buses in the ancient town do not operate during the late evening or night.If you stay out exploring until late,the most convenient way to return is by using a ride-hailing app or hailing a taxi directly back to downtown Leshan.Taxis are generally easy to find—even late at night—in the core area of​​the old city.

Best Time to Visit
Suji Ancient Town is a delightful destination year-round.However,situated within a typical subtropical humid monsoon climate zone,spring and autumn offer the most exceptional visiting experiences.

Spring&Autumn:The Golden Seasons(March–May;September–November):Temperatures are mild,and gentle breezes keep the air fresh and pleasant.In spring,you can encounter a vast"sea"of rapeseed flowers—spanning over a thousand mu(acres)—blooming along the banks of the Emei River.In autumn,the skies are high and clear,making it the perfect time for outdoor strolls and cycling.

Summer:The Season for Cooling Off(June–August):Although the weather can be hot,the town sits right alongside the Emei River,allowing visitors to splash in the water to beat the heat and enjoy a"water world"experience.Throughout the streets,vendors offer refreshing treats—such as fluffy shaved ice and handmade lianggao(chilled rice cakes)—to provide a delightful,soul-soothing coolness.Winter Culinary Season(Dec–Feb):With fewer crowds,the town returns to its purest,most authentic state.This is the ideal time to seek out a local beef restaurant;a steaming bowl of rich,herbal medicinal soup offers both nourishment and warmth—a truly exceptional culinary value.

Accommodation Options
Inside or Near the Ancient Town(For Atmospheric Charm):
1.Gu Yun Feng Qing Courtyards(Ancient Charm Courtyards):
Experience:These lodgings embody the"slow aesthetic"native to Southern Sichuan.Most are converted from traditional residences,tucked away amidst the town's streets and alleys.Whether featuring a classic Chinese courtyard style or a minimalist wooden aesthetic,stepping through the door reveals a picturesque scene right before your eyes.
Best For:Young travelers,couples,and close friends who prioritize aesthetics and design in their accommodation experience.

Leshan City Center Hotels(For Convenience and Flexibility):
1.Areas surrounding Zhanggong Bridge or Shangzhongshun Food Streets:Immerse yourself directly in Leshan's vibrant nightlife.This location makes it easy to venture out in the evening to visit all of the city's top-tier culinary hotspots.
2.The Core Area at the Confluence of the Three Rivers:Offers a wide range of choices,from budget-friendly chain hotels to upscale riverside establishments.Ideal for travelers who wish to seamlessly transition into a Leshan Giant Buddha boat tour the following day,while also enjoying the stunning"Three Rivers"night scenery in the evening.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:
We recommend planning and booking your accommodation at least 2–4 weeks in advance during peak seasons and public holidays.Through our customized itinerary service,we can bundle classic Leshan attraction tickets,hand-picked"trending"or river-view rooms,and in-depth Suji exploration activities into a single package.This allows you to secure better bundled rates and experience the"delicious and delightful"lifestyle of Leshan in the most hassle-free way possible.Simply tell us your travel dates and dietary preferences,and we will arrange the perfect"home away from home"for you.>>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]

Suji Ancient Town is merely a corner of Leshan's magnificent tapestry—and,more importantly,the perfect gateway for exploring the world-class heritage sites of Southwest Sichuan.

Classic 3-Day"Jiazhou Golden Triangle"Tour:Leshan(A Culinary Quest in Suji Ancient Town)→Leshan Giant Buddha(A Miracle of the Buddhist Realm)→Mount Emei(A Pilgrimage to the Immortal Mountain&Golden Summit Snowscapes).This is an ultimate,concentrated journey—a sensory odyssey leading from the tip of your tongue to realms of ethereal wonder and the heart of Buddhism.

4-Day Eco-Cultural Loop Tour:Chengdu(The City of Leisure)→Leshan(Suji Gastronomy+The Giant Buddha)→Mount Emei→Luocheng Ancient Town("Noah's Ark")or the Jiayang Mini-Train.Delve deep into the rich ancient architecture and idyllic pastoral charm of Southwest Sichuan.

The magic of Suji Ancient Town lies in its ability to transform a thousand years of profound history into a single bowl of perpetually warm,savory soup—and into the ceaseless laughter and chatter of daily life drifting along the banks of the Emei River.IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting in-depth,personalized,and hassle-free travel experiences throughout China.Our travel consultants are here to provide:

Tailor-Made Itineraries:Designed to match your specific tastes,pace of travel,and available time,we create the perfect culinary loop—seamlessly connecting ancient towns with the many hidden,"heavenly"scenic spots in the surrounding region.

One-Stop Service:We handle everything—from securing unique,"wild luxury"accommodations and arranging private transportation,to providing expert local guides.We even help you bypass tourist traps and"influencer hotspots,"booking you directly into authentic,veteran-favorite eateries known only to locals.

Exclusive Experiences:We arrange face-to-face interactions with the master chefs—the"torchbearers"of the Qiaojiao Niurou(Stilt-Leg Beef)Intangible Cultural Heritage tradition;organize custom afternoon tea sessions within historic Ming Dynasty structures;or coordinate professional photography sessions during the"golden hour"to capture the authentic,poetic charm of local life.

Let your journey through Leshan and Suji be more than just a series of meals;let it be a restorative experience—a precious"blank space"in life where you can slow down and reconnect with your true,authentic self.

Start Planning Your Journey Today
We invite you to contact our professional travel consultants.We will provide you with a personalized itinerary proposal and price quote within 24 hours.
>>[Click to contact IntoTravelChina Travel Consultant]