Visiting China: A Trip Through the Old Towns

China is a fascinating country with an interesting history, incredible food, inquisitive people, ancient sites and bustling cities. The well-known destinations of Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu and Xi'an are popular for good reason and should definitely not be missed on your trip to China.

However, even though the top cities are incredible must-see destinations, there's something special about visiting the old towns in China. No matter the size of the city you're in, even if you're in one of the cities with a population of 15 million people, there will almost always be an old quarter for you to visit. This is a great place to get away from it all and actually find some peace and quiet.

Busy side streets in the old town area of Shanghai.

Hidden away down the side streets, you'll catch a glimpse into the lives of the majority of people who live in the city. You'll see people pounding their laundry against a cement surface before scrubbing, rinsing and wringing it out. Clothes are hung up on long lines strung from one house to the next, and if you look up, you'll often see it dangling high above your head!

Doing laundry on the streets of the old town in Yangzhou.

One of the oldest and most common pastimes in China is the game of mahjong. This game of skill and strategy is similar to rummy in the west, but is played with 144 tiles rather than cards. You'll often see men and women sitting around out on the streets or in the parks, spending hours playing. Most homes also have a mahjong table for evening and weekend fun.

In the old town, you'll also find local street vendors cooking up food right before your eyes. Mobile carts roam the streets selling everything from fresh breads and steamed dumplings, to fried noodles and skewered meat. Enjoying a freshly cooked meal on the street is not only cheap and delicious, but it's a very big part of Chinese life.

Delicious food being cooked in the old town in Chengdu.

Shopping can also be done in this area of the city as well. Various foods, drinks and sweets are for purchase as are items for the home. If you find yourself in an exceptionally interesting market, you might be able to find old trinkets and items from the years past, including coins, clothing and musical instruments.

On top of learning about the local way of life, enjoying the authentic food and doing some shopping, the architecture in these parts of town is always beautiful. The intricate carvings and traditional design are stunning and usually you'll even find some temples hidden among the back lanes.

The old areas are definitely some of the most exciting, character-filled parts of China. Whether you're interested in meeting people or buying some goods from the markets, this is the place to be. Seeing people going about their day-to-day lives and learning about how they live and where they live (often among the towering skyscrapers) is a very eye-opening experience, one everyone should have.

Have you been to China? Did you venture into the old towns or stick to the newer areas? Share with us below in the comments!

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