The pretty district of Ciqikou has historical roots going back 1700 years, and was an important center for porcelain production during the Ming and Qing dynasties: over 20 old kiln sites have been excavated in the neighborhood. Today it is a popular tourist haunt, with carefully-restored wooden houses, flagstoned alleys, Sichuan street performers and traditional tea-houses recapturing some of the ambiance of old China. There are a number of good Sichuan restaurants, as well as opportunities for souvenir-shopping.