Tiny Urban Center Claimed as World's Narrowest, Inhabitants Maximize Limited Areas for Living
Checking out Yanjin might give you some pause if you're not a fan of tight spaces. Sitting pretty on the banks of the Heng River, hidden away between a couple of steep mountains, this labyrinthine city is considered the world's slimmest metropolis. When measured at its narrowest point, the city measures just about 3 London buses in width - that's a skimpy 30 meters. But don't be fooled, this tiny town is home to a whopping 400,000 residents.
Originally a humble salt-trading center, the strategic location of this city along the Nanxi River made it a key hub for goods transportation for centuries. This rich history has shaped Yanjin's architectural style, with structures built along the river banks to optimize space and accessibility. The city's design is quite astonishing, demonstrating the ingenuity of its people who've made the most of every nook and cranny.
As you wander the streets of Yanjin, you'll find towering buildings stacked tightly beside one another, their pillars reaching skyward like parasols shielding the city from the elements. In some areas, you might even catch a friendly wave from your neighbors across the way, as the streets here are so narrow you could almost shake hands with them! The compact layout of the city is truly a marvel - it's mind-blowing to see just how efficiently the residents make use of every available inch.
Two narrow paths run along either side of the riverbanks, connected by a few bridges here and there. The city's precarious position makes it prone to flooding during the rainy season, and there's always the threat of landslides on the steep mountain slopes. In an effort to combat these extreme weather events, many of the city's buildings are constructed atop tall pillars, doubling as both flood protection and space-saving designs.
If you're looking for things to do in Yanjin, don't worry - there's plenty to keep you entertained. Dousha, the old town district, is a must-see with its narrow, cobblestone streets and traditional buildings. The surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views from any one of the many pedestrian bridges crossing the river. One traveler who goes by Little Chinese Everywhere describes the landscape as "spectacular."
Foodies will find plenty to indulge in, with local markets offering an array of delicacies, like the famous cross-bridge rice noodles and steam pot chicken. Just a heads up, getting to Yanjin can be a bit tricky. Here's a rough guide: take the high-speed bullet train to Kunming, the provincial capital, from major cities such as Shanghai, Beijing or Hong Kong. Once you arrive in Kunming, hop on a six-hour bus ride to reach Yanjin County.
China has been experiencing a tourism boom in recent years, and lesser-known destinations like Yanjin are gaining popularity on social media, captivating viewers with its compact layout and picturesque scenery. In fact, tourism figures in China have seen remarkable growth in 2022, with an increase in both domestic and international travel during holidays like the National Day Golden Week.
So, if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that proves you don't need lots of space to pack a punch, be sure to add Yanjin to your bucket list. Take a step into this slender city and experience a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the unbelievable ability of humans to adapt and thrive in tight spaces. Sign up to The Getaway newsletter for more travel inspiration, deals, and adventure!
Tripping through Yanjin's narrow streets might challenge those un accustomed to tight spaces, given its reputation as the world's slimmest metropolis. In spite of its diminutive 30-meter width when measured at its narrowest point, Yanjin is home to millions of residents, with its buildings piled tightly together like parasols shielding the city. Despite the risk of flooding and landslides, its unique design, optimized for space and accessibility, has captivated travelers who seek an alternative lifestyle and enjoy exploring less frequented destinations.
