Zhongxian

Zhong County in Chongqing lies on the banks of the Yangtze River and is well suited to a weekend road trip or a short break. You can visit Shibaozhai, listed as one of the “world’s eight unusual architectural wonders,” and explore the preserved old town in the Three Gorges area for a glimpse of everyday life along the river.

• Shibaozhai: Listed as one of the “world’s eight unusual architectural wonders,” this 12-story structure uses an all-timber post-and-tie framework, with no nails or rivets. Since the Three Gorges Reservoir filled, river water has surrounded the site, creating a scene resembling a “bonsai on the river.”

• Zhongzhou Alleys: The only partially submerged old town in the Three Gorges Reservoir area to retain its original appearance, this neighborhood preserves flagstone lanes and houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Red lanterns hang along the streets, making late afternoon a good time for a stroll.

• Fengyan Sanguo: This large-scale outdoor show, staged against the natural landscape, centers on stories of Guan Yu’s loyalty and righteousness. Water screens, warhorses and fire effects feature in the performance, which takes place at night.

• Huanghua City Archaeological Site Park: This is the only isolated-island city site in the mountain fortress network of the Song–Yuan wars. Visitors must take a boat to the island, where they can explore the ancient city ruins to learn about Southern Song history and see rice fields and wetlands.

• Baigong Shrine: One of only two shrines in China dedicated to Bai Juyi, known as the “Poetry Demon,” Baigong Shrine stands against a hillside facing the river. Its Ming- and Qing-style buildings and peaceful setting lend themselves to a quiet visit.

Suggested Two-Day, One-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Shibaozhai, Huanghua City and an Evening Show
  • Morning: Drive from central Chongqing to Shibaozhai, a journey of about 2.5 hours. Climb the 12-story wooden pavilion for views over the Yangtze and a close look at its timber construction.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Huanghua City and take a boat to the island. Walk through the ancient city ruins and learn about Southern Song history on this island in the river.
  • Evening: Return to the county town of Zhong County, explore the old streets of Zhongzhou Alleys and have dinner. Then head to the Fengyan Sanguo scenic area for the outdoor show, which usually starts at 20:00 or 20:30.
• Day 2: Baigong Shrine, the Museum and an Old Town Walk
  • Morning: Visit Baigong Shrine and Zhongzhou Museum to learn about Bai Juyi’s time in Zhongzhou and Zhong County’s thousand-year history.
  • Afternoon: Walk through Zhongzhou Alleys, Hanque Square and the old East Gate city wall, then head to Binjiang Road to enjoy the river breeze and sunset over the Yangtze.
  • Evening: Choose local hearty, boldly seasoned dishes or traditional hot pot for dinner before heading home.

Local Food Suggestions

Zhong County’s food is closely linked to Zhongzhou’s local history, ranging from hearty, boldly seasoned dishes to snacks recognized as intangible cultural heritage.

• Shibao Steamed Tofu: Recognized as municipal-level intangible cultural heritage, this dish originated as vegetarian temple food at Shibaozhai. The tofu is fried, then steamed to absorb a special sauce, giving it a soft texture and a savory, slightly spicy flavor.
• Zhongzhou Fermented Tofu Fish: Fresh Yangtze fish is cooked with Zhong County fermented tofu. The fish is tender, with a rich sauce aroma and a flavor that starts mildly spicy and finishes sweet—a distinctive taste of the Three Gorges region.
• General Ba’s Chunked Pork: Created in honor of Ba Manzi, this specialty features large chunks of pork belly braised with dried bamboo shoots. The meat is soft and tender, with fat that does not taste greasy.
• Xiangshan Honey Cakes: Said to have been a favorite of Bai Juyi, these local sweet cakes have a crisp crust and soft center. They make a good gift to take home.
• Zhongzhou Fragrant Crispy Dark Duck: Slowly cooked in a seasoned master brine and then air-dried, this duck has firm meat that releases more flavor as you chew. It also pairs well with alcoholic drinks.

Accommodation and Transport

• Where to stay: Consider Borrman Hotel or Zhongyi Grand Hotel near Binjiang Road in the county town. Some rooms have direct river views. The area is convenient for evening riverside walks and barbecue, as well as visits to Fengyan Sanguo and the old streets.
• Driving route: From central Chongqing, take the G50 Shanghai–Chongqing Expressway to Zhong County. The journey is about 200 km and usually takes 2.5–3 hours. Driving makes it easier to plan your itinerary, and riverside roads along the way offer scenic views.
• Public transport: Coaches run from Chongqing’s Sigongli Transport Hub to Zhong County Bus Station. Tickets cost about RMB 70 per person, and the journey takes around 3.5–4 hours. Once there, you can use the county’s newly launched “Eight Sights of Zhongzhou” tourist bus route to travel between the main attractions.

Travel Tips

• Ferry and market: The “Yangtze Basket Ferry” still operates in Zhong County, connecting Yangdu Pier and Xishan Ferry Landing. Vegetable growers from along the river often take the early boat to market, offering a glimpse of local life. Note the 07:00 outbound and 14:30 return departures; the market after you disembark generally finishes around 10:30.
• Shoes and clothing: Shibaozhai and Zhongzhou Alleys have plenty of steps, so wear comfortable flat walking shoes. The riverbank can be windy in the mornings and evenings; bring a light jacket.
• Show tickets: Fengyan Sanguo attracts large audiences, so book ahead through official ticketing channels. Some hotels in the county town offer discounted admission to guests.
• Nearby side trip: If you have extra time, continue driving from Zhong County to Xituo Ancient Town in Shizhu. Surrounded by water on three sides and relatively lightly commercialized, it suits a slower-paced visit.