Your First-time Travel Guide to Xiushan Tujia and Miao Autonomous County in Chongqing's Suburbs 🌄
Hey travel lovers! 👋 Are you ready for an adventure in Xiushan Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, a hidden gem in Chongqing's suburbs? 🌄 I've got you a detailed travel guide that's perfect for first-timers like you! Let's dive in! 🎒
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Xiushan
📍 Hong'an Border Town (洪安边城)
Start your journey at Hong'an Border Town, a national 4A-level scenic spot and a historic-cultural town in China. It's the prototype for Shen Congwen's novel Border Town and was the first stop for the Liu-Deng army's advance into the southwest. Walk through the well-preserved quadrangles, firewalls, cobblestone streets, and take a photo at the Mao Zedong Quotations Tower. Don't miss the "Three Provinces Meeting Point" where you can stand on three provinces at once! 📸
📍 Chuanhegai Scenic Area (川河盖景区)
Next, head to Chuanhegai, known as the "Garden Suspended in the Clouds." It's located 15 km northeast of the county seat and boasts an average altitude of 1,200 meters. Take the Cloudside Skyway and soar between cliffs, or try the Colorful Slideway. Don't forget to camp under the stars and wake up to a breathtaking sunrise! 🌅
Day 2: Exploring Nature and Culture
📍 Daxi National Wetland Park (大溪国家湿地公园)
Daxi Wetland is centered around the Daxi Lake on the Xishui River. With a planning area of 1,277 hectares and a wetland area of 450 hectares, it's a paradise for biodiversity. Stroll along the paths, take photos of the stilt houses, and enjoy the lush greenery. 🌿
📍 Phoenix Mountain Lantern Folk Culture Tourism Zone (凤凰山花灯民俗文化旅游区)
In the afternoon, visit Phoenix Mountain, named for its resemblance to a phoenix spreading its wings. Explore Chuan Deng Temple, built in the late Tang Dynasty, and immerse yourself in the lantern folk culture performances. 🏮
Day 3: Historical Towns and Traditional Villages
📍 Hong'an Ancient Town (洪安古镇) & Chadong Ancient Town (茶峒古镇)
Take a ferry from Chadong to Hong'an for just 2 yuan! Visit the Provincial Boundary Monument and Mao Zedong Quotations Tower. Then, enjoy a delicious meal at Mayuru Jiazha Restaurant. Stay at a local farmhouse or inn to experience the authentic local lifestyle. 🏡
📍 Baixiang Village (柏香村)
On your way back, stop by Baixiang Village, a traditional village listed in the fifth batch of China's Traditional Villages. Stay at the "Cooking Smoke Baixiang" homestay and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. 🌳
Day 4: Relaxing and Reflecting
📍 Qingxi Rose Pact (清溪玫瑰之约)
End your trip with a visit to Qingxi Rose Pact, where 500 acres of roses bloom in the spring and summer. Walk through the flower fields and soak in the beauty and fragrance of the roses. 🌹
📍 Xiushan West Street (秀山西街)
Finally, stroll down Xiushan West Street, a national 4A-level scenic spot preserving some Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings. Feel the history in places like Tianhou Temple and Bagua Well. 🏯
Tips for Your Trip:
- Accommodation: Book your stays in advance, preferably in large hotels or chain hotels for comfort. 🛏️
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for all-day exploring. 👟
- Tickets: Purchase tickets for scenic spots online beforehand to avoid queues. 🎟️
- Weather: Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly, especially for sudden showers. ☔️
That's it for your first-time travel guide to Xiushan Tujia and Miao Autonomous County! Have a fantastic trip and don't forget to share your experiences with us! 📸✨
Happy traveling! 🚀