Escape Chongqing's main urban area! High-speed rail connects you to four smaller cities in just one hour, offering a relaxing vacation away from crowds.
Tired of being stuck in Chongqing's main urban area, with crowds at Hongyadong and Jiefangbei year-round, sweltering in the summer heat and traffic jams, and practically impossible to move around on holidays? Looking for a quiet place to relax but unsure where to go? Here are four lesser-known towns within an hour's high-speed rail journey. Avoid the crowds of tour groups, enjoy affordable prices, and each boasts its own unique scenery. Whether you're looking for a solo getaway, a short trip for couples, or a weekend getaway with friends, these towns offer a change of scenery to soothe everyday anxieties.
I. Longchang | A Ming and Qing Dynasty archway-filled ancient city hidden in southern Sichuan, perfect for those who prefer a slow, culturally rich experience.
Transportation
Take the high-speed rail directly from Chongqing West Station to Longchang North Station. The fastest journey takes just over half an hour, and the ticket price is around 60 yuan. There are plenty of trains from morning till night, making it suitable for a day trip or an overnight stay. A 15-minute taxi ride from the high-speed rail station will take you to the heart of the old town. Shared electric bikes within the city offer great value, allowing you to travel to various attractions for just a few yuan.
Key Highlights of the Trip
Unlike commercially developed imitation ancient towns, Longchang boasts a well-preserved, original Ming and Qing dynasty archway complex. A dozen ancient stone archways stand quietly along the old street, their stone carvings exquisite and detailed. At sunset, the lights illuminate the stone walls, creating a picturesque scene perfect for taking photos without the hassle of scrambling for a spot. Besides the archways, Yunding Ancient Village offers tranquil mountain forests; a hike to the summit offers panoramic views of the rolling mountains and sea of clouds. Guyu Lake has crystal-clear waters; a walk or bike ride around the lake is incredibly soothing. Most of the cultural and natural attractions are free to enter.
The locals enjoy a relaxed pace of life; elderly people can be seen chatting and drinking tea on the streets. No need to rush through itineraries; a leisurely stroll will bring you a sense of relaxation.
Recommended Local Delicacies
Southern Sichuan-style mutton soup is the soul of the local cuisine. The broth is simmered until milky white, and the mutton is tender and free of any gamey smell. Served with a dipping sauce of dried chili peppers, it's suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The thick, chewy noodles from the old street-side shops are generously topped with fatty intestines and beef, and you can eat your fill for just over ten yuan per person. The rustic tofu rice is simple and authentic, with tender tofu paired with homemade chili peppers and southern Sichuan cured meat—a truly hearty and flavorful meal.
Added Niche Perspectives
Many people only focus on popular ancient towns for short trips, neglecting old towns like Longchang that are untouched by marketing. There are no mass-produced souvenir shops or hawkers everywhere, making it suitable for tourists who dislike noise and prefer an immersive experience of history and culture. In autumn and winter, Guyu Lake is home to migratory birds, a rare birdwatching spot around Chongqing, and photography enthusiasts can visit during off-peak seasons.
II. Suining | A Zen-like Town Surrounded by the Fu River, a Place for Urbanites to Find Peace and De-stress
Transportation
Departing from Chongqing North Station, the journey takes about 50 minutes to Suining Station. Tickets are around 40 RMB. Frequent train services throughout the day make a two-day, one-night trip easy. Shared electric bikes are widely available in the city, providing direct access to Lingquan Temple, Guanyin Lake, and the Old Town Food Street, offering flexible and convenient travel.
Key Highlights
The Fu River flows through the city, giving it a gentle and tranquil atmosphere. With few tourists and a minimal commercial atmosphere, Lingquan Temple and Guangde Temple, two ancient temples with towering ancient trees, offer a serene and solemn ambiance. Climbing to the top provides panoramic views of the entire Fu River, easily calming any restlessness. Guanyin Lake Wetland is covered in reeds; rent a small boat and enjoy a leisurely afternoon, feeling the river breeze. Renli Ancient Town is mostly frequented by local residents for their daily leisure activities, with few tourists, making it a particularly peaceful place for tea drinking and strolling. The Song Dynasty Porcelain Museum houses a large collection of precious Song Dynasty porcelain, making it a worthwhile destination for museum enthusiasts.
· *Specialty Food Recommendations:**
Suining beef noodles are a local favorite for breakfast, with a rich, spicy broth and generous chunks of beef. Feng Dumplings, a decades-old establishment, offers both clear and spicy broth options, with thin wrappers and generous fillings. Riverside restaurants serve Sichuan peppercorn fish, known for its numbing and fragrant flavor, and freshly caught river seafood that is incredibly fresh and flavorful.
· *New Niche Perspective:**
While most people only seek scenic landscapes on their trips to nearby areas, Suining is a rare short-distance destination that combines meditation, lake views, and cultural heritage. No strenuous hiking is required, making it a low-intensity, relaxing experience, ideal for stressed-out office workers with sleep problems who want to find a quiet place to rejuvenate. Evening cycling along Guanyin Lake offers a cool breeze, perfect for escaping the summer heat.
· *III. Qianjiang | A Hidden Gem of Southeastern Chongqing's Tujia Ethnic Area: Pristine Canyon and Lake Scenery**
· *Transportation:** High-speed rail from Chongqing East Station directly connects to Qianjiang Station, a journey of less than an hour, with tickets costing around 40 yuan. A 20-minute taxi ride from the train station will take you to Zhuoshui Ancient Town. Public transportation covers all major scenic spots, so solo travelers won't have to worry about transportation difficulties.
Key Highlights
A hidden gem in southeastern Chongqing, Zhuoshui Ancient Town is rarely visited by tourists, preserving its original Tujia ethnic culture. The town's cobblestone streets exude an ancient charm, and the longest covered bridge in Asia boasts a stunning nighttime view, with lights reflecting on the river creating a captivating atmosphere. The town hasn't undergone excessive commercialization. The Puhua Underground River is a unique karst landscape; a boat trip through the caves and canyons offers a unique and secluded experience. The Xiaonanhai high-altitude barrier lake has emerald green waters and scattered islands; a boat trip through the pristine natural scenery is also available. The local Tujia people are known for their simple and honest character, and unique folk shops can be found throughout the streets and alleys.
Recommended Local Delicacies
Qianjiang Chicken Offal is a local specialty; the spicy and sour dry pot becomes more flavorful the longer it cooks. Handmade, freshly made mung bean noodles are smooth and chewy, paired with a spicy broth. Street-side cold Tujia rice tofu is appetizing and refreshing; affordable local snacks are readily available.
Added Niche Perspective
Most Chongqing surrounding area travel guides only recommend Wulong and Pengshui. Qianjiang has only one-tenth the crowds of popular scenic spots, so there's no need to book tickets in advance or queue for photos. It combines lakes, caves, and ancient towns, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes in a short trip. This is a top choice for tourists who prefer pristine natural scenery and dislike crowded tourist attractions.
IV. Wusheng | A pastoral town on the banks of the Jialing River, suitable for tourists who prefer river views and rural scenery.
Transportation
The high-speed train from Chongqing West Station to Wusheng Station takes 40 minutes and costs around 50 yuan. A 10-minute taxi ride from the station leads directly to Yankou Ancient Town. Shared rides to nearby attractions cost around 20 yuan per person round trip.
Key Highlights of the Trip
A pristine town nestled along the Jialing River, Wusheng boasts sparse tourism, breathtaking river views, and idyllic countryside. Summer temperatures are significantly lower than in the city center. The ancient town of Yankou, built along the river, preserves well-maintained old-style stilted buildings and a century-old wharf. Mornings are shrouded in mist, and evenings are bathed in the glow of the setting sun, creating stunning photo opportunities. The Baozhen Fortress, a magnificent fortress built against the mountainside, offers a close-up look at the defensive architecture of late Qing Dynasty Sichuanese residences. The riverside promenade is gentle and wide, perfect for a pleasant stroll and enjoying the breeze. Life in the town moves at a slow pace, with locals fishing and relaxing along the riverbank.
Recommended Local Delicacies
Wusheng pork liver noodles are smooth and tender without any fishy taste, spicy and fragrant – a must-try for noodle lovers. The Jialing River mixed fish stew features a variety of river delicacies, with a rich broth that's perfect for mixing with rice. Sanba soup is nourishing and soothing, ideal for group meals.
Added Niche Perspectives
If you're tired of mountain forests and valleys and prefer gentle river views and pastoral scenery, Wusheng is the perfect choice. The terrain is generally flat, requiring minimal hiking, making it suitable for the elderly and children. Numerous affordable river seafood restaurants line the river, using freshly caught ingredients, offering far better value than river seafood restaurants in the main city.
Comprehensive Travel Guide
1. Accommodation: The four towns have well-developed tourism infrastructure but low visitor volume, so advance booking is unnecessary. Guesthouses and budget hotels range from 80-160 yuan per night, making accommodation extremely affordable.
2. Clothing and Supplies: In summer, pack short-sleeved shirts and a sun-protective jacket. Flat shoes are recommended for the cobblestone streets of the ancient towns. Mosquitoes are plentiful along the riverbanks and in the mountains, so mosquito repellent is essential. The cuisine in eastern and southern Sichuan tends to be spicy; if you don't eat spicy food, inform the restaurant beforehand to adjust the flavors.
3. Itinerary Planning Suggestions: The optimal plan is 2 days and 1 night, focusing on only 1-2 key attractions per day. Avoid rushed sightseeing; the core objective is relaxation and leisure. 4. Overall Cost Reference: Including high-speed rail, accommodation, three meals, and miscellaneous activities, a two-day trip can be had for just over 500 RMB per person. There are no hidden costs at scenic spots, making it student-friendly and budget-friendly.
Summary of New Perspectives
No need to waste your holiday by crowding into the city's popular tourist attractions. These four smaller cities, accessible within an hour, cater to four different needs: Longchang for its rich history and culture, Suining for tranquility and relaxation, Qianjiang for its pristine natural scenery, and Wusheng for its gentle river views and pastoral landscapes. Avoid long-distance driving; high-speed rail travel saves time and effort, allowing you to escape the heat and crowds of the city while experiencing different regional customs and cultures. Whether you're seeking solitary relaxation or a short getaway with friends, you can find a suitable destination. Just head out on a free weekend.
Long stuck in Chongqing's main urban area, with crowds at Hongyadong and Jiefangbei year-round, sweltering in the summer heat and traffic jams, and impassable during holidays? Looking for a quiet place to relax but unsure where to go? This article highlights four lesser-known towns within an hour's high-speed rail journey. Avoiding crowded tour groups, these towns offer affordable prices and unique scenery, perfect for solo travelers seeking relaxation, couples taking a short trip, or friends enjoying a weekend getaway. A change of scenery can soothe everyday anxieties.
· *I. Longchang:** A Ming and Qing Dynasty Archway Town Hidden in Southern Sichuan, Ideal for Those Who Prefer a Slow and Culturally Rich Trip
· *Transportation:** Take the high-speed rail directly from Chongqing West Station to Longchang North Station. The fastest journey takes just over half an hour, and the fare is around 60 yuan. Trains are readily available from morning till night, making it suitable for day trips or overnight stays. A 15-minute taxi ride from the high-speed rail station will take you to the heart of the old town. Shared electric scooters within the town offer great value, allowing you to travel to various attractions for just a few yuan.
· *Key Highlights:**
Unlike commercially developed imitation ancient towns, Longchang preserves a complete and original group of Ming and Qing Dynasty archways. Dozens of ancient stone archways stand quietly along the old streets, their stone carvings intricate and exquisite. At sunset, the lights illuminate the stone walls, creating a picturesque scene perfect for taking photos without having to fight for a spot. Aside from the archway, Yunding Ancient Village boasts tranquil mountain forests, and a hike to the summit offers panoramic views of the rolling mountains and sea of clouds. Guyu Lake's crystal-clear waters are perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride. Most of the cultural and natural attractions are free to enter.
The locals enjoy a relaxed pace of life; elderly people can be seen chatting and drinking tea on the streets. There's no need to rush through itineraries; aimless strolls offer a sense of tranquility.
Recommended Local Delicacies
Southern Sichuan-style mutton soup is the soul of the local cuisine. The broth is simmered until milky white, and the mutton is tender and free of any gamey smell. Served with a dipping sauce of dried chili peppers, it's suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The old-fashioned shops along the street offer thick, chewy noodles with generous portions of pork intestines and beef toppings, costing only a few dollars per person. The rustic farmhouse tofu rice is simple and authentic, with tender tofu topped with homemade chili peppers and southern Sichuan cured meat—a truly hearty and flavorful meal.
Added Niche Perspective
Many people focus solely on trendy ancient towns for short trips, neglecting old towns like Longchang that lack marketing. Here, there are no mass-produced souvenir shops or hawkers everywhere, making it suitable for tourists who dislike noise and prefer immersive historical and cultural experiences. In autumn and winter, Guyu Lake is home to migratory birds, a rare birdwatching spot around Chongqing, and photography enthusiasts can visit during off-peak seasons.
II. Suining | A Zen-like Town Surrounded by the Fu River, a Place for Urbanites to Find Peace and Decompression
Transportation
Departing from Chongqing North Station, it takes about 50 minutes to reach Suining Station. Tickets cost around 40 yuan, and trains run frequently throughout the day, making a two-day, one-night trip easy. Shared electric bikes are widely available in the city, providing direct access to Lingquan Temple, Guanyin Lake, and the old town's food street, offering flexible and convenient travel.
Key Highlights
The Fu River flows through the city, giving it a gentle and tranquil atmosphere. With few tourists and a minimal commercial atmosphere, Lingquan Temple and Guangde Temple, two ancient temples with towering ancient trees, are quiet and solemn. Climbing to the top offers panoramic views of the entire Fu River, easily calming any restlessness. Guanyin Lake Wetland is covered in reeds, and you can rent small boats to paddle on the water, enjoying the river breeze and idly whiling away an afternoon. Renli Ancient Town is mostly frequented by locals for their daily leisure activities, with few tourists, making it a particularly peaceful place for tea drinking and strolling. The Song Dynasty Porcelain Museum houses a large collection of precious Song Dynasty porcelain, well worth a visit for museum enthusiasts.
· *Specialty Food Recommendations**
Suining beef noodles are a local favorite for breakfast, with a rich, spicy broth and generous chunks of beef. Feng Dumplings, a business that has been operating for decades, offers both clear and spicy broth options, with thin wrappers and generous fillings. Riverside restaurants serve Sichuan peppercorn fish, known for its numbing and fragrant flavor, and freshly caught river seafood that is incredibly fresh and flavorful.
· *New Niche Perspective**
While most people only seek scenic landscapes on their trips to surrounding areas, Suining is a rare short-distance destination that combines meditation, lake views, and cultural heritage. No strenuous hiking required, this low-intensity, leisurely trip is perfect for stressed-out office workers with poor sleep who want a quiet place to relax. Evening cycling along Guanyin Lake offers a cool breeze, making it an excellent summer retreat.
III. Qianjiang | A Hidden Gem of Tujia Culture in Southeast Chongqing, Featuring Pristine Canyon and Lake Scenery
Transportation
High-speed rail from Chongqing East Station directly connects to Qianjiang Station, a journey of less than an hour, costing around 40 yuan. A 20-minute taxi ride from the station will take you to Zhuoshui Ancient Town. Public transportation covers all major scenic areas, so solo travelers won't have to worry about transportation difficulties.
Key Highlights
A hidden gem in southeastern Chongqing, rarely visited by tourists, Qianjiang perfectly preserves the original Tujia ethnic culture. Zhuoshui Ancient Town boasts charming bluestone streets and alleys, and its longest covered bridge in Asia offers a stunning nighttime view, with lights reflecting on the river creating a captivating atmosphere. The town remains untouched by excessive commercialization. Puhua Underground River is a unique karst landscape; a boat trip through the caves and canyons offers a secluded and unique experience. Xiaonanhai, a high-altitude barrier lake, features emerald green waters and scattered islands, offering a pristine natural landscape for boat tours. The local Tujia people are known for their simple and honest character, and unique folk shops can be found throughout the streets and alleys.
Recommended Local Delicacies
Qianjiang Chicken Offal is a local specialty, its spicy and sour dry pot becoming increasingly flavorful with each simmer. Handmade Zhuoshui mung bean noodles are smooth and chewy, paired with a fresh and spicy broth. Street-side cold Tujia rice tofu is appetizing and refreshing, and affordable local snacks are readily available.
Adding Niche Perspectives
Most travel guides around Chongqing only recommend Wulong and Pengshui, while Qianjiang sees only one-tenth the crowds of popular tourist spots. No need to book tickets in advance or queue for photos; it offers a combination of lakes, caves, and ancient towns, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes in a short trip. This is the top choice for tourists who prefer pristine natural scenery and dislike crowded tourist attractions.
IV. Wusheng | A pastoral town on the banks of the Jialing River, suitable for tourists who prefer river views and rural scenery.
Transportation
A 40-minute high-speed train ride from Chongqing West Station to Wusheng Station costs around 50 yuan. A 10-minute taxi ride from the station takes you directly to Yankou Ancient Town. Shared rides to nearby attractions cost around 20 yuan per person round trip.
Key Highlights
A pristine town nestled along the Jialing River, with few tourists, offering stunning river views and rural scenery. Summer temperatures are significantly lower than in the city center. Yankou Ancient Town is built along the river, with well-preserved old-style stilted buildings and century-old wharves. The river is shrouded in mist in the morning and bathed in the glow of the setting sun, making for incredibly photogenic scenes. Baozhen Fortress, an ancient fortress in eastern Sichuan, is built against the mountainside with a magnificent layout, offering a close-up view of the defensive architecture characteristic of late Qing Dynasty eastern Sichuan residences. The riverside promenade is gentle and wide, perfect for a pleasant stroll and enjoying the breeze. Life in the town moves at a slow pace, with locals fishing and relaxing along the riverbank.
· *Specialty Food Recommendations:**
Wusheng pork liver noodles are smooth and tender with no fishy smell, spicy and fragrant – a must-try for noodle lovers; Jialing River mixed fish stew features a variety of river delicacies, with a rich broth that's perfect for mixing with rice; Sanba soup is nourishing and soothing, ideal for group meals.
· *Added Niche Perspective:**
If you're tired of mountain forests and valleys and prefer gentle river views and pastoral scenery, Wusheng is the best choice. The terrain is generally flat, requiring minimal hiking, making it suitable for the elderly and children. Numerous affordable river seafood restaurants line the river, using freshly caught ingredients, offering far better value than river seafood restaurants in the main city.
Comprehensive Travel Guide
1. Accommodation: The four towns have well-developed tourism infrastructure but low visitor volume, so advance booking is unnecessary. Guesthouses and budget hotels range from 80-160 yuan per night, making accommodation extremely affordable.
2. Clothing and Supplies: In summer, pack short-sleeved shirts and a sun-protective jacket. Flat shoes are recommended for the cobblestone streets of the ancient towns. Mosquitoes are plentiful along the riverbanks and in the mountains, so mosquito repellent is essential. The cuisine in eastern and southern Sichuan tends to be spicy; if you don't eat spicy food, inform the restaurant beforehand to adjust the flavors.
3. Itinerary Planning Suggestions: The optimal plan is 2 days and 1 night, focusing on only 1-2 key attractions per day. Avoid rushed sightseeing; the core objective is relaxation and leisure. 4. Overall Cost Reference: Including high-speed rail, accommodation, three meals, and miscellaneous activities, a two-day trip can be had for just over 500 RMB per person. There are no hidden costs at scenic spots, making it student-friendly and budget-friendly.
Summary of New Perspectives
No need to waste your holiday by crowding into popular tourist attractions in the city center. These four smaller cities, accessible within an hour, cater to four different needs: Longchang for its rich history and culture, Suining for tranquility and relaxation, Qianjiang for pristine natural scenery, and Wusheng for its gentle river views and pastoral landscapes. Avoid long-distance driving; high-speed rail travel saves time and effort, allowing you to escape the heat and crowds of the city while experiencing different regional customs and cultures. Whether you're seeking solitary relaxation or a short getaway with friends, you can find a suitable destination. Just set off whenever you have free time on the weekend.