Zhongzhou Alley


Zhongzhou Old Alley, nestled in Zhong County, Chongqing, is a living museum of Bashu culture and Three Gorges heritage. As the largest preserved section of the original Zhong city spared by the Three Gorges Reservoir project, this 0.4-square-kilometer historic district offers visitors an immersive experience of traditional architecture, Ming-Qing dynasty relics, and nostalgic local life—all against the stunning backdrop of the Yangtze River.



Highlights of Zhongzhou Old Alley

  1. Architectural Time CapsuleZhongzhou Alley 1.jpg

  • Ming Dynasty Stone Gate: The intact East City Gate, built in 1381, stands as a testament to the street’s 600+ years of history.

  • Gray-Brick Houses: Traditional cob-walled dwellings with wooden frameworks, some predating 1993, coexist with Qing-era gray-brick buildings—now rare in China.

  • "Micro-Renovated" Alleys: Streets like Cross Street and Bow Street retain original bluestone pavements, lined with Ming-Qing shophouses housing teahouses and artisan workshops.

  • Cultural Legacy

    • Three Gorges "Living Memory": Dubbed "Three Gorges Left-Behind City", it preserves half of old Zhong County after the reservoir submerged lower areas.

    • Poetic Connections: The Odong Road honors Bai Juyi, who served as Zhongzhou’s governor in 819 AD and planted trees here. Nearby Dongpo Garden recreates his idyllic verses.

    • Heroic Lore: Sites like Han Dynasty Que Towers commemorate legendary figures like General Ba Manzi, who beheaded himself to defend the city.

  • Revitalized ExperiencesZhongzhou Alley 2.jpg

    • Local Crafts: Try handmade zongzi (inspired by Qu Yuan) or join Bashu tie-dye workshops.

    • Festivals: The Dragon Boat Festival and City Life Art Season (May/Oct) feature dragon dances, storytelling, and night markets.




    Best Time to Visit

    • Spring (Mar–May): Mild weather (15–25°C) perfect for strolling; peach blossoms adorn the alleys.

    • Autumn (Sep–Nov): Golden foliage and National Day crowds (Sep 29–Oct 6) bring lively festivities.

    • Avoid summer (Jun–Aug): Though shaded, humidity can exceed 85%.



    Travel Tips

  1. Getting There

  • From Chongqing2-hour bus from Longtousi Station to Zhongxian (¥50), then a 10-minute walk to the street.

  • By Cruise: Yangtze River ships often stop at Zhong County Port.

  • Ticketing

    • Free entry; fees apply for workshops (¥30–80). Open 8:30 AM–9:00 PM.

  • Must-Do Activities

    • Sip tea at Sun Family Teahouse.

    • Photograph sunset views from East Gate.

  • Nearby Attractions

    • Shi Bao Zhai"Pearl on the Yangtze" pagoda (1-hour drive).

    • Three Gorges Dam: 3-hour cruise downstream.

  • Etiquette Notes

    • Respect residential areas; some homes still house locals.


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