Changshou District

Introducing Changshou District

Changshou District belongs to Chongqing City. It is located in the heart of Chongqing, bordering the Yangtze River and the main city. It is located between 106°49′~107°27′ east longitude and 29°43′~30°12′ north latitude.

Anciently part of the Zhiyi County of the Ba State, it was originally named Lewen County. Due to the high life expectancy of its residents, it was renamed Changshou County in 1363. Located northeast of Chongqing's main urban area, it belongs to the Three Gorges Reservoir Ecological Economic Zone, straddling the Yangtze River from north to south. It borders Fuling District to the southeast, Yubei District and Banan District to the southwest, Dianjiang County to the northeast, and Linshui County, Sichuan Province, to the northwest.

Located over 50 kilometers from Chongqing's main urban area, Changshou District is part of Chongqing's metropolitan area and is only a 40-minute drive from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport. It serves as Chongqing's land transportation hub and a major port on the upper Yangtze River, acting as a crucial relay station for the economic and social resources of Chongqing's megacity to radiate to the Three Gorges Reservoir area.

The Chongqing-Changsha, Changfu, and Changliang expressways converge here. The Chongqing-Huaihuai Railway has passenger and freight marshaling stations within the city. The Yangtze River's golden waterway skirts the city, allowing 10,000-ton vessels to reach both the river and the sea year-round. Changshou Lake, the largest artificial lake in Southwest China, and Changshou Ancient Town are among the national 4A-level tourist attractions.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Changshou Ancient Town

Changshou Ancient Town, a National 4A-level scenic spot located in Changshou District, Chongqing, lies on the outskirts of Chongqing's core metropolitan area and falls within the one-hour economic zone. Approximately 3 kilometers from the Yangtze River, it borders the Yuyi Expressway to the south, Yuwu (Shan) Road, the Yuli Railway, and the Yuwan Intercity Railway to the north, Taohua New Town in Changshou District to the east, the Old Town to the south, and the Bodhi Mountain Tourist Area to the west and north. Spanning 2,000 mu (approximately 1,000 acres), it forms a vital part of the Bodhi Mountain China Longevity Cultural City.

Changshou Lake

Changshou Lake is a municipal scenic spot in Chongqing, one of the Twelve Scenic Spots of the New Bayu Region, and a national AAAA (4A)-level scenic spot. Built in 1954 as the site of the Shizitan Hydropower Station, a key project during the First Five-Year Plan, it boasts a reservoir capacity of 1 billion cubic meters, making it the largest artificial lake in Southwest China. Dotted with 203 islands of varying sizes, the lake's bays and island branches intersect, creating vast shallows. A wildlife nature reserve is home to 42 bird species and 28 waterfowl species, making it a popular birdwatching destination in Chongqing.

Over 20 scenic spots are located at Changshou Lake, including the Twin Lions, the Iron Gate Waterfall, the Inflowing Waves, the Leaders Sculpture Group, the Three Stars Stepping on the Waves, the Old Man of Longevity Watching the Lake, and Anshun Longevity. Among them, the "Eight Scenic Spots" of Changshou Lake are particularly noteworthy: the Long Causeway Expressing Feelings (Dam), the Premier's Footprints (Premier Zhou Memorial Pavilion), Bathing and Playing in the Water (Yubin Island), Sunrise at Gaofeng (Gaofeng Island), the Flowing Waterfall (Feishu Cave), the Fruity Aroma of the Lake Island (Xiacheng Orange Farm), the Relics of Xiangzi (Xiangzi Mountain), and the Majestic Ancient Village (Zhaoyun Village).

Sandaoguai Ancient Street

Sandaoguai Ancient Street is located in the southwest of Changshou District, nestled between the hillsides in the heart of the city. Built during the Qing Dynasty, it houses merchants and local residents. A 2.5-kilometer-long stone avenue winds its way up the mountainside, with over 3,000 stone steps winding their way up. Its three sharp bends give it the name "Sandaoguai." The houses feature bamboo and wood panels, a typical Ba-Yu style. This is the only remaining ancient street in the Three Gorges Reservoir area.

Bodhi Mountain

Bodhi Mountain is located in Duzhou Subdistrict, Changshou District. It winds its way from Wangjun Mountain in the western mountains to the watershed of Bako Town. After passing Maliuchong Rock and continuing southeast for 4 kilometers, a peak rises to an elevation of 598 meters. It is located within Duzhou Town, 5 kilometers from the county seat. The mountain winds its way from Wangjun Mountain in the western mountains to the watershed of Bako Town. After passing Maliuchong Rock and continuing southeast for 4 kilometers, a peak rises to a height of 598 meters. This peak is named Bodhi Mountain. It was named after Bodhidharma, the founder of Chinese Zen Buddhism, who visited the area to preach the Dharma. During the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty, at the suggestion of Dai Jin, a local Jinshi (Jinshi), the name of Bodhi Mountain was changed to "Jing Mountain" to correspond with the Hao Mountain east of Changshou City.

Tiantai Temple

Tiantai Temple is located on Qiqian Mountain in Gelan Town, Changshou District, Chongqing, approximately 20 kilometers from Changshou City. Tiantai Temple has long been a significant Buddhist site in the area. Built in the late Song Dynasty and early Yuan Dynasty, the temple earned its name from the mountain's resemblance to a tall stone pillar with a flat, platform-like top. Key attractions include the Guanyin Hall, Naihe Bridge, the memorial archway, Nazi Mountain, Tianfeng Village, and Bianyan Village. The temple's memorial archway features white brick columns, with eaves at the four corners and glazed tiles adorned with blue cloud patterns.

Donglin Temple

Donglin Temple is a renowned Buddhist sanctuary in the area. Originally built during the Chunxi reign of the Song Dynasty, it boasts a history of over 820 years. During the Chenghua reign of the Ming Dynasty, it was expanded into a quadrangle courtyard with three halls (excluding the mountain gate), covering approximately 2,000 square meters. By the time of the Ten Years' Disaster, most of the temple's temple and Buddhist statues had been destroyed. Only the main hall, the right wing, and the Thousand-Armed Guanyin statue carved on the cliff to the right of the village gate remain. In 1986, Donglin Temple was designated a cultural relic protection site by the government.

Huanhou Palace

Huanhou Palace is located at Buyu Beach on the north bank of the Yangtze River, 4 kilometers southeast of Changshou City. It is a famous historical site built to commemorate Zhang Fei, a great general of Shu Han in the Three Kingdoms period, who led his troops into Shu to attack Liu Zhang and stationed troops here.

Huanhou Palace, also known as Zhang Fei Temple, Zhang Gong Temple, Zhang Ye Temple, Zhang Wang Temple, Huanhou Temple, Xiongwei Temple, and Weiwu Temple, was first built during the Daguan period of the Song Dynasty (1107-1110 AD). Its original site was on the Yangtze River bank west of Changshou City (formerly Hejie West Street, now Binjiang Road, now demolished). In the first year of the Zhengtong reign of the Ming Dynasty, it was relocated to its current location on the shore of Buyu Beach. Later, during the 48th year of the Kangxi reign and the 7th year of the Xianfeng reign of the Qing Dynasty, much of the main structure still survives. Huanhou Palace comprises the mountain gate, main hall, transverse halls (side halls), Jade Emperor Tower, teahouse, and dining hall.

Luoshan Forest Park

Luoshan Forest Park is located in Shuanglong Town, northeast of Changshou District, 22 kilometers from downtown. It is a cultural and religious forest park. Its main attractions are Daluo Mountain and Xiaoluo Mountain, both of which contain a village and two temples. Daluo Mountain and Xiaoluo Mountain are intertwined, often referred to as sister mountains. Daluo Mountain, with an elevation of 645 meters, is the main peak.

Three Cave Canyon

Sandonggou Gorge is located in the northeast corner of Changshou City, less than 1 kilometer from the city. It is a natural scenic area featuring cliff waterfalls, grottoes and stalagmites, and a hydropower museum. The area's upstream, where Peach Blossom Creek is blocked, creates three waterfalls, three caves, and three pools, earning it the name Sandonggou. Sandonggou is 2.4 kilometers long and 0.5 to 0.7 kilometers wide, with a V-shaped cross-section, with a distinct base and top.

Baita Scenic Area

The Baita Temple Scenic Area is a district-level key cultural relic protection site. Located 5 kilometers outside Changshou District, the scenic area combines sightseeing, fitness, leisure, cultural heritage, and ancient architecture. Key attractions include Huanhou Palace, Wenfeng Pagoda, Chijia Mountain, the Monk's Tomb, the ancient plank road, Buyu Beach, and Huangcao Mountain. Huanhou Palace was first built during the Daguan period of the Song Dynasty (1107-1110) and was bestowed by Emperor Huizong of Song. The temple consists of a mountain gate, a main hall, and a transverse hall. The mountain gate is a memorial archway-style brick and stone structure.

Xiyan Temple

The Xiyan Waterfall Forest Scenic Area is located on Wangjiang Road in the south of Changshou District, Chongqing. Backed by Fengcheng and facing the Yangtze River, it was once one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Changshou. Named after the ancient Xiyan Temple, it still retains a relatively intact city gate and section of the ancient city wall, built during the Tianshun period of the Ming Dynasty. It was designated a county-level cultural relic protection site in 1988. Key attractions include the Ming-era city gate, Xiyan Waterfall, the forest park, and the Changshou Cable Car. An elegant pavilion was built on the city gate in the mid-1980s.

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Most Popular FAQs for Changshou District

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Changshou District is historically significant due to its strategic location along the Yangtze River. It has a long history dating back to the Three Kingdoms period and is known for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, and historical landmarks.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Changshou District is located in the eastern part of Chongqing. It can be accessed by bus, taxi, or private car from Chongqing city center. Public transport options like buses connect the district to other parts of the city.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Changshou are open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn seasons, as the weather is more comfortable and the area is less crowded.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for major attractions like Changshou Lake or the ancient town range from ¥30-¥50. Tickets can be purchased on-site, with some attractions offering online booking in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, except during peak travel seasons or public holidays when there may be high demand. Booking a day or two ahead is advisable during these periods.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for 4-6 hours to explore the main attractions in Changshou, such as the lake, ancient town, and hot springs. A full day is ideal for a more relaxed experience.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Changshou Lake, known for its scenic views and boat tours.
• The ancient Changshou Town, filled with traditional architecture.
• Changshou Mountain for panoramic views of the region.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available for most of the major attractions, especially for the ancient town and Changshou Mountain. Tours are typically offered in Mandarin, with English-speaking guides available on request.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Changshou Mountain offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and the Yangtze River.
• Changshou Lake is perfect for sunset photography, with beautiful reflections on the water.
• The ancient town offers many charming spots for traditional-style photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to Changshou Lake, then explore the ancient town. If time permits, hike up Changshou Mountain for the best views of the area and finish with a relaxing visit to the hot springs.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no organized light shows or night tours, the Changshou Ancient Town is beautifully illuminated at night, offering a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere for evening walks.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Changshou is less crowded compared to central Chongqing, but weekends and holidays can bring local visitors. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions in Changshou have basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. There are also small shops selling local crafts and snacks near the ancient town and lake area.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many areas, such as Changshou Lake and the town, are easily accessible for elderly visitors and families with children. However, hiking up Changshou Mountain may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in Changshou. Credit cards are accepted at major establishments, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and street vendors.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuan restaurants serving traditional hotpot and spicy dishes.
• Tea houses and cafés near Changshou Lake, offering a quiet place to relax.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many local restaurants, with a focus on vegetable-based dishes. Halal food is available at certain eateries catering to Muslim visitors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Changshou Hotel offers modern amenities and is located near the main attractions.
• Budget-friendly guesthouses and inns are available in the ancient town area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is about a 2-hour drive away.
• The Wulong Karst National Geology Park offers stunning natural landscapes and is a great option for a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops in Changshou sell local handicrafts, tea, and traditional Chinese artwork. Common items include embroidered goods, pottery, and local snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Changshou, taxis or buses can take you to nearby attractions like Dazu or Wulong. The local bus system is reliable for short distances within the district, while private taxis are ideal for longer trips.