Qianjiang Zhuoshui Scenic Area is located in Qianjiang District, Chongqing Municipality, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The scenic area integrates natural landscapes with cultural customs, with the Apeng River flowing through it, forming unique landscapes of mountains and waters. Covering an area of approximately 50 square kilometers, the scenic area boasts an excellent ecological environment and abundant vegetation. Zhuoshui Ancient Town is an important part of the scenic area, featuring unique architectural styles with a large number of buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties preserved, showcasing the historical and cultural heritage of the Bayu region. The scenic area also includes natural landscapes such as the Puhua Underground River, which is 1.6 kilometers long, with clear water and beautiful scenery on both banks.
Historical Culture
Zhuoshui Ancient Town has a long history. As early as the Tang Dynasty, humans settled here, and during the Ming and Qing dynasties, it became an important commercial town. The Wind and Rain Covered Bridge in the ancient town - Zhuoshui Wind and Rain Covered Bridge, was first built in the first year of Emperor Qianlong's reign in the Qing Dynasty and has undergone multiple renovations. With a total length of 658 meters, it is the longest covered bridge in Asia, carrying the local historical memories and cultural connotations. Most of the buildings in the ancient town are wooden structures, integrating the architectural characteristics of the Tujia, Miao and other ethnic groups, reflecting the integration of multi-ethnic cultures. As the mother river of the Tujia, Miao and other ethnic groups, the Apeng River has nurtured unique ethnic cultures, with rich and colorful folk activities such as Tujia Baishou Dance and Miao Feige (Flying Songs).
Main Attractions
Zhuoshui Ancient Town
Zhuoshui Ancient Town has ancient buildings and winding streets, preserving numerous residences, commercial firms and other buildings from the Ming and Qing dynasties. The Tianli Liangxin Stele in the ancient town witnesses the commercial culture and moral inheritance of the town. The streets and alleys in the ancient town are full of life. Tourists can taste local specialty foods, buy handicrafts and experience the unique charm of the ancient town.
Zhuoshui Wind and Rain Covered Bridge
Zhuoshui Wind and Rain Covered Bridge spans the Apeng River, with a total length of 658 meters. There are pavilions, towers and other buildings on the bridge. The covered bridge has an elegant shape and exquisite structure. When the lights are on at night, the scenery is very charming. Tourists can walk on the bridge, enjoy the scenery of the Apeng River and feel the charm of history and culture.
Puhua Underground River
Puhua Underground River is a natural underground river landscape with a total length of 1.6 kilometers. There are attractions such as the Natural Three Bridges and Chixue inside the underground river. Tourists can take a boat tour to experience the mystery and beauty of the underground river. Both banks of the underground river are covered with dense vegetation, including various rare plants, and the ecological environment is good.
Tour Route
Tourists can first visit Zhuoshui Ancient Town, stroll through the ancient streets, admire the Ming and Qing architectures and learn about the history and culture of the ancient town. Then go to Zhuoshui Wind and Rain Covered Bridge, walk on the bridge and enjoy the scenery of the Apeng River. In the afternoon, you can go to Puhua Underground River, take a boat tour of the underground river and enjoy attractions such as the Natural Three Bridges. After the tour, return to the ancient town to taste local food and buy special souvenirs.
Tour Suggestions
- It is recommended to spend more than one day to fully experience the charm of the scenic area.
- When taking a boat tour in Puhua Underground River, pay attention to following the staff's arrangements and wear a life jacket.
- When visiting the ancient town, you can taste local food, but pay attention to food hygiene.
- Take sun protection measures when visiting in summer; keep warm when visiting in winter.
- The best visiting seasons are April-May and September-October, when the temperature is pleasant (15-25℃), the vegetation around Puhua Underground River is lush, and the ancient town has beautiful scenery.
- Photography enthusiasts can take photos of the morning mist over the Wind and Rain Covered Bridge at 7:00 in the morning, the sunset over the ancient town at 18:00 in the evening, and the light show inside Puhua Underground River (19:30-20:30) is also a highlight for shooting.
- Boat tickets for Puhua Underground River need to be purchased 30 minutes in advance. It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours in the peak season (May-October) to avoid the rush hour from 10:00 to 12:00.
Matters Needing Attention
- Abide by the rules and regulations of the scenic area, protect the environment and do not litter at will.
- When visiting attractions such as the Wind and Rain Covered Bridge, pay attention to safety and do not climb the railings.
- Some attractions in the scenic area may have restrictions on age, physical conditions, etc. Please find out the relevant information before visiting.
- Respect local customs and habits, especially the cultures and traditions of ethnic minorities.
- The use of drones for aerial photography is prohibited in the scenic area. If you need to take photos, please apply to the scenic area management office in advance.
- The Wind and Rain Covered Bridge is a wooden structure. Smoking and littering are prohibited, and violators will be fined 50-200 yuan.
Transportation
- Public transportation: There are many buses from Qianjiang urban area to Zhuoshui Scenic Area, making transportation convenient.
- Self-driving: Starting from Qianjiang urban area, drive along Yu-Xiang Expressway, get off at Zhuoshui Interchange, and then drive for a certain distance to reach the scenic area. There is a parking lot in the scenic area for convenient parking.
Opening Hours
Zhuoshui Ancient Town is open all day. Puhua Underground River is open from 8:30 to 17:00 (ticket sales and check-in stop at 16:30). The specific opening hours may be adjusted due to seasonal and weather factors. It is recommended to consult the scenic area in advance.
Tickets
Zhuoshui Ancient Town is open for free. The ticket price for Puhua Underground River is 80 yuan per person (including boat ticket). Some other attractions in the scenic area may charge separately, and the specific details are subject to the announcement of the scenic area.
You can search for the official WeChat public account of the scenic area "黔江濯水景区" to get the latest news or buy tickets online.