Visit the Nanchuan Grand Canyon, explore the ancient temples, hike in the scenic mountains, and experience the local culture through traditional performances and crafts.

Nanchuan District is located in southern Chongqing, at the intersection of the Chongqing-Guizhou and Chongqing-Hunan economic zones. It is a new urban development zone in Chongqing. It borders Daozhen, Zheng'an, and Tongzi counties in Guizhou Province to the southeast, Wulong County to the northeast, Fuling District to the north, and Banan and Qijiang Districts to the west. In 2014, Nanchuan District covered an area of 2,602 square kilometers and administered three sub-districts and 31 townships. In 2014, the registered population was 686,585 (of which 559,100 were permanent residents). Nanchuan is a beautiful and timeless city with a long history, rich resources, convenient transportation, a superior ecology, and an open and open mind. Jinfo Mountain, located within the district, is known as "the original Buddhist site in the south and the most famous mountain in Bashu." It is often said that "there is Emei Mountain in the north, the Golden Buddha in the south, and Putuo Mountain in the east and the Golden Buddha in the west." It has been successively rated as a national advanced cultural zone, the hometown of Chinese couplet culture, the hometown of folk songs and dances, the hometown of Shengge and Miao dances, and the hometown of bench dragon dances.
Nanchuan District has a rich history, known for its ancient cultural landmarks and the Nanchuan Grand Canyon, which is a key part of the region's natural heritage.
Nanchuan is located in the southwestern part of Chongqing. You can reach it by bus, taxi, or private vehicle from downtown Chongqing. The nearest metro station is about an hour away, so public transport options are limited.
The attraction is typically open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most beautiful.
The entrance fee varies depending on the specific sites you visit within Nanchuan, but it generally costs around 50-100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
It is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking a few days ahead will secure your spot and save time.
Plan for about 3-4 hours to explore the main attractions in Nanchuan, especially if you want to visit multiple sites like the canyon, temples, and scenic spots.
The Nanchuan Grand Canyon, ancient temples, and the nearby hiking trails are must-sees. Don’t miss the local performances showcasing traditional culture.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some tour operators offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English.
The top of the Nanchuan Grand Canyon offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscapes. Other great spots include the ancient temples and the nearby mountain peaks.
Start by visiting the Nanchuan Grand Canyon, then hike to the temples. Conclude the day with a visit to the scenic viewpoints for photos at sunset.
There are occasional light shows and cultural performances during the evening. However, night visits to the natural areas like the canyon are generally not allowed.
The area can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially in the mornings during off-peak seasons.
There are basic facilities including toilets, food stalls, water, and rest areas near the entrance and key sites. Souvenir shops are also available.
Most of the sites are accessible, though some hiking areas and the canyon may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with disabilities.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash may still be required in some smaller shops.
There are several local restaurants serving Chongqing hotpot and other Chinese cuisine. A few cafes near the main attractions offer light snacks and drinks.
There are vegetarian options available, especially in local restaurants offering Chinese vegetarian dishes. Vegan and halal food may be more limited.
There are several hotels ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations near the main attractions, with more options available in central Chongqing.
Nearby attractions include the Dazu Rock Carvings and the Jinfo Mountain Nature Reserve. Both can be combined with Nanchuan for a full day trip.
Souvenir shops sell traditional handicrafts, local snacks, and Chongqing-themed souvenirs like embroidered goods and tea sets.
After visiting Nanchuan, you can take a taxi or bus back to downtown Chongqing, or use a private vehicle for further exploration of nearby sites like Dazu or Jinfo Mountain.