
Dianjiang County, located in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, northeast of Chongqing, is 120 kilometers from Chongqing's nine main urban districts. It serves as a crucial link between Chongqing's one-hour economic circle and the northeastern wing of Chongqing, a land transportation hub connecting eastern Chongqing and Sichuan, and a key commercial and material distribution center for the region. Dianjiang County is a model county for Chongqing's coordinated urban and rural comprehensive supporting reforms, a municipal-level landscape garden city, a municipal-level sanitary city, and a municipal-level forest city. It is known as the "Hometown of Peonies" and a "Millennium Ancient County."
Dianjiang County has a rich historical significance, with many cultural sites dating back to ancient China. It was a strategic area during various dynasties and is home to traditional architecture, temples, and natural landscapes that reflect its long-standing heritage.
Dianjiang County is located in the northeastern part of Chongqing. It can be reached by bus or taxi from the Chongqing city center, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away. There is no metro directly serving the county, but buses are a convenient option.
The main attractions in Dianjiang are open from 8 AM to 6 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is most beautiful.
Ticket prices typically range from ¥20 to ¥50, depending on the attraction. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of most tourist sites, though some popular attractions may offer online booking during peak seasons.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons. Booking 1-2 days in advance is usually sufficient, but for major attractions, consider booking at least 3-4 days ahead.
A full day is typically needed to explore the major attractions in Dianjiang, including hiking, historical sites, and boat rides along the Jialing River.
Guided tours are available at most attractions, typically in Mandarin. English-language guides may be available at popular tourist sites, but it's always good to check in advance.
Start your day by hiking up Longmen Mountain for views, then visit the ancient temples in the area. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride on the Jialing River to end your day.
There are no light shows or special night tours available in Dianjiang, but the temples and riverside areas are beautifully lit at night, making for peaceful evening visits.
Dianjiang is generally not overcrowded, and weekdays are the least crowded. If you want to avoid the occasional rush, visit during the off-peak seasons (winter and early spring).
Most attractions provide basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and food stalls. Shops selling local souvenirs and snacks are also commonly available in popular areas.
Most of the main attractions are accessible for children and elderly visitors, although some areas, particularly Longmen Mountain, may require a moderate level of fitness. Disabled access may be limited in more remote areas.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in Dianjiang. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash may be needed for small purchases in rural areas.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants, focusing on tofu and vegetables. Halal food options may be limited, but some larger restaurants may cater to Muslim visitors.
Souvenir shops in Dianjiang offer local handicrafts, including pottery, traditional clothing, and tea. You can also find local snacks such as dried fruit and preserved meats.
After visiting Dianjiang, public buses or taxis can be used to reach nearby attractions. Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore further attractions like Fengdu or Wulong.