
Xiushan Tujia and Miao Autonomous County (Xiushan County) is located southeast of Chongqing, in the middle section of the Wuling Mountains and just outside the southeastern edge of the Sichuan Basin. It serves as a key gateway to southeastern Sichuan and Chongqing. Xiushan County is a national demonstration base for agricultural and rural informatization and has been recognized as "Hometown of Chinese Calligraphy," "One of China's Top 100 Small and Medium-sized Cities with the Most Investment Potential," and "One of China's Top 100 Small and Medium-sized Cities with the Most Regional Driving Force."
Xiushan is known for its history in agriculture and trade, particularly for its role in regional cultural exchanges. The county's historical temples and local monuments showcase the rich culture of Chongqing and southwestern China.
Xiushan is located in the southeastern part of Chongqing, around 2 hours by car from downtown Chongqing. Public buses and taxis can easily reach Xiushan, and walking is an option once in the county.
Most attractions open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are from March to October, with the spring and autumn months offering pleasant weather.
Ticket prices vary from ¥20 to ¥60 depending on the attraction. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, and some sites offer online booking options.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during holidays or weekends. Booking 1-2 days in advance is typically sufficient for most attractions.
A full day is recommended to explore the main attractions in Xiushan, including historical sites, scenic areas, and local food markets.
Guided tours are available at most sites in Mandarin, with limited English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available for certain popular attractions in Mandarin.
Start with a visit to the temples, then enjoy a scenic hike or boat ride along the river, followed by a visit to the local food markets. End the day with a relaxing view from one of the mountain viewpoints.
Night visits are not typically available in Xiushan, though the area is peaceful and offers beautiful evening views, especially along the river.
Xiushan is less crowded compared to major tourist destinations. Weekdays and the months outside of peak holidays are the least crowded times to visit.
Public toilets, food stalls, water stations, and small rest areas are available at major attractions. Shops selling souvenirs and local snacks can also be found.
Many attractions are accessible to elderly visitors, children, and disabled tourists. However, some hiking areas and natural sites may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted, especially in tourist spots. Cash is also accepted, but credit cards may not be as commonly used in small shops.
Vegetarian options are common, especially in the markets. Halal food may be harder to find, but certain restaurants catering to Muslim visitors offer halal dishes.
Souvenir shops sell local crafts, including pottery, embroidered fabrics, and traditional teas. Local snacks and spices are also popular purchases.
Buses and taxis are readily available to travel to nearby attractions, and renting a car provides more flexibility for extended travel.