
Pengshui Miao and Tujia Autonomous County (Pengshui Autonomous County) is located in southeastern Chongqing, within the Wuling Mountains and on the lower reaches of the Wujiang River. It borders Shizhu County to the north, Lichuan City in Hubei Province to the northeast, Qianjiang District to the east, Youyang County to the southeast, Yanhe County and Wuchuan County in Guizhou Province to the south, Daozhen County in Guizhou Province to the southwest, Wulong County to the west, and Fengdu County to the northwest. As of 2013, Pengshui Autonomous County covers an area of 3,903 square kilometers and administers 3 sub-districts, 18 towns, and 18 townships. According to the sixth national census in 2010, Pengshui Autonomous County had a permanent population of 545,094 (with a registered population of 690,000). Twelve ethnic groups, including Han, Miao, Tujia, Mongolian, and Dong, make it the only ethnic minority autonomous county in Chongqing where the Miao ethnic group predominates. Pengshui Autonomous County is a uniquely Chinese tourist and leisure destination, having earned titles such as "China's Best Cultural and Leisure Tourism County," "Hometown of Chinese Honeybees," and "National Hometown of Folk Culture and Art."
Pengshui has a rich history rooted in agriculture and traditional handicrafts. It is known for its unique cultural practices and is also significant as an administrative hub in the Chongqing region.
Pengshui is located in the southeastern part of Chongqing. It can be reached by bus, taxi, or private car from downtown Chongqing, approximately a 2-3 hour drive. There is no metro service in the area.
Most attractions are open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild.
Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction but generally range from ¥20 to ¥60. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online for more popular sites.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Generally, booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient.
A full day is enough to explore the main attractions in Pengshui, including cultural sites and scenic areas.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be available at major tourist sites, though they are less common.
Start by visiting the cultural sites, followed by a scenic hike in the mountains, and then relax with a boat ride along the river. End with a visit to the local markets for souvenirs.
Night visits and special light shows are not commonly available, though some attractions offer evening views, particularly along the riverside.
Pengshui is not as crowded as major tourist destinations. Weekdays, especially outside of the summer and Chinese New Year holidays, are the least crowded times.
Public toilets, food stalls, and small rest areas are available in most tourist areas. Shops selling local snacks and souvenirs can also be found.
While many of the main attractions are accessible, certain outdoor areas like hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted. Cash is also used, particularly in smaller shops, but credit cards may not be widely accepted.
Vegetarian dishes are available in many local restaurants. Halal food options may be limited but can be found at certain places catering to Muslim visitors.
Souvenir shops sell local handicrafts, such as pottery, textiles, and teas. Local snacks and spices are also popular souvenirs.
Buses and taxis are the most convenient transportation options to continue your trip, and renting a car offers more flexibility.