Yuzhong District Baixiang Street Traditional District

The Baixiang Street Traditional District in Chongqing's Yuzhong District is a historic neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. Located in the lower half of the Yuzhong Peninsula, adjacent to the Yangtze River, it was one of the important birthplaces of Chongqing's mother city. The area preserves a large number of historical buildings and alleyways, showcasing the architectural styles and folk culture of Chongqing's opening period. It's a unique place to experience the blend of the city's history and modernity.
Historical Background
Origin: Baixiang Street's name comes from a legend (one theory suggests it's due to a white elephant sculpture that once stood at the street entrance). Its history can be traced back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, when it was one of Chongqing's earliest commercial and distribution centers.
Opening Period: From the late 19th to early 20th centuries, after Chongqing opened as a treaty port, Baixiang Street, due to its proximity to the docks and customs house, became a gathering place for foreign firms, financial institutions, and trading companies, earning it the reputation of "Chongqing's Wall Street."
War of Resistance Period: This area also served as an important witness to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Many prominent figures and organizations were active here, leaving behind a rich legacy.
Architectural Features
Blend of Chinese and Western Styles: The district retains the unique blend of traditional Bayu dwellings and Western-style buildings from the opening period, featuring grey tiles, arched windows and doors, and brick-and-wood stilt houses.
Mountain City Texture: The streets are built along the mountain's contours, creating a varied landscape that reflects Chongqing's unique mountainous urban form.
Historical Building Clusters: These include the former site of the Chinese Medicine Guild, the former site of the Customs House, and the former site of Xinghua Private Primary School, all of which are now protected cultural relics. Some buildings have been renovated and repurposed.
Main Attractions and Experiences
1. Former Site of the Chinese Medicine Guild
A historical testament to Chongqing's modern Chinese medicine industry, it now serves as a cultural exhibition space, showcasing traditional medicinal culture and the industry's history.
2. Li Yaoting Mansion ("Bu Feng Ju")
The residence of Li Yaoting, a wealthy merchant in Chongqing during the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China. This beautifully crafted building blends Chinese and Western elements and now serves as a historical museum.
3. Former Site of Chongqing Customs House
An important symbol of Chongqing's opening as a treaty port, its architectural style bears the characteristics of the colonial period.
4. Old City Wall Ruins
The remaining sections of the Ming Dynasty city wall stand as a testament to the history of Chongqing's ancient city defense system.
5. Huguang Guild Hall (nearby)
Located not far from Baixiang Street, this complex is a representative of immigrant culture during the Qing Dynasty and is worth a visit.
Tourist Information
Address: Jiefang East Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (near Chaotianmen and Huguang Guild Hall).
Transportation:
Subway: Take Line 1/Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station and walk for about 15 mins.
Bus: Take a bus to Wanglongmen Station or Daomenkou Station.
Tickets: The street area is free to the public. Some exhibitions inside historical buildings may charge a fee.