One-Day Travel Guide from Chongqing Main City to Xituo Ancient Town, Shizhu County

Travel guide and approximate costs for a one-day trip from Chongqing main city to Xituo Ancient Town, Shizhu County:

Transportation

- From Chongqing main urban area: You can take a bus departing at 12:30 from the South Square Bus Station of Chongqing North Station directly to Xituo Ancient Town. The trip takes about 3 hours on the highway. Alternatively, take a high-speed train to Shizhu Station, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, then transfer to a shuttle bus at Shizhu Bus Station to the ancient town. You can also choose to take a boat, with two daily departures at 9:00 and 17:00 to Xituo.
- From other locations in Shizhu County: If at Shizhu High-Speed Rail Station, take the shuttle directly to Xituo Ancient Town. If in Shizhu County town, you can take a direct shuttle bus to Xituo Ancient Town.

Itinerary

- Morning: Upon arrival at Xituo Ancient Town, climb the 1314-step Yun Ti Old Street staircase, check in at the "Bashan Bei Er Ge" sculpture to learn about the local culture, then walk along the Bayan Ancient Salt Road to experience the hard work and wisdom of ancient salt merchants.
- Noon: Taste local delicacies in the ancient town, such as fresh Shizhu water shield soup, specialty smoked cured meat, and hot and sour noodles.
- Afternoon: Visit traditional architectural complexes in the ancient town, such as Yu Wang Palace and Xiayan Shop historical sites, admire exquisite wood carvings and the unique charm of Tujia ethnic dwellings, and try your hand at making local handicrafts.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset by the Yangtze River and feel the poetic beauty of the "Long River setting sun round."

Admission

The ancient town is free to enter and open all day.

Food Recommendations

- Shizhu Water Shield Soup: Smooth texture, rich in collagen, nutritious, and delicious.
- Smoked Cured Meat: Unique smoky flavor, firm texture, and strong aroma.
- Hot and Sour Noodles: Tangy and appetizing, chewy noodles, rich broth.
- Fried Glutinous Rice Cake: Crispy texture, sweet and tasty.
- Rice Tofu: Smooth texture, fresh taste, can be eaten with chili oil, pickled vegetables, and other condiments.

Accommodation

There are many inns and homestays in the ancient town, with prices generally between 40-200 RMB. However, if you are doing a same-day round trip, you may choose not to stay overnight in the town.

Estimated Costs

- Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Chongqing main city to Xituo Ancient Town costs about 100-150 RMB by bus; about 100-150 RMB one way by high-speed train plus shuttle bus, totaling around 200-300 RMB round trip; about 200-300 RMB round trip by boat. The shuttle from Shizhu High-Speed Rail Station to Xituo Ancient Town usually costs around 50 RMB.
- Meals: The ancient town offers abundant food options. Lunch costs about 50-100 RMB per person; breakfast and dinner can be simpler, costing about 20-50 RMB per person. Daily meal expenses are approximately 150-250 RMB.
- Other Expenses: If you buy some local handicrafts in the ancient town, budget about 100-200 RMB.

In summary, if departing from Chongqing main city and choosing economical transportation and meal options, the cost for a one-day trip per person is about 500-700 RMB; if opting for higher-end meals and transportation, the cost may be around 800-1200 RMB. If departing from other places in Shizhu County, transportation costs are relatively lower, and overall expenses will decrease accordingly.