Rongchang

Rongchang is humid and hot in summer, so spring and autumn are more comfortable for travel.

Rongchang is well suited to a short weekend trip from central Chongqing or nearby cities. It has three distinctive towns that combine intangible cultural heritage with waterside scenery, as well as local flavors such as braised goose and pugaI noodles. Overall costs are not high, and it is suitable for either driving or taking the high-speed train.

Itinerary Planning

• One-day trip (compact route): Set off from the main urban area in the morning. Spend the morning in Wanling Ancient Town, experiencing its waterside lanes and everyday local atmosphere. At noon, head to the urban area for pugai noodles and braised goose. In the afternoon, visit Antao Town to learn about Rongchang pottery and try a pottery-making experience. In the evening, return to Xiabu Town to see the night views and eat night-market snacks, then head back at night.
• Two-day trip (more relaxed route): Day 1 follows the one-day itinerary. On Day 2, go to Gufoshan in the morning for a hiking trip and distant views of Rongchang’s long scenic landscape, or choose a bike ride along the Laixi River. Have farmhouse dishes at noon, then make your way back slowly in the afternoon.

Main Attractions

Rongchang’s three main towns are all free to enter. Each has a different theme, so it is worth leaving enough time to explore them on foot.

• Wanling Ancient Town: Formerly known as Lukong Town, it sits by the mountains and water. It has not been heavily commercialized and still retains a strong sense of local residential life. Key sights include Darong Bridge, an 11-arch stone bridge with 600 years of history; Huguang Guild Hall; Erya Academy; and Yanyu Lane. In summer, you can also go to Baiyin Beach to play in the water.

• Antao Town: This is the birthplace of Rongchang pottery, one of China’s four famous traditional pottery types. The giant pickle-jar gate is the town’s landmark. On Taobao Ancient Street, you can buy handmade pottery and also try pottery wheel throwing for 30–50 yuan.

• Xiabu Town: The town is themed around Rongchang xiabu, a national-level intangible cultural heritage craft. It is made up of 24 courtyard compounds built in a style imitating the Ming and Qing dynasties. At the China Xiabu Museum, you can learn about the weaving techniques used to make xiabu. After the lights come on in the evening, it is a good place for night views and for taking photos in hanfu.

Food List

Dining in Rongchang is generally good value for money, and both street snacks and long-running local shops can be included in your itinerary.

Transport and Practical Tips

• High-speed train: There are multiple high-speed trains from Chongqing West Station, Shapingba Station, or Chongqing North Station directly to Rongchang North Station. The journey takes about 20–40 minutes, with tickets costing 35–42 yuan. Departures are frequent, making this a convenient option.
• Self-driving: Driving from central Chongqing takes about 1.5–2 hours. All scenic areas have free parking lots. Taxis between attractions usually cost only 10–20 yuan.
• Travel tips: There are many stone-paved roads in the ancient town, so comfortable flat shoes are recommended. In summer, pay attention to sun protection and mosquito repellent. Xiabu Town and Antao Town have a better atmosphere at night, so if you have enough time, you can stay overnight.
• Accommodation recommendations: If you want to experience a slower pace, stay in a guesthouse in the ancient town. Around 200 yuan can get you a room in a century-old residence. If you care more about convenient dining and transport, staying in Rongchang’s urban area near Xiabu Town is recommended.