Wuxi

Wuxi has a distinct mountain climate, so bring a jacket even if you visit Hongchiba in summer.

Wuxi is located in northeastern Chongqing. It is known for its mountain scenery and is also one of the birthplaces of grilled fish. It works well as a short two-day, one-night trip, combining an ancient city, an old town, canyons, alpine meadows, and local flavors.

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Wuxi → Visit Daning Ancient City and enjoy the night views in the evening → Have Wuxi grilled fish for dinner → Take a walk at Xiaoyao Square.
• Day 2: In the morning, visit Ningchang Ancient Town to learn about the history of this thousand-year-old salt center → In the afternoon, choose Hongchiba to see alpine meadows and flower fields, or go to Lanying Grand Canyon → Return in the evening.

Sights to Consider

Wuxi’s attractions are spread out, so driving yourself or hiring a car is more convenient. Overall, the area is not highly developed, and much of its natural scenery and cultural heritage remains relatively untouched.

• Hongchiba: Known as “Chongqing’s little Switzerland,” this area has an average summer temperature of about 20°C, making it good for escaping the heat. Inside the scenic area, you can see flower fields in the clouds and grasslands above the clouds. At night, there are also intangible cultural heritage molten-iron fireworks performances. In winter, skiing is available, and it is also suitable for family trips.
• Ningchang Ancient Town: This old town prospered because of the salt industry and has a long history. It is not very commercialized. The stilted houses built against the mountains and by the water, along with the ancient salt spring ruins, show clear traces of time. It suits visitors who enjoy cultural photography and quiet surroundings.
• Daning Ancient City: The ancient city has a history of 2,000 years. In the evening, you can walk along Mantan Road by the Daning River. At night, you may see Sichuan opera face-changing and fish lantern parades, giving the area a strong local atmosphere.
• Lanying Grand Canyon: Known as “Chongqing’s deepest valley,” this area includes Daopian Mountain, whose narrow, blade-like ridges create a striking visual impression. It is suitable for travelers who enjoy hiking and mountain landscapes.

Local Food

Wuxi has a good range of food options. Street-side eateries and long-running local restaurants are both worth considering, and prices are generally affordable.

• Wuxi Grilled Fish: Wuxi is one of the birthplaces of grilled fish. Unlike Wanzhou grilled fish, which is usually deep-fried and then cooked in sauce, Wuxi grilled fish is typically roasted whole, with seasonings placed inside the fish belly. You can consider Zhouji Grilled Fish King or Baojimu Grilled Fish. Green Sichuan peppercorn, pickled chili, and fermented black bean flavors are especially representative.
• Old Town Cold Noodles: The flavor is mainly sour, sweet, numbing, and spicy. Many types of seasonings are used, often mixed by feel and experience, and the toppings are fairly generous. Maomao Chen Cold Noodles and Lei Cold Noodles are well regarded by locals. A bowl costs 5 yuan and is quite filling.
• Mingzhu Gege: This is a common specialty steamed dish in the Three Gorges area. Pork or lamb is coated in a thick flour or starch mixture and then steamed, resulting in a spicy, numbing, salty, and savory flavor. You can go to Mingzhu Gege, where the portions are generous.
• Highland Potatoes: Wuxi potatoes have a soft, floury texture and a slight sweetness. Sweet-sour-spicy potato cakes and crispy fried potatoes are both worth trying. They are crisp on the outside and glutinous inside, and can be bought from street vendors.
• Open-Air Baomian: Baomian is similar to wontons and is a common Wuxi snack. Its shape has local characteristics, and the soup base is usually hot and sour. Open-Air Baomian (Xiaoyao Square branch) is one option. The restaurant’s cured pork with shredded potatoes and starch noodles is also worth trying.

Transport and Accommodation Guide

• Transport: Wuxi currently has no high-speed rail station. You can take a high-speed train from Chongqing North to Wanzhou North Station, which takes about 1 hour. Then buy a Pinghu Express bus ticket through “Yukexing” to Wuxi; the bus ride takes about 1.5–2 hours. If driving from central Chongqing, the journey takes about 4–5 hours. There are many mountain roads along the way, so drive carefully.
• Accommodation: It is recommended to stay near Xiaoyao Square or Daning Ancient City. This area is part of the new town, with convenient food delivery and transport. You can choose a chain hotel or a locally well-reviewed hotel, such as Dihao Hotel. Accommodation conditions inside the old town are relatively basic, so staying there is not especially recommended.

Things to Note

• Weather and Gear: In summer, temperatures in Wuxi County’s urban area can be high, but Hongchiba has a clear temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring a thick jacket. The local UV levels are also strong, so use sun protection.
• Expectations for the Old Town: Ningchang Ancient Town is quite rustic and not a lively commercial street. Most residents have already moved away, and only a small number of elderly people remain. It is better suited to visitors who want to see historical remains and the atmosphere of an old town.
• Driving Safety: Wuxi is mountainous, with many winding roads. If driving yourself, try to avoid driving at night, observe speed limits, and take care when passing oncoming vehicles.