Qijiang Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to know about the culturally important attractions, natural beauty, best things to do, local culture, safety & health, and more about Qijiang.


Qijiang is a place that not many tourists know about yet. It’s located in the southwest region of China and is part of the Chongqing municipality. With a wide range of places to explore, Qijiang offers visitors a chance to explore a range of culturally important attractions and natural beauty. This comprehensive travel guide will explore each of these in detail so you can plan your next visit.

Introduction to Qijiang

Qijiang is a small, picturesque area in southwest China. This area is surrounded by mountains, the Yangtze River, and lush greenery. Qijiang has been an important transportation hub in the region for centuries. It has a rich political, economic, and cultural history and was once one of the most important cities in China. Today, it is slowly emerging as a popular tourist destination due to its historic sites and natural beauty.

List of Places to Visit in Qijiang

When you explore Qijiang, there are many places you can visit – from historical sites to natural wonders.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Qijiang has a rich history, and there are many museums and historical sites that reflect this. Here are some of the must-visit culturally important attractions in Qijiang:

  1. Qijiang Ancient City: This is the best-preserved ancient city in the region. You can see the ancient wall, temple, streets, and other buildings here.

  2. Qijiang Ancient Bell: This is the largest ancient bronze bell in China. It’s an 11-ton behemoth and gives tourists a glimpse into ancient Chinese metallurgy.

  3. Qijiang Museum: Having a vast collection of over 10,000 cultural relics, this museum allows visitors to delve deep into the historical life of the people of the region.

Natural Attractions of Qijiang: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

There are many natural wonders to explore in Qijiang. Here are some of the most breathtaking ones:

  1. Baizhangji Waterfall: This is the largest waterfall in Qijiang and is surrounded by lush green forests. It is a perfect spot for a summer escape.

  2. Changshou Lake: This is the third-largest freshwater lake in the Chongqing municipality. It has a range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.

  3. Shiziguan Scenic Area: This is a park that has been designed to showcase the natural beauty of the region. The park spans 230 hectares and is filled with lakes, waterfalls, and mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qijiang

Qijiang is a hiker and biker’s paradise. The region has a range of hiking/biking routes that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Here are three of the most popular routes:

  1. The Huangping – The route takes you through mountains and valleys, with views of rivers and forests in the distance.

  2. The Shilin Canyon – The route takes you through a gorge filled with waterfalls, and the water temperature is perfect for a swim on a hot summer day.

  3. The Guifeng Crystal Mountain – Based in the national-level scenic area, the mountain is a popular hiking route, and the hike provides you views of the sunset and the Qijiang river.

Best Things to Do in Qijiang: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to partake in Qijiang. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  1. Huangniu Culture Tour – Includes a horse-carriage ride to explore the rural farmland areas, a visit to the Qijiang Museum, local handicraft workshops, and special access to local homes.

  2. Shuanggui Ancient Town Tour – Explore and learn about the history of the ancient town that dates back 500 years.

  3. Baizhangji Waterfall Scenic Area Tour – A tour that takes you to the stunning Baizhangji Waterfall and nearby Fengyi Ancient Town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qijiang

If you want to explore Qijiang fully, you should stay at least a week here. Here is a sample itinerary:

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival and relaxation at a hotel.
Day 2 Explore Qijiang Ancient City, Qijiang Ancient Bell, and Qijiang Museum.
Day 3 Visit the Baizhangji Waterfall and have a picnic at the park.
Day 4 Bike the Huangping hiking route.
Day 5 Tour the Changshou Lake recreational area.
Day 6 Complete a one-day tour of Shuanggui Ancient Town.
Day 7 Relax at the Guifeng Crystal Mountain and visit local handcraft workshops.

Food and Drink Scene of Qijiang

The food scene in Qijiang is rich in history and flavor.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chongqing Spicy Hot Pot - A spicy and flavorful hot pot that is popular across China.

  2. Qijiang Salted Eggs – The eggs are preserved in a saline solution and have a perfect balance of salty and umami flavor.

  3. Chongqing Noodles – Thick and spicy noodle soup with tender meat and crunchy vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Chinese White Spirit – A type of alcohol that has a strong scent and is popular in China.

  2. Wuling Tea – A local tea that is popular in the region and is made from oolong tea leaves.

Where to Stay in Qijiang: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

If you are planning to stay in Qijiang, there are many options available. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Qijiang Hotel – Located in the center of the city, this hotel has extravagantly large rooms and is within walking distance to many attractions.

  2. Qijiang Yudu Hostel – A budget-friendly option with decent accommodations and welcoming staff.

  3. The Stone Guesthouse – A guesthouse located in a quiet area with good views of the river and mountains.

What to Buy in Qijiang: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you are exploring Qijiang, there are many local products and souvenirs to bring back. Here are some of the best options:

  1. Qijiang Distilled Five-Spice Sauce – Made from soybeans, wheat flour, salt, and five spice blends: cinnamon, fennel, cloves, Sichuan peppercorns, and anise.

  2. Qijiang New Apple – Grown in the Qijiang region, this apple has a crispy texture and a sweet and sour flavor.

  3. Handmade Embroidered Products – Handmade embroidered products are popular in Qijiang and are a perfect souvenir reflecting the local culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Qijiang

The people of Qijiang have a rich culture and have preserved their roots. Here are some of the customs and local cultures:

  1. Marriage Customs – The bridegroom pays a visit, brings gifts, and asks for the bride’s consent to marriage.

  2. Festivals – Many festivals are celebrated in Qijiang, such as the Lantern Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and many others.

Best Time to Visit Qijiang

The best time to visit Qijiang is from March to November when the temperature is mild, and there is less rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qijiang

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and behaviors.

  2. Be courteous and polite to the locals.

  3. Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  1. Disturb the public order.

  2. Hitchhike or take carpool.

  3. Violate traffic regulations or break environmental rules.

Safety and Health

Safety in Qijiang

Qijiang is relatively safe, but tourists should be wary of pickpockets and petty criminals.

Health in Qijiang

The sanitary condition in Qijiang is good, and tap water is potable.

Getting to Qijiang: Transportation Options and Logistics

Qijiang is well-connected through various transportation modes:

Airports Near Qijiang

  1. Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport - 72 km away from Qijiang.

Bus Stations Near Qijiang

  1. Chongqing Bus Terminal – Direct buses to Qijiang.

  2. Qijiang Bus Station – Buses operating in the vicinity of the city.

Other Options

  1. Taxi – Taxis are the most popular mode of transportation in the region.

  2. Metro – The city does not have a metro system yet, but it is under construction.

How to Get Around in Qijiang

There are various modes of transportation available in Qijiang:

  1. Bike rental

  2. Taxis and ride-hailing services

  3. Buses and trams

Where to Go Next from Qijiang: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

When you are looking to move on from Qijiang, there are many nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some places to consider:

  1. Chongqing: A bustling metropolis and a popular tourist destination known for its hot pots and skyscrapers.

  2. Dazu Grottoes: A UNESCO world heritage site, famous for the rock carvings of Buddhas and other historical figures.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a hidden treasure to explore, Qijiang is the right destination for you. This comprehensive guide will help you uncover the various aspects of the region, including its culture, natural beauty, and much more!