Xituo Ancient Town
Nestled on the southern bank of the Yangtze River in Chongqing’s Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County, Xituo Ancient Town is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "First Street Along the Yangtze," this 2,000-year-old town offers a rare glimpse into China’s salt-trading past and the architectural ingenuity of the Tujia ethnic group.
Highlights of Xituo Ancient Town
Yunti Street (Cloud Ladder Street)
The town’s crown jewel is its iconic 1.9-kilometer-long stone stairway, which ascends 160 meters vertically from the riverbank. With 1,314 steps and 113 platforms, this "ladder to the sky" is the only street in China perpendicular to the Yangtze River. Its dragon-like curve and Ming-Qing-era Tujia stilt houses create a surreal atmosphere, especially when shrouded in mist.
Historical Architecture
Ziyun Palace: A Qing-dynasty complex once used as a residence by the legendary female general Qin Liangyu.
Yuwang Palace: Dedicated to the mythical flood-controlling Emperor Yu, rebuilt in 1900.
Wan Tian Temple: A Ming-era temple showcasing intricate carvings and traditional courtyard design.
Ancient Salt Shops: Explore relics like Xiayan Store and Yongcheng Trading Post, which served as hubs for the "Ba Salt Trail" connecting Sichuan to Hubei.
Cultural Heritage
Xituo was the starting point of the Ba Salt Ancient Road, a vital trade route since the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE). The town’s thousand-year-old wells and Qianjiaoquan tradition—where households placed water jars for porters—reflect its salt-trading legacy.
Scenic Vistas
At dusk, the Yangtze River glows golden under the setting sun, while lantern-lit alleys evoke a timeless charm. Don’t miss the panoramic view from Tianjie Corridor, a modern bridge linking old and new districts.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November): Mild temperatures (15–25°C) and fewer crowds make these seasons ideal for exploring.
Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Capture the ethereal beauty of Yunti Street under soft light or mist.
Avoid Summer (June–August): High humidity and temperatures over 30°C can be challenging for hiking.
Getting There
From Chongqing: Take a high-speed train to Shizhu Station (1.5 hours), then transfer to a local bus (40 minutes).
Direct Bus: A daily coach departs Chongqing North Station at 12:30 PM (3-hour ride).
Essentials
Wear sturdy shoes for climbing the steep steps.
Carry water and sun protection; shaded areas are limited.
Respect local customs: Avoid touching historical relics or entering closed heritage sites.