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Zhongzhou Old Alley, nestled in Zhong County, Chongqing, is a living museum of Bashu culture and Three Gorges heritage. As the largest preserved section of the original Zhong city spared by the Three Gorges Reservoir project, this 0.4-square-kilometer historic district offers visitors an immersive experience of traditional architecture, Ming-Qing dynasty relics, and nostalgic local life—all against the stunning backdrop of the Yangtze River.
Architectural Time Capsule
Ming Dynasty Stone Gate: The intact East City Gate, built in 1381, stands as a testament to the street’s 600+ years of history.
Gray-Brick Houses: Traditional cob-walled dwellings with wooden frameworks, some predating 1993, coexist with Qing-era gray-brick buildings—now rare in China.
"Micro-Renovated" Alleys: Streets like Cross Street and Bow Street retain original bluestone pavements, lined with Ming-Qing shophouses housing teahouses and artisan workshops.
Cultural Legacy
Three Gorges "Living Memory": Dubbed "Three Gorges Left-Behind City", it preserves half of old Zhong County after the reservoir submerged lower areas.
Poetic Connections: The Odong Road honors Bai Juyi, who served as Zhongzhou’s governor in 819 AD and planted trees here. Nearby Dongpo Garden recreates his idyllic verses.
Heroic Lore: Sites like Han Dynasty Que Towers commemorate legendary figures like General Ba Manzi, who beheaded himself to defend the city.
Revitalized Experiences
Local Crafts: Try handmade zongzi (inspired by Qu Yuan) or join Bashu tie-dye workshops.
Festivals: The Dragon Boat Festival and City Life Art Season (May/Oct) feature dragon dances, storytelling, and night markets.
Spring (Mar–May): Mild weather (15–25°C) perfect for strolling; peach blossoms adorn the alleys.
Autumn (Sep–Nov): Golden foliage and National Day crowds (Sep 29–Oct 6) bring lively festivities.
Avoid summer (Jun–Aug): Though shaded, humidity can exceed 85%.
Getting There
From Chongqing: 2-hour bus from Longtousi Station to Zhongxian (¥50), then a 10-minute walk to the street.
By Cruise: Yangtze River ships often stop at Zhong County Port.
Ticketing
Free entry; fees apply for workshops (¥30–80). Open 8:30 AM–9:00 PM.
Must-Do Activities
Sip tea at Sun Family Teahouse.
Photograph sunset views from East Gate.
Nearby Attractions
Shi Bao Zhai: "Pearl on the Yangtze" pagoda (1-hour drive).
Three Gorges Dam: 3-hour cruise downstream.
Etiquette Notes
Respect residential areas; some homes still house locals.
