Qijiang District

Gujian Mountain, or "Ancient Sword Mountain," is a Buddhist sacred site steeped in legend and spiritual significance. The mountain gets its name from a striking peak that resembles an ancient sword pointing skyward, a shape formed over millennia by natural erosion. The mountain is home to the Gujian Mountain Temple Complex, which dates back to the Tang Dynasty and has been a center of Buddhist pilgrimage for over a thousand years. The main temple, perched dramatically on the mountainside, features exquisite wood carvings, ancient Buddhist relics, and sweeping views of the surrounding valleys.

Hiking trails wind through the mountain's dense forests, passing numerous pavilions, stone carvings, and meditation caves used by monks throughout history. The summit, known as "Sword Peak," offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Qijiang River valley and, on clear days, the distant outlines of surrounding mountain ranges. The area is particularly atmospheric during Buddhist festivals when the temple comes alive with chanting, incense offerings, and colorful ceremonies. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit, when the weather is mild and the mountain scenery is at its most beautiful.

Dongxi Ancient Town, with its 2,200-year history, is one of the most underrated historical gems in Chongqing's vicinity. Originally established as a postal station on an ancient salt route connecting Sichuan to Guizhou, the town developed into a prosperous commercial center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The old town preserves its original layout of twisting stone-paved lanes, traditional courtyard homes with carved wooden screens, and several ancestral halls that showcase the architectural finesse of bygone eras. Unlike many restored ancient towns, Dongxi retains an authentic, lived-in atmosphere where local residents continue centuries-old traditions.

A highlight of any visit is the Dongxi Ancient Theater, a beautifully preserved structure from the Qing Dynasty where traditional Sichuan opera is still performed during festivals. The town's landmark is the 400-year-old Yellow Ge Tree (黄葛树), a massive banyan tree with a canopy that shades an entire plaza. The nearby Dongxi River gorge offers pleasant riverside walking paths with views of ancient bridges and waterwheels. Local artisans produce exquisite bamboo weavings and traditional paper umbrellas, and the weekly market brings farmers from surrounding villages with fresh produce and local crafts.

Nestled in the hills of southern Qijiang, Dingshan Lake is a serene reservoir surrounded by lush forest-covered mountains. Created by the damming of the Songkan River, the lake stretches for kilometers through narrow valleys, creating a landscape reminiscent of the Chinese watercolor paintings. The lake's crystal-clear waters reflect the dense bamboo forests and rocky cliffs that line its shores, creating a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and nature appreciation. The area is particularly beautiful in early morning when mist rises from the lake surface, creating an ethereal scene.

Visitors can explore the lake by renting pedal boats or motorboats, or by hiking the trails that circumnavigate the shoreline. The surrounding mountains offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with over 100 species recorded in the area including herons, kingfishers, and various migratory waterfowl. Several island pavilions and floating walkways provide perfect vantage points for photography. The lake area has developed moderate tourism infrastructure with lakeside guesthouses, barbecue areas, and a small boardwalk. Dingshan Lake is especially popular during summer when it serves as a cool retreat from Chongqing's oppressive heat.

Hengshan, known as the "Back Garden of Chongqing," is a mountain resort area that has gained popularity for its comfortable climate and pristine natural environment. Located at an elevation of about 1,000 meters, Hengshan enjoys temperatures that are consistently 5–8°C cooler than downtown Chongqing, making it a favorite summer escape for locals. The mountain is covered in dense mixed forests of pine, cypress, and bamboo, interspersed with wildflowers that bloom in spectacular profusion during spring and early summer. Several streams cascade down the mountainside, creating small waterfalls and natural swimming pools.

The Hengshan Scenic Area features well-developed hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, from gentle nature walks to more challenging uphill treks. The "Forest Skywalk" is a highlight — an elevated boardwalk that takes visitors through the treetops for a unique perspective of the mountain ecosystem. Observation decks at strategic points offer sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, including glimpses of the distant Qijiang River. The area has seen significant development of vacation homes and resorts, but careful planning means the natural beauty remains largely undisturbed. Autumn is particularly spectacular when the forest transforms into a canvas of warm colors.

Qijiang Farmer Painting is a distinctive folk art form that has put the district on the international cultural map. Originating in the 1980s from the creative talents of local farmers, this unique art style combines traditional Chinese woodblock printing techniques with bold, modern artistic expression. The paintings depict rural life in vivid colors and simplified forms — scenes of farming, festivals, weddings, and daily village activities rendered with an innocence and vitality that has captivated art collectors worldwide. The style has been exhibited in galleries across Europe, North America, and Japan, earning Qijiang the title "Home of Chinese Modern Folk Painting."

The Qijiang Farmer Painting Gallery in the district center is the best place to experience this art form. The gallery features a permanent collection of over 500 works, rotating exhibitions, and live demonstrations where visitors can watch artists at work and even try their hand at printmaking. The art style has evolved over the decades, with contemporary artists incorporating new themes while maintaining the distinctive aesthetic. Paintings are available for purchase, making unique souvenirs with authentic cultural value. The annual Qijiang Farmer Painting Festival, held each autumn, brings together artists from across China for exhibitions, competitions, and cultural exchanges.

This district continues to reveal new attractions and experiences for visitors. Local cultural sites, natural landscapes, and community events offer authentic glimpses into daily life in Chongqing's diverse districts. The area is particularly known for its warm hospitality and unique regional characteristics.

Travelers who venture here often discover hidden gems not found in typical guidebooks. From local festivals to weekend markets, from family-run eateries to scenic walking paths, the district rewards curious explorers with genuine experiences that create lasting memories of their time in Chongqing municipality.