Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Chongqing

The Living Legacy of the Tusi Chieftains: A Journey into Youzhou Ancient City

🏯Old Towns 📸Photography

Altitude

690m

Best Time

🌸 🍂

Ticket

Paid

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.Youzhou Ancient: City is a magnificent historical treasure nestled in the heart of Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Chongqing. Often hailed as a "living ancient city" and a "biological fossil of architecture," it stands as the largest and most well-preserved ancient city complex from the Ming and Qing Dynasties in the Great Wuling Mountain area. Located centrally in the Youyang county seat, the city stretches along a mountain ridge, covering a core area of approximately 0.5 square kilometers at an altitude of 670 meters. It is not merely a static display of history but a vibrant community where the ancient Tujia culture and the legacy of the Tusi (chieftain) rule continue to breathe,,.

The city’s history is deeply intertwined with the Tusi system, having served as the political, economic, and cultural center of the Youyang Prefecture for centuries. Walking through its gates feels like stepping back 600 years. The city is laid out along a central axis, following the rugged mountain terrain. Its most iconic feature is Xishan Old Street (West Mountain Old Street), a 1.3-kilometer-long cobblestone path that winds upwards like a dragon. Flanking this historic street are rows of traditional Diaojiaolou (stilt houses), characterized by their flying eaves, green tiles, and intricate wood carvings. A clear stream flows through the street, adding a dynamic rhythm to the static beauty of the architecture. Unlike many commercialized old towns, Youzhou retains a strong sense of daily life, with locals still residing in the wooden courtyards, chatting in teahouses, and maintaining their ancestral customs,,.

One of the city's most fascinating aspects is its cultural inclusiveness. It serves as a physical record of the fusion between the indigenous Ba culture and outside influences. Visitors can explore the solemn Youyang Prefecture Tusi Ruins, symbolizing the ancient local authority, and just a short walk away, find a rare juxtaposition of a traditional Confucian Temple and a Catholic Church. This architectural proximity highlights the historical openness of Youzhou as a hub on the border of Sichuan, Hubei, Hunan, and Guizhou,,.

The city is also a significant site for "Red Tourism," housing the Former Residence of Zhao Shiyan, a renowned early leader of the Communist Party of China. This Qing-dynasty wooden courtyard offers a glimpse into the upbringing of a revolutionary hero amidst the traditional scholar-gentry environment of the region. At night, the city transforms into a dreamlike spectacle. Lanterns illuminate the stilt houses, and the Ancient City Observation Deck offers a panoramic view of the glowing settlement against the dark silhouette of the Wuling Mountains, creating a scene reminiscent of a "Sky City",,.

Whether you are admiring the exquisite stone carvings, tasting local Tujia cuisine like oil tea, or simply listening to the distant echo of a folk song while strolling down the flagstone street, Youzhou Ancient City offers an immersive journey into the soul of the Tujia people and the grandeur of mountain civilization.

✨ Why Visit Youzhou Ancient City

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A reconstructed ancient city showcasing the architectural style and culture of the Tujia ethnic minority

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Traditional Tujia stilted wooden buildings (Diaojiaolou) with intricate carvings and tiled roofs

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The city walls and gate towers built with local stone, reflecting historical military defense structures

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A cultural hub with preserved artifacts and exhibits on local folk customs and history

Location & Nearby

📍 Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Chongqing • 🏔️ 690m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Youzhou Ancient City Travel Guide

Where is Youzhou Ancient City located?

It is located in the center of Youyang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Chongqing Municipality, nestled in the Wuling Mountains,.

What is the best time to visit? The best seasons are generally April to May and September to October, when the weather is mild and the vegetation is lush. Early mornings and evenings offer the best atmosphere for photography,.

Is the city just a museum? No, it is considered a "living" ancient city. While it has museum-like attractions, it is also a residential area where locals live, creating a vibrant, authentic atmosphere,.

What cultural activities can be seen? You can experience Tujia customs such as the Hand-waving Dance (Baishou Dance), folk songs, and traditional festivals. The city is often referred to as a "living museum of Tujia culture",.

How long does a visit take? A typical visit takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk through the main street and visit the key historical sites like the Tusi ruins and Zhao Shiyan's residence.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Youzhou Ancient City?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.