Dazhou Travel Guide: The Ancient Ba State and the majestic Bashan Canyon

1.Introduction: The Capital of Natural Gas and the Gateway to Eastern Sichuan Dazhou is a prefecture-level city located in the eastern part of Sichuan Province. Geographically, it sits at the southern foot of the Daba Mountains, bordering Chongqing Municipality to the south and Shaanxi Province to the north. It serves as a crucial transportation hub and a strategic gateway connecting Sichuan, Chongqing, and Shaanxi. Known historically as "Tongzhou," Dazhou has a profound history dating back thousands of years and is celebrated as the "Capital of Natural Gas in China" due to its massive natural gas reserves. The city is also renowned as the "Hometown of Ramie" (Chinese grass), producing a significant portion of the country's high-quality ramie textiles. The Qujiang River, a major tributary in the Yangtze River basin, winds through the territory, nurturing the fertile land and creating a landscape characterized by rolling hills and river valleys. Dazhou is not just an industrial powerhouse but a city with a deep cultural soul, being one of the cradles of the ancient Ba civilization. The spirit of the Ba people—brave, rugged, and enthusiastic—is deeply ingrained in the local character and customs.

2.The Majestic Daba Mountains and Bashan Grand: Canyon The topography of Dazhou is dominated by the Daba Mountains in the north, creating a dramatic backdrop of peaks and valleys. The most famous scenic spot is the Bashan Grand Canyon (Bashan Daxiagu). This geological wonder features towering cliffs, deep gorges, and lush vegetation. It is a place where visitors can experience the raw power of nature. The canyon is also home to the Tujia ethnic minority, adding a layer of colorful folk culture to the natural beauty. Visitors can hike through the "One Line Sky" gorges, raft down turbulent rivers, and witness the unique karst landforms that characterize this region. The vertical climatic zones here create a diverse ecosystem, making it a paradise for hikers and nature photographers. The mountains here are not just scenic; they are historically significant. They formed a natural barrier that protected the Sichuan Basin and served as a passage for ancient trade routes and military marches. The "Road to Shu" (Shu Dao) network extends into this region, echoing the challenges and triumphs of ancient travelers.

3.Cultural Heritage: The Soul of the Ba People Dazhou is the heartland of the ancient Ba culture. The Luo Family Dam (Luojiaba) Ruins discovered here are of immense archaeological significance, revealing the life and rituals of the Ba people from the Eastern Zhou period. The intricate bronze weapons, ritual vessels, and boat-shaped coffins found in Dazhou testify to a highly developed civilization that rivaled the Shu civilization in the west. Another cultural landmark is Zhenfo Mountain (True Buddha Mountain). Unlike many other temples, the temple complex here was originally a family shrine that grew into a massive religious site blending Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The architecture is unique, built directly onto the steep cliffs without the use of a single nail in some structures, showcasing the ingenuity of traditional Chinese carpentry and engineering. It is a place of pilgrimage and a testament to the region's religious tolerance and syncretism.

4.The Red History: Dazhou also holds a special place in modern Chinese history as a revolutionary base. During the Red Army's Long March and the establishment of the Sichuan-Shaanxi Revolutionary Base, Dazhou was a key area for recruitment and battles. The Red Army Cultural Park and various memorial sites throughout the city honor the sacrifices made by the local people and the Red Army soldiers. This "Red Culture" is an integral part of Dazhou's identity, representing resilience and dedication.

5.Modern Development and Urban Life: Today, Dazhou is a bustling modern city. The city center, centered around the Tongchuan District, is lively with shopping malls, pedestrian streets, and riverfront parks along the Zhouhe River (a tributary of Qujiang). The night view of Dazhou is spectacular, with lights reflecting off the river, giving it a vibrant atmosphere similar to Chongqing but with its own unique pace. The city is actively developing its tourism infrastructure, making it easier for visitors to access the remote beauty of the Daba Mountains while enjoying comfortable urban amenities. The natural environment of Dazhou is lush and green. The city has invested heavily in ecological preservation, creating a "Forest City" where urban spaces are integrated with nature. The climate is humid subtropical, with four distinct seasons, offering different kinds of beauty from the blooming flowers of spring to the colorful leaves of autumn in the mountains.

In summary, Dazhou is a city of contrasts and harmony. It is where the ancient Ba drums echo against the roar of modern gas drilling rigs; where the misty peaks of the Daba Mountains overlook the bustling river ports; and where the spicy aroma of hotpot mingles with the fresh mountain air. For travelers seeking an authentic experience of Eastern Sichuan—one that combines history, nature, and industry—Dazhou is a destination waiting to be explored.