Longtan Ancient Town

Historical Overview

Founded during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279), Longtan Ancient Town rose to prominence in the Ming and Qing dynasties as a key node on the ancient salt trade route. Merchants transported salt from nearby Yunyang via the Wuling River, transforming the town into a bustling commercial center. Over centuries, it absorbed influences from Miao and Tujia cultures, evident in its festivals, cuisine, and folk arts. During the Red Army’s Long March (1934–1935), Longtan became a strategic base, leaving behind revolutionary relics. Today, it stands as a living museum of China’s ethnic diversity and economic history.

Structural Layout

Longtan’s layout follows a “three rivers, six streets, nine alleys” pattern, with the Wuling River and two tributaries winding through its core. Key sections include:

• Ancient Dock Area: The heart of salt trade, featuring stone-paved wharves and warehouses from the Qing Dynasty.
• Ming-Qing Street: A 1.5-kilometer-long corridor lined with 200+ wooden stilted houses, shops, and temples.
• Ethnic Quarter: Home to Miao and Tujia communities, with traditional drum towers, embroidery workshops, and rice wine distilleries.
• Red Tourism Zone: Includes the Longtan Revolutionary Memorial Hall and former Red Army headquarters.

Major Attractions

1. Stilted Houses (Diaojiaolou): Over 300 wooden houses with overhanging eaves, built on stilts above the river to prevent flooding. Many date back to the Ming Dynasty.
2. Ancient Dock: A restored 18th-century wharf with stone steps leading to the river, once used for loading salt and tea.
3. Wuling River Gallery: A scenic 5-kilometer boat ride offering views of karst mountains and terraced fields.
4. Miao-Tujia Cultural Museum: Displays traditional costumes, silver jewelry, and musical instruments like the lusheng (reed pipe).
5. Tung Oil Trade Relics: Includes an old tung oil press and storage vats, highlighting the town’s 200-year history as a tung oil export hub.
6. Night Market: Every evening, the main street transforms into a lively bazaar selling local snacks, handicrafts, and folk performances.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (3–4 hours):
   Ancient Dock → Ming-Qing Street → Stilted Houses → Miao-Tujia Cultural Museum → Wuling River Gallery (boat ride) → Night Market.
   Highlights: Salt trade history, ethnic architecture, and river scenery.
2. Cultural Deep Dive (5–6 hours):
   Ancient Dock → Tung Oil Trade Relics → Longtan Revolutionary Memorial Hall → Ethnic Quarter (drum tower visit) → Lunch at a riverside restaurant → Night Market.
   Highlights: Revolutionary history, indigenous crafts, and local cuisine.
3. Family-Friendly Tour (4 hours):
   Ming-Qing Street → Children’s Park (traditional games) → Wuling River Gallery → Night Market (street food tasting).
   Highlights: Interactive experiences and scenic walks.

Ticket Purchase

• Entrance Fee: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors). Free for children under 1.2m.
• Combo Tickets: ¥60 includes boat ride and museum entry.
• Online: Book via WeChat mini-program Longtan Ancient Town Tourism up to 3 days in advance.
• On-Site: Tickets available at the Ancient Dock entrance (cash/mobile payment).

Transportation

• By Bus: From Chongqing Chaotianmen Bus Station, take a 3-hour bus to Youyang County, then transfer to a local minibus (30 minutes) to Longtan.
• By Taxi/Private Car: Direct ride from Chongqing (2.5 hours, ¥300–400).
• Parking: Free at the town’s main entrance; recommended for self-drive visitors.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: April–October (mild weather, lush greenery).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays are quieter; weekends attract local tourists.
• Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone streets can be slippery).
  • Bring insect repellent for river walks.
  • Try lajiu (spicy rice wine) and suancai (fermented vegetables) at local eateries.
  • Respect ethnic customs: ask permission before photographing locals.
  • Early morning (7–9 AM) is ideal for capturing misty river views.