Chiyou Jiuli City: Exploring the Sacred Land of Miao Culture

## **Chiyou Jiuli City Travel Guide: Exploring the Sacred Land of Miao Culture** ### **1. Destination Overview** Chiyou Jiuli City is located in Pengshui County, Chongqing, and is the world's largest traditional Miao architectural complex. Centered around the themes of Chiyou culture and the Jiuli tribe, it is hailed as the "Oriental Miao Capital." The scenic area meticulously recreates the living scenes of the ancient Miao people, making it a vital window into Miao history and culture. ### **2. Best Time to Visit** - **April to October**: Pleasant weather with abundant activities - **July to August**: Peak summer season with vibrant nighttime events - **Miao Festivals**: March 3rd, April 8th, and Miao New Year (experience the richest ethnic customs) ### **3. Transportation** 1. **Self-Driving (Recommended)**: - From downtown Chongqing: Take the Baomao Expressway → Pengshui West (approx. 2.5 hours) - Navigate to "Chiyou Jiuli City"; the scenic area has a large parking lot 2. **Public Transport**: - Take a bus from Chongqing's Sigongli Transportation Hub to Pengshui (approx. 3 hours) - From Pengshui County, take a taxi to the scenic area (approx. 15 minutes/20 CNY) ### **4. Key Attractions** **1. Iconic Architecture** - **Jiuli Palace**: The world's tallest stilted building (99 meters) - **Nine Gates**: The Miao architectural landscape with the most gates in the world - **Chiyou Grand Hall**: A sacred temple dedicated to Chiyou, the ancestor of the Miao people **2. Cultural Experiences** - **Miao Museum**: Displays Miao costumes, silverware, and other cultural heritage - **Jiuli Tribe Area**: Recreates the living scenes of ancient Miao people - **Pange Hall**: Enjoy authentic Miao songs and dances ### **5. Unique Experiences** - **Costume Photos**: Rent traditional Miao attire (20-50 CNY/set) - **Long Table Banquet**: Experience the highest form of Miao hospitality - **Bonfire Party**: Sing and dance with the Miao people at night - **Miao Herbal Foot Soak**: Try traditional Miao wellness practices ### **6. Recommended Itineraries** **One-Day Tour** - Morning: Nine Gates → Jiuli Palace → Chiyou Grand Hall - Noon: Miao-style Long Table Banquet - Afternoon: Miao Museum → Jiuli Tribe Area - Evening: Bonfire Party (summer only) **Two-Day In-Depth Tour** - **Day 1**: Depart from downtown → Explore Jiuli City → Stay overnight in a Miao village homestay - **Day 2**: Aiyi River Rafting/Mowei Mountain Forest Park → Return ### **7. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Within the Scenic Area**: - Jiuli Grand Hotel (Miao-themed) - **Pengshui County**: - Liangjiang Holiday Hotel (4-star) - Budget-friendly chain hotels ### **8. Food Recommendations** - **Miao Three Delicacies**: Sour Fish Soup, Zhahai Pepper Stir-Fried Pork, Buckwheat Tofu Pudding - **Dujuanzi**: A Pengshui specialty snack - **Heart and Lung Rice Noodles**: A local breakfast favorite - **Rice Tofu**: A refreshing Miao snack ### **9. Important Tips** 1. **Respect Local Customs**: - Do not touch Miao silverware without permission - Ask for consent before photographing locals 2. **Clothing Advice**: - Wear comfortable flat shoes due to many steps in the scenic area - Bring a light jacket for temperature variations 3. **Shopping Tips**: - Be cautious when purchasing silverware and handicrafts - Bargaining is acceptable ### **10. Practical Information** - **Ticket Price**: 90 CNY (includes performances) - **Opening Hours**: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (night activities until 9:00 PM) - **Recommended Visit Duration**: 4-6 hours - **Best Photo Spots**: - Jiuli Palace Viewing Platform - Panoramic View of Nine Gates - Stilted Building Complex ### **11. Conclusion** Chiyou Jiuli City is not only an architectural marvel but also a living museum of Miao culture. Here, you can travel through time to experience the wisdom of the ancient Miao people and immerse yourself in authentic Miao traditions, making it one of Chongqing's most unique cultural travel destinations. **📌 Pro Tip: Don’t miss the scenic area’s nighttime light show—stay until dusk to enjoy it!** 🏯🎆