Location & Transportation

The Ladder of Love sits within the stunning Sijiangshan National Scenic Area in Jiangjin District, Chongqing. To reach this romantic spot, first fly into Chongqing and take a 2-hour bus or drive to Zhongshan Ancient Town (a historic gem itself). From there, it’s a 30-minute taxi or hike to Changle Village, where the ladder begins. The journey feels like stepping back in time—remote, but absolutely worth it for the story and scenery.

Natural Beauty: A Wild Escape

Nestled in dense forests and cliffs, the Ladder of Love winds through Sijiangshan’s misty mountains. Imagine towering trees, roaring waterfalls, and air so fresh it feels like a spa. The 6,208 handmade steps are carved right into the rock, some steep, some narrow—but every step offers views of lush green valleys and distant peaks. Bring a camera for the fog-draped mornings; it looks straight out of a fairy tale!

Human Story: Love Against the Odds

This isn’t just a staircase—it’s a love letter carved in stone. In the 1950s, a young farmer named Liu Guojiang fell for Xu Chaoqing, a widow 10 years his senior. To escape village gossip, they fled to the wilderness. For 50 years, Liu hand-chiseled these steps so Xu could safely visit family. When he died in 2007, she followed in 2012. Today, the “Ladder of Love” symbolizes devotion—couples often walk it hand-in-hand, leaving locks on nearby fences.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience

Hiking the ladder is part adventure, part reflection. Start early to avoid crowds (and afternoon heat). The path is rough, so wear grippy shoes—trust me, you’ll thank me at step 3,000! Along the way, pause at lookouts for sweeping valley views. At the bottom, Zhongshan Town rewards you with hot noodles and old-timey streets. Pro tip: Visit on a drizzly day; the mist makes the ladder feel even more mystic.

Practical Tips

  • Guides: Hire a local guide (~100 RMB) to hear the full love story and navigate tricky spots.
  • Stay: Zhongshan Town has simple guesthouses; book ahead during holidays.
  • Respect: Be quiet near the ladder’s end—it’s sacred to many.
  • Time: Allocate 4-5 hours for the full climb (or shorter if you turn back).

The Ladder of Love isn’t just a hike—it’s a walk through history, nature, and human spirit. Whether you’re a romantic, an adventurer, or a story-lover, this place will stick with you. As the locals say: “A lifetime of carving stone, a love that defied time.”