Location & How to Get There

Oil Mill Road sits in Gongtian Ancient Town, a gem nestled along the banks of the Wujiang River in Youyang Tujia Autonomous County, Chongqing. To reach this hidden spot, first fly into Chongqing Jiangbei Airport or take a train to Chongqing South Station. From there, hop on a 4-hour bus to Youyang Town, then transfer to a local shuttle bus toward Gongtian. The winding roads offer glimpses of mist-covered mountains—keep your camera ready! Once in Gongtian, follow the cobblestone streets toward Xinhua Community; you’ll spot Renyi Hotel (near address #11), which acts as a perfect landmark.

Natural Scenery: River, Mountains, and Moods

Oil Mill Road lives up to its name with a riverside vibe. The Wujiang River flows right beside it, flanked by jagged cliffs and lush green hills. Early mornings here are magical—thick fog curls over the water like a blanket, making the wooden stilts houses (local dwellings) look like they’re floating. Walk along the road, and you’ll pass banyan trees draped in moss, their branches dipping toward the river. In summer, the breeze here feels cooler than in bustling Chongqing, while winter dusts the landscape with a quiet, snowy charm. Don’t miss the sunset—the orange sky reflects off the water, turning Oil Mill Road into a golden corridor.

Cultural Gems: History and Local Life

Step onto Oil Mill Road, and you’re stepping back in time. This path has witnessed Tujia and Miao cultures for centuries. The stilts houses lining the road aren’t just pretty—they’re built on steep slopes to avoid floods, a smart trick passed down through generations. Some homes still use traditional oil mills (though mostly for tourism now), where you can watch workers crush seeds into oil. Chat with locals, and they might share stories about ancient salt trade routes that once thrived here. At night, the town’s lanterns glow warmly, casting a soft light on Oil Mill Road’s stone steps—a reminder of how closely life here ties to the land.

Practical Tips: Food, Stays, and More

Visiting Oil Mill Road? Keep these tips handy:

  • Stay: The nearby Renyi Hotel (mentioned earlier) offers comfy rooms with river views. Book early—it’s a hotspot for travelers!
  • Eat: Try Wujiang river fish (cooked spicy, of course) at local stalls. For a snack, grab gluten balls dipped in sweet soy sauce—a Tujia specialty.
  • Facilities: The town is small but tourist-ready. You’ll find clean restrooms, tiny shops selling handwoven textiles, and spots to rent traditional outfits for photos. Just bring cash—some places don’t take cards.

The Experience: Why It’s Worth Your Time

Wandering through Oil Mill Road feels like exploring a living museum. Unlike crowded spots in Chongqing, here you’ll find peace. Sit by the riverbank, listen to boatmen sing as they ferry goods, or join a handicraft workshop to weave your own cloth. The best part? Few tourists venture this far, so you’ll often have scenic views (and photo ops) all to yourself. Just remember: wear comfy shoes—the road is steep, and those stairs aren’t for the faint-hearted!

In short, Oil Mill Road isn’t just a sightseeing stop—it’s a chance to slow down, breathe mountain air, and connect with China’s ethnic heritage. Whether you’re into photography, history, or simply escaping city chaos, this slice of Gongtian Ancient Town will leave you spellbound.