Geographical Location

Zouma Ancient Town sits in the heart of Chongqing’s Jiangbei District, tucked between rolling hills and the winding Jialing River. It’s just a 30-minute drive from downtown Chongqing, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. The town feels worlds away from the city’s hustle, yet it’s easy to reach by car, bus, or even a scenic riverboat ride.

How to Get There

To visit Zouma Ancient Town, hop on the LightRail Line 2 to Jiangbeiqu station, then grab a local taxi or bike. If you’re driving, follow the signs to Jiangbei District—parking is simple, and the town’s narrow streets are best explored on foot. For a unique experience, take a ferry along the Jialing River; the views of mist-covered mountains are worth the ride!

Natural Scenery: A Sea of Blossoms

One of Zouma’s biggest draws is its peach blossom season. Every March, the Jinma Lake area turns into a pink-and-white paradise, with petals swirling like confetti. Walk along the lake’s winding paths, and you’ll feel like you’re in a painting. Even outside bloom season, the town is surrounded by lush hills, bamboo forests, and tiny streams—perfect for quiet hikes or photo ops.

Cultural Treasures: Step Back in Time

Zouma Ancient Town has been a hub for over 700 years! Back in the day, traders traveling between Chongqing and Chengdu would stop here, sharing stories and goods. Today, you can still see their legacy:

  • Ancient stone roads worn smooth by centuries of feet.
  • Old teahouses where locals chat over games of mahjong.
  • Qing Dynasty buildings with wooden beams and tiled roofs.
  • The Sun Family Mansion, a giant house with secret nooks.
  • The Ciyun Temple ruins, whispering tales of monks and incense.

Wander the cobblestone streets, and you’ll stumble upon blacksmiths hammering tools, old ladies selling handmade snacks, and shadows of history everywhere.

Food, Shops, and Stays

After exploring, refuel at Zouma’s street food stalls. Try peppercorn chicken (Chongqing’s famous dish) or peach-filled pastries during blossom season. For a break, sit in a teahouse, sip jasmine tea, and watch elders play chess.

If you want to stay overnight, there are cozy guesthouses in traditional houses. For modern comfort, nearby Jiangbei District has hotels with river views. Don’t miss the local shops selling handwoven textiles, pork jerky, and tiny clay sculptures of zodiac animals!

What to Expect: A Relaxed Vibe

Visiting Zouma Ancient Town feels like stepping into a slower world. There aren’t crowds (yet!), so you can wander freely. Spend 2–3 hours to see the main sights, or stretch it to a full day by hiking nearby trails or chatting with friendly vendors. In spring, go early to beat the blossom crowds. In summer, mornings are cooler.

Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes! The streets are rocky, and you’ll want to explore every corner. And don’t forget your camera—Zouma is Instagram gold, especially at sunset when the light dances on ancient walls.

Whether you love nature, history, or just escaping the city, Zouma Ancient Town offers a glimpse into Chongqing’s soul—without the tourist chaos. Come curious, leave charmed!