"Waiting for a city of smoke and rain, only for you, a lifetime of love, only with you" strolling through Chadong, in Chadong I found the real border city written by Shen Congwen.
First, the natural scenery and geographical location
Located in Huayuan County, Xiangxi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Hunan Province, at the intersection of Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing provinces, Border City Chatong enjoys the reputation of "one foot in three provinces". The terrain here is dangerous, surrounded by water on three sides, and backed by mountains on one side, and the natural scenery is picturesque. The Qingshui River of Chadong passes through the city, the left bank of the river is Hong'an Town of Xiushan County of Chongqing, and the right bank is the border town of Chadong Town of Huayuan County, Hunan Province, and the river is connected by the Hongcha Bridge, forming a unique natural landscape.
2. Humanities and History
Chadong has a long history, dating back to the Paleolithic period. Historically, it was a military pass and a hub for commerce and trade, and it was a multicultural blend. Starting from the wharf of Chadong Ancient Town,
came to the command post where Liu Deng's army advanced to the southwest to cross the river. It has witnessed that magnificent history, and the impassioned slogans of the soldiers have echoed for a long time. The old site of the command post is well preserved, and I feel the heaviness and glory of those eventful years.
Then we went to Shen Congwen's former residence. As a giant of modern Chinese literature, Shen Congwen depicts the customs and customs of this land with his delicate brushstrokes. The former residence displays Mr. Shen Congwen's photos, manuscripts and relics, and you can taste the charm of literature while gaining an in-depth understanding of the life and creative background of this literary master.
Take a boat ride to Emerald Island. It is named after the heroine Cui Cui in Shen Congwen's novel "Border City", and the island is full of green trees and flowers. It costs some boat fare to get to the island, and when you stand on the island, overlooking the turquoise river and the ancient town in the distance, be amazed.
Leaving Emerald Island, we head to the White Tower. The White Pagoda stands on the top of the hill and is one of the landmarks of the ancient town of Chadong. Climb the White Pagoda and overlook the entire ancient town and the surrounding landscapes, which is refreshing.
We came to the Three Provinces Observation Deck. When climbing a section of mountain road, standing on the observation deck, and looking at the magnificent scenery at the junction of Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing provinces, you can feel the magic of nature and the unique geographical location of the border city.
After touring these attractions, we started to return to the pier. On the way, you might as well experience the unique atmosphere of Laladu. It is an ancient way of crossing the river, which requires manpower to pull boats across the river. Sitting on the boat, feeling the fluctuations of the river and the scenery on both sides of the river, it seems to have returned to that innocent era.
In front of the stele of the three provinces. This stele witnesses the intersection of Hunan, Guizhou and Chongqing provinces, and is an important symbol of the geographical location of Chadong Ancient Town. Standing in front of the stone monument, you can feel the deep history and cultural heritage of this land.
Third, special food
The delicacies of Chadong are rich and diverse, such as horn fish, rice tofu,
Bloody Duck,
Miaojia sauerkraut, etc. The unique taste and aroma of the wild mountain mushroom of "bush fungus" is a must-try delicacy for tourists.
Fourth, folk culture
The culture of Chadong is rich and colorful, and the cultures of various ethnic groups are blended here. There are traditional buildings and national costumes of the Tujia and Miao peoples, and there are rich folk arts and traditional festivals.
5. Travel tips
Transportation: You can get to Cha Dong by plane, train or car.
From Changsha, you can take a train or long-distance bus to reach Huayuan County, and then transfer to local transportation to Chadong.
From Chongqing, you can take a long-distance bus or train to Xiushan County, and then transfer to local transportation to Chadong.
Climate and clothing: Chadong belongs to the subtropical mountain monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons and abundant rainfall. Appropriate clothing and rain gear should be brought according to the season and weather conditions.
Precautions: There are many mosquitoes in summer, so it is recommended to bring mosquito repellent medicines. Chadong dishes tend to be spicy, so tourists who are sensitive to spicy food should be careful.
epilogue
The border city of Chadong, this poetic ancient town, has beautiful natural scenery and profound cultural heritage. Come here to feel the local feelings of Shen Congwen's writing, and experience the unique folk culture and food. Chadong is waiting for every visitor to come and share the beauty of time and space.
☑️ Ticket information
✔️ The ancient town is free
✔️ Laladu (Hunan-Chongqing) 2R
✔️ Cruise ship (one foot across three provinces) 25r
️ Parking lot 40/car (3 days and 2 nights)