Overview
Chiyou Jiuli City, located in Pengshui County, Chongqing, is the world's largest traditional Miao architectural complex, known as the "Oriental Miao Capital." Its core buildings include the world record-breaking Jiuli Palace (a 99-meter-high stilted building), nine gates, and the Nine Li Divine Pillars.
A visit to the scenic area is recommended to last 4 to 6 hours. The best time to visit is from April to October each year, when the weather is pleasant. Visiting during Miao festivals such as the "Third Day of the Third Lunar Month," "Eighth Day of the Fourth Lunar Month," or the Miao New Year will allow you to experience the most authentic ethnic customs.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to get there from downtown Chongqing is by car. Take the G65 Baomao Expressway and exit at "Pengshui West," a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. Alternatively, take public transportation: from the Chongqing Sijiang Transportation Hub, take a bus to Pengshui County (about 3 hours), then a 15-minute taxi ride. High-speed rail is now available; take the Chongqing-Xiamen High-Speed Railway from Chongqing East Station to Pengshui West Station in just 40 minutes, then a 10-minute taxi ride to the scenic area.
Recommended Itinerary: Enter through the "Nine Gates," then visit the "Jiuli Palace" to explore its architectural aesthetics, pay homage at the "Chiyou Hall," and subsequently visit the "Miao King's Palace" and the "Miao Ethnic Museum." If time permits, enjoy a long table banquet, and don't miss the bonfire party and light show on summer nights.
What to Expect
The scenic area is primarily paved with stone slabs, and due to its hillside location, there are many steps; comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and caution should be exercised when stepping. The facilities are relatively complete, with restrooms and gift shops in the core area, and a shopping arcade and food street offering silver jewelry, handicrafts, and Miao snacks. Rest areas are available in the main buildings, but the walking distance is quite long, which may be challenging for elderly people with mobility issues.
Practical Tips
- Plan at least 3-4 hours onsite; the complex is spread out, so consider the optional sightseeing car (about ¥20) if traveling with children or older family members.
- Go in spring or autumn and arrive before 10:00 or after 16:00 for softer light and fewer tour groups; summer afternoons in Pengshui can feel hot and humid.
- Use Gaode Maps or Baidu Maps in Chinese by searching '蚩尤九黎城' — English place names are less reliable for taxi drivers and local navigation.
- There is a live performance of "Miao Ancestor and Chi You" every Friday/Saturday evening (tickets are sold separately).
