Baisha Ancient Town, a populous town in Chongqing, China, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance. During the Anti-Japanese War period, Baisha was one of the ‘Four Cultural Dams’ of Sichuan, alongside Chongqing’s Shapingba, Beibei’s Xiaba, and Chengdu’s Huaxi Ba. As a key rear base for the wartime capital Chongqing, it was also part of the three major cultural areas of the capital.
The town’s character is defined by its war relics and the picturesque scenery of stilted buildings. Over 20 cultural sites from the war period still stand, including the He Nian Hall, Baiwu Academy of Arts, and Chaotianzui Wharf. Baisha’s streets are imbued with a strong wartime atmosphere, featuring both stilted buildings and a temple with continuous music.
The residential architecture in Baisha reflects a rich blend of ethnic cultures from various regions, the influence of Western culture, and the local customs of the Ba and Yu regions. This fusion incorporates characteristics of northern and Hui-style architecture. There are many traditional residences dating from the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, as well as temples and Western-style buildings with historical significance.
Baisha Ancient Town is an ideal destination for those who appreciate history and old architecture. Points of interest include Ju Kui Middle School, riverside stilted buildings, wharfs, and the Plank Street, all of which are captivating. With few tourists, the historical streets of Baisha maintain a unique charm, grand scale, and well-preserved buildings, making it a true Ba and Yu mountain residential architectural complex.The unique architecture, reminiscent of the old Chaotianmen Wharf in Chongqing, has attracted many film and television crews. Many films and television dramas have been shot here, making Baisha Ancient Town an important filming base in Chongqing.
Heishi Mountain, where Ju Kui Middle School is located, is also a campus scenic spot in Chongqing. Named after its large black stones, it has unique natural scenery and a variety of precious trees and birds, such as the 400-500-year-old Arhat pine and the 1.8-meter-diameter camphor tree, as well as thousands of egrets.
Baisha Town has two old streets. One is along the river in the ancient town, and the other is hidden within the urban area. The town is not large, and the roads are easy to navigate without the need for a car. Simply ask a local for directions. You can start from Chaotianzui and stroll along the river to explore the ancient town.
The ancient town has not yet been fully developed and protected, and tourist facilities are not very complete. Many places are already dilapidated, showing a sense of vicissitudes and the end of an era. It is a must-see for photography enthusiasts. There are usually few tourists. But after experiencing the bustling and noisy ancient towns, visiting this Baisha, rich in the atmosphere of life, is a rare experience.
The opening hours and business status are subject to the actual situation on the day. Must-see tips: 1. The old streets of the ancient town are already dilapidated, with only a few elderly people who have lived there for a long time.When visiting the old district, be mindful of the slippery steps due to the moss growth, a result of the scarcity of visitors in many areas. Take extra caution to avoid slipping and falling. For meals, consider walking to the new district.
