Private Day Tour to Fishing City and Laitan Old Town in Chongqing

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Chongqing: Private Day Tour to Fishing City and Laitan Old Town

Taking a day to explore Chongqing’s lesser-known historic sites can be surprisingly rewarding. This private tour offers a chance to walk through ancient battlefields and traditional towns with a knowledgeable guide, avoiding the crowds and enjoying a personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to visit Diaoyucheng, or Fishing City, a site steeped in history and once a significant resistance point against Mongol invasions. Second, the visit to Laitan Old Town reveals a beautifully preserved slice of traditional Chinese life, with stunning house paintings and impressive Buddha statues. Finally, the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide ensures your day flows smoothly without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar territory.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite dense, with around 75 km of travel between sites, which might make the day feel a bit rushed for some. Still, if you’re eager to pack in history and culture, this trip offers excellent value and authentic insights.

This experience suits history buffs, cultural explorers, or anyone wanting a deeper connection to Chongqing beyond its modern skyline. It’s perfect if you prefer a private, tailored day rather than a crowded group tour.

Good To Know

• Historical Significance: Learn about Fishing City’s role in resisting Mongol invasions.
• Cultural Richness: Explore traditional architectures and Buddha statues in Laitan Old Town.
• Private Experience: Enjoy personalized attention from a local guide and private transportation.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: Savor a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant.
• Convenience: Pickup from your hotel simplifies logistics.
• Value: All entrance fees and bottled water are included, making it a straightforward day trip.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to Hechuan

The day kicks off at 8:30 am with a hotel pickup in Chongqing’s city center. From there, you’ll hop into a private vehicle for about an hour and a half of scenic drive northwest to Hechuan, covering roughly 75 km. This ride alone offers a glimpse of Chongqing’s transition from urban sprawl to rural tranquility, with some reviewers mentioning the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as a big plus.

Visiting Diaoyucheng: The Historic Fishing City

Once at Fishing City, your guide will lead you through Diaoyucheng, established in 1242 during the Southern Song Dynasty. This site is famed for its resistance against Mongol armies in 1259AD, earning nicknames like the “Mecca of the East” and “Where God broke his whip” from European historians—highlighting its historical importance.

Expect to explore city gates, walls, and the imperial palace ruins, each whispering stories of ancient warfare. The castle’s perch offers fantastic views over the old city ruins, giving you a tangible sense of the strategic importance of this location. The site is largely free of admission fees, but the atmosphere of ancient battles still lingers.

A reviewer noted, “The ruins are less polished than tourist hotspots, but that adds to the authenticity. It felt like stepping back in time,” emphasizing the raw, unspoiled feel of the site.

Lunch and Transition to Laitan Old Town

After about five hours at Fishing City, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant. The meal offers a chance to sample regional flavors and prepare for the afternoon exploration.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Laitan Old Town, a place famous for its well-preserved houses adorned with traditional paintings and Buddha statues. Expect to see more than 1,700 Buddhist sculptures in Laitan Temple, including a towering 12.5-meter Sakyamuni Buddha, recognized as one of China’s prominent giant Buddha statues.

A review highlighted, “The Buddha statues are breathtaking, and the old houses really give you a sense of Chinese history and craftsmanship. It’s like walking through a living museum.” The town’s architecture and religious artifacts provide insight into local spiritual and artistic traditions.

Exploring the Main Attractions in Laitan

Key sites include Wenchang Palace and the Laitan Wengcheng, which offer additional glimpses into the religious and cultural practices of the area. The town’s charm lies in its preservation and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a suitable place for reflective wandering or photography.

Return to Chongqing

By late afternoon, around 4 hours after leaving Fishing City, you’ll be driven back to your hotel, concluding a day packed with history, culture, and scenic views.

Practical Aspects and What to Expect

Transportation and Comfort

The private vehicle ensures a smooth trip, with flexible timing and minimal waiting. This setup is ideal for those who dislike large tour groups or prefer a tailor-made experience. The vehicle’s comfort level and air conditioning are regularly praised by reviewers, making the drive more enjoyable.

Guide and Local Insights

Your local guide will provide context and stories that bring the sites alive. While the reviews don’t specify the guide’s name, they mention that the guide’s knowledge added depth to the experience, especially when explaining the historical military significance of Fishing City.

Cost and Value

At $279 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at two significant sites with all entrance fees and bottled water included. The price may seem high compared to some group tours, but the private setting and in-depth experience justify the expense, especially for travelers seeking a curated day of discovery.

Timing and Duration

The 9-hour itinerary is quite packed—covering 75 km of driving and several hours of sightseeing. While some may find it a bit intense, others will appreciate the opportunity to see a lot in one day without feeling rushed, thanks to the private arrangement.

Suitability and Accessibility

Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s private nature makes it adaptable. The key consideration is comfort with a full day of sightseeing and some walking at historical sites.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts eager to explore ancient Chinese military and cultural sites. It’s also excellent for travelers who prefer private, customizable experiences with local guides. If you want a taste of authentic, less-commercialized Chongqing, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour to Fishing City and Laitan Old Town combines history, culture, and scenic beauty into a manageable, personalized experience. It’s a solid choice for those who want to go beyond the surface and understand Chongqing’s storied past in a relaxed, comfortable setting. While it may be somewhat rushed for some, the inclusion of well-preserved sites and insightful commentary makes the journey worth considering.

At $279, it offers good value for a private guided day, especially when you factor in door-to-door pickup, a local guide, and all entrance fees. Whether you’re a history buff, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a meaningful day out, this tour provides a compelling way to connect with Chongqing’s heritage.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a local guide, private transportation, lunch, entrance fees to the sites, and bottled water.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning in the late afternoon.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally, most travelers can participate, but consider individual mobility levels, especially as some sites involve walking on uneven ground.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.

Are there options for customizing the tour?
As a private tour, it allows some flexibility, but all details are set by the provider as per the described itinerary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, especially if visiting outdoor ruins and temples.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, some sites may involve stairs or uneven paths, so consult with the provider beforehand if needed.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.

Will I get enough time at each site?
The schedule is tight but balanced, with around 5 hours at Fishing City and 4 hours at Laitan Old Town, including lunch and travel.

How much free time is there at each location?
Most of the time is spent exploring, with guided commentary, but there is some opportunity for independent wandering and photos.

This private Chongqing tour offers a well-rounded, insightful glimpse into China’s historical and cultural heart, perfect for those seeking depth over speed.