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

Exploring Chongqing’s Hidden Gems: A Private Day Tour to Fishing City & Laitan Old Town

If you’re seeking a day filled with history, culture, and eye-opening sights in Chongqing, this private tour to Fishing City (Diaoyucheng) and Laitan Old Town offers just that. While I haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a compelling experience that combines ancient battlegrounds with cultural treasures—all in one day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a personalized guide and private vehicle, ensuring flexibility and comfort. Second, the chance to walk through 13th-century ruins and see over 1,700 Buddhist sculptures in one trip is truly rare. Third, the delicious local lunch and authentic old town vibe promise a taste of real Chinese life outside the bustling city center.

A potential consideration? The 1.5-hour drive could be tiring for some, especially if traveling with young children or mobility issues. Also, since the tour fee is $279 per person, you’d want to feel the value justifies the cost, which it largely does if you’re interested in history and culture.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, or those wanting a meaningful escape from Chongqing’s urban scene. If you love exploring archaeological sites, old towns, and learning about legendary battles, this tour is an excellent fit.

Key Points

• Historical Significance: Visit Diaoyucheng, established in 1242AD, famous for resisting Mongol invasions.
• Authentic Culture: Explore well-preserved old houses, Buddha statues, and traditional Chinese architecture in Laitan Old Town.
• Convenient & Private: The tour includes transport by private vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide for tailored insights.
• Value for History Lovers: Over 5 hours at Fishing City with free admission and walking through historic battlegrounds.
• Cultural Deep Dive: Over 1,700 Buddhist sculptures at Laitan Temple and the impressive Sakyamuni Buddha statue.
• Tasty Local Cuisine: Enjoy a crafted lunch at a local restaurant, adding flavor to your culture.

Discovering Fishing City: A Fortress of Resistance

Our adventure begins early, with a 8:30 am pickup from your Chongqing hotel, ensuring you beat the crowds and get the most out of your day. The 75 km drive to Hechuan takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax or ask your guide about the area’s history. Once there, you’ll step into Diaoyucheng (Fishing City), established in 1242 during the Southern Song Dynasty.

This fortress isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s a symbol of resilience. The ruins sit atop a steep hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and the remnants of gates, city walls, and an imperial palace convey the scale of ancient defenses. The site’s historical importance is clear; European historians have called it the “Mecca of the East” and noted it as the place where “God broke his whip,” highlighting its legendary status.

Most reviews note the walk around the ruins as a highlight, with one visitor mentioning, “Walking through the ancient gates and imagining the fierce battles that took place here made history come alive.” The site is largely free to explore, with the guide providing context about the Mongol resistance in 1259AD, making the visit both educational and inspiring.

Lunch and Transition to Laitan Old Town

After a substantial 5-hour visit at Fishing City, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Here, the focus is on authentic flavors—think hearty, regional dishes that give you a taste of Chongqing’s cuisine.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Laitan Old Town, a place renowned for its well-preserved old houses and traditional lifestyle. This spot offers a different kind of charm—peaceful, authentic, and visually captivating with murals and architecture that tell stories of generations past.

Exploring Laitan Old Town’s Cultural Treasures

Laitan Old Town is home to two notable Buddha temples, including the impressive Laitan Wengcheng and Wenchang Palace. The Laitan Temple alone houses over 1,700 Buddhist sculptures, and the main statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is an astonishing 12.5 meters tall, making it one of China’s notable giant Buddha statues.

The old town’s painted houses, narrow alleys, and peaceful courtyards create an atmosphere that transports you to a simpler time. Visitors have praised the quality of the preserved architecture and the serene vibe, with one reviewer commenting, “Walking through Laitan felt like stepping back in time, and the Buddha statues added a spiritual touch I’ll never forget.”

This part of the tour concludes with a relaxed transfer back to Chongqing, typically around 4 hours after departure from lunch.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The package covers all essentials: local guide, private vehicle, lunch, entrance fees, and bottled water. The private guide offers a personalized experience, often sharing insights and answering questions that larger group tours might miss. The vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, especially if you want to spend more time at certain spots.

The tour’s flexible nature means you can focus more on the sites that interest you most. The low number of reviews suggests it’s a newer or less reviewed experience, but the detailed itinerary and included features promise good value for history and culture lovers.

Practical Tips Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes; both sites involve walking on uneven surfaces and steps.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—especially during hot months.
• The tour starts early, so plan your hotel pickup accordingly.
• Check your camera—there are amazing photo opportunities at both sites.
• Since it’s a private tour, you can request more time at specific locations, if feasible.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers eager to explore historic battlefield sites and traditional Chinese towns away from the typical tourist spots. It’s ideal if you’re interested in ancient architecture, Buddhist sculptures, and stories of resistance. The pace is leisurely but involves some walking, so it’s good for active visitors who enjoy cultural exploration.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, as long as they’re comfortable with a 1.5-hour drive and some walking around historic ruins and temples.

What language is the guide likely to speak?
Most private tours include a local guide, who may speak English, but it’s best to confirm when booking.

How long is the drive to Hechuan from Chongqing?
Approximately 1.5 hours, covering about 75 km.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the tour price, so there are no surprises at the sites.

What kind of food is served at lunch?
Typically, traditional regional dishes at a local restaurant, offering authentic flavors of Chongqing cuisine.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your interests with the guide and adjust the focus or timing if needed.

Is this tour worth the cost?
For history enthusiasts and cultural explorers, the personalized guide, private vehicle, and in-depth access make this a good value, especially compared to larger group tours with less flexibility.

In summary, this private day tour to Fishing City and Laitan Old Town offers a well-rounded, engaging experience of Chongqing’s ancient and cultural highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who love history, architecture, and authentic local culture, and who prefer a personalized approach to sightseeing. Whether you’re a dedicated history buff or simply want to see a different side of Chongqing, this trip provides meaningful stories and memorable sights in a single day.