Huguang Guild Hall and Two Rivers of Chongqing

Huguang Guild Hall

Huguang Guild Hall and Two Rivers of Chongqing

The Huguang Guild Hall, situated along the Yangtze River in Chongqing, stands as a remarkable testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. This well-preserved Qing Dynasty complex serves as a vital historical landmark, showcasing the story of mass migration from Huguang (modern-day Hubei and Hunan provinces) to Sichuan during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Essential Information

Admission

  • Regular ticket: ¥25
  • Discounted ticket (students, children, seniors 60-64): ¥12.5
  • Free admission for:
    • Children under 6 or below 1.2m
    • Active military personnel
    • Disabled visitors
    • Seniors over 65

Opening Hours

  • Daily: 9:00 - 19:00
  • Last admission: 18:00

Location & Transportation

Address: No.1 Bajiao Garden, Changbin Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing

Multiple transportation options are available:

  • Metro: Take Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, Exit 8
  • Bus: Routes 414, 440, 480 to Huguang Guild Hall Station
  • Alternative bus routes: 112, 120, 141, 372, 382, 862, 871 to Daomenkou Station
  • Yangtze River Cableway: A scenic option offering views of the river
Aerial view of Huguang Guild Hall

Main Attractions

Yu Wang Palace (禹王宫)

The centerpiece of the complex, Yu Wang Palace, dates back to the Kangxi period. Its main features include:

  • A prominent bronze statue of Yu the Great
  • An elaborate opera stage with intricate acoustical design
  • Detailed architectural elements including flying eaves and decorated beams

Guangdong Assembly Hall (广东公所)

Built during the Qianlong period, this section represents Cantonese architectural style:

  • Features a spacious courtyard design
  • Houses the largest opera stage in the complex
  • Displays exquisite wood carvings depicting classical stories
  • Can accommodate over 300 spectators

Qi'an Assembly Hall (齐安公所)

Dedicated to migrants from Huangzhou, this building showcases:

  • Unique architectural style with an east-facing entrance
  • Detailed relief carvings depicting both Chongqing and hometown scenes
  • Wax figures illustrating migrant life

Migration Museum

The museum offers comprehensive insights into the "Huguang Fills Sichuan" migration movement:

  • Displays historical artifacts and documents
  • Features life-size dioramas
  • Presents detailed migration routes and historical context
Huguang Guild Hall visiting route map

Nearby Dining

Traditional Restaurants

  1. Fanjianhu Jianghu Cuisine (饭江湖・江湖菜)

    • Location: Adjacent to the Guild Hall
    • Signature dishes:
      • Crispy Spicy Chicken
      • Spicy Eel Segments
      • Lotus Root Dessert
    • Average cost per person: ¥73
  2. Laoshancheng Hotpot (老山城洞子老火锅)

    • Located at the entrance
    • Features traditional Chongqing-style hotpot
    • Known for tripe, duck intestines, and special noodles

Photography Tips

  • Best times: Early morning or dusk for optimal lighting
  • Prime spots:
    1. Dongshui Bridge viewpoint for panoramic shots
    2. Red wooden door near the entrance
    3. Opera stages in Qi'an and Guangdong halls
    4. Traditional courtyards and stone stairs

Nearby Attractions

Visitor Guidelines

  1. Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
  2. Traditional Chinese clothing (Hanfu, Qipao) recommended for photos
  3. Watch "Drunk on Bayu" cultural performance if time permits
  4. Respect the historical site and avoid touching artifacts
  5. Bring water and sun protection during summer

The Huguang Guild Hall offers visitors a unique glimpse into Chongqing's historical role in one of China's largest migration movements while showcasing exceptional Qing Dynasty architecture and cultural preservation.