₧ Chongzuo (崇左 Chóngzuǒ) is in the southwest of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, adjacent to Vietnam. It is one of the important gateway cities facing ASEAN. Chongzuo is famous for its unique karst landscape, with De Tian Transnational Falls, Friendship Pass and Stone Scenic Forest.
Understand
[edit]Chongzuo is one of the birthplaces of Zhuang culture, and ethnic minorities have a strong presence here. In addition, Chongzuo is also an important sugar production centre, and is known as "China's sugar capital". It has a pleasant climate, abundant resources and spectacular natural scenery, and is an important hub for China-ASEAN relations and plays an important role in border trade and cultural exchanges.
History
[edit]The most defining period in Chongzuo’s modern history took shape during the late 1920s and early 1930s, when the region became an important frontier area for revolutionary activities in southern China. Owing to its strategic location along the China–Vietnam border and its complex mountainous terrain, Chongzuo played a key role in connecting revolutionary forces in Guangxi with broader movements in southern and southwestern China. During this period, the area served as a base for organizing workers, peasants, and ethnic minority communities, contributing to the expansion of revolutionary influence in border regions.
In the early 1930s, revolutionary leaders such as Deng Xiaoping and other Communist organizers carried out political mobilization, military coordination, and mass work in what is now Chongzuo. The region was closely linked to the Left River Revolutionary Base Area, which, together with the Right River base in Baise, formed a strategic network supporting revolutionary operations in Guangxi. Armed struggles, underground activities, and local uprisings helped strengthen the Communist presence and laid the groundwork for sustained revolutionary resistance despite harsh natural conditions and limited resources.
Many historical sites from this revolutionary period have been preserved and commemorated. Memorial halls, former residences of revolutionary leaders, and former meeting locations document Chongzuo’s role in the early Chinese Communist movement. These sites illustrate how revolutionary forces relied on local support, particularly among Zhuang and other ethnic minority groups, to promote political education, land reform, and grassroots governance. The preserved locations reflect the challenges of operating in a border region characterized by ethnic diversity, difficult terrain, and constant military pressure.
Following the decline of revolutionary bases in the mid-1930s, Chongzuo gradually returned to an economy centered on agriculture and border trade. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and especially during the period of reform and opening-up, Chongzuo experienced steady transformation. Improvements in transportation, cross-border trade with Vietnam, and the development of industries such as sugar production, energy, and logistics reshaped the region’s economic structure. Today, Chongzuo continues to develop as a key gateway city in southwestern China while preserving its revolutionary heritage. Its memorial sites, ethnic cultural landscapes, and border trade zones collectively highlight Chongzuo’s historical importance and its ongoing role in promoting regional stability, cultural diversity, and economic integration along China’s southern frontier.
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Climate
[edit]Chongzuo has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant rainfall. Due to its location in southern Guangxi near the China–Vietnam border, the city experiences long summers and short, mild winters, with no prolonged or severe cold season.
Average temperatures generally range from around 55°F (13°C) in January to 93–97°F (34–36°C) in July, with occasional heat waves during summer when high temperatures and humidity combine to produce very hot conditions. Rainfall is concentrated mainly between May and September, influenced by the East Asian and South China Sea monsoons. During this period, heavy rains and thunderstorms are common, accounting for the majority of the city’s annual precipitation. The dry season typically lasts from November to February.
Summer in Chongzuo is hot, humid, and rainy, while autumn and winter are relatively drier and cooler, offering more comfortable weather conditions. These cooler months are generally considered the best time for travel and outdoor activities. Overall, Chongzuo’s warm climate and plentiful rainfall support dense vegetation, fertile farmland, and the region’s strong agricultural base, particularly in sugarcane cultivation and subtropical crops.
Get in
[edit]By train
[edit]- 1 Chongzuo Station (崇左站), Taiping Town, Jiangzhou District. Chongzuo Station was built in 1952, is the third-class station on the Xianggui Railway, handling passenger and freight business
- 2 Chongzuo South Railway Station (崇左南站), between Nanyou Expressway and Luoyue Avenue in Jiangzhou District. Chongzuo South Railway Station opened in 2020, is a passenger station on the South by high-speed railway.
- 3 Setan Station (濑湍站), Setan Town, Jiangzhou District. Setan Station was built in 1952, is the fourth-class station on the Xianggui Railway
By road
[edit]Coach: from Nanning and other surrounding cities by long-distance bus from the bus terminal, you can go directly to Chongzuo
Self-driving: From Nanning, drive along the highway and arrive at Chongzuo City in about 1.5 hours.
Get around
[edit]By bus
[edit]There are several bus lines in Chongzuo, covering the main areas. Tickets are usually priced at ¥1 and stop when you wave.
| Route | Starting Point | Destination | Main Stops | Operating Hours | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1 | Bus Station | Left River Cement Plant | Xinmin South → Jiangnan Road → Train Station → People's Hospital → Shipping Company → Chongzuo Bridge → Sugar Factory Road | 06:45-18:30 | ¥1 |
| Route2 | Bus Station | Left River Cement Plant | Xinmin South → Jiangzhou District Government → Labor Bureau → Chongzuo Second Bridge → Chongzuo High School → Sugar Factory Road | 06:40-18:30 | ¥1 |
| Route 3 | Bus Station | Pioneer Cement Factory | Xinmin South → Jiangnan Primary School → Business Bureau → Jiangnan High School → Shuikou Lake → Wuwei Cement Factory | 06:35-18:00 | ¥1 |
| Route 8 | chongzuo South Station | Main City Stops | South Station → City Hospital → Chongzuo High School → City Government | 06:30-20:30 | ¥1 |
By taxi
[edit]There are many taxis in Chongzuo, starting at 2 kilometers ¥2, and then ¥1.4 per kilometer. The city taxi fare is affordable, about ¥10 can be reached everywhere. Taxi complaint number: 0771-7832532.
By car
[edit]In Chongzuo, you can rent an electric car or car to easily visit various attractions. Car rental services offer flexible travel options for travelers who wish to arrange their own trips.
If you have a driver's license and are familiar with the road conditions, self-driving is a convenient way to visit Chongzuo and surrounding attractions. The distance between the attractions is far, and self-driving can save time and increase flexibility.
By tourist bus
[edit]To get to scenic spots such as De Tian Falls, you can choose to take a direct tourist bus. The fare varies from ¥14 to ¥45 depending on the itinerary, and the round-trip fare is reduced to ¥80.
See
[edit]- 1 Leaning Pagoda (斜塔, Xiétǎ), Intersection of Zuojiang Road and Xinmin Road in Jiangzhou District (bus 3 from the bus station, make sure you tell the bus driver you want to go to the pagoda, it is a 500-m walk from where to bus stops). 24 hr. The whitewashed pagoda stands on top of a large rock in the middle of the river. When you get to the riverbank, a small boat can take you across to climb the pagoda for around ¥5. It is not possible to cross when the water is too high, mostly during the rainy season in spring/summer. free.
- 2 Chongzuo Ecology Park (崇左生态公园, Chóngzuǒ Shēngtài Gōngyuán), Jiangzhou District Shi Jinglin Road (a minibus from the bus station (1hr, ¥10) can drop you off at the park). 08:00-18:00. A research center by Beijing University on the white-headed leaf monkey (白头叶猴 báitóu yèhóu), of which around 500 individuals live in and near this reservation. Every morning, they leave their caves to spend the day on the hilltops, then return in the evening around sunset. There are observation points around the caves. During the daytime, you most likely won't be able to see them. There are rooms to stay and a restaurant in the park, but as of July 2011 the park was virtually empty and these facilities out of service. Things may be different in the main season (Sep/Oct to Mar), when more tourists come to the area. Adult tickets are ¥36, child tickets are ¥18..
- 3 Stone Forest (石景林), Shijinglin Road, Jiangzhou District. 8:00-18:00. This park is arranged around some natural carst stone formations that form a landscape somewhat similar to a forest made of stone. Smaller than similar parks near Yunnan's Kunming, this park is nevertheless a pleasant spot, and much less visited. Adult tickets are ¥36, child tickets are ¥18..
- 4 Chongzuo Zhuang Nationality Museum (崇左市壮族博物馆), New Min Road, Jiangzhou District. 09:00-17:00. Contrary to its name, this large museum is only partly on the customs and culture of the Zhuang ethnic group, but dedicates the majority of its three floors to a well-designed exhibition on the Huashan rock paintings that were painted along the nearby Zuojiang River some 2,000 years ago and are today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Free entrance.
Do
[edit]Festivals
[edit]- Zhuang People’s Sanyuesan Festival (三月三). Sanyuesan is the most important traditional festival of the Zhuang ethnic group and is widely celebrated in Chongzuo. It usually takes place on the third day of the third lunar month. The festival features folk singing, bamboo pole dances, traditional costumes, ancestor worship, and colorful ethnic markets. It is often described as a “song fair” and reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Zhuang people.
- Nongzhang Festival (侬垌节). The Nongzhang Festival is a traditional folk festival unique to the Zhuang communities in parts of Chongzuo, especially in rural and mountainous areas. It is closely related to agricultural worship and village solidarity. Activities include sacrificial rituals, communal feasts, folk songs, and dances, expressing prayers for good harvests, peace, and prosperity.
- China–Vietnam Border Folk Culture Festival (中越边关民俗文化节). Held in border areas such as Pingxiang and Youyiguan (Friendship Pass), this festival highlights cultural exchange between China and Vietnam. It features folk performances, traditional music and dance, ethnic costumes, and trade activities. The festival reflects Chongzuo’s role as a gateway city and cultural bridge along the China–Vietnam border.
Sport
[edit]- 1 City Stadium (体育场), Chengxi Road, Jiangzhou District. Chongzuo City Stadium is a key public sports facility serving local residents and visitors. It hosts a variety of athletic events, physical education activities, and community sports programs. The venue is often used for football matches, track events, mass fitness activities, and sometimes cultural gatherings. It is centrally located in the city, making it convenient for both organized sports and casual exercise.
- 2 Fusui County Gymnasium (扶绥县体育馆). This gymnasium in Fusui County (扶绥县) within Chongzuo is a local indoor sports hall that provides facilities for basketball, badminton, table tennis, and general fitness activities. It serves residents in the county and is commonly used for local competitions, school sports events, and community fitness classes. The venue contributes to grassroots sports development in the region.
- 3 Sports Center Gymnasium (体育中心体育馆). with a modern gymnasium as part of its complex. The center includes a main stadium, indoor gymnasium, tennis halls, training facilities, and fitness areas. It has hosted regional athletic games and events such as the Traditional Ethnic Sports Games of Guangxi, supports community fitness programs, and serves as a hub for large-scale competitions.
Cinema
[edit]- 4 Cinema China Film (中影易乐影城), 4F, Yatu Film & TV Plaza, No. 20 Lichuan Road. It often shows current domestic and international films with multiple screens and comfortable seating. The cinema is part of a larger entertainment and shopping complex, making it convenient to combine movie-going with shopping and dining.
- 5 Municipal Cinema (市立电影院), 325 Provincial Road,. Municipal Cinema screens popular films and is known as a neighborhood favorite for watching the latest Chinese releases and family films. It’s conveniently located along a main road and often visited by residents and visitors alike.
Buy
[edit]- 1 Chongzuo International Market (崇左国际市场), No. 8, Zhongshan Road. 08:00-21:00. A bustling market offering local products, clothing, electronics, and fresh produce. It's a great place to experience local life and pick up souvenirs.
- 2 Guding Tea House (古鼎茶馆), Taoyuan Road (桃源路), Daxin County. Traditional tea house in Daxin County where you can buy local teas and regional specialty products (such as tea leaves). Great to combine a tea experience with shopping for gifts.
- 3 Puyun Tianyun Tea Store (普云天韵茶叶店), No. 647 Tongzheng Avenue (同正大道647号), Xinning Town. Local tea shop selling a range of regional tea products and packaged tea, including popular Guangxi-style teas. Ideal place to buy easily packable gifts such as tea packets.
Eat
[edit]- 1 Chongzuo Food Street, Intersection of Kam Siu Road and Wu Yi Road. It is famous for its local cuisine such as "Zhangji Rice Noodles", "Laos Zhao Bulgogi" and various barbecue snacks. It is a good place to experience authentic local tastes.
- 2 Lao Chongzuo Specialty Restaurant (老崇左特色风味食馆), No. 65 Friendship Avenue, Jiangzhou District. known for authentic Guangxi and Zhuang-style dishes. Locals praise its steamed regional specialties, generous portions, and homey flavors featuring ingredients like passion fruit spare ribs and glutinous rice creations — perfect for tasting traditional border-region food.
- 3 No.93 Small Kitchen (No.93 小厨房), 136 (approx) near main street. It’s listed for excellent reviews (5★) and is an ideal spot for regional Chinese home-style meals and daily favorites. While not a major tourist dining spot, it’s beloved for its authentic local taste and friendly service
- 4 Longzhou Flavor Rice Noodle Restaurant (龙州味米粉餐厅), Detian Road, Jiangzhou District. While simple, its flavors showcase Zhuang and Guangxi culinary staples (such as hand-pulled noodles, spicy broths, and savory condiments). It’s a great option for a quick, authentic local lunch or dinner.
Drink
[edit]- 1 8090 Milk Tea & Cool Drinks (8090奶茶冷饮店), Jiangzhou District. It’s a casual stop for bubble tea, fruit drinks, iced tea, and other refreshing cool drinks — perfect during the hot subtropical summers of Guangxi. Typical menu includes fruit tea, classic milk teas, and seasonal cold drinks.
- 2 Zhuang Oil Tea & Local Tea Stop (壮族油茶), Near downtown Chongzuo markets. Zhuang ethnic oil tea (油茶) is a traditional northern Guangxi drink prepared with roasted tea leaves fried in oil with spices, sometimes served with peanuts and puffed rice. This rustic tea isn’t a branded shop but a local beverage experience available in small local tea houses and market stalls — great for tasting traditional rural flavors and understanding ethnic beverage culture.
- 3 Fresh Fruit Juice & Refreshments Stand (鲜榨果汁摊), Near Jiangzhou Local Market / Food Street,. While not always a fixed shop with a formal name, fresh fruit juice stalls are very common around busy market streets in Chongzuo’s downtown (especially near food streets). You’ll find locals selling freshly squeezed 龙眼糖水 (longan sugar water), 酸梅汤 (sour plum drink), bitter gourd juice, and seasonal tropical fruit juices made from local produce like pineapple, watermelon, and longan — all regional specialty refreshments
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Chongzuo International Hotel (崇左国际大酒店), East side of Youyi Avenue Middle Section, Jiangzhou District. Facilities include a restaurant offering Chinese and Western cuisine, meeting rooms, fitness areas, and free parking. It’s suitable for both business travelers and tourists exploring the city and nearby attractions such as the Zuo River and local markets.
- 2 Lux Chongzuo, Guangxi Resort & Villas (崇左秘境丽世度假村及别墅), Mingshi Village, Longgantun. Part of a luxury villa and resort complex, offering spacious rooms, villas, and leisure facilities. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway with scenic natural surroundings, away from urban bustle. Activities nearby include local rural tourism and nature walks.
- 3 Chongzuo Zuojiang Hermit Hotel (左江隐士酒店), Southeast side of ASEAN Avenue & Chongwen Road intersection, Jiangzhou District. A smaller boutique hotel in the city center with high guest ratings. It’s praised for its cozy rooms and friendly service, making it a great option for travelers who want a comfortable stay near local food streets, shopping areas, and public transport. Close to attractions like local parks and downtown plazas.
Go next
[edit]- Nanning：is the capital of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region and the region’s primary political, economic, and cultural center. Often referred to as the “Green City”, Nanning is known for its abundant greenery, subtropical climate, and modern urban environment. The city blends contemporary development with strong Zhuang ethnic traditions. Major attractions include Qingxiu Mountain, Nanhu Lake Park, and the Guangxi Museum of Nationalities. As a major transportation hub with high-speed rail and expressways, Nanning plays a crucial role in linking Baise with other parts of southern China and Southeast Asia.
- Baise：known for its revolutionary history, ethnic diversity, and rich natural resources. The city played a key role in modern Chinese history through the Baise Uprising, and many historical and memorial sites remain preserved today. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and agricultural land, Baise is also known for its subtropical landscapes and ethnic minority cultures, particularly those of the Zhuang people. It functions as a cultural, economic, and transportation link between Guangxi, Yunnan, and Guizhou.
- Fangchenggang：It is known for its seaport economy, marine resources, and border trade with Vietnam. The city features a mix of coastal scenery, beaches, mangroves, and island landscapes. Popular attractions include Jiangshan Peninsula, Bailang Beach, and Dongxing Port nearby. Fangchenggang plays an important role in Guangxi’s maritime trade network and offers a different travel experience compared to inland Baise, emphasizing ocean views and coastal culture.
- Pingxiang：It is best known for Friendship Pass (Youyiguan), a historic mountain pass that has served as a gateway between China and Vietnam for centuries. The city has a strong border-trade economy and a multicultural atmosphere influenced by cross-border commerce. Pingxiang is easily accessible by train and serves as a key transit point for travelers heading toward Vietnam.
- Lang Son：is known for its scenic landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant border markets. The city reflects a blend of Vietnamese culture and cross-border influences, with local cuisine, traditional markets, and French-era architecture. Lang Son acts as an important gateway for trade and travel between southern China and northern Vietnam, making it a popular destination for cross-border tourism.