Luzhou Travel Guide: Discover China's Hidden Liquor City
- cometodolphinunion
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
You probably know Wuliangye liquor. But have you heard of Luzhou Laojiao? My Italian friend Marco asked me this question last week.
Most tourists visit Chengdu for pandas. They miss Luzhou - another famous liquor city in Sichuan. Marco followed my advice and called it "the most authentic Chinese city experience."
This guide will show you everything about Luzhou. From its famous distilleries to hidden local gems.
Understanding Chinese Baijiu
Baijiu means "white liquor." It's China's traditional drink. The alcohol content is usually 40-60%.
Luzhou produces Luzhou Laojiao. It's one of China's oldest liquor brands. The taste is strong and aromatic.
Trust me, you should try it once. But be careful - it's stronger than Western liquors.
Getting to Luzhou from Chengdu
The high-speed train is your best choice. It takes only 1 hour. Tickets cost about 85 RMB.
Trains run every hour from Chengdu East Station. Choose "Luzhou Station" - not "Luzhou East."
Driving takes 2.5 hours. The expressway is good. But parking in Luzhou can be difficult.
I recommend taking the 8:00 AM train. You'll arrive at 9:00 AM feeling fresh.
（Luzhou travel guide from Chengdu for foreign tourists）
Must-Visit Attractions in Luzhou
Luzhou Laojiao Tourist Area
Visit Luzhou Laojiao Tourist Area (Lúzhōu Lǎojiào Lǚyóu Qū). It's the city's main attraction.
The entry fee is 35 RMB. This includes an English guide and a taste of 68-degree original liquor.
You'll see the "China's First Cellar" and the 1573 production workshop. The history dates back 400 years.
My Canadian friend Sarah loved the aroma. She said "you can smell the grains everywhere."
Jinlong Temple
Jinlong Temple (Jīnlóng Sì) offers amazing city views. The temple sits on a hill overlooking Luzhou.
Take a taxi to the temple. The ride costs about 24 RMB from downtown.
Don't miss the rooftop view. You'll see giant dragon sculptures and the entire city.
The temple is free to enter. It opens from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Baoen Pagoda and Zhonggulou
These two landmarks are in the city center. They're easy to visit on foot.
Baoen Pagoda (Bào'ēn Tǎ) means "Repaying Kindness Pagoda." It was built during the Song Dynasty.
Zhonggou Lou (Zhōnggǔ Lóu) is the city's clock tower. Both are free to visit.
They're just 10 minutes walk apart. Perfect for quick photos.
Skip Guan Yi Zui Square
Guan Yi Zui Square (Guǎnyì Zuǐ Guǎngchǎng) looks nice on maps. But it's often crowded and muddy.
My Australian friend Tom found the river views disappointing. Don't waste your time here.
Best Local Food in Luzhou
Food is Luzhou's hidden treasure. The flavors will surprise you.
Try Old Brand Pot Pot Banquet (Lǎo Zìhào Guōguō Yàn). The beef tendon and pork intestine are delicious. A meal costs about 50 RMB.
Boneless Scallion Carp (Wúcì Cōnghuā Jìyú) is perfect for fish lovers. The restaurant is near Luzhou Laojiao.
Luzhou White Cake (Lúzhōu Báigāo) is a local dessert. You'll find it on Cishan Road. Each piece costs 2 RMB.
Perfect One-Day Itinerary
8:00 AM: Take train from Chengdu 9:00 AM: Arrive at Luzhou Station 9:30 AM: Visit Jinlong Temple 11:30 AM: Luzhou Laojiao distillery tour 1:30 PM: Lunch at local restaurants 3:00 PM: Explore Baoen Pagoda and Zhonggulou 4:30 PM: Walk along Tuojiang River 6:00 PM: Dinner at Luzhou Memory food street 7:30 PM: Return to Chengdu
Practical Tips for Foreign Travelers
Download a translation app. Few locals speak English.
Carry cash. Many small restaurants don't accept cards.
Wear comfortable shoes. You'll walk a lot.
Taxis are affordable. A ride across town costs 15-20 RMB.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons. Summers can be hot and humid.
Why Luzhou Beats Tourist Traps
Luzhou shows you real Sichuan life. No tourist performances. Just authentic local culture.
My Brazilian friend Carlos said: "This is the China I wanted to see. No crowds, just genuine experiences."
The food is incredible and cheap. A full meal costs 25-35 RMB.
My Personal Recommendation
Visit Luzhou if you want:
Authentic Chinese liquor culture
Beautiful temple views
Delicious cheap food
No tourist crowds
Skip Luzhou if you prefer:
Luxury accommodations
English-speaking services
Western food options
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