Zhongnanmen Ancient City is built against Dongshan Mountain, surrounded by water on three sides. Within its core area of approximately 36,000 square meters, 103 ancient buildings, 35 courtyard houses, and 11 bluestone alleys remain perfectly preserved.

Ancient family inscriptions carved into the wall bricks silently narrate the stories of past generations, transforming the entire city into a tangible living history book. Historically, leveraging the golden waterway of the Jinjiang River, this site served as a vital commercial hub and military stronghold connecting Hunan, Hubei, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces, fostering deep cultural integration among Han, Miao, Dong, Tujia, and other ethnic groups.

Today, while preserving relics like Feishan Palace and ancient wharves, the city infuses modern vitality. By day, immerse yourself in Confucian traditions at Fanjing Academy or experience exquisite Miao embroidery and Tujia batik crafts. As night falls and lanterns illuminate the streets, the ancient city transforms into a captivating nocturnal scene. Along the riverside night market, the aroma of snacks like rice tofu wafts through the air, where the rhythmic beats of traditional Nuo opera drums may unexpectedly blend with the folk melodies of street musicians. You can also take a night cruise along the Jinjiang River to admire the dazzling nightscapes illuminating both banks.