Luotian Ancient Town

　　Luotian Ancient Town is situated in the southeastern part of Wanzhou District, approximately 71 kilometers from the urban area of Wanzhou. It is a tourist destination boasting a history of more than 400 years and an abundance of historical relics and cultural sites. The area is rich in tourism resources, including the well-preserved Jinhuangjia Courtyard, the Xiang Family Ancient Tomb Cluster, and the Red Rock Stone Forest, which combines the features of wonder, serenity, and danger. There are also natural attractions such as the Daxiao Two Villages, which span elevations of 1,600 meters and cover a forested area of over 2,000 acres, the rippling Fengxiangping Reservoir, the picturesque Baizhang Valley, and the idyllic landscape reminiscent of a "Shangri-La." These scenic spots offer breathtaking views and make Luotian Town a great spot for hikers and road-trippers.

　　Luotian Ancient Town was first built during the Ming Dynasty, with a history of around 400 years. Legend has it that during the late Ming period, there was a large earthen mound here, round like a compass and surrounded by fertile fields. Located along a key transportation route between Sichuan and Hubei, it was commonly referred to as "Luozhen Tian" (Compass Field), later abbreviated to Luotian. Local villagers began building houses and settling here. In the 17th year of the Qianlong reign during the Qing Dynasty (1752), the market town was expanded and gradually took shape, which was over 200 years ago. In the late Qing Dynasty and early Republican period, Luotian Ancient Town initially belonged to the Dashijia sub-district of Shigou Li. In 1941, it was separated from Matou Town to become Luotian Township, with its administrative center at Luozhen Tian. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1950, Luotian Township was established. By August of the same year, it came under the jurisdiction of the Tenth District. In 1951, Luotian District was formed, governing seven townships: Luotian, Matou, Zhongshan, Guyu, Daxing, Moudao, and Baisheng, with its administrative center in Matouchang. In 1955, during the democratic administration reform, Luotian District was abolished, and Luotian Township was placed under Longju District. Zhongshan and Guyu were reassigned to Zouma District, while Daxing, Moudao, and Baisheng came under the administration of Hubei Province. In 1958, Luotian People’s Commune was established. In November 1966, it was renamed Friendship Commune, and in 1975, it reverted to its original name, Luotian. In October 1992, during the restructuring of Sichuan Province when prefectures were replaced with cities and districts, Luotian Town was formed through the merger of Matou and Luotian townships, falling under the jurisdiction of Wanzhou District (then known as Wuxia District) in Wanxian City. In October 1998, Matou Township was re-established independently, while Luotian Town retained its name. In October 2004, following an administrative division adjustment in Wanzhou District, Luotian Town was re-formed through the merger of Matou, Zhongshan, and Luotian townships, and has since been under the administration of Chongqing’s Wanzhou District.

　　The ancient town is laid out parallel to the Longtan River, following the terrain. It is interconnected with river docks via lanes perpendicular to the old flagstone streets. The overall layout of the district reflects a harmonious arrangement between the streets and the river. The spatial arrangement of the streets and alleys varies, expanding and contracting, occasionally punctuated by small squares, creating a dynamic, intimate, and pleasant environment. Buildings are situated with the street in front and the river behind, shops in the front and residences in the back, featuring multiple courtyards, inner yards, and deep-set spaces, all contributing to a rich variety of spatial experiences. Architectural details and furnishings are exquisitely carved with dragons and phoenixes, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and lifelike imagery, truly a marvel.