The City of Strong Liquor, home to Luzhou Laojiao - one of China's oldest and most famous baijiu distilleries, with a history spanning over 400 years.
Luzhou, located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Tuo Rivers in southeastern Sichuan, is famous throughout China as the "City of Strong Liquor." Its name is synonymous with Luzhou Laojiao, one of the country's most prestigious baijiu brands, whose 400-year-old fermentation pits are considered national treasures.
The city's identity is deeply intertwined with its position on the upper Yangtze River. As a major port, Luzhou has been a transportation hub for centuries, connecting the Sichuan Basin with the rest of China. This strategic location fostered trade and cultural exchange, shaping the city's open and hospitable character.
Beyond its liquid gold, Luzhou offers visitors a taste of authentic Sichuanese life—lively morning markets, riverside parks, and ancient towns where time seems to stand still. The surrounding countryside is rich with forests, waterfalls, and agricultural landscapes that produce some of Sichuan's finest fruits.
Luzhou cuisine reflects the bold flavors of southern Sichuan, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and the numbing heat of Sichuan pepper. The city's food culture is a delight for adventurous eaters.
Luzhou's history as a settlement dates back over 2,000 years. Its strategic location at the Yangtze-Tuo River confluence made it an important port and trading center from early times.
The most significant chapter in Luzhou's history began in 1573 during the Ming Dynasty, when the first fermentation pits were dug for what would become Luzhou Laojiao. These pits have been in continuous use ever since, making them the oldest active fermentation pits in the world.
During the mid-1930s, Luzhou played a notable role. Military forces crossed the Chishui River four times in the region, and Taiping Ancient Town preserves many historical sites from this period.
In the modern era, Luzhou has developed into a major industrial center. While baijiu production remains its signature industry, the city has diversified into chemicals, machinery manufacturing, and port logistics.
Luzhou's economy is dominated by the baijiu industry. Luzhou Laojiao is one of China's top baijiu brands and a major contributor to local GDP and employment. The company's headquarters and main production facilities are located in the city.
Beyond liquor, Luzhou has a significant chemical industry sector, producing fertilizers, chemicals, and pharmaceutical ingredients. The city's location on the Yangtze River supports a busy port that handles cargo for much of southern Sichuan.
Agriculture remains important in surrounding counties, with Hejiang lychees and Luzhou longans being premium products sold nationwide. Tourism centered on wine culture, ancient towns, and natural scenery is a growing sector.
Discover the culinary treasures of Luzhou, from traditional street food to imperial cuisine.
Luzhou Lantian Airport - 15 km from city center
2 hours from Chengdu by high-speed rail
No metro
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the best weather for most destinations in China.
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