When it comes to the trendiest travel destinations today, county travel tops the list.  More and more hidden gem counties are being discovered by young travelers and entering the public spotlight. Among them is Shou County, the only ancient city in China bearing the auspicious character “壽” (meaning longevity). As the final capital of the Chu State during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, this 3,000-year-old city has seen a remarkable rise in popularity in recent years with its profound historical legacy, rich cultural-tourism resources, and innovative operational models. According to recent statistics, Shou County welcomed 10 million visitors in 2024, marking a 56.3% year-on-year increase, while generating 6 billion yuan in comprehensive tourism revenue, representing 34% annual growth.

Morning Flavors and Local Life: Decoding Shou County’s Breakfast Charm

As the first light of dawn touches the ancient city, East Street  of Shou County slowly comes to life. This is where the city’s most authentic local charm comes alive—steeped in the simple, comforting bustle of daily life. Shou County  is currently developing a series of distinctive culinary hotspots that blend tradition with trend. While preserving beloved local staples such as beef soup, lamb soup, sliced noodles, tofu pudding, liangpi, and cold noodles, the city is also embracing internet-famous snacks like bobo chicken and chuanchuanxiang. From seasoned local gourmets to curious out-of-town visitors, everyone is sure to discover a favorite flavor.

A Millennium of Chu Elegance: A Timeless Dialogue with the Anhui Chu Culture Museum and the 24 Solar Term Museum

At 2 p.m., the Anhui Chu Culture Museum is bustling with visitors. Though located in a county town, the museum holds the prestigious status of a National First-Class Museum. It is the only museum in China named specifically after “Chu Culture” and the only county-level institution in Anhui Province with such a designation, drawing travelers from near and far. Within the ancient city, the 24 Solar Terms Pavilion is enjoying similar popularity. As of April 6, it had received nearly 60,000 visitors.

Seeking Rural Delights: The Relaxed Aesthetic of Tofu Village and Anfengtang

The Ancient City Wall of Shou County, built during the Song Dynasty, has stood resilient through nearly a millennium of wind and rainand remains remarkably well preserved. As evening falls, visitors linger by the shores of Anfengtang, long honored as “the greatest pond under heaven.” This ancient hydraulic project, dating back to the Spring and Autumn period, predates the famous Dujiangyan by 300 years and is still functioning today.

This year, Shou County is centering its efforts on transforming Shouzhou Ancient City into a National 5A Tourist Attraction. A number of key cultural and tourism projects are underway, including the “Encountering Lord Chunshen” project, the revitalization of the Confucian Temple precinct, infrastructure upgrades to Dinghu Road and Dinghu Bridge just outside the West Gate, and a waterborne nighttime illumination tour outside the South Gate. These initiatives aim to ensure that every visitor coming for “County Travel” enjoys a truly rewarding experience.