The three hour drive was well worth it to arrive at this amazing ancient town called 中山古镇 or Zhong Shan Gu Zhen which is situated in south of Jiangjin district. Apparently there is another Zhong Shan Gu Zhen in Guangdong province, but we didn't go there! This is considered an Ancient Village, like Ci Qi Kou, but definitely less popular with the tourists. I personally preferred that, because it wasn't crowded and we had the opportunity to talk to the locals and even drink homemade bai jiu!

Once we were finished exploring the village, we drove up into the mountains at least another 30-40 minutes to reach the temple 西部少林寺 or the Western Shaolin Temple. As far as I know this temple is fairly new when compared to the other major Shaolin Temples in China. Apparently, Chongqing spent nearly 10 billion rmb which is around 159 million usd, to build the temple.

While we were there we met some young monks, some of whom had only been living there for 6 months to a year. They told us about the time restrictions they have on seeing family and friends. They described the 7-10 kilometer runs they complete each morning and how their diet is a vegetarian one. They also graciously showed up some of their skills and what they've learned thus far during their gong fu training.

This was easily one of my favorite places I've been to since moving to Chongqing and I am hoping to go back again soon! It is so tough traveling with people who don't understand the need to stop for an hour at each fascinating building for a photo op! I never got the video or photo content I really wanted to, so expect more on this place again!