Chongqing Memoir Part 2: Chiyou Jiuli City—The Real-Life Nine-Story Demon Tower!

The third stop on our group tour brought us to Chiyou Jiuli City in the world's Miao homeland. It's a mysterious palace hidden deep in the mountains and one of the largest Miao architectural complexes in the world. Upon entering the city, a guide greeted us, gave a brief introduction, and then took us to the long table banquet. (The food was average; I just wanted to eat my fill.) Several young women in Miao costumes sang folk songs while pouring "high mountain flowing water" wine for the tourists, which was quite interesting. After the meal, the guide took us to visit several palaces and museums, explaining the architectural features and historical culture of the place. Afterward, we were given free time to explore before gathering at the designated time. There were ethnic song and dance performances at the Baixi Theater, which were worth watching. Walking on the flagstone paths, gazing at the stilted buildings with overhanging eaves and the vivid totems on the wooden beams, I could appreciate the charm and heritage of traditional Miao architecture. The palace buildings were magnificent, like masterpieces sculpted by the forces of nature. The towering city walls were covered in mysterious runes and patterns, exuding an ancient and sacred aura. The "Nine-Story Demon Tower," built against the mountain, had an air of solemnity, as if I had stepped into a fantasy world.