Houxi River is in the Tujia and Miao Ethnic Minority Autonomous County. It has a population of over 20 thousand, 90% of which are Tujia people. There are many cultural artifacts both on and under the ground , as well as more than 60 relics sites. The ethnic and historic culture has made it the research object for many experts in sociology, ethnology, history, aesthetics and cultural relics.

Youyang is located in the Wuling Mountain region of Southeast China, covering an area of 5173 square kilometers. There are various mountains and valleys in Youyang, including Wujiang River and Youshui River, the cradle of Tujia culture. The registered population reaches 808 thousand. Youyang is the hometown of Tujia Waving Dance, famous folk songs and the origin of Tujia culture. For thousands of years, diligent and smart  people of Tujia ethinic group have created glamorous immaterial culture, which are all well protected and carried forward.

Located on the west bank of the Wujiang River, Gongtan Ancient Town has a history of more than 1700 years. It has well-preserved and large-scale complexes with strong local flavor. According to some experts, Gongtan Ancient Town is on a par with Lijiang Ancient Town, a world cultural heritage site.