chongqing china travel guide

Chongqing Travel Guide

History & Culture

Attractions

Top 10 Things to Do

Transportation

Travel tips.

3 Days Chongqing & Dazu
6 Days Tour with Chengdu
4 Days with Wulong
4 Days Yangtze Cruise
China Tour with Yangzte

Recommended Tours

Jiangbei Airport
Wanzhou Airport
Qianjiang Airport
Wulong Airport
Long-Distance Bus
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What to Eat
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Featured Streets
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History & Culture

144-Hour Visa-Free Transit
Area Code & Zip Code
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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Huguang Guild Hall

You could spend several hours poking around the beautifully restored buildings in this gorgeous museum complex, which once served as a community…

Ciqikou Ancient Town

The opportunity to snatch a glimpse of old Chongqing makes it worth riding some 45 minutes out to Shapingba district, on the Jialing River west of the…

Luohan Temple

Built around 1000 years ago, this still-active temple is now sandwiched between skyscrapers. A notable feature is the corridor flanked by intricate rock…

Hongya Cave

Not a cave, but a Disney-esque recreation of the old stilt houses that once lined Chongqing's riverfronts, this 11-storey shopping, dining and…

Chongqing Ancient City Gates

Sadly, only fragments remain of Chongqing’s once-magnificent Ming dynasty city wall, which stretched 8km around the Jiefangbei peninsula and was more than…

Liberation Monument

This clock tower monument at the heart of Chongqing commemorates China's victory over Japan in WWII. The surrounding pedestrian streets are now home to…

Three Gorges Museum

This sleek museum showcases the history of settlement in the Chongqing region. There's the inevitable exhibition on the Three Gorges, including a model of…

Pipa Mountain Park

For views of the city skyline, climb 345m Pipa Mountain Park, the highest point on the Chongqing peninsula. During the day, residents bring their…

Latest stories from Chongqing City

Chongqing Zhongshuge Bookstore in Chongqing City.

Jun 11, 2019 • 2 min read

Bookstores can be magical places, offering education, relaxation, tranquillity, and a space to connect with friends. And while there are countless unique…

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Chongqing 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 21 Activities

Chongqing, where you’ll find the most authentic and mouthwatering Chongqing hot pot, the most intriguing landscapes, and the friendliest locals. Your trip here is bound to be one for the books, unforgettable and all!

Just returned from a fantastic 7-day trip to Chongqing with my buddies, and let me tell you, it didn’t break the bank. I’ve explored many cities, but when it comes to a blend of fun, delicious eats, and budget-friendliness, Chongqing takes the cake!

In this blog, I’ve listed 21 fun activities, accommodation options, and all the lip-smacking food I devoured in Chongqing, with the hope that it’ll be super useful for future travelers checking out this awesome city!

You might also be interested in: ⭐ Top 22 Local Chongqing Hot Pot Restaurants for 2023

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Considering a last-minute trip to Chongqing? 🇨🇳 Top Activities and Tours in Chongqing: 1. Chongqing Wulong National Park Private Tour 2. Dazu Ancient Rock Carvings Private Tour Extension 3. All-In-One Chongqing Trendy Spots Private Tour 4. Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang in 4 Days 3 Nights 🏨 Top Hotels in Chongqing: Niccolo Chongqing (⭐️ 4.8 luxury) Regent Chongqing (⭐️ 4.8 luxury) InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City (⭐️ 4.8 luxury) Qianhe Zhixuan Gaokong Hotel (⭐️ 4.8 budget-friendly) 🌐Make sure to install ExpressVPN in advance for unrestricted internet access during your stay in China!

Chongqing is a major city located in the southwestern part of China. It is situated in the Sichuan Basin at the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Jialing River. Known for its unique geography, Chongqing is surrounded by hills and mountains, making it a city with dramatic landscapes. It serves as a gateway to the Three Gorges region and is an important economic and transportation hub in western China.

1. Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)

Hongya Cave stands as Chongqing’s most acclaimed attraction, earning its place as the top “must-see” spot due to its distinctive architecture and breathtaking nighttime scenery . Nighttime at Hongya Cave is especially enchanting, with vibrant lights adorning the 11-story edifice and offering a prime destination for savoring Chongqing’s cuisine and exploring its nightlife.

Despite its name, “Hongya Cave” is far from an actual cave; rather, it is an extensive stilted housing complex perched on the steep cliff along the Jialing River. This ancient structure, with a history spanning over two millennia, bears a striking resemblance to the bathhouse featured in the film “Spirited Away.”

Notably, Hongya Cave spans 11 floors, and what’s intriguing is that it features substantial walkways connecting the first and eleventh floors, adding to its sense of wonder. Serving as a shopping mall, Hongya Cave not only provides access to Chongqing’s local cuisine and souvenirs but also serves as an excellent place to immerse oneself in Chongqing’s Old Street ambiance and relish the picturesque views of the Yangtze River and the Jialing River.

📌 Exploring the 11th Level of Hongya Cave

1st Floor : You’ll find this spot on Binjiang Road, offering a panoramic view of Hongya Cave that’s perfect for photography.

2nd Floor : Here, you can explore antique calligraphy and paintings for sale. It’s a quieter spot, but a hidden gem for collectors and literature enthusiasts.

3rd Floor : Stroll through an old-style street selling souvenirs and various interesting items.

4th Floor : Your taste buds are in for a treat. This floor houses a food court with a variety of local snacks, including the famous hot pot base. Prices might be a tad higher than elsewhere, though.

5th-8th Floors : The four floors are dedicated to restaurants. You’ll find options ranging from hot pot to international cuisine and Chongqing’s unique culinary offerings.

9th-10th Floors : If you’re into a lively atmosphere or prefer a quiet escape, head to the bar and coffee street. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the city’s beautiful scenery.

11th Floor : The Hongyadong Hotel , a top spot for capturing panoramic views of Hongya Cave from above.

📷 Best Spots for Viewing Hongya Cave

A fantastic spot for viewing Hongya Cave is situated just across the road from the first floor of the cave. This location offers a broad perspective and easy mobility. From here, you can capture Hongya Cave in great detail under the bright lights while exploring various angles.

Adjacent to Hongya Cave stands the Qiansimen Bridge, which provides the ideal position for taking a panoramic view of the cave. This perspective involves capturing Hongya Cave from an elevated diagonal angle, showcasing the brilliance of the building lights against the lively cityscape in the background.

By crossing the Jialing River from the Qiansimen Bridge and positioning yourself on the opposite side of Hongya Cave , you can include the brightly illuminated Hongya Cave, the bustling core of Chongqing in the background, the stunning Qianjiamen Bridge, and the Jialing River in the foreground. Even though Hongya Cave only occupies a small portion of the frame from this angle, its illuminated silhouette forms a striking contrast with the modern buildings behind it.

💡 Tips for Visiting Hongya Cave

The nightscape is typically from 18:00 to 22:00, but please note that the timing may vary occasionally.
Hongya Cave is conveniently located near the Jiefangbei CBD and is easily accessible on foot.
Keep in mind that Hongya Cave tends to get quite crowded at night, so be prepared for the crowds.

🚗How to get there: Take metro line 1 or line 6 and get off at Xiaoshizi Station; use Exit 6 and walk about 700 meters to arrive.

2. Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)

In every city, you’ll find a commercial street that showcases local flavors – like Wangfujing Street in Beijing, Broad and Narrow Alley in Chengdu, Hubu Alley in Wuhan, and, of course, Chongqing’s very own Ciqikou.

Ciqikou is renowned for its bustling atmosphere, and you’ll sense it as soon as you step off the subway. The place is always bustling, with both out-of-towners and locals eager to explore.

The sidewalks at the town’s entrance are remarkably narrow. Don’t assume that entering the ancient town will grant you solitude; it’s a constant flow of people.

Upon entering, you’ll spot a popular Chen Mahua shop . As you delve deeper, you’ll encounter various snack vendors and stores selling handmade silver jewelry and paper-cutting crafts. Some alleys feature art studios and teahouses.

Food options are abundant, ranging from Chinese doughnuts and roasted glutinous rice cakes to roasted pork knuckles and even roti canai. Don’t forget the famous Ancient Town Chicken Offal Shop. If you’re feeling peckish, indulge in these delightful snacks.

You’ll also find numerous quaint teahouses with similar pricing. If you come across one that suits your taste and offers a pleasant atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot to rest.

The labyrinthine streets reveal charming surprises at every turn. Perhaps you’ll stumble upon a hidden ancient courtyard or a street-side music bar where singers strum guitars and sing their hearts out. Countless unique treasures quietly await discovery on various shop counters.

🚗How to get there: Take metro line 1 and get off at Ciqikou Station.

3. Jiefangbei CBD (解放碑)

Jiefangbei CBD, also known as Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street or Jiefangbei Square, stands as one of Chongqing’s most renowned landmarks. It’s widely recognized as the city’s most bustling area, truly earning its status as a thriving commercial hub.

Jiefangbei Square is consistently teeming with people, attracting countless tourists daily who flock here to capture the essence of this place through photographs. During the day, Jiefangbei Square is characterized by its modern high-rise buildings, imparting a contemporary vibe. By nightfall, it transforms into the epicenter of nightlife for both Chongqing residents and tourists.

Here’s why it’s a top choice:

Accommodation : For first-time visitors to Chongqing, we recommend staying in Jiefangbei CBD. It offers a diverse range of lodging options, from five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Transportation : Jiefangbei CBD enjoys close proximity to multiple subway stations, such as Linjiangmen, Jiaochangkou, and Xiaoshizi. These stations are just a short walk from Jiefangbei CBD, ensuring convenient access.

Shopping : The area is replete with shopping centers like Zhongbai Building, Chongqing Times Square, and New World Department Store. You’ll find a comprehensive selection of brand-name stores for your shopping needs.

Dining : Bayilu Road Food Street and Jiaochangkou Night Market are situated a brief stroll away from Jiefangbei CBD. These culinary hubs bring together an extensive array of Chongqing’s iconic dishes, including hot and sour rice noodles, hot pot, iced powder, and more.

🚗How to get there: Take the metro line 1 and get off at Jiaochangkou Station and get out from Exit 3.

4. Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform (南山一棵树)

The Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform, situated around an ancient ficus virens in Chongqing, takes its name from this very tree. This deck provides the finest vantage point for admiring the city’s nighttime panorama, offering sweeping views of Chongqing’s mountains, waters, the river weaving amidst towering structures, and the bustling bridge scenes.

When compared to other nocturnal cityscapes in Chongqing, the Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform boasts a broader, unobstructed perspective. From a distance, the city, encircled by the river, resembles a glittering treasure island in the heart of the night, presenting a truly stunning sight.

Within the scenic area, you have the option to enjoy the nighttime view either on the open-air platform or inside the observation hall, both offering exceptional views.

💡Tips for Visiting Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform

🚗Getting to the Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform can be somewhat challenging due to the winding mountain roads. Taking a taxi is the recommended mode of transportation.

It’s advisable to visit in the evening, although this is when it tends to be crowded with tourists.

Keep in mind that foggy weather can diminish the scenic views, so it’s best to plan your visit on clear days.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY 30 📍Location: Longhuang Road, Nan’an District

5. Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道)

If you’re looking for a cool way to experience Chongqing, make sure to put the Yangtze River Cableway on your to-do list. This cable car, which spans the Yangtze River running through the city, is pretty unique.

Local Chongqing folks see it as just another mode of transportation, no different from buses or trains. But for many visitors from outside the city, hopping on this ropeway is like a crash course in Chongqing culture.

It’s like getting into a giant flying box that can fit loads of people. You’re soaring over the Yangtze River, taking in the clear views of the scenery on either side, and as you move along, the scenery changes, like you’re on a magical time-traveling adventure.

Now, there are two entrances to the cableway, one in the north and one in the south. Here’s the deal with each:

🔴 North Entrance :

Pros: It’s right next to Jiefangbei CBD and Hongya Cave, so you won’t have trouble finding it. Plus, getting there is a breeze.
Cons: Be ready for longer lines compared to the south entrance.

🚗How to get there: Take Chongqing Rail Transit Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station, leave through Exit 5B, and follow the path to Xinhua Road to reach the Cableway North Entrance.

🔴 South Entrance :

Pros: Fewer folks in line here, which is nice.
Cons: It’s not as convenient when it comes to traffic, and finding it might be a bit tricky.

🚗How to get there: Take metro line 6 to Shangxinjie Station, use Exit 2, and head down Shangxin Street to arrive at the Cableway South Station.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY20 for one way, CNY 30 for round trip ⏰Opening hours: 7:30-22:30 (3.1-10.31) / 7:30-21:30 (11.1-2.28)

6. Mountain City Footpath (山城步道)

When I first set foot on the Mountain City Footpath, it took me by surprise in the best way. It had that authentic old Chongqing charm I’d been searching for.

As for the third path, it’s pretty much deserted these days, except for the occasional visitor. There’s this cool elevated boardwalk clinging to a steep cliff – the only one of its kind in Chongqing. On the other side, you’ve got the Yangtze River, making it a sweet spot for river-gazing.

Most of the buildings along the route used to be homes, but they’ve been mostly torn down, and only a handful of families still reside there. Even though it’s pretty quiet with not many tourists around, you can almost transport yourself back to the lively vibes of this trail from decades ago.

As you walk along Chongqing’s ancient city wall, snaking up the mountainside, and glance back, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the Yangtze River’s southern bank. It’s all so stunning, a feast for the eyes. And below, there’s this precipice with a road, where you can watch the world go by – it’s just a different kind of relaxation.

🚗How to get there: Take Line 1 or Line 2 to Jiaochangkou Station, use exit 4. Take a right and walk about 400 meters to get there.

7. Huguang Guild Hall (湖广会馆)

Step back in time and explore Huguang Guild Hall, a historical gem from the Qing Dynasty, with a rich past of over 300 years. Nestled within the bustling city of Chongqing, this place is like a poetic escape. The entire complex is adorned with intricate carvings and paintings, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of China’s Ming and Qing dynasties. Most of the buildings here follow the courtyard layout typical of that era, making it a real architectural and artistic treasure.

Now, for the must-see places:

Yuwang Temple : This is Huguang Guild Hall’s grand old structure, where you’ll find a colossal 5-meter-high bronze statue of King Yu, weighing a whopping 2 tons. It’s a vivid showcase of the Qing Dynasty architectural style.

Huguang Repopulation of Sichuan Migration Movement Museum : It’s China’s pioneering immigration-themed museum, housing a treasure trove of daily items from the migration era. If you’re curious about the Huguang Migration Movement and its legendary tales, don’t skip this museum.

Guangdong House : This is where you’ll discover the largest theater in the guild hall. It’s a wooden beauty with a light green and yellow glazed tile roof. The stage railings are meticulously carved with traditional Chinese opera stories like “Journey to the West” and “Romance of the Western Chamber.”

Qi’an House : Built by folks from Hubei Province during the Qing Dynasty, this is the best-preserved building in the Chongqing Huguang Guild Hall complex. Among the intricate wood carvings surrounding the theater, “Xinghua Village” is a standout and definitely worth a visit.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY 25 ⏰Opening hours: 09:00-18:30 🚗How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station, use exit 8.

8. Longmenhao Old Street (龙门浩老街)

Longmenhao Old Street used to be the original embassy hotspot in Chongqing, home to the Italian and American embassies, plus a bunch of foreign companies. That mix gives the place a cool, exotic vibe. It’s like part old-school courtyard style, part European town chic. Most cities keep these styles in separate zip codes, but not Chongqing – it’s got that special magic!

There’s this awesome viewing platform where you can catch the best view in town – the stunning Dongshuimen Bridge and the whole city panorama.

When hunger strikes, the snack street in Old Street has all the Chongqing goodies you could want. And if you’re into stylish joints, the restaurants, tea houses, cafes, and bookstores here have got it going on. They even flipped the old US Embassy into a café, a prime spot to kick back and soak in the vibes.

Here’s a tip from the locals: the Old Street’s got two totally different vibes during the day and at night. Generally, once the sun goes down, from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM, it lights up and becomes the perfect spot to snap some killer night shots.

🚗How to get there: Take Metro Line 6 to Shangxinjie Station.

9. Eling No. 2 Factory ( 鹅岭二厂 )

In China, nearly every major city boasts its own cultural and creative industrial art zone, like Beijing’s 798 Art Zone, Guangzhou’s Redtory, and Chongqing’s Eling No. 2 Factory. They each have a distinctive artistic flair.

Eling No. 2 Factory, once the central banknote printing machine factory during the Republic of China era, and later transformed into the Chongqing printing factory, was responsible for Chongqing’s color printing from the 1950s to the 1970s. As time marched on, the factory closed its doors. But a few years back, it underwent a remarkable transformation while preserving its nostalgic factory charm, morphing into a vibrant hub for young artists.

Today, it’s a bustling amalgamation of art spaces, featuring not only a myriad of quaint shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants but also regularly hosting various exhibitions and events.

Eling No. 2 Factory proudly retains its industrial roots. These old factory buildings keep the authentic look of single-family old structures while incorporating a touch of modern design and artistic style. This fusion of the old and the new gives the place a unique character.

Whether you’re browsing a designer’s boutique, sipping tea in an artist’s teahouse, or indulging in Chongqing’s special snacks, each place here offers its own charm, making it a magnet for tourists.

🎫Admission ticket: Free 🚗How to get there: Take No. 829/3201 bus to Yinshua Erchuang Station and walk about 36 meters to get there.

10. Jiaotong Teahouse (交通茶馆)

The teahouse is incredibly rustic. Stepping inside, it’s a world apart from the exterior. You’ll find weathered beams, aged tables, floors of uneven concrete, and even tea leaves and melon peels left uncleared for some time. In the center of this cozy chaos are the teahouse’s local artists, animatedly sharing amusing Chongqing dialect jokes with guests who may not fully grasp the punchlines.

By all accounts, the place might seem a bit run-down, but that’s the charm of this authentic old teahouse. It’s not trying to be some overly polished antique or a mishmash of styles. Instead, it exudes a robust vibe of everyday life.

For a mere CNY 10, you can order some Pu’er tea, and it’s refillable for as long as you like. The teahouse’s patrons are mostly regulars, a mix of folks at different stages of life. Some are engrossed in newspapers, some are locked in intense card games, some are deep into mahjong battles, and you’ll also spot curious tourists. It’s a genuinely fascinating spot to soak in local culture and atmosphere.

⏰Opening hours: 07:00-19:00 🚗How to get there: Take bus line 223/233 and get off at Huangjueping Zhengjie Station.

11. Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (四川美术学院)

The Sichuan Fine Arts Institute boasts two campuses, and the old one, located in Huangjueping, a place brimming with art in every nook and cranny. As you wander around the campus, you’ll come across a myriad of vibrant sculptures, many of them crafted by the students themselves, leaving no doubt that you’re in an art school.

Don’t miss out on the Chongqing Art Museum and the Tank Loft Arts Center, right there on campus. Apart from the rich artistic ambiance, you’ll frequently find a diverse range of exhibitions happening.

Outside the school, there’s a graffiti street that’s hard to overlook. This short stretch is like one massive 3D graffiti masterpiece, with buildings, walls, and shops all covered in colorful graffiti.

You’ll also find an abundance of snacks in the area, and the prices are budget-friendly. Most of the patrons are students, so it’s definitely worth trying some of the local treats.

🚗How to get there: Take bus 223/233/441 to Huangjueping Station and walk about 300 meters to get there.

12. Liziba Station (李子坝)

Liziba? It’s this cool monorail stop on Line 2 of Chongqing Rail Transit. You won’t believe it, but this station isn’t your typical stop – it’s actually inside a 19-story residential building, nestled between the sixth and eighth floors, with stores below and homes above.

It all started back in 2014, Liziba was just a regular stop back then, but because Chongqing has some seriously crazy terrain – like, big ups and downs – it gave birth to this wild cityscape. Especially for folks from flat areas, watching the light rail zoom through a building is like, “Whoa, that’s insane!”

Chongqing locals were already used to this daily spectacle, but in 2018, it blew up on Chinese TikTok. Suddenly, tourists started flooding in, and the locals had an idea – let’s give ’em a spot to snap photos of this mind-blowing sight. So they put together a cool viewing platform for all the visitors to capture this amazing scene.

🚗How to get there: Take bus 829/3201 to Fotuguan Park Bus Stop and walk about 200 meters to get there.

13. Zhongshan Fourth Road (中山四路)

Zhongshan Fourth Road is often hailed as Chongqing’s most picturesque street, a historical gem steeped in culture. It’s a treasure trove of historical sites, such as Guiyuan Garden, Zhou Enlai’s Former Residence, and the Democratic Parties History Museum of China, making it Chongqing’s ultimate cultural hub.

All these attractions are free for you to explore and capture in photos, letting you soak up a unique historical vibe. Unlike the bustling Hongya Cave and Jiefangbei CBD, this street offers a more authentic taste of Chongqing’s culture, despite its mere 800-meter length.

The road isn’t crowded, and it’s adorned with lush ficus virens trees, creating a tranquil, green oasis. You can easily complete your visit in about half an hour. P.S. This is the only road in Chongqing that doesn’t have bus access 🚌.

🚗How to get there: Take Bus No. 114, 118, 124, and 138 and get off at Shangqingsi Station.

14. Chaotianmen (朝天门)

Chaotianmen is situated at the confluence of the Jialing River and the Yangtze River, representing one of Chongqing’s seventeen ancient city gates. It bears the weight of Chongqing’s extensive and profound historical culture. Today, Chaotianmen has been complemented by Raffles Square, featuring a 250-meter-high aerial observation deck, making it one of Chongqing’s new iconic structures.

As a crucial water transport dock, Chaotianmen has played a significant role both in the past and present. Today, it remains a bustling departure point for river cruises. Visitors often choose to commence their journeys from this historical site.

Chongqing locals have a penchant for shopping, and while various commercial districts are appealing, Chaotianmen hold a distinctive status. Along Shaanxi Road leading to Chaotianmen, numerous wholesalers are scattered, offering nearly every imaginable product. Wholesale market prices are more budget-friendly, attracting many vendors for supplies and simultaneously drawing a substantial number of ordinary individuals to browse and select their preferred items.

🚗How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Chaotianmen Station.

15. Chongqing Yangtze River Night Cruise Tour

If you’re running short on time and want a convenient way to experience Chongqing, a Night Cruise Tour remains the top pick.

Just grab a night ticket, take a seat on the cruise with a cold beer in hand, and witness Chongqing’s vibrant night scene unfolding before your eyes.

Typically, the cruise journey begins by heading upstream along the Jialing River. It passes landmarks like the Qianjiamen Bridge and the Huanghuayuan Bridge, then circles back to the Chaotianmen Wharf. From there, it sails along the Yangtze River, crosses the Chongqing Yangtze River Bridge, and returns to the wharf. This entire route skirts the liveliest parts of Chongqing, offering a glimpse of nearly all of the city’s iconic night vistas in just an hour.

Whether you’re taking in Chongqing’s night view from the water or land, it’s the bridges that steal the spotlight. These bridges boast sleek, elegant designs and exude a radiant charm under the evening lights. For those aboard the cruise, these glittering bridges fill the night panorama, becoming the most brilliant streaks of light against the dark backdrop.

And don’t miss out on Hongya Cave, a definite must-see. While modern construction techniques no longer necessitate stilt buildings like these, it’s great to see our city’s builders saving and reviving a few of these structures that capture Chongqing’s traditional style amid our modern city.

👉 Book Your Yangtze River Night Cruise Tour on VIATOR

16. Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻)

Dazu Rock Carvings, the sole World Cultural Heritage site in Chongqing and a prominent member of the world’s eight major grottoes, exude a rich historical and cultural allure.

The term “Dazu Rock Carvings” encompasses a cluster of rock carvings across five distinct mountains: Baodingshan, Beishan, Nanshan, Shimenshan, and Shizhuanshan . Of this collection, Baodingshan Rock Carving takes the spotlight as the most renowned and frequently visited . This is thanks to its impressive scale and its role as the quintessential embodiment of Dazu Rock Carvings.

Baodingshan Rock Carving

Baoding Mountain’s stone carvings are primarily focused on Buddha statues, and you’ll find nearly ten thousand Buddha statues etched onto a cliff wall that stretches over 500 meters. What’s remarkable is that no two of these carvings are the same. This extensive display essentially unfolds like a colossal comic strip, narrating almost all the tales documented in Buddhist scriptures.

Among these, you’ll discover the rock carvings of The Eighteenth Hell, where vivid depictions of people enduring harrowing trials in the depths of hell serve as a stark reminder to maintain good intentions.

Other highlights include a stone carving portraying Sakyamuni’s transition into a Buddha, a striking depiction of a reclining Buddha .

Yet, the true gem of Baoding Mountain is the Thousand-Hand Kwan-yin , considered the ultimate national treasure. This statue is a masterpiece that seamlessly blends sculpture, colorful painting, and gilded art. Every hand and the objects they hold are meticulously detailed. To truly appreciate it, it’s recommended to view the statue from both the front and the side.

Beishan Rock Carving

Beishan Rock Carving spotlights Bodhisattva statues, boasting the longest history and preserving a more authentic stone carving art. The statues themselves exhibit distinct personalities, graceful postures, and stunning attire.

According to our tour guide, regular folks carved these Beishan Rock Carvings to express their needs and wishes during their prayers to Buddha. Wealthy individuals carved larger statues, while those with fewer means created smaller ones. These carvings may appear fragmented and unplanned, but they break free from the constraints of traditional Buddhism.

However, these rock carvings are older than those at Baoding Mountain, some have suffered significant damage, and consequently, the site attracts fewer tourists. It’s a relatively small attraction, and you can comfortably explore it in just half an hour.

🎫Admission ticket: CNY 115 for Baodingshan / CNY 70 for Beishan ⏰Opening hours: 08:30-18:00

👉 Book Dazu Rock Carvings Full Day Tour on VIATOR

17. Three Natural Bridges (天生三桥)

The Three Natural Bridges are situated approximately 2.5 to 3 hours’ drive away from Chongqing’s city center, specifically in the Wulong district. This area is renowned for its three stunning natural stone arch bridges, which go by the names of Tianlong (Sky Dragon) Bridge, Qinglong (Green Dragon) Bridge, and Heilong (Black Dragon) Bridge . It’s an ideal destination for appreciating the breathtaking natural scenery and the characteristic karst landforms.

Tianlong Bridge

The Tianlong Bridge stands out among the three bridges, and it boasts the widest span. Legend has it that these bridges were once malevolent dragons that, with time, melded into the surrounding mountains.

This bridge is distinctive as it’s the sole double-arch bridge among the trio, characterized by one pier and two bridge openings. It appears almost man-made, which showcases nature’s incredible ability to shape itself through the persistent force of flowing water.

There is a labyrinthine cave, rumored to be a hideout for bandits. The main cavern stretches over 400 meters, surrounded by numerous interconnected passages, creating an intricate network of caves within caves.

Tianlong Bridge stands tall, broad, and majestic, set within a complex terrain. It’s conveniently located closest to the scenic area’s entrance, making it a popular spot for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Qinglong Bridge

Climb those wet rock stairs and step into the Qinglong Bridge. When you gaze at the bridge hole in the distance, it appears like a massive knife. This place, where the sky often brings light drizzles, is teeming with thick greenery. The landscape opens up much more, and water gradually collects from the mountaintop, streaming down the rocks to create a small river. This river gently hydrates the surrounding grass and supports the tall trees, presenting a truly enchanting and mesmerizing beauty!

Heilong Bridge

The third bridge, Heilong Bridge, sets itself apart from the first two. It’s not as roomy and well-lit; instead, it’s relatively narrow and long. The bridge’s cave is tall and slender, casting dim lighting inside, giving it the appearance of a black dragon coiled at the cave’s pinnacle, hence its name.

Before this scenic spot was developed, every evening in this area took on a rather gloomy atmosphere. When you add in the peculiar cliffs, eerie mountain silhouettes, and mysterious creatures, it’s no wonder that local villagers would avoid passing through here between 4 and 5 o’clock in the afternoon.

👉 Book Wulong National Park Private Tour on VIATOR

18. Longshui Gorge (龙水峡地缝)

Longshui Gorge is just a ten-minute drive from the Three Natural Bridges Scenic Area. It was formed millions of years ago due to geological movements, showcasing a classic karst landscape.

The gorge features a single road that stretches throughout its length, covering a total of 5 kilometers. Of this, approximately 2 kilometers are open for exploration. To explore, you begin at the entrance, wind your way through, and eventually exit.

The entire adventure takes you along a narrow boardwalk, and as you venture deeper, the rushing water below fills the air with its deafening roar. In the narrowest part of the canyon, only a sliver of sky is visible, making for a truly awe-inspiring and thrilling experience.

Upon completing the trek through the deep gorge and taking an elevator 80 meters above the ground, the doors open to reveal a breathtaking sight: a magnificent waterfall cascading down the cliff wall.

19. Furong Cave (芙蓉洞)

A mere hour’s drive from Wulong County, roughly 190 kilometers away from downtown Chongqing, lies the breathtaking Furong River. Nestled amidst several lush green mountains, you’ll discover the captivating “Furong Cave” perched atop one of these peaks.

This cave, born more than 1.2 million years ago from Cambrian dolomitic limestone, feels like an otherworldly realm, with its peculiar and astounding sights. The primary cave within this scenic wonderland stretches for 2,700 meters, covering a sprawling 37,000 square meters.

Furong Cave showcases an incredible range of sedimentary features, incorporating elements from over 30 cave types found across the globe. From stone stalactites, stalagmites, and rock waterfalls to hydromagnesite, prehnite, aragonite, and more, this subterranean realm transforms into a vibrant underground art gallery.

The cave’s interior landscape left an indelible mark on me. It offers both the delicate charm of an ancient palace and the traces of time’s relentless erosion. In particular, the colossal stone stalactites, each spanning 15 meters in width and rising 21 meters high, appear as smooth as water streaming down. Yet, right in their midst, a striking crack reveals itself, a result of geological forces.

👉 Book Fairy Mountain Private Tour on Trip

20. Fairy Mountain (仙女山)

Fairy Mountain National Forest Park has a rare alpine grassland scenery in the south. Its grassland, rare immense forest, white snow plateau, verdant grass are called the “four unique” of Fairy Mountain by tourists .

The scenic area is surrounded by trees, hills are connected, and many cattle, sheep and horses are raised. The average temperature of Fairy Mountain is 15°C lower than that of the main city of Chongqing, so it enjoys the reputation of “ summer palace of mountain city “.

The boundless forest and grassland form the first pasture in the south, and in the summer, there is a racecourse; in the winter, it is snowy, making it a natural ski resort, and the thick snow hangs on the branches, you can enjoy the wonders of the rime.

And the supporting facilities are enough to standard, we also see that there are four- and five-star hotels, various villa groups and style wooden houses in the scenic area, and many such as horseback riding, skiing, racing, paintball, paragliding, barbecue, camping and other amusement projects are available.

👉 Book Fairy Mountain Private Tour on VIATOR

21. Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang

China’s largest river, the Yangtze River, begins its journey on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and flows from west to east through the heart of the country, stretching for over 6,300 kilometers. As it winds its way eastward, it carves through mountains and carves valleys along the eastern edge of the Sichuan Basin, ultimately giving rise to the awe-inspiring and unparalleled natural wonder—the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.

The Three Gorges constitute a captivating array of natural and cultural wonders between Chongqing and Yichang in the middle reaches of the Yangtze. This stretch spans 193 kilometers and comprises the Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, with both sides adorned by towering mountains, sheer cliffs, and breathtaking landscapes.

With the advent of the Three Gorges Dam, this area has become a renowned global tourist destination. Within the Three Gorges region, you’ll find numerous scenic spots, including well-known attractions like the Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai, White Emperor City, Zhang Fei Temple, Shennong Stream, and more .

Navigating by car or bus is impractical due to the rugged terrain, making a cruise tour the ideal way to explore the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges. With this approach, you won’t need to worry about food, lodging, or transportation. Instead, you can savor daily changing scenery from your cabin window and even have onboard guides to provide insightful commentary.

👉 Book Yangtze River Cruise Tour on VIATOR

Chongqing cuisine doesn’t hold back with its spicy hot pot, mala dishes (that tingle your taste buds), zesty Chongqing noodles, and mouthwatering street eats. And of course, you can’t miss out on the scrumptious Chongqing chicken. Check out this list of Chongqing’s must-try delights!

When it comes to Chongqing food, the first thing that comes to mind is hot pot. If you are a visitor, the go-to meal when you step into Chongqing is hitting a hot pot joint and immersing yourself in the aromatic haze of beef tallow hot pot.

Chongqing hot pot is all about that rich, red beef tallow broth, delivering a rich and spicy flavor.

As for the dipping sauce, Chongqing hot pot keeps it simple with just a dash of garlic paste mixed into sesame oil.

You’ll find Chongqing hot pots in two styles – either divided into nine-patch or a single, undivided pot, depending on the restaurant’s vibe.

Now, for the must-try items on my hot pot list, the meaty delights include tripe, cow throat, duck gizzard, duck blood, duck intestines, goose intestines, beef slices, and beef balls. If you’re into plant-based options, go for bamboo shoots, Gong Cai, Batata starch, and more.

Chongqing Noodles

Chongqing locals have a deep affection for Chongqing noodles, which rivals their love for hot pot and, in some cases, surpasses it.

Chongqing noodles, locally known as “xiaomian” or 小面, consist of plain noodles adorned with scallions, garlic sauce, red oil, vinegar, and chili peppers. As you’re served, the noodles are bathed in red oil, delivering an initial burst of spicy pepper aroma with each bite, followed by the soothing savor of the broth when you swallow.

These noodles may come topped with braised beef, braised beans, braised pig’s large intestines, or fried meat sauce.

Much like many Chongqing dishes, Chongqing noodles pack a punch with their robust and spicy flavors. Some may wonder why one would indulge in such a fiery dish for breakfast, but Chongqing locals understand that only a bowl of these noodles can kickstart their day with warmth and excitement.

Hot and Sour Rice Noodles

Chongqing’s Hot and Sour Rice Noodles typically feature handmade sweet potato powder, a mixture of sweet potatoes and pea starch as the key ingredients. Usually priced at around CNY 10 per bowl, these noodles are not only affordable but also offer a unique and delectable experience.

The noodles have a distinct combination of slippery, silky, and crunchy textures, and they are served in a broth that’s a complex interplay of spicy, numbing, sour, and umami flavors.

Boiled Fish

In Chongqing, boiled fish is often referred to as spicy fish, and Chongqing-style boiled fish is renowned for its smooth and tender texture, as well as its deliciously pungent and addictive flavor. This dish has the remarkable ability to eliminate any unwanted fishy odors while maintaining the fish’s tender qualities.

Chongqing boiled fish relies on a special dried red pepper native to Chongqing. These peppers are long, and thick, and possess a fresh, less seedy, spicy-sweet flavor of the highest quality. Even when boiled in high-temperature red oil, they retain their vibrant color and do not become burnt.

Lately, I’ve noticed that many restaurants are serving a variation called “Boiled Fish with Pickled Cabbage and Chili,” which might offer some improvements, including a reduction in oil content.

Fried Chicken Giblets

Chicken giblets consist of the internal organs of chickens, specifically the hearts, gizzards, intestines, and livers. These raw chicken giblets can have an unpleasant odor, but when they are stir-fried with chili peppers, pickled peppers, green onions, ginger, and garlic, not only is the distinct smell eliminated, but they also become tender, fragrant, spicy, and highly appetizing.

Some of the most renowned restaurants specializing in fried chicken giblets can be found in Ciqikou, including places like “古镇鸡杂,” “茂庄第一家古镇鸡杂,” and “胖姐鸡杂,” all known for their unique and delicious preparations of this dish.

Mao Xue Wang

Chongqing-style boiled blood curd (Mao Xue Wang, 毛血旺) is another renowned dish in Ciqikou. Originally, it involved making a soup from pork bones and then adding pig blood, pork lung leaves, and fatty intestines, seasoned with ginger, peppercorns, and chili peppers.

Nowadays, this dish has evolved to include a broader range of ingredients like duck blood, cattle throat, tripe, eel, soybean sprouts, pork luncheon meat, and fungus, among others. The result is a dish that’s spicy and fragrant, bursting with juiciness, rich in flavor, and incredibly appetizing. You can find this delectable dish on the menu of many Chongqing restaurants throughout the area.

Chongqing Mala Chicken

Chongqing Mala Chicken, originating from the Geleshan area in Chongqing, has two different theories surrounding its creation. One suggests that it was invented in the early 20th century by a master and apprentice working in a small restaurant in Geleshan. The other theory claims that it was simultaneously created by an old lady in the same region. Regardless of which theory is accurate, what truly matters is the dish itself.

In its authentic preparation, Sichuan or Guizhou peppers are used for the chili component, and the chicken is sourced locally from Geleshan, which naturally imparts a superior flavor compared to the commonly available large-scale farmed chicken. The chicken pieces are stir-fried until they achieve a charred, crispy exterior and then combined with Sichuan pepper and dried chili pepper. The final dish boasts a vibrant color, a spicy and aromatic flavor, and a delightful crispiness.

To capture the authentic essence of the dish, it’s best to ensure that the chili peppers completely cover the chicken, rather than having only a few peppers and peppercorns sporadically present in the chicken pieces.

Douhua is made using the same recipe as tofu but results in a distinct texture. It has a long-standing popularity in China, and various regions have their unique Douhua cuisine. In Chongqing, Douhua holds a special place as one of the favorite breakfast options. Starting the day with a warm and tender bowl of Douhua is a delightful way to begin.

When noon arrives, Douhua Rice is a common meal option in Chongqing. It’s served as a set, which includes a bowl of Douhua, a bowl of rice, a dipping sauce, and a bowl of meat (often steamed meat or ribs). The dipping sauce can be selected as spicy or non-spicy, making it a simple and delicious meal choice.

Mahua, also known as Fried Dough Twist (麻花), is a type of Chinese snack made by frying dough in peanut oil, giving it a shiny, golden appearance.

When you’re in Ciqikou Ancient Town, you can’t miss the local favorite – the “mahua” snack. You’ll spot Chen-Mahua all over Ciqikou. The top flavors include sweet, pepper salt, spicy, honey, seaweed, black sesame, and more. The spicy Mahua is a real Chongqing specialty.

Two of the most famous Mahua spots are Chen Jianping and Chen Changyin. Chen Jianping’s place usually has a longer line, while you can get your Mahua fix without waiting at Chen Changyin’s. Chen Jianping’s Mahua is a bit cheaper, and Chen Changyin’s seaweed-flavored Mahua is seriously tasty. There’s a bit of a debate about which one is the original Chen Mahua, and prices won’t break the bank; the plain version is as low as CNY 15 to CNY 18.

Spring Water Chicken

Spring Water Chicken, as the name implies, is a chicken dish prepared with spring water. However, don’t expect a light meal here; it’s just as bold and spicy as Laziji, making it a fresh and fiery dish that once enjoyed significant popularity.

The cooking process involves cutting the chicken into small pieces and frying it. Then, a combination of peppercorns, dried peppers, garlic, fermented soybeans, and more is added and stir-fried. Finally, a spoonful of soul mountain spring water is incorporated to create the Spring Water Chicken.

You’ll find most restaurants serving this delectable dish clustered around the Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform. As part of your tourist route, you can start by indulging in Spring Water Chicken at one of these establishments and then proceed to the observation deck to enjoy a panoramic view of the Chongqing night.

🛫 How Do I Travel to Chongqing

Chongqing jiangbei international airport (ckg).

If you’re flying into Chongqing, you’ll touch down at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG). From there, you’ve got a few options. You can grab a taxi, hop on an airport shuttle, or ride the Metro Line 3 or 10 to reach downtown Chongqing. The airport sits about 25-30 kilometers (15-18 miles) from the city center.

Chongqing North Railway Station (Chongqingbei)

Chongqing boasts several train stations, but the central hub is Chongqing North Railway Station (Chongqingbei). For the easiest way to navigate, consider taking the metro from Chongqing North Railway Station. It’ll get you to roughly 90% of the top attractions in the primary urban area. Oh, and a word of caution: steer clear of unauthorized transportation near airports and train stations.

Chongqing’s metro system is quite extensive and covers most parts of downtown and the nearby areas. Trains run from 6:30 in the morning until 10:30 at night. During busy hours and holidays, the trains can get pretty crowded, but they’re a great way to reach about 90% of the popular spots in the city.

Chongqing also has a comprehensive bus network that reaches all corners of the city. Buses can take you to places that the metro doesn’t cover directly. The bus routes are easy to follow, and you pay your fare when you get on the bus.

You can easily find a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app like Didi for convenience. Just make sure the taxi driver uses the meter or agrees on a fare with you before you start your trip. The starting fare is CNY 10 during the day and CNY 12 at night.

When you’re exploring downtown Chongqing, it’s smart to have a transportation app or a translation app handy, especially if you don’t speak Chinese. Chongqing’s terrain can be a bit tricky, so you might think you’re on a high floor when you’re actually on the ground level. Also, relying solely on a navigation app might lead to confusion.

The best time to visit Chongqing falls between March and June, or from after the Mid-Autumn Festival in September to the end of October🌞. Chongqing enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate during these periods, providing a comfortable atmosphere that’s not too hot or cold, making it the prime time to explore the city.

The second choice would be from November to February. Chongqing transitions into its winter season during this time, which means it’s not scorching hot but quite rainy and chilly. However, this is an ideal time to savor a hot pot meal or relax in hot springs comfortably. Plus, most tourist spots are less crowded.

Lastly, from July to September, Chongqing experiences its hottest summer weather, with temperatures soaring up to 40°C, creating a bit of a “fire city” feel. Yet, during this period, the city’s notorious fog is relatively light, providing crystal clear night views. Many locals and tourists opt for a summer retreat to Wulong during this time.

The data reveals that 48% of tourists visiting Chongqing opt for the Jiefangbei CBD & Hongya Cave area. Here are the area’s key features:

It serves as both the symbol of Chongqing and its most bustling hub.
With numerous bus and rail transit stations, it offers convenient transportation.
It boasts an array of amenities, including dining, lodging, entertainment, shopping, and more. Notable attractions include Jiefangbei Square, Hongya Cave, Chaotianmen Square, and others.

In essence, this area provides everything you need for a great time out.

Niccolo Chongqing

Niccolo Chongqing claimed the city’s highest point the moment it set foot in Chongqing, creating another fantastic spot to soak in the city’s skyline. The hotel spans from the 52nd to the 62nd floor of IFS Chongqing, where you’ll find the lobby on the 62nd floor. After checking in, you’ll make your way down to your room.

The Premier – River-View room, where I stayed, features full-length windows in both the bedroom and shower area. These windows treat you to stunning views of Chaotianmen Wharf, Hongya Cave, and other iconic landmarks, not to mention the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River.

The room’s overall interior style centers around warm earthy tones, making the bedroom cozy and inviting. From the tastefully designed furniture to the top-notch bedding, it ensures a highly comfortable stay.

Additionally, you’ll find the sky swimming pool on the 52nd floor, complete with numerous floor-to-ceiling windows. This unique setup allows you to swim while taking in the surrounding scenery without any hindrances, delivering a delightful surprise.

Regent Chongqing

Regent Chongqing indisputably stands as a front-runner in the luxury hotel scene in Chongqing and even across the entire southwest of China. Luxury hotels can be defined in various ways, but in my book, Regent Chongqing takes the crown as the crème de la crème of luxury hotels in China.

As you step through the hotel’s entrance, you’ll be greeted by a striking expanse of glass tiles, inspired by the Ciqikou and stilted buildings of old Chongqing. The fusion of these elements creates a visually opulent atmosphere. The circular diamond-hole interlocking decor found in the corridors and rooms showcases a blend of classical and modern Chinese aesthetics.

When it comes to room amenities, bedding, and welcome gifts, you’ll be charmed by the attention to detail. What’s most astonishing is the hotel’s offering of three bath options: bubble bath, rose bath, and lemon bath, available with a simple 30-minute advance call to your room’s housekeeper.

And let’s not forget the captivating night view. The River Terrace at Regent Chongqing ranks among the finest vantage points for enjoying the city’s nighttime splendor.

InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City

The architectural design of InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City is truly unique. Have you ever seen a building complex shaped like a sailboat? It is made up of eight skyscrapers, at the top of one of the masts is the InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City.

The hotel lobby is located on the 42nd floor of the covered bridge, where there is a hotel symbol landscape – a horizontal frame of high altitude crystal corridor collection of five different styles of restaurants and bars, each style is very distinctive, overlooking the scenery is also excellent.

The 380 rooms and suites, situated on floors 44-65, feature a contemporary and youthful design. Their floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows effortlessly frame picturesque views of Chongqing.

Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei

Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei easily takes the crown as Chongqing’s top hot spring hotel. Nestled amidst lush green surroundings, this place is like a natural oxygen haven, radiating elegance and a touch of antiquity.

In every room, you’ll find a hot spring pool, and some villas even sweeten the deal with a private pool. The room décor follows a traditional Chinese style, exuding a graceful aesthetic.

When you check-in, you’ll discover the hot spring pool already filled, set at the perfect 39 degrees. The generously spacious 2-meter by 2-meter pool ensures that even a family of four can unwind without feeling cramped.

Chongqing Jixiashan SUNYATA Resort Hotel

If you’ve ever had the chance to scale a skyscraper, taking in the entire city from cloud-level heights, then imagine descending to ground level and immersing yourself in the Chongqing Jixiashan SUNYATA Resort Hotel, where you’ll experience the more secluded and humanistic side of this enchanting mountain city.

As you step into the hotel’s interior, you’ll be welcomed by a brilliantly designed space that feels like a serene escape from the bustling modern world outside—a realm that exudes unique tranquility and gentle charm.

The 16 rooms come in various configurations and boast generous expanses of white space. They were crafted by the designer’s instinctive moment, resulting in every detail radiating a distinct sense of refinement.

Westin Chongqing Liberation Square

In contrast to the formal, serious business style found in other Westin hotels across China, The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square stands out with its fashionable decor and distinctive spatial layout.

For instance, the 51st-floor cloud lobby soars to a height of 10 meters, and a unique, hollowed-out log spiral staircase traverses floors 50 through 52. The hotel also boasts a panoramic swimming pool on the 54th floor, framing a backdrop with the Jiefangbei tower complex and the Yangtze River view behind it. These inventive elements and designs have propelled The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square into the ranks of Chongqing’s most sought-after hotels.

On the 53rd floor, JinYaoXuan seafood restaurant is a local favorite, celebrated for its signature seafood hot pot.

Qianhe Zhixuan Gaokong Hotel

The hotel leverages its high-altitude river view to craft rooms in various thematic styles, including New Chinese, refined Japanese, minimalistic Nordic, and more. Each room features its own spacious window viewing area, granting a splendid view of Chongqing’s beautiful river.

To avoid the crowds at Hongya Cave, go to the other side of the river for a panoramic view.
For the best Chongqing hot pot experience, opt for local alleys or street restaurants with long queues, as they offer tasty and affordable options.
Chongqing is known as the “fog city,” experiencing over 100 foggy days each year, which is a distinctive characteristic of the city.
Beware of anyone promising a shortcut to Hongya Cave. The only way to reach it is via the elevator.
At Ciqikou Ancient Town, some people dress as cartoon characters and may ask for money if you want a photo. Be cautious.
If you want to try the Yangtze River Cableway, it’s advisable to book ahead and consider a one-way journey.
You can find delicious Chongqing small noodle restaurants in any alley throughout the city.
Experience Chongqing’s metro and iconic yellow taxis for a thrilling ride through buildings, like a road-based roller coaster.
Chongqing locals love their spicy food, so dishes like hot pot, noodles, spicy chicken, and barbecue often pack a punch. If you can’t handle the heat, inform the waitstaff in advance.
Wear comfy sneakers and consider renting a car if possible. Bicycles aren’t recommended due to the hilly terrain that can lead to leg cramps.
Avoid the metro during rush hours, typically from 7-8 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.
When navigating Chongqing, rely on road signs and local advice rather than navigation apps.
Don’t miss Wulong, a must-visit destination with enchanting karst caves and a serene grand canyon.

🎫Do I need a visa for China?

Yes. Most visitors to China will need a visa to enter the country. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose and duration of your trip, as well as your nationality. If you are a resident of the US, you must apply for a Chinese visa at the Consular Office in the country. On the other hand, inhabitants of countries like Japan, Canada, and the UK can request a visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center .

🤔 Why is it necessary to install a VPN in China?

In China, the government has strict regulations on internet access, leading to the blocking of popular websites and social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and YouTube. To access these sites, a VPN is suggested as a means of bypassing the restrictions. It is important to choose a reputable VPN provider and use caution while doing so. ExpressVPN has been historically deemed the most reliable VPN for this purpose, despite being heavily targeted by China’s censors. Nevertheless, it is still a widely preferred option owing to its ease of installation and user-friendliness.

📲 Is it necessary to have a Chinese SIM card while in China?

Yes. It is crucial to acknowledge that accessing the internet in China may pose limitations due to certain websites being prohibited or filtered. To ensure uninterrupted connectivity while staying in China, purchasing a local SIM card is advisable. For optimum results, acquiring SIM cards from either China Unicom or China Mobile is recommended. While China Mobile has the most comprehensive coverage in China and is a market leader, China Unicom is more compatible with foreign phones, enabling 3G and 4G services. Or you can purchase a SIM card online .

🔮 Should I buy China travel insurance?

Yes. Although China is generally a safe country for travel, it is still possible to encounter accidents or other unexpected occurrences. Therefore, obtaining travel insurance can provide a sense of security and financial protection. In my research, I have found that World Nomads is a reputable travel insurance provider that covers a wide range of activities and is recommended for the average traveler. Nevertheless, I advise you to compare insurance quotes from various providers before making a decision.

🚙 Can you rent a car in China?

Unfeasible . Obtaining a Chinese driver’s license to rent a car and self-drive may seem like an option, but it is not a practical choice for most foreigners. Therefore, many prefer to opt for a driver or public transportation when navigating China, as it proves to be more convenient.

✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

I suggest using Trip for affordable flights to China. As a China-based company, they often offer lower prices compared to foreign companies. Additionally, they offer English-speaking phone support in case of any issues.

🏡 What is the best way to book hotels in China?

Not only does Trip offer a wider range of flight options, but it also provides a greater selection of hotels to choose from. Moreover, Agoda is a reliable resource for hotels throughout Asia.

🎒What do I pack for China?

Travel adapter and converter: China uses a different electrical system than many other countries, so it’s important to bring a travel adapter and converter if you plan to use electronic devices such as phones, cameras, and laptops. Sunscreen: The UV index in China can be high, particularly during the summer months, and prolonged exposure to the sun without protection can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Deodorant: It should be noted that finding deodorant in China may not be a simple task.

📚 Can a guidebook for traveling to China be useful?

Yes . If you’re planning to travel to China for the first time, a travel guidebook can be a valuable resource, and Lonely Planet is one of the most reputable guides available globally. Its comprehensive itineraries and recommendations take into account your personal preferences and can save you both time and money. The insider tips are also extremely helpful in navigating China’s unique cultural landscape like a local.

Enjoy these related articles

Chongqing Travel Guide - How to Plan a Trip to Chongqing

If people ask you what the biggest city in China is and you answer "Chongqing", you might be correct. This huge city, both in terms of land size and total population, is near the end of the navigable part of the Yangtze River for large ships.

Chongqing was a part of Sichuan Province, but it was made a "municipality" in 1997. In China, a municipality is a big city with a big territory. Chongqing is one of four municipalities in the country. It is a city with a long history, and it was important as an inland port near the rich Sichuan region. Traders came overland or by river.

It is located at the place where the Jialing River meets the Yangtze River. Perhaps because the Chongqing area was out of the usual travel routes, the fragile rock carvings at Dazu and the fragile natural cave scenery at Wulong remained comparatively unspoiled. Around the Chongqing urban area, there are some scenic and historical highlights such as Dazu County with ancient rock carvings and art, the rocky scenery at Wulong, the Zigong Dinosaur Museum, the Yangtze River and the 3 Gorges Dam.

Also Read An Introduction to China's LARGEST Cities

Chongqing's territory is mainly between Sichuan Province in the north and Guizhou Province in the south. It also touches three other provinces. This gives an idea of about how extensive the territory is.

It covers about 82,000 square kilometers, and about 34 million people live in the entire territory. The Chongqing urban area has about 8,000,000 people. This puts it at about the same size as Wuhan down the river. Chongqing is quickly growing. Along with the main city, there are smaller cities and towns.

Chongqing Municipality is divided into 38 subdivisions: 21 districts, 13 counties, and 4 autonomous counties.

Now it is known as a big industrial city close to oil fields and iron mines that is benefiting from the supply of cheap electricity from the newly opened 3 Gorges Dam nearby that is designed to put out the power of 15 nuclear power plants. It has a big shipbuilding industry and a big automobile industry. The city wants to develop a big hi-tech and electronics industry. The government wants to develop China's western region that is sparsely populated. People displaced from the dam construction have been moved to Chongqing. The dam produced one of the world's biggest artificial lakes and displaced hundreds of thousands.

Highlights in the region include seeing the 3 Gorges Dam and reservoir, taking a cruise on the Yangtze, visiting some of the small ethnic towns like Laitan, going to natural areas, and seeing the Dazu frescoes and statues. The ancient art sites in Dazu Country are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

A newly opened-up area for hiking and sightseeing near Chongqing is the Wulong South China Karst that was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2007. There are natural towers of limestone, stone bridges and limestone caves. The area was seldom traveled by tourists until recently. Wulong karst landscape is around 205 kilometers' away from Chongqing. A day trip is possible but a little busy. Contact China Highlights to tailor make a trip to explore this karst region .

Visitors can also see giant pandas at Chongqing Zoo. Chongqing is close to the city of Chengdu, which is one of the major habitats of giant pandas. Please click the picture below to see our Giant Pandas Special Report.

Airport Information

Name of airport: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport
Size of airport: medium-sized, with many domestic and E Asia flights and some long-haul flights.
Distance to city: 30 km
Taxi fare: CNY 150, takes about 45 minutes

You can tour Chongqing visa-free for 6 days using Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport.

Enjoy Chongqing's Highlights with Us

Dumplings, wontons, Sichuan hotpot and hundreds of other dishes you maybe never heard of are waiting for you to try them. If you are planning a trip to Chongqing, we can combine going to your favorite kind of restaurants for meals with our recommended regional tours such as:

6-Day Essence of Chongqing and Yangtze Cruise Tour : 6-Day Three Gorges Museum, Ciqikou Ancient Town, Dazu Grottoes, and Yangtze Cruise Tour

All our tours can be customized.

Create My Trip: Contact us to receive a free quotation for a tailor-made tour — just tell us your requirements and interests.

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Chongqing Travel Guide

Municipality, welcome to chongqing.

Have you heard of Chongqing? Chances are that you haven’t, and that will come as a surprise once you start to learn more about this vibrant, sprawling city. Chongqing is one of the most important cities in China’s west and has a history stretching back over 3,000 years.

Things to do
Where to eat
Where to stay
Around Chongqing

The city is also known for is its unique landscape. Chongqing is located on the intersection of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers and is surrounded by the Daba, Wushan, and Wuling Mountains. This gives it a hilly landscape that has to be seen to be believed.

All the streets may look straight on the map, but in real life they’re just as likely to suddenly soar high into the air!

As you might expect from a massive city, Chongqing sometimes has a problem with air pollution. You can check pollution levels for Chongqing here .

The city is transforming rapidly. Image by Ethan Zhan on Pixabay.

Chongqing food is guaranteed to be hot. Image by Grace Fu on Pixabay.

The best things to do in Chongqing

There are lots of fun things to do in Chongqing. And if you’re brave, lots of amazing things to eat as well!

1. Eat hot pot

This has to be the first item on any list of what to do in Chongqing. This city’s hot pot is absolutely famous in China, so make sure you give it a try.

It’s best to eat hot pot with other people as it’s a community kind of experience. Just make sure that you specify what kind of meat is in it and be cautious if you’re sensitive to spices.

2. Wander around Ciqikou Old Town

Pick up a souvenir at Ciqikou. Image by Min Kong on Pixabay.

Chongqing is unapologetically modern and yet this tucked away area reflects its past perfectly. Located in the Shapingba District, it was built in the Ming and Qing dynasties and has a long history of creating porcelain objects.

While you’re in Chongqing, make sure that you take the time to wander the ancient streets of Ciqikou. And have a bowl of Chongqing noodles while you’re in the area too.

3. See the People’s Liberation Monument

This monument was built in 1945 and remembers China’s success during WWII. It’s an iconic landmark in the city and a must-see if you’re a history buff.

Admission to the monument is free and it’s located in the Jiefangbei Commercial District, so it’s easy to find and surrounded by other attractions.

4. Explore Jiefangbei

The Jiefangbei area is the center of the city and a landmark in itself. It offers amazing shopping, restaurants, people-watching and attractions of all kinds.

If you’re interested in the latest fashion and tasty food, this is where you should spend some time.

5. Explore Hongya Cave

Hongya Cave is popular at night. Image by Xjqwangj on Pixabay.

This isn’t really a cave. It’s a building complex that’s built on the cliffside facing the Jialing River. The original stilt house complex was built more than 2,300 years ago and was originally a military fortress.

Now, it consists of four streets that showcase the Bayu Culture, one of China’s ethnic cultures.

This area is best seen at night, when it’s lit up against the darkness. You can also wander the four surrounding streets:

Banquet Food Street
Zhiyanhe Bar Street
Exotic Balcony Street for cafes and some more unusual restaurants
Tianchengxiang Bayu Culture Street for old buildings and handicrafts.

6. See some giant pandas

You can’t visit China without seeing this adorable animal at the Chongqing Zoo. Located five miles from the city center, the zoo is filled with lush greenery and waterfalls and is a good place to cool down and see some unique Chinese animals .

For the ultimate panda experience, you’d best visit Chengdu . It’s 400 km (250 mi) away, which in a country of China’s size, is only a stone’s throw away!

7. See the city from the Yangtze River Cableway

Take the cable car for spectacular views of Chongqing. Image by Xjqwangj on Pixabay.

You would need a lot of time to see all of Chongqing, but you can get an overview of the city from the Yangtze River Cableway.

The cable cars have been running since the 1980s and were once an everyday transport option.

Today, they’re mostly for tourists who want great views across the Yangtze River and the city.

8. Visit the city’s creative heart

Chongqing isn’t all high rises and metal. There’s also Huangjueping, home to numerous art spaces and one of the longest graffiti streets in the world.

This area is popular among Chongqing’s creative population, so it can be a great place to see a whole other side to this busy, modern city.

Hot and spicy Chongqing

Chongqing is known for its amazing, incredibly spicy food.

Even the locals have learned to be wary of the level of spice in some Sichuan dishes, so it often takes foreigners by complete surprise!

Build up your spice tolerance if you want to try some of the local dishes or choose very carefully to keep your taste buds intact.

Here’s a few spicy Chinese dishes you must try in Chongqing:

Hotpot, which is usually fire-engine red
Chongqing noodles
Cake butter
Boiled fish (‘shui zhu yu’).

If you don’t want any chili in your food, just say “bùyào la” (不要辣). Chances are though, the chef will still throw some in.

Where to eat in Chongqing

In a city known for its restaurants, it can be difficult to choose just one place to eat.

But there’s an easy way to solve this problem. Just eat in as many local restaurants as possible!

Wai Po Qiao

This is where the locals eat and it offers incredibly spicy dishes, so be prepared. You can get hot pot, which is served on one side of the restaurant, or other Sichuan food, in which case you’ll sit in the other side of the restaurant.

The food is affordable and if you get hot pot then you’ll be able to choose your ingredients.

Address: Sanxia Square Pedestrian Street, Shapingba, Chongqing

Xiao Tian E

This is another hot pot place and one that the locals recommend. The food is high quality, and you can either brave the super spicy broth or try a plainer broth that won’t set your mouth on fire.

Address: Xiao Tian E, 78 Jianxin N Rd, Jiangbei, Chongqing

Thai Rice House

If you need a break from the spicy local food, then why not try spices of a different kind? Popular among expats, this restaurant serves tasty Thai specialities, and the menu has pictures, which means you shouldn’t have any trouble ordering.

Address: 68 Zou Rong Lu, Jie Fang Bei Shang Quan, Yuzhong Qu, Chongqing

Zēng Lǎo Yāo Yú Zhuāng

This restaurant is located in a former bomb shelter and it’s always packed. That tells you that the food is really good. This restaurant isn’t all about hot pot either, in fact its signature dishes are spareribs and fish.

Address: 220 Changjiang Binjiang Lu 长江滨江路220号

Xiǎo Bīn Lōu

If you’re sensitive to spicy foods, then start out slow with the food at this popular restaurant. It’s Chongqing cuisine light basically, and you can order from a set menu or try several small dishes.

Address: Riyueguang Zhongxin Guangchang, 4th Floor, 89 Minquan Lu 民权路89号日月光中心广场4层

Hotpot restaurants are dotted across the city. Image by Adam Yee on Shutterstock.

The best food markets in Chongqing

In a city known for its food, you’ll find lots of food streets offering stalls selling regional delicacies and deliciously hot snacks.

And after a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing better than munching on some delicious Chinese street food !

Here’s where to look for street food in Chongqing.

Nanbin Road Food Street

Located in the Nan’an District, this food street is on the Yangtze River and offers beautiful views. It also has the hottest collection of tea houses, bars and restaurants in town.

Yangjiaping Zhigang Road

This famous food street has everything from spicy Sichuan to western dishes. So, if you’re looking for something that won’t sear off your taste buds, head over to Jiulongpo District for a meal.

Ciqikou Ancient Town

If you like some atmosphere with your food, then spend some time in Ciqikou Ancient town. This part of the city is thousands of years old and is located on the Jialing River.

You’ll be able to wander along ancient stone streets while you eat fried peanuts, boiled blood curd, and other strange sounding snacks like these ones .

Where to stay in Chongqing

Location is most important when it comes to finding accommodation in Chongqing.

The city is so huge that you don’t want to be away from the attractions you most want to see, so choose your Chongqing accommodation close to the middle of the city unless you’re willing to spend a lot of time on public transport.

The Fangorn International Hostel is ideal if you’re traveling to Chongqing on a budget. It’s close to the city center and to transport options and has its own restaurant and bar.

Rooms come in a variety of sizes and there’s also shared spaces where you can swap stories with fellow travelers.

The Chongqing CCHome Hotel offers metro access and is close to the city center. Some of the rooms have amazing city views and there’s also a garden at the hotel for a touch of greenery.

If you want to exercise during your visit, then spend time in the hotel pool or fitness center. The hotel also offers an airport shuttle for your convenience.

You can’t get any more central than this luxury hotel. The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square is two minutes’ walk from the famous monument and five minutes from the local train station.

It has two restaurants as well as elegant, spacious rooms with private bathrooms and satellite TV.

You can also restore your body and mind at the Westin’s spa, where you can enjoy beautifying treatments and Chinese massage .

Transport in Chongqing

As a big, modern city, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting into or around Chongqing.

Just remember to always have your destination written down in Chinese characters, because the level of English can vary widely throughout the city.

It’s a good idea to have your translation and map apps handy. Check out the best apps for traveling to China .

Air transport

Chongqing connects eastern and western China, which is why it’s one of the most important transport hubs in the country. This is why all the different forms of transport in the city are well developed, fast and modern.

Chongqing has numerous airports, but you’ll probably arrive at Jiangbei International Airport, which is the busiest. You can get flights from this airport to all major and provincial cities in China and international cities too.

The airport is around 20 km (13 mi) from the downtown area, and you can reach it by airport shuttle bus or using subway line 3.

The other airports are:

Wanzhou Wuqiao Airport, which is close to downtown and has flights to domestic cities and to certain cities in Asia
Qianjiang Wulingshan Airport, also close to downtown and mostly offers domestic flights
Wulong Xiannushan Airport, which opened in 2020 and provides mostly domestic flights.

High speed rail

Chongqing’s train system is modern and extensive, with more than 100 trains each day traveling to cities all over China. There are two main railway stations, though a third is meant to open in 2022.

Trains are the best way to travel from Chongqing to other parts of China as they’re fast and relatively inexpensive.

Long distance buses

Long distance bus travel is very important in Chongqing. It’s also much cheaper than the train, so if you want to explore other cities, then take the bus.

The main bus terminal in Chongqing. Image by BoyCatalyst on Shutterstock.

There are stations through the city’s districts and the buses travel to a huge variety of cities in China.

Chongqing’s subway is fast, almost always on time, and easy to use. Just make sure that you avoid it in peak times, as it can get incredibly crowded.

You can get almost anywhere in the city using the subway and the tickets are fairly inexpensive.

Taxis are plentiful in Chongqing but have your destination name written down in Chinese characters as the drivers often don’t speak English.

The taxis are metered as well, so you shouldn’t have to bargain to get a good price.

There are numerous road bridges in Chongqing. Image by Gwen24 on Pixabay.

You could also book a car on the Didi app. But if the driver can’t find you and calls you, they will speak in Chinese.

There are lots of city buses in Chongqing and they go everywhere. They sure beat walking up the steep inclines that the city is known for.

Make sure you have plenty of change when you get on the bus, as the drivers won’t give you any, or use a local transportation card.

Traveling outside Chongqing

Chongqing is huge, but that doesn’t mean you should spend all of your time in the city.

If you’re ready to get out of it and see more, then here’s where to go.

Visit Wulong Mountain

Huge cities like Chongqing can get a little overwhelming at times, so make sure you relax in Wulong Mountain. This forested area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is filled with waterfalls, bridges and caves.

Located just two and a half hours from the city, you may recognize parts of the landscape from popular movies like Transformers.

See the Dazu Rock Carvings

The Dazu Rock Carvings are located just under three hours from the city. Mostly created in the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907) and the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279), they’re intricate Buddhist carvings and statues that are strikingly beautiful and unique.

There are several popular areas and carvings to see, but the Beishan Rock Carving and Baodingshan Rock Carving are the most popular.

Cruise the Yangtze River Cruise to Yichang

This is less of a destination and more of an experience. The cruise from Chongqing to Yichang takes between three and four days and takes you past stunning scenery.

On the cruise, you’ll get the chance to see the Wushan Mountains, The Three Gorges, and Shibaozhai, also known as the Precious Stone Fortress. If you have the time, this is a lovely experience and one that you won’t soon forget!

The banks of the Yangtze River in Yichang. Image supplied by Mike Cairnduff.

You can buy tickets from the ticket booths down by the river, or arrange it through a travel agent.

Prices and quality vary, so make sure you know what you’re getting for your money. Also check if food is included.

Fengdu Ghost City

Located just over two hours from Chongqing, Fengdu Ghost City is a large complex of shrines and temples on the Ming Mountain.

This ancient city has been around for 2,000 years and it explores the Chinese ghost culture and the afterlife.

In this city, you’ll find statues and depictions of ghosts and devils as well as artistic renditions of what happens to evil people once they reach the other side.

Basically, the whole city is a big warning about the price of doing bad things and it’s both oddly beautiful and a little bit creepy.

Videos about Chongqing

Get a visual taste of Chongqing before you visit!

Here’s a great taster video of this mega city.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyz7bGQ8pSo Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: China’s Insane Megacity: Chongqing (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyz7bGQ8pSo)

And here’s a street food tour video including Chongqing’s famous spicy hot pot and fried noodles.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgq1LoAqMgg Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: The BEST Noodles in the WORLD!!! Chinese FIRE NOODLE + Street Food Tour of Chongqing – EXTREME!!! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgq1LoAqMgg)

Need help with your travel bookings?

Going on a tour in China is a great idea, especially if you can’t speak Mandarin.

You can refer to this list of China travel agencies who can help put a plan together for you.

Or, to book your own flights, tours and hotels, we recommend Trip for amazing choice and value. Trip is one of the leading travel companies in China.

Don’t forget…

It’s easy to forget a thing or two before you head to China.

So, here are a few reminders for you:

The right visa – if you’re only staying for a quick trip, you may be eligible for visa-free travel .
Cash or Alipay – your credit card may not be accepted, so bring yuan or use Alipay (see China travel apps ).
VPN app – if you want access to all your favorite websites and apps in China, you’ll need to download a VPN before you leave your country. Get a VPN that works in China .

Have a wonderful time in Chongqing. And remember to get your VPN so you can stay connected!

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Page last updated 30 October 2022. Main image credit: Sharon Ang from Pixabay. Commercial relationship disclosure: The Helpful Panda has commercial arrangements with organizations that may appear on this page, such as affiliate links. See our terms for more info.

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1 Understand
2.1 By plane
2.2 By train
3.1 By metro
3.3 By taxi
3.4 By bike
4.1 Streets and architecture
4.2.1 Art museums and galleries
4.2.2 General museums
4.2.3 Culture and history museums
4.2.4 Science and technology museums
4.3 Religious sites
4.4 Parks and nature
4.5 Political heritage
4.6 Other historical sites
5.1 Cruises
5.2 Hot springs
7.1.1 Hot pot
7.1.2 Suggested dishes at nicer restaurants
7.1.3 Suggested dishes at noodle shops
7.1.4 Western food
7.2 Restaurants
9.2 Mid-range
9.3 Splurge

Chongqing (重庆; Chóngqìng , formerly spelled Chungking ) is fast becoming the most economically important city in the interior West China , with an urban population of around 8.8 million. In addition to the central urban area, the municipality of Chongqing also includes some 80,000 km² (31,000 sq mi) of the neighboring countryside and smaller towns, with approximately 30 million people altogether.

Chongqing is also the launching point for scenic boat trips down the Yangtze River through the Three Gorges Dam. The spectacular Buddhist Dazu Rock Carvings are three hours west of Chongqing City in the outlying Chongqing Municipality and are listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Chongqing is notorious for its hot and humid weather. The air quality, winter or summer, can be challenging to people with respiratory problems due to massive amounts of smog. Chongqing has been ranked by the World Bank as one of the most polluted cities in the world.

Understand [ edit ]

Chongqing is one of the four municipalities in China, the cities that are not part of a province but report directly to the national government; it is the only municipality that is not on the east coast, (the others are Beijing , Shanghai and Tianjin ). It was historically a part of Sichuan province, and is culturally and linguistically considered to be part of it.

During World War II , Chongqing served as the temporary capital of China after Nanjing fell to the Japanese. Despite being heavily bombed, Chongqing was successfully defended by the Chinese forces and avoided occupation for the duration of the war.

Chongqing urban area (covered in this article) consists of the following nine districts: Yuzhong, Dadukou, Jiangbei, Shapingba, Jiulongpo, Nan'an, Banan, Yubei, and Beibei.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

29.72107 106.63427 1 Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport ( CKG IATA ) ( about 21 km northeast of Chongqing in Lianglu Town, Yubei District ). It is served by international flights from Asia, Middle East, Europe, Oceania and North America. It also serves most main domestic cities. It has two terminals (a third much larger terminal under construction, and a fourth is set for construction shortly after completion of the third).
Terminal 1 - Closed for renovation. The re-opening date has not been announced.
Terminal 2 - Serves four domestic airlines: China West Air, China Express Airlines, Sichuan Airlines and China Spring Airlines. Metro Line 3 and Line 10 connects this terminal to downtown Chongqing. Bus service is also available from the ground level of the terminal. Taxi to downtown Chongqing costs about ¥80.
Terminal 3 - Serves domestic airlines and international airlines, connecting Chongqing to major international cities. Metro Line 10 runs through the transportation hub of T3. There is free airport shuttle service between T3 and T2, which takes approximately 15 minutes for each trip.

There are several ways to get from the airport to the city:

Chongqing Metro Line 3 connects the airport to the city centre. The station is accessible from both terminals.
The Airport shuttle bus departs from the ground level of Terminal 2 to 29.56286 106.5442 2 Shangqisi Lu airport bus stop in central Chongqing. There are two stops, so when you stand in line, look carefully.
A taxi to downtown Chongqing would cost about ¥40-80.

By train [ edit ]

There are three major train stations in Chongqing:

High speed trains (G series) link to Chongqing North Station to Beijing in about 12 hours, and to Chengdu in about 1½ hours. In addition, there are slow trains that take about twice as long.

The longest railway trip from Chongqing is from Harbin to Chongqing North, a 48-hour, 3,535-km ride. The price of hard ticket is ¥344 and hard berth is ¥599.

Most train tickets can be purchased through the help of the hotel your are staying. The tickets are then delivered to the hotel for you to pick up.

By bus [ edit ]

Long distance buses travel to Chongqing from almost anywhere. There are numerous buses into Chongqing, most notably is the hourly service to and from Chengdu , Nanchong , and Xi'an . From the west Chengdu is 2½ hours and to the east Wanzhou is 3 hours, both on good highways and good buses. Avoid the "sleeper" buses as they must be the most uncomfortable way to travel ever invented.

29.55055 106.54676 6 Chongqing Long-Distance Bus Station ( 重庆长途汽车站, colloquially known as Caiyuanba Bus Station 菜园坝汽车站 ), 3 Caiyuan Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区菜袁路3号) ( Next to the Chongqing Railway Station ). This is Chongqing's main bus station. It is complete mayhem most of the time - people in Chongqing do not queue. ( updated Sep 2018 )
29.60884 106.54232 7 Chongqing North Railway Station South Plaza Bus Station ( 重庆北站南广场汽车站, previously known as Longtousi South Bus Station 龙头寺汽车南站 ), 46 Kunlun Avenue, Yubei District (渝北区中铁二院昆仑大道46号) . ( updated Sep 2018 )
29.5291 106.48468 8 Chenjiaping Bus Station ( 陈家坪汽车站 ), 39 Shiyang Road, Jiulongpo District (九龙坡区石杨路39号) . Serves buses headed to the west and in particular towards Sichuan Province. ( updated Sep 2018 )
29.52106 106.57514 9 Sigongli Transport Interchange ( 四公里交通换乘枢纽 ), 61 Sigongli Street, Nan'an District (南岸区四公里街61号) . ( updated Sep 2018 )

Get around [ edit ]

The metro and bus systems are advised as the best forms of transportation and are very cheap and efficient.

By metro [ edit ]

The first section of Chongqing's rapid transit system opened in 2005. Since then, major expansions have now linked major railway stations, major shopping districts and the airport, with more extensions under construction. Announcements are made both in Mandarin and English. No smoking is allowed and all services are air-conditioned, which is a reason alone to board one from between April to September! Don't forget your electronic ticket card to get out of the station. If you overshoot your stop, go to the service counter and add value to your card.

1 Chaotianmen to Jiandingpo , east-west heavy rail metro line. Handy for visiting Ciqikou, Jiefangbei, or Chaotianmen.

2 Jiaochangkou to Yudong , monorail line. Convenient for visiting the Zoo, Stilwell Museum, Jiefangbei, Jiulongpo, Peoples Hall and Three Gorges Museum.

3 Yudong to Jiangbei Airport Terminal 2 , monorail line running north-south. Convenient for Chongqing North Railway Station, Guanyinxiao, Chongqing Central Railway Station, EXPO Garden Center, NanPing, and airport.

4 Jiazhoulu to shichuan, pass Chongqing North Railway Station North Square.

5 Jiangjin to yuegangdadao, Access to areas outside central Chongqing (Jiangjin District)

6 Beibei to Chayuan , north-south subway line thru Yuzhong district (near Jeifangbei) in central Chongqing.

10 Wangiazhaug to Lanhualu , north-south via airport.

环线（Loop line） Through the core area of Chongqing central city,can transfer to all other subway lines at stops on this line. Convenient for visiting the:Chongqingxi Railway Station,South Square of Chongqingbei Railway Station.

Buses are frequent and cheap, but unless you can read Chinese you have to know where they are going and choose the right number bus going in the right direction. If you are going to one of the city centres in Chongqing city, simply ask each bus if they go there. There are four city centres, so be sure you know the name of the place you want to go to:

29.5599 106.45744 10 Shapingba bus station (Sandplains) NW part of town and is an academic and university centre
29.577 106.528 11 Jiangbei (Northplace) which includes Paradise Walk shopping center - There are two bus stations near the pedestrian street (Guanyinxiao).
29.530531 106.561379 12 Nanping (Southernplains)
29.560454 106.5734 13 Jiefangbei , the primary centre of Chongqing, contains a pedestrian mall with a major shopping and entertainment centre and a series of supertall skyscrapers around the Jeifangbei monument. There are two bus stations in Jiefangbei, south and west of the monument.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis in Chongqing are bright yellow small sized Suzuki sedans. They are relatively cheap (starting at ¥8 and ¥1.8/km, ¥8.9 and ¥2.25/km after midnight) and can be easily found 24 hours a day. Few drivers speak anything but Chinese, so you must know where you are going. Either have your destination written for you in Chinese, learn how to say it, or be able to direct the driver. A good way to use taxis is to gather cards from hotels, then simply show the driver the one you want to go to or is nearest to your destination.

Caution: Empty taxis are hard to find on extremely hot days. It is advisable to seek alternative transportation or stay indoors. This is because most taxis have A/C running, thus requiring more frequent natural gas refills. There aren't enough natural gas stations around and the pump pressure is frequently inadequate, so many taxis will be stranded lining up for gas.

By bike [ edit ]

Biking is the worst way to get around Chongqing. The mountains are difficult to climb, it is very easy to get lost (due to the many hills and valleys and the two rivers), and it is incredibly dangerous to bike on city streets. However, if you visit the University city of Chongqing, you can take a bike or an electric bike at there.

See [ edit ]

Chongqing has the largest population in West China and is the focus of China's "Go West" development strategy. As a result, it is a very lively and rapidly modernizing city, although it does get a bit too hectic most of the time. On the surface, the city appears rough around the edges and a bit gritty and thus there may appear to be not much to do in the daytime, but further investigation will uncover a city with truly its own character and a number of interesting sites actually worth looking into.

Streets and architecture [ edit ]

29.567 106.585 1 Chaotianmen Square ( 朝天门广场 ), 1 Changjiang Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District (重庆市渝中区长江滨江路1号) ( many bus routes terminate here ). A large public square at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. Here you can see the importance of the river trade to Chongqing with nice views across the river to the new Chongqing Grand Theatre. Many river cruise ships terminate nearby and the night lights are spectacular to see. Free .

Most of Foreigner Street(美心洋人街） facilities have been demolished and it is closed to the public. The project moved to Fuling District in Chongqing（涪陵区）.

29.687812 106.81936 6 Liangjiang International Film City ( 两江国际影视城, Liangjiang Movie City, 民国街 Republic Street ), Longxing Industrial Park, Liangjiang New District, Yubei District (渝北区两江新区所属的龙兴工业园区内) ( Direct bus services to the site are available from the Longtousi Bus Station. Other buses that stop here include bus nos. 980, 984, 986 and 995 ), ☏ +86 23 67343639 (enquiries), +86 23 67499108 (emergencies), +86 23 67343533 (complaints) , toll-free: +86 400 0571942 . 08:30-17:30 . A recreation of downtown Chongqing as it looked in the 1940s. It was built for Feng Xiaogang's 2012 film Back to 1942 , and is now a tourist attraction. The streets feature replicas of many well-known buildings from the time, as well as staff dressed in period costumes. ¥40 . ( updated Jan 2020 )

Museums [ edit ]

Art museums and galleries [ edit ].

29.83122 106.43717 9 [dead link] Beibei Art Museum ( 北碚区美术馆 ), 26 Gongyuan Village, Beibei District (北碚区公园村26号) ( About 580 meters northeast of Beibei Station on Metro Line 6. After exiting the station, walk northeast down Zhongshan Road, then turn right when you come to Jingning Road ), ☏ +86 23 68274448 . Tu-Su Spring and winter: 09:00-17:00, Summer and autumn: 09:00-19:00 . Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.57597 106.58922 10 Changjiang Museum of Contemporary Art ( Yangtze River Museum of Contemporary Art, 重庆长江当代美术馆 ), Yangtze River Art Square, Nanbin Road, Nan'an District (南岸区南滨路长江艺术广场) ( Take bus no. 338, 373 or 375 and get off at the Nanbin Road Clock Tower (南滨路钟楼) ), ☏ +86 23 63000111 818 . Tu-Su 10:00-18:00, no entry after 17:00 . Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.6783 106.60043 11 Chinese Contemporary Art Museum ( Museum of Contemporary Chinese Art, 华人当代美术馆 ), 59 Hubin Road East, Huixing Subdistrict, Yubei District (渝北区回兴街道湖滨东路59号) ( bus routes 616, 619, 656, 688, 697, 853, and 880; the museum is 2 km south of Huixing Station on Metro Line 3, you can catch bus no. 880 from the station ), ☏ +86 23 67451993 (enquiries), +86 23 67451306 (reservations) . 10:00-17:00 . Established in 1995 with the assistance of the director of the National Art Museum of China, the museum is claimed to be the PRC's first privately-owned art museum. The museum features works by contemporary artists from all over China. ¥25 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.60405 106.2967 14 Luo Zhongli Art Museum ( 罗中立美术馆 ), 56 Daxuecheng Road South, Shapingba District (沙坪坝区大学城南路56号) ( Take a train to Daxuecheng Station on Metro Line 1, then either walk ot catch bus no. 240 ), ☏ +86 23 65922052 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00 . Situated at the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute's Huxi Campus, this is one of Chongqing's largest art museums. The museum is named after Mr Luo Zhongli, a famous oil painter who graduated from the institute. Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.5646 106.549 16 TestBed 2 ( 二厂文创园 ), No. 1 Eling Main Street, Yuzhong District (渝中区鹅岭正街1) ( A free shuttle bus is available from Liziba Station on Metro Line 2. You can also catch bus no. 829 ). A renovation project partnered with Harvard University transformed this Republic-era banknote printing factory into an artsy space that has gained nationwide popularity. Located at a hilltop in Yuzhong District, TestBed 2 is not just another spot for enjoying the mountainous cityscape, but also a great stop for the best restaurants, bars, cafes and designer shops in the city. From here, a short hike up to Eling Park will take you to the highest viewpoint on the Yuzhong peninsula. ( updated Mar 2018 )

General museums [ edit ]

29.668188 106.559653 17 Baolin Museum ( 宝林博物馆 ), 99 Longzhan Road, Yubei District (渝北区龙展路99号) ( About 560 metres north of Yuanyang Station on Metro Line 3 ), ☏ +86 23 63051666 . Tu-Su 09:30-16:30, no entry after 16:00 . A large private museum established by retired PLA general Chen Baolin. The museum's name is incorrectly translated into English as 'Baolin Art Museum'. In fact, this is more than just an art museum. The museum's exhibits pertain to a broad range of subjects, including arts, culture, history and paleontology. Free . ( updated Dec 2018 )
29.56996 106.58437 18 Chongqing Planning Exhibition Hall ( 重庆市规划展览馆, Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery ), No.1 Chaodong Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区朝东路1号) ( Up the stairs opposite ferry terminal 6 at Chaotianmen. Metro 1/6 to Xiaoshizi station ), ☏ +86 23 63730777 , [email protected] . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:30 . Contains exhibitions concerning the history of urban planning in Chongqing, as well as current and future plans for the city. Features a vast model of the city of Chongqing, with each building modelled in 3D. Entry is free, English tour guides are available for ¥300. Chinese language tour guides cost ¥200 . ( updated Jan 2020 )

Culture and history museums [ edit ]

29.807913 106.389445 20 Beibei History and Culture Museum ( 北碚历史文化陈列馆, 北碚博物馆 Beibei Museum ), 77 Yunqing Road, Beibei District (北碚区云清路77号) ( About 1 kilometre northwest of Zhuangyuanbei Station on Metro Line 6 ), ☏ +86 23 68325828 . 09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays . Free . ( updated May 2019 )
29.71415 106.62589 21 Chongqing Museum of Ba-Yu Folk Customs ( 重庆巴渝民俗博物馆 ), Er Zhi Lane, Shuanglong Avenue, Yubei District (渝北区双龙大道二支巷) ( Metro Line 3, Bijin Station, Exit 1. The museum is in the southern part of Bijin Park ), ☏ +86 23 67821596 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:30 . Free . ( updated Jun 2018 )
29.56931 106.58395 22 Chongqing Museum of Famous Historical Figures ( 重庆历史名人馆 ), 1 Chaodong Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区朝东路附1号) ( Metro Lines 1 and 6, Xiaoshizi Station, Exit 8. The museum is at the southern end of Chaotianmen Square ), ☏ +86 23 63103217 , +86 23 63103378 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:30, no entry after 16:30 . Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.62761 106.52177 23 Chongqing Museum of Sichuan Opera ( 重庆川剧博物馆 ), 2 Jinshan Avenue, Renhe, Yubei District (渝北区人和金山大道2号) ( about 10 minutes walk from Renhe Station on Metro Line 5 ), ☏ +86 23 63011293 . Tu-Su 09:00-16:30 . A small museum devoted to Sichuan Opera. Free . ( updated Sep 2018 )

Science and technology museums [ edit ]

29.473323 106.488244 25 Chongqing Industrial Museum ( 重庆工业博物馆, 重庆工业文化博览园 ), 999 Yidu Road, Dadukou District (大渡口区义渡路999号) ( Take a metro train to Xinshancun Station on Line 2, then walk to the Hong Kong Town (香港城) bus stop on Chunhui Road (春晖路) and catch shuttle bus 207. The bus terminates outside the museum ), ☏ +86 23 61843552 (enquiries), +86 19112835615 (bookings) , [email protected] . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:00 . Sited on the grounds of an old steel mill, this museum tells the story of how Chongqing became a major industrial city. Visitors are encouraged to make a booking before visiting the museum due to limitations on visitor numbers. Free . ( updated Jan 2020 )

Religious sites [ edit ]

29.49058 106.44029 29 Huayan Tourist Park ( 华岩旅游风景区 ), 151 Huayan Village, Jiulongpo District (九龙坡区华岩村151号) ( Take bus no. 268, 325, 425, 499, 843 or 891 and get off at the Huayan Temple bus stop. You can catch bus no. 425 from Shiqiaopu Station on Metro Line 1 ), ☏ +86 23 65254808 . 08:30-18:00 . A temple complex including a Buddhist monastery and a large golden Buddha overlooking the whole place. Tucked in a green valley on a small lake, surprisingly in the middle of an urban built up area of Chongqing City. Free .

Parks and nature [ edit ]

29.68313 106.54894 31 Chongqing Garden Expo Park ( Expo Garden Center, 重庆园博园 ), 1 Longjing Road, Yubei District (渝北区龙景路1号) ( Metro Lines 3 & 5, Expo Garden Center Station ), ☏ +86 23 63086110 . 09:00-17:00 . The park was established in 2011 for the 8th China (Chongqing) International Garden Expo and has since become one of the city's most popular parks. ¥20 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.83635 106.37864 34 Jinyun Mountain National Nature Reserve ( Jinyunshan National Nature Reserve, 重庆缙云山国家级自然保护区 ), Jinyun Road, Beibei District (北碚区缙云路) ( Take a train to Beibei Station on Metro Line 6. After exiting the station, head west to Beiquan Road (北泉路) and catch bus no. 520 from the Wulukou (五路口) bus stop ), ☏ +86 23 68224497 , [email protected] . 07:00-18:00 . ¥15 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.22697 106.6922 36 Shengdeng Mountain Forest Park ( Shengdengshan Forest Park, 圣灯山森林公园, 圣灯山原始森林公园 ), Tiaoshi Town, Banan District (巴南区跳石镇) ( First take a metro train to Yuhu Road Station (鱼胡路站) on Metro Line 3, then walk to the Jiuzhouwan Bus Station (龙洲湾枢纽站) and catch bus no. 910 to Tiaoshi Town. Upon arrival at Tiaoshi, you will need to transfer to bus no. 913 to get to the park ), ☏ +86 23 66486664 . 08:00-17:00 . Shengdeng Mountain is 1064 m above sea level. Legend has it that the emperor Jianwen of the Ming Dynasty built a house here and lived here when he took refuge. Hence, the Chinese name of the mountain is sometimes written as '圣登山', which literally means a mountain which was climbed by a sage. ¥40 .
29.60896 106.67893 37 Tieshanping Forest Park ( 铁山坪森林公园 ), Jiangbei District (江北区) ( Catch a train to Liyuchi Station on Metro Line 10, exit via Exit 3A or 3B and look for the Chang'an Motors (长安汽车) bus stop. From there, catch bus no. 813 to get to the park ), ☏ +86 23 67550510 , [email protected] . Open all day . Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )

Political heritage [ edit ]

Chongqing served as the capital of the Republic of China for seven years during the late 1930s and early 1940s during the Anti-Japanese War (World War II). It was also the site of important events during the Chinese Civil War (ended 1950). With this political history comes a number of historic sights which are worth visiting.

29.56861 106.61283 38 Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang residence ( 黄山蒋介石官邸, 蒋介石旧军事总部 Chiang Kai-Shek's old military headquarters ), Mount Huang Scenic Area, Nan'an District (南岸区黄山风景区) ( The location is a bit out of town and a taxi is the easiest transport. However, buses are also available. Catch bus no. 384 from the Nanping Bus Terminal and get off at Mount Huang (Huangshan) ), ☏ +86 23 62465242 . 09:00-17:30, no tickets sold after 16:30 . When Chongqing was the capital of China during World War II, Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-Shek) established his military headquarters up in the mountains above Chongqing. As a result the Japanese bombers never found it, and it is now a museum, preserved as it was during the war. There are many buildings in the beautiful compound and you can visit his work room with the motto over his desk "all officials must serve the people" (in free translation), his bedroom, and his meeting room, and sit in his chair where he negotiated with the American advisers, with his American-educated wife usually to his left. The residence is usually referred to as Chiang Kai-Shek's Mount Huang (or Huangshan) residence in order to distinguish it from Chiang's other official residences (he had no less than four official residences in Chongqing alone). Together with the other buildings in the compound, the residence forms part of the Chongqing Sino-Japanese War Sites Museum (重庆抗战遗址博物馆). ¥20 .
29.553239 106.529812 39 Chongqing Flying Tigers Museum ( 重庆飞虎队展览馆, 重庆友好飞虎队展览馆, 重庆飞虎队陈列馆 ), 62 Jialing New Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区嘉陵新路62号) ( 200m from Fotuguan Station on Metro Line 2. Directly opposite the Joseph Stilwell Residence ). 09:00-16:40, closed on Mondays . A privately-run museum about the Flying Tigers - a group of volunteer American fighter pilots who fought the Japanese from 1941 to 1942 as part of the Chinese air force. Free . ( updated Aug 2020 )
29.556841 106.496795 40 Former Site of the CCP Central Committee South China Bureau and the Eighth Route Army Chongqing Office ( 中共中央南方局暨八路军驻重庆办事处旧址 ), No. 13 Red Rock Village, Yuzhong District (渝中区红岩村13号) ( next door to the Red Rock Village Revolution Memorial Hall; bus routes 210, 215, 219, 261, 262, 318, 501, 503, 808 and Sightseeing Bus T002 ), ☏ +86 23 63300192 , +86 23 63303065 , [email protected] . As of February 2021, the site is in the process of being restored. It is scheduled to open to the public in April 2021 . The Eighth Route army was a group army formed from the Red Army in 1937 after the Communists and the Nationalists agreed to stop fighting each other and form the Second United Front against Japan. It was nominally part of the national army led by Chiang Kai-Shek, but commanded by the Chinese Communist Party. The army had several offices throughout China to faciliate communications with the Nationalist authorites, including this one in Chongqing. ( updated Feb 2021 )
29.558655 106.565824 41 Former Site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea ( 大韩民国临时政府旧址陈列馆 ), 38 Lianhua Pool, Yuzhong District (渝中区莲花池38号) ( 640 meters east of Qixinggang Metro Station on Line 1 ), ☏ +86 23 63820752 , +86 23 63701217 . 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:30, closed on Mondays . This was the site of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea from 1944 to 1945. The site is now a museum. Information is provided in Chinese and Korean only. Free . ( updated Aug 2021 )
29.555303 106.541658 42 Former Site of US Embassy in Chongqing ( 重庆美国大使馆旧址 ), 1 Jiankang Road, Lianglukou Subdistrict, Yuzhong District (渝中区两路口街道健康路1号) ( about 300 metres west of Lianglukou Metro Station on Lines 1 and 3 ). The US embassy operated at this site from 1942 to 1946. In 2019, the former embassy site was reopened to the public as a museum. Free . ( updated Aug 2020 )
29.56575 106.54329 43 Guiyuan ( 桂园 ), 65 Zhongshan Si Road, Shangqingsi, Yuzhong District (渝中区上清寺中山四路65号) ( 600m from Niujiaotuo Station on Metro Line 2 ), ☏ +86 23 63862467 . 9:00-16:30 . The house where the Chongqing negotiations between Mao Zedong and Jiang Jieshi (Chiang Kai-Shek) took place in 1945. Free . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.554637 106.531241 45 Liziba Park ( 李子坝公园, 李子坝抗战遗址公园 Liziba Sino-Japanese War Relics Park ), Liziba Zheng Jie, Yuzhong District (渝中区李子坝正街) ( Between Fotuguan and Liziba Metro Stations (Line 2) and downhill from the Stilwell Museum ). On the banks of the Jialing River, this is a newly developed park housing many original and relocated historical buildings when Chongqing was China's wartime capital. It includes old bank buildings, government offices and the residences of local warlords. Some military pillboxes are also preserved here. Free .
29.5572 106.5453 47 Song Qingling's former residence ( Soong Ching-ling's former residence 宋庆龄故居, 宋庆龄旧居 ), 131 Zhongshan San Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区中山三路131号) ( The house is about 100 meters south of the main entrance to the Hilton Hotel, just north of Lianglukou station at the intersection of Metro lines 1 and 3 ), ☏ +86 23 63894317 , +86 23 63609997 . Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, no entry after 16:30 . This was Song Qingling's (Song Qing-ling's) residence from the period of the Second World War when Japan occupied much of China and Chongqing was the temporary capital. There were three Song (also spelled Soong) sisters. The eldest married a businessman. Middle sister Qingling married Sun Yat Sen, the founder of modern China. She was herself an important political figure, especially after his death. The youngest married Chiang Kai Shek. A saying about them is "One loved money, one loved power, and one loved China". Qingling is the one who loved China. There is an interesting movie with an English soundtrack, and a book ("The Soong Dynasty") about the family. This house wedged in between tall, ugly buildings is a nice German design (the original owner was an engineer who studied in Germany) that is not unlike many of the pre-liberation colonial architecture that can be found here and there in and around Chongqing. ¥2 .
29.568094 106.546727 49 Zhou Enlai's old residence ( 周公馆, 周恩来故居 ), Zhongshan Si Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区中山四路) ( Metro Line 2, Zengjiayan Station, Exit C. The house is right outside the station. ), ☏ +86 23 63862323 . 09:00-16:30 . Zhou Enlai worked as a member of the Communist Party alongside Mao Zedong. Zhou was well-liked by the Chinese people and his death led to the Tiananmen Incident in the 1970s (not to be confused with the more famous incident in 1989). It is by the Jialing River north west of Jiefangbei, and is now a museum open to the public. It has been preserved as it was the day it was used. Free .

Other historical sites [ edit ]

29.57572 106.57205 50 Emperor Ming Yuzhen's Tomb ( 明玉珍皇帝陵, 明玉珍睿陵, 明玉珍墓 ), Jiangbeizui Central Park, Jiangbei District (江北区江北嘴中央公园) ( Metro Line 6, Grand Theater Station, Exit 3 ). 09:00-17:30 . Ming Yuzhen (1331-1336) was a peasant rebel leader who founded the short-lived Xia Empire, officially known as the Great Xia, which controlled parts of modern-day Sichuan and Chongqing from 1362-1371. He is the only emperor known to have been buried in Chongqing. A museum at the site displays artefacts that have been recovered from the tomb. Visitors can also view the inside of the tomb. Free . ( updated Aug 2018 )
29.58226 106.58086 52 Old French Naval Barracks Site ( 法国水师兵营旧址 ), 142 Danzishi Qiantai Lane, Binjiang Road, Nan'an District (南岸区滨江路弹子石谦泰巷142号) ( Catch bus no. 119, 338, 373, 375, 394 or t026 and get off at Changjiahui - Nanbin Road (南滨路长嘉汇). The building is a three-minute walk north of there ). It was built in 1903 to serve the French navy. The French Embassy was temporarily based here during the Second World War. The building was reopened to the public in June 2018 after having undergone more than a year of restoration work. Free . ( updated Aug 2018 )

Do [ edit ]

29.56067 106.57977 2 Yangtze River Cableway ( 长江索道 ), 151 Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区新华路151号) , ☏ +86 23 63834147 . 07:30-22:30 . This cableway, which is operated by the Chongqing Passenger Cableway Company Ltd (重庆市客运索道有限公司) takes one across the Yangtze River and provides a great view of the city. The trip covers a distance of 1166 meters and takes about 5 minutes. ¥20 one-way, ¥30 return .

Cruises [ edit ]

29.56971 106.58608 3 Liangjiang Evening Cruises ( 重庆两江夜游 ), Office address: China Youth Travel Service Chongqing, 7-19/97 Zhongshan Yi Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区中山一路97号7-19重庆中国青年旅行社) ( All the boats depart from the 5th and 6th piers of the Chaotianmen dock, which is at the northeast extremity of Yuzhong District ), ☏ +86 23 63108939 , [email protected] . 19:30-22:20 . A 1-hour trip on the Yangtse (Chang Jiang) and Jialing rivers gives you a night view of Chongqing's modern skyline. ¥95-118 or more depending on class .
Yangtze River cruises . Cruises on the Yangtze River will take you through the cradle of China, while giving you the opportunity to see some spectacular scenery. There are several different companies operating these cruises. ¥700–2500 .
Liangjing passage boat (两江小渡,), address: Chongqing Hongyadong Wharf (重庆洪崖洞码头). Time: 8:00am–18:00pm. A trip from Chaotianmen to Danzishi which cost about 6 min. Cost of a boat ticket: ¥10.

Hot springs [ edit ]

Chongqing is recognised as a renowned area for hot springs. There are dozens of options ranging from large complexes with their own hotels, ornate gardens and spa treatments, to smaller community based hot springs. Northern Hot Springs Park, Tianci Hot Springs and Southern Hot Springs Park are the largest of these facilities. There are special tourist buses available to these sites.

29.86093 106.41132 4 Northern Hot Springs Park ( 北温泉风景区, 北泉风景区, 北温泉公园 ), State Highway 212, Beibei District (北碚区212国道旁边) ( Take a train to Beibei Station on Metro Line 6. After exiting the station, head west to Beiquan Road (北泉路) and catch bus no. 510, 511, 518, 520 or 556 from the Wulukou (五路口) bus stop ), ☏ +86 23 68222526 (park), +86 23 68226666 (resort) . 08:00-17:00 (park), 10:00-22:00 (resort) . For around 1600 years, this area has been a popular bathing spot as well as an important religious site for followers of Buddhism. In the late 2000s, the hot springs were controversially commercialised and brought under the control of the Bolian Resorts Group (柏联酒店集团). Fortunately, some sections of the old park have been preserved, including the historic Hot Springs Temple (温泉寺). ¥10 to visit the park, a minimum of ¥308 to bathe in the hot springs . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.5437 106.43604 5 Ronghui Hot Spring ( 融汇温泉 ), 6 Huiquan Road, Shapingba District (沙坪坝汇泉路6号) ( Take a train to Yanggongqiao Station on Metro Line 1, then catch bus no. 228 (inner circle route) ), ☏ +86 23 65269999 . 10:00-24:00 on weekdays, open 24 hours on Friday, Saturday and Sunday . This resort made the news in 2018 with its 'hot pot springs' - a bathing pool designed to resemble a hot pot, complete with red-coloured water and inflatable chillies. ¥149 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.42551 106.57486 6 Southern Hot Springs Park ( 南温泉风景区, 南温泉公园 ), 99 Southern Hot Springs Park Road, Banan District (巴南区南温泉公园路99号) ( Catch a train to Huaxi Station on Metro Line 3, then take bus no. 309 or 327 to get to the park ), ☏ +86 23 62841666 . 10:00-24:00 . Prices start from ¥88 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.51485 106.36705 7 Tianci Hot Springs Resort ( 天赐温泉度假酒店 ), 1 Tianci Hot Springs Road, Hangu Development Zone, Jiulongpo District (九龙坡区含谷开发区天赐温泉路1号) ( Bus routes 206, 216, 217, 253, 298, 504; Bus 217 departs from the North Square of Chongqing North Station ), ☏ +86 23 65701111 , +86 23 65708888 , [email protected] . Open all day . ¥79 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
29.86167 106.83093 8 Tongjing Hot Springs ( 统景温泉 ), 66 Jingquan Road, Tongjing Town, Yubei District (渝北区统景镇景泉路66号) ( Direct buses to the hot springs depart from the Hongqihegou Bus Station, which is just outside Exit 1 of the Hongqihegou Metro Station at the intersection of Lines 3 and 6. The direct buses depart only at 10:00, though there are also other buses that depart at 18:00 and stop at Tongjing Bus Station, which is only about 1.5km from the hot springs ), ☏ +86 23 67288333 . 09:00-23:00 . ¥118 from Monday to Thursday, ¥148 from Friday to Sunday . ( updated Jul 2018 )

Buy [ edit ]

Food [ edit ].

Preserved Dried Beef ( Niu Rou Gan )
Spicy Fine Beef Threads ( Deng Ying Niu Rou )
Curiously Flavoured Horsebean ( Guai Wei Hu Dou )
Pulverous Nuby Peach ( He chuang Tao Pian )
Hot Pot ( Chongqing huo guo )
Noodle ( Chongqing XiaoMian , in addition there's also Dan-Dan Mian )
Hemp flowers ( Ciqikou Chengchangyin Mahua )
Fuling pickle ( Fuling Zhacai ）
Jianghu cuisine（Geleshan Spicy Chicken）
Fengdu spicy chicken nuggets
Jiangjin rice candy

Other [ edit ]

Carpenter Tan ( Tan Mu Jiang ). This local carpentry shop is worth a visit for its fine wood artwares.

Eat [ edit ]

Local food [ edit ]

Chongqing is a harbor city and with this comes what is called dockside culture (matou wenhua). This culture is blamed for a lot of things from cursing profusely to... Hot Pot. While many great restaurants abound in the city, memorable dining is best along Nanbin Lu with incredible night views back across the Yangtze River with the Jeifangbei city skyline lit-up. Here are some examples of the city's many offerings.

Hot pot [ edit ]

Hot Pot (火锅 huǒguō , lit.: firepot) is one of Chongqing's claims to fame. In cities across China, one can find hot pot restaurants, but only Chongqing people can really stand a real hot pot, so if you want authenticity, get it while you can in Chongqing.

When ordering hot pot you have a choice between three kinds. First, the spicy version called red soup (hong tang). Then there is one without any spices. This is basically a bone soup, and it is tasty. To get this, simply ask for "yuán wèi" or tell them "wǒ bú yào là" which means "I don't want the spicy stuff!" Finally there is a compromise with Yuan Yang Hot Pot (Yuan Yang Huo Guo), which is basically a pot split down the middle with the spicy stuff on one side and the mild on the other.

For those who like spicy but do not like it too spicy, it is possible to order red soup without the jolt (wei la hong tang). It is a nice mild experience.

For those who can not speak Chinese, it would be best to grab a Chinese friend to take you, though be warned, if your friend is a man you'll have to put up with a lot of drinking, if you're a man too you'll be expected to smoke more than you normally would, and some of the things they go slipping into the pot might not be your cup of tea. You will also have to be aware that you will be fed with a lot of dishes from your Chinese friends because they like to see your bowl is full of food. You might feel a little uncomfortable being fed like a child, but that is the way Chinese people show concern and enthusiasm towards their friends, especially when eating hot pot.

Suggested dishes at nicer restaurants [ edit ]

Twice cooked spicy pork slices 回锅肉 (huiguorou)
Fish slices in sour and spicy pickled vegetable soup 酸菜鱼 (suancaiyu)
Fried pork fillet slices in sweet and sour sauce 糖醋里脊 (tangculiji)
Steamed fatty pork with preserved vegetables (shaobai)
Fish flavoured aubergine 鱼香茄子 (yuxiangqiezi)
Onions and parsleys in spicy mustard (laohucai)
Fish with tofu (doufuyu)
Fish flavoured pork shreads 鱼香肉丝 (yuxiangrousi)
Chinese bouilli (hongshaorou)
Gongpao Chicken (gongpaojiding)
Black agaric and pork slice stir-fries (muerroupian)
Pork/beef slices in hot and spicy soup 水煮肉片 (shuizhuroupian) (very spicy)
Numbing and spicy tofu 麻婆豆腐 (mapodoufu) (spicy)

Suggested dishes at noodle shops [ edit ]

All dishes served in the noodle shops can be either spicy flavoured or plain flavoured.

Noodle with no toppings (Chongqing xiaomian) ¥7.0
Beef noodle (niuroumian) ¥18.0
Cold noodle (liangmian) ¥5.0
Rice/soybean pudding slices (liangfen'r (fer)) ¥5.0
Szechuan dumplings (hundun (T'sao sou)) ¥12.0

Western food [ edit ]

There are many "Western restaurants", but it is very difficult to find any real western food in them. Many smallish restaurants will have a reasonable stab at spaghetti bolognaise, and some will have menus in "Chinglish" and even pictures of dishes. However as an exception, you can find quite nice fusion dishes (ranging from Japanese Sushi and Tempura to American Sirloin Steak).

Restaurants [ edit ]

29.55729 106.46041 1 Susie's Pizza , In Shapingba 3 gorges Square ( on the 12th floor above the McDonalds in the Centre of Shapingba ), ☏ +86 13696419353 . 11:00-21:30 . Has all of the classic flavours and some local Chongqing flavours like hotpot pizza. The restaurant is small and clean. From ¥50 .

Drink [ edit ]

There are many bars in Chongqing, but most are underpopulated. Generally the local bottled beer is ¥10, and the variety includes several local beers and even Guinness (expensive) on occasions. If you go to one of the small restaurants to eat, you can buy bottles of local beer at ¥3 upwards.

As a warning , some bars have adopted a less pleasant method to send pretty girls to accompany and entertain you, and then ask for huge additional sums when you leave. Take care.

29.5572 106.57212 1 Semi underground entertainment centre ( Just west of Jiefangbei War Memorial, at the same place as the CRT Jiaochangkou Station. ). ( updated Jul 2016 )
29.58036 106.5297 2 Underground arcade ( In Jiangbei (north), the entrance is across from the big hotel near McDonalds ). Many bars and restaurants.
Outside beer gardens ( Above the underground arcade ). Serve reasonably priced drinks and is always crowded with good atmosphere and live premiership matches on big screens, do not eat here though!
Shapingba (west) . A young people and university place and have many places for entertainment.
29.56217 106.57902 3 The Harp Irish Pub , 9F Hong Ya Dong ( near Carrefour, downtown Chongqing ), ☏ +86 23-6303-8655 . 11:00-04:00 . This is where all the expats in Chongqing now hang out. It is the only real western bar experience in the city, just opened in 2010. It has sports TV, 6 beers on tap, and 36 imported beers, 16 single malt scotches, 15 vodkas, 8 gins, etc. Great food, and English speaking staff make this a winner in Chongqing.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are hundreds of hotels all over the city ranging from dormitary style for ¥30 per night, through three star equivalent hotels for ¥150, up to the numerous top western hotels for ¥600-2000 per night, and many more are being added and are under construction. Most hotels are rarely fully booked. You can always check the room before you commit.

Budget [ edit ]

29.56195 106.58438 1 Yangtze River International Youth Hostel ( 瓦舍玺院国际青年旅舍 ), 80 Changbin Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区长江滨江路80号) , ☏ +86 23 63104208 (English speaking) . Possibly the best option for budget accommodation in Chongqing. Centrally located, exceptionally clean and has great and helpful staff. Offers a range of rooms. Also offers a range of budget tours. ¥30-180 .

Mid-range [ edit ]

29.56218 106.4592 2 Chongqing Grand Hotel ( 重庆大酒店 ), 84 Xiaolongkang New Street, Shapingba District (沙坪坝区小龙坎新街84号) , ☏ +86 23 86299888 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . From ¥220 .
29.6102 106.50047 3 Chongqing Jinjiang Oriental Hotel ( 重庆欧瑞锦江大酒店 ), No. 6 Xihu Road, Yubei District (渝北区西湖路6号) , ☏ +86 23 67306666 . 313 air-conditioned guest rooms. From ¥457.81 .
29.56437 106.55094 4 DLT Hotel ( 重庆大礼堂酒店 ), 173 Renmin Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区人民路173号) ( Just behind the Great Hall of the People ), ☏ +86 23 86527666 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 12:00 . Completely renovated in 2007. From about ¥320 .
29.56365 106.58059 5 Sheng Ming Hotel ( 重庆圣名大酒店, formerly known as the Chung King Hotel 重庆饭店 ), 45-47-Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区新华路45-47号) ( Metro Lines 1 and 6, Xiaoshizi Station, Exits 2 and 3 ), ☏ +86 23 63916666 , +86 23 63992700 . Check-in: 14:00 , check-out: 14:00 . Prices are not overly expensive, rooms are slightly on the small side but on the whole well decorated and furnished. Rooms come with pay-per-view and regular satellite TV. A couple of the channels are in English. Even better, room service will happily provide you with one of the best club sandwiches east of Britain. Somewhere in the hotel is a Western restaurant which will provide you with one of the biggest spaghetti bolognaise you have ever seen. The friendly staff in the lobby can provide you with currency exchange, luggage holding and travel tickets. From ¥279 .
29.56378 106.57624 6 Somerset JieFangBei Chongqing ( 重庆盛捷解放碑服务公寓 ), 9F, Block B Hejing Building, No 108 Minzu Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区民族路108号重庆合景大厦B栋9楼) , ☏ +86 23 8677-6888 , fax : +86 23 8677-6999 , [email protected] . Each of its studios to two-bedrooms apartments features separate living and dining areas, an ensuite bathroom, a kitchen, home entertainment system, scenic views and Wi-Fi access. Daily rates starts from ¥350 .
29.560523 106.577468 7 Somerset Yangtze River Chongqing , No. 151 Changjiang Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District , ☏ +86 23 6399 7888 , [email protected] . Overlooking the Yangtze River, the property offers studio, one, two and three bedroom serviced apartments. Each apartment is equipped with a home entertainment system and living areas. ( updated Aug 2017 )
29.55936 106.57388 8 Yudu Hotel ( 渝都酒店 ), 168 Ba Yi Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区八一路168号) ( 50m. south of Jiefangbei ), ☏ +86 23 63828888 . Has a rotating restaurant on top. ¥180+single/¥280+double .

Splurge [ edit ]

29.55789 106.54583 9 Hilton Chongqing ( 重庆希尔顿酒店 ), No 139 Zhong Shan San Lu, Yuzhong District , ☏ +86 23 8903 9999 . ( updated Mar 2018 )
29.58299 106.53189 10 Hyatt Regency Chongqing ( 重庆富力凯悦酒店 ), 11 Paradise Walk, Jiangbei District (江北区北城天街 11 号) , ☏ +86 23 6775 1234 , [email protected] . New hotel. ( updated Mar 2018 )
29.56201 106.57538 11 InterContinental Chongqing ( 重庆洲际酒店 ), 101 Minzu Road, Jeifangbei CBD, Yuzhong District ( in the central square ), ☏ +86 23 8906 6888 , [email protected] . ( updated Jul 2016 )
29.55998 106.56744 12 JW Marriott Chongqing ( 重庆JW万豪酒店 ), 235 Minsheng Road, Yuzhong District (渝中区民生路235号) , ☏ +86 23 63799999 . ( updated Mar 2018 )
29.57882 106.5697 13 Niccolo Chongqing ( 重庆尼依格罗酒店 ), Tower 1, Chongqing IFS, No.1 Qingyun Road, Jiangbei District , ☏ +86 23 6508 8888 , [email protected] . ( updated Mar 2018 )
29.57404 106.56698 14 Regent Chongqing ( 重庆丽晶酒店 ), 66th Jinshamen Road, Jiangbei District , ☏ +86 23 8908 8888 , [email protected] . ( updated Mar 2018 )
29.55957 106.57654 15 The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square ( 重庆解放碑威斯汀酒店 ), 222 Xin Hua Road, Yuzhong District , ☏ +86 23 6380 6666 . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 12:00 . ( updated Nov 2019 )

Go next [ edit ]

Dazu Rock Carvings ( Three hours' drive west of Chongqing city ). The spectacular Buddhist carvings date from the 9th to the 13th century and are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. There is also a fascinating temple complex on the grounds. The caves can be reached by bus from the main long distance bus station in Chongqing (Chen Jiaping).

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Chongqing Travel Guide: A Booming Mega City in China

A tourist’s guide to chongqing: captivating history and cuisine.

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Chongqing Travel: Exploring the Best Sights and Experiences in China’s Mountain City

Table of Contents

Chongqing, located in southwest China, is a modern city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural scenery. As the largest municipality in southwest China, Chongqing is a bustling port city situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. It shares borders with Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Shaanxi provinces.

Chongqing at Night by Jay Huang via Wikimedia cc

Chongqing is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. Visitors to Chongqing can explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage by visiting attractions such as the Three Gorges Museum, Hongya Cave, and Jiefangbei Square. The city is also known for its fantastic food, a must-try for any foodie visiting Chongqing.

Chongqing is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Visitors can cruise down the Yangtze River, which flows through Chongqing, and take in the stunning sights of the Three Gorges, Fengdu Ghost City, and the Lesser Three Gorges. With its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, Chongqing is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to China.

Getting There

Traveling to Chongqing is relatively easy as it is a major transportation hub in China. There are several options to reach the city, including by air, train, and bus.

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) is the city’s main airport and is located about 21 kilometers from the city center. It is one of the busiest airports in China and serves both domestic and international flights. There are direct flights to Chongqing from major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Chengdu, as well as international destinations, such as Tokyo, Seoul, Singapore, and Bangkok.

A train going out from Liziba Station, Line 2 Chongqing by David290 via Wikimedia cc

Chongqing has several railway stations, including Chongqing Railway Station, Chongqing North Railway Station, and Chongqing West Railway Station. These stations serve both high-speed and regular trains, connecting Chongqing to other cities in China. Travelers can take a train from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and other major cities to Chongqing. The high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing takes about 2 hours.

Chongqing has several long-distance bus stations, including Chongqing Bus Station, Longtousi Bus Station, and Chaotianmen Bus Station. There are regular buses connecting Chongqing to other cities in China, such as Chengdu, Guiyang, Kunming, and Xi’an. Travelers can also take a bus from neighboring countries such as Vietnam and Laos.

Visa Requirements

Visitors from certain countries may be eligible for a visa-free stay in Chongqing for up to 144 hours. Checking the visa requirements before planning a trip to Chongqing is recommended.

Transportation in Chongqing

Chongqing is a large city that offers various transportation options for travelers. The city has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, taxis, subways, and tourist buses. Additionally, the city is known for its scenic views and offers tourists the opportunity to explore the city through different modes of transportation.

Public Transport

Chongqing has an extensive public transport system that includes buses and subways. The city has six subway lines that connect the nine districts of the city. The subway system is an affordable and convenient way to travel around the city. Chongqing also has a comprehensive bus network covering most parts of the city. The buses are also an affordable way to travel around the city.

Taxis and Rideshares

Taxis and rideshares are also popular modes of transportation in Chongqing. Taxis are readily available in the city, and they are relatively affordable. Rideshare services such as Didi and Uber are also available in the city. These services are convenient and offer a comfortable way to travel around the city.

Tourist Buses

Tourist buses are a popular way to explore the city’s scenic views. The buses are comfortable and offer a convenient way to travel around the city’s tourist attractions. The tourist buses operate on a fixed schedule and cover most of the city’s tourist destinations. The buses are affordable, and tourists can purchase tickets at the bus stations or through their hotels.

Historical Overview

Chongqing is a city with a rich and fascinating history that dates back over 3,000 years. The city was originally founded in the 11th century BCE as a feudal state known as Ba under the Xi (Western) Zhou dynasty. According to ancient accounts, Chongqing was the birthplace of the consort of the legendary Yu emperor, founder of the Xia dynasty, about 4,000 years ago.

During the Qin dynasty, the city was known as Jiangzhou and was an important center for the salt and iron industries. In the Han dynasty, it became a military stronghold and was known as Yuzhou. The city played a significant role in the Three Kingdoms period, serving as the capital of the state of Shu Han.

Over the centuries, Chongqing has been the site of many historic events and has been home to numerous ancient ruins and historic sites. Visitors to the city can explore its rich history at the Three Gorges Museum, which features exhibits on the city’s ancient past, as well as its role in the modern era.

One of the best places to experience the city’s ancient history is at Ciqikou Ancient Town, a well-preserved ancient town that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. This charming town is home to many historic buildings, including temples, tea houses, and shops selling traditional handicrafts.

Geography of Chongqing

Chongqing is a mountain city situated in the southwest of China, with an area of 82,400 square kilometers. It shares borders with provinces of Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Shaanxi. The city is located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, which is a prelude to the even more dramatic scenery of the Three Gorges downstream.

The Yangtze River, the longest river in China and the third-longest in the world passes through Chongqing. The Jialing River, the largest tributary of the Yangtze River, also flows through the city. The two rivers converge at Chaotianmen in the Yuzhong District, forming a spectacular view of the city. The rivers have played an important role in developing the city’s economy, transportation, and tourism.

Chongqing is also known for its mountainous terrain. The city is surrounded by Wuling Mountain, Jinyun Mountain, and Simian Mountain. Wuling Mountain Forest Park is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.

The mountainous terrain has also contributed to the unique culture of Chongqing, including its cuisine, architecture, and way of life. The city’s famous hotpot, for example, is said to have originated from the mountainous terrain, where people would gather around a pot of boiling water to cook their food.

Chongqing Attractions and Landmarks

Chongqing is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. Visitors to the city can explore a variety of attractions and landmarks that showcase the city’s unique history and beauty. This section will highlight some of the most popular attractions and landmarks in Chongqing, organized into sub-sections for Scenic Areas, Religious Sites, and Commercial Areas.

Chongqing Art Museum

The Chongqing Art Museum, located in the Yuzhong District of Chongqing, China, is an iconic destination for art lovers. Its impressive architecture, with red and black beams interwoven to resemble chopsticks and a traditional Chinese hot pot, has made it one of the top 10 museums in the city.

Not only is the building a sight to behold, but it also houses a wide collection of traditional Chinese paintings, prints and sculptures. Visitors can admire the intricate works of art, while also taking in the beauty of the museum’s unique design, said to be inspired by the white fig tree, a common sight in Chongqing.

The Great Hall of the People in Chongqing

The awe-inspiring Great Hall of the People, or Chongqing People’s Auditorium, stands proudly in the bustling heart of Chongqing, China. This grand structure has become a symbol of the city, and is visible from the People’s Square below. Across the square lies the Three Gorges Museum, making for a stunning view.

Inside the hall, important political meetings and cultural events take place, as it is the meeting place of the municipal legislative bodies – the Chongqing Municipal People’s Congress (Renda) and People’s Political Consultative Conference (Zhengxie).

Scenic Areas

Chongqing is home to several scenic areas that offer breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape. One of the most popular scenic areas is the Jiefangbei CBD, located in the heart of the city and known for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets. Visitors can take a stroll through the area and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere or head to the top of one of the buildings for a panoramic view of the city.

Another popular scenic area is the Liberation Monument, located in the center of the city and symbolizes the city’s rich history and culture. The monument is surrounded by a large square often filled with locals and tourists enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

Religious Sites

Chongqing is home to several religious sites worth visiting for their historical and cultural significance. One of the most notable religious sites is the People’s Liberation Monument, located in the center of the city and symbolizes the city’s revolutionary past. The monument is surrounded by a large square often filled with locals and tourists enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.

Huayan Temple

Buddhist temple in Jiulongpo Chongqing by Urga via Wikimedia cc

Huayan Temple is a captivating Buddhist temple located in Jiulongpo District, renowned for its stunning ancient-style architecture, traditional calligraphy and Buddhas. Here, visitors are invited to explore the majestic Ming and Qing dynasty-style corridors, marvel at the intricately carved doors, admire the up-turned roofs of glazed tiles, and admire the plaques engraved with ancient classics.

The tranquil grounds offer a wonderful spot to take a leisurely stroll or take a boat ride on the lake. The temple also hosts the vibrant Dragon Boat Festival annually, drawing in many visitors, while the delicious vegetarian restaurant is not to be missed. Huayan Temple is an ideal place to experience some of the best of Chinese culture.

Luohan Temple

Another famous religious site is the Luohan Temple, located in the Wulong Karst Region and known for its stunning natural scenery and historical significance. The temple has several ancient statues, carvings, beautiful gardens, and courtyards.

A sunset view of Jiefangbei CBD and Hongya Cave by Juukeihc via Wikimedia cc

Commercial Areas

Chongqing is known for its vibrant commercial areas, which offer a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. One of the most popular commercial areas is the Jiefangbei CBD, which is home to several high-end shopping malls, restaurants, and bars. Visitors can enjoy a day of shopping and dining in this bustling area or simply soak up the atmosphere and people-watch.

Another popular commercial area is the Chaotianmen, located on the banks of the Yangtze River and known for its stunning views and lively atmosphere. The area is home to several restaurants and bars, as well as a large market where visitors can purchase a variety of local goods and souvenirs.

Outdoor Activities

Qutang Gorge

Qutang Gorge, a mere 400km from the bustling Chongqing urban area, is the most majestic of the Three Gorges. This majestic 5-mile stretch of river, running from Baidi City in Fengjie County to Daxi Town in Wushan County, is filled with breathtaking sights. Every twist and turn of the gorge has stunning scenic spots, making it a must-see for any traveler.

Chongqing is a city that offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in a park, a thrilling adventure in the mountains, or a refreshing dip in a pool, Chongqing has something for everyone.

One of the top outdoor activities in Chongqing is visiting the city’s many parks and nature attractions. For those looking for a beach or pool experience, several beach and pool clubs in the city offer a great way to cool off on a hot day. Chongqing’s most popular parks include Nanshan Botanical Garden, Wansheng Stones Forest Scenic Area, and Three Gorges.

Another popular outdoor activity in Chongqing is visiting the many hot springs in the area. Ronghui Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in the city, offering visitors a chance to relax in the warm waters and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Visitors looking for a breath of fresh air and a clear day can visit Chongqing Zoo, home to over 200 species of animals and a great way to spend a day outdoors. The zoo is a great place to take photographs and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

While many outdoor activities in Chongqing are free, some may require an entrance fee. Visitors should check ahead to see if any fees are associated with the activity they are interested in. Overall, Chongqing offers various outdoor activities to please visitors of all ages and interests.

Chongqing Cuisine and Dining

Chongqing is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, which draws inspiration from traditional Sichuan dishes. The city’s cuisine is characterized by its bold use of spices and peppers, making it a must-try for those who love spicy food.

Local Delicacies

One of the most popular dishes in Chongqing is hot pot. With this communal dining experience, diners cook their own meat, vegetables, and other ingredients in a simmering pot of spicy broth. Some of Chongqing’s most famous hot pot restaurants include Cygnet Hot Pot and Huang Cheng Lao Ma.

Another local delicacy is the Chongqing chicken, a spicy and crispy fried chicken dish often served with Sichuan peppercorns. Additionally, the city is famous for its pickled vegetables, which are often served as a side dish or used as a condiment.

Restaurants and Eateries

Chongqing has a wide variety of restaurants and eateries to choose from, ranging from street food vendors to high-end restaurants. Some popular options for those looking to try traditional Chongqing cuisine include the Tao Ran Ju Flavor Restaurant and the Old Chongqing Hot Pot.

For those looking for something a bit different, plenty of food and beverage restaurants in Chongqing serve international cuisine. Some popular options include the Japanese restaurant Yakiniku Yazawa and the Italian restaurant Il Mercato.

Chongqing’s cuisine and dining scene is a must-try for foodies and travelers alike. Its bold flavors and unique dishes offer a truly unique culinary experience.

Night scene of Jiefangbei, Chongqing by Baycrest via Wikimedia cc

Chongqing is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of shopping options to suit every taste and budget. There is something for everyone, from high-end malls to bustling markets and shops on the side of the hill.

One of Chongqing’s most popular shopping areas is Jiefangbei, located in the Yuzhong district. This area is home to a number of large shopping malls, including the Chongqing Department Store, New Century Department Store, and Commercial Mansion. These malls offer a wide range of products, from luxury brands to local handicrafts.

For those looking for a more traditional shopping experience, the Chaotianmen Market is a must-visit destination. This sprawling market is the largest in the city and offers a wide range of products, from fresh produce to clothing and electronics. Visitors can wander through the maze of stalls and haggle with vendors to get the best deals.

Another popular shopping destination in Chongqing is the Shapingba district. This area is home to the Three Gorges Square, a large shopping complex that includes a number of international and domestic brands. The district is also known for its street markets, where visitors can find a variety of local goods and souvenirs.

For those looking for a unique shopping experience, the shops on the side of the hill in Hongya Cave are a must-see. These shops are built into the cliffs overlooking the Jialing River and offer a range of local handicrafts and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the river and surrounding areas while they shop.

Chongqing is a bustling metropolis that offers a vibrant nightlife scene. The city has a wide range of entertainment options for visitors to enjoy after the sun goes down. From bars and clubs to teahouses and street food vendors, there is something for everyone.

One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Chongqing is Jiefangbei. This bustling district is home to numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open until the early hours of the morning. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and a wide range of drinks and snacks.

Another popular area for nightlife in Chongqing is 9th Street. This street is home to a wide range of bars, clubs, and KTV venues that cater to all tastes and budgets. Visitors can enjoy a night out with friends or family, singing karaoke and sampling local cuisine.

For those looking for a more relaxed evening, Chongqing has a number of teahouses that offer a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and some light snacks while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

In addition to the traditional nightlife options, Chongqing also has a number of street food vendors that offer a unique and delicious culinary experience. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as hot pot, grilled skewers, and spicy noodles while mingling with locals and other travelers.

Accommodation

Chongqing offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, travelers can find a place to stay that meets their needs.

Chongqing has numerous hotels, ranging from international chains to local boutique hotels. Some of the most popular areas to stay in Chongqing include Jiefangbei, Yuzhong, Jiangbei, and Nan’an.

The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square Hotel in Yu Zhong is popular for travelers seeking luxury accommodation. This hotel offers a spa and wellness center and is just a 2-minute walk from the Chongqing People’s Liberation Monument.

For those on a budget, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Chongqing. The Liyuan Hotel Chongqing, Jiangyuan Hotel, and Huachen International Hotel are just a few examples of cheap hotels in the city.

Guesthouses

In addition to hotels, there are also many guesthouses in Chongqing. These are often more affordable than hotels and offer a more local experience. Some guesthouses may also offer meals and other services.

Hostels are another option for budget-conscious travelers. Chongqing has several hostels that offer dormitory-style accommodation as well as private rooms. Hostels are a great way to meet other travelers and make new friends.

For those who prefer a more home-like experience, Airbnb is also available in Chongqing. This option allows travelers to rent a private room or an entire apartment from a local host. Airbnb can be a good choice for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Cultural Insights

Chongqing is a city that is steeped in culture. As the birthplace of Bayu culture, it is one of the most distinctive ethnic cultures in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The city has many rivers and mountains, making transportation inconvenient in ancient times. However, this isolation allowed Chongqing to develop its own unique culture, cuisine, and customs.

Western China is known for its rich cultural heritage, and Chongqing is no exception. The city is located in the Sichuan province, which is famous for its spicy cuisine. The food in Chongqing is particularly spicy, and it is not for the faint of heart. The locals love spicy and hot food, and visitors should be prepared for the heat.

Hubei, Hunan, and Guizhou are neighboring provinces to Chongqing, and they all share similar cultural traits. These provinces are known for their spicy food, and they also have a rich history and culture. Visitors to Chongqing should take the time to explore these neighboring provinces to better understand the region’s culture.

Chongqing is a popular destination for Chinese tourists, and it is not uncommon to see large groups of Chinese tourists on a Chinese tourist boat. However, the city is also becoming more popular with non-Chinese patrons. According to a TripAdvisor member, “Chongqing is a hidden gem that is not yet overrun by foreign tourists.” This sentiment is echoed by many foreigners who have visited the city.

Travel Tips

Chongqing is a vast city with a lot to offer visitors. To make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

It’s a good idea to always have a map of the city with you. Many online resources are available for free, including Google Maps and Baidu Maps. If you prefer a physical map, you can find them at most hotels and tourist information centers.

Top Attractions

Chongqing has a lot of top attractions, including Hongya Cave, Jiefangbei, and Ciqikou Ancient Town. It’s a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance to make sure you don’t miss any of these must-see sights.

Recency and Consistency

Chongqing is a rapidly developing city, with new attractions and developments constantly popping up. It’s good to check online for the latest updates and reviews before visiting any attractions or restaurants.

Points of Interest

In addition to the city’s top attractions, there are many hidden gems to discover in Chongqing. For example, you can take a cable car ride over the Yangtze River, explore the ancient rock carvings at Dazu, or visit the giant pandas at the Chongqing Zoo.

You’ll need a valid passport and visa to enter China if you’re a foreign visitor. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your passport with you at all times and any necessary travel documents such as flight tickets or hotel reservations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular tourist attractions in chongqing.

Chongqing is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, as well as a modern metropolis. Some popular tourist attractions in Chongqing include the Hongya Cave, Three Gorges of Yangtze River, and Dazu Rock Carvings of World Heritage. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience for visitors to explore and learn about the city’s rich history and culture.

How do I get to Chongqing from the airport?

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is the main airport serving the city. There are several transportation options available for visitors to get to the city center from the airport, including taxis, buses, and the metro. Visitors can take the metro line 3 to reach the city center, which takes about 40 minutes. Taxis and buses are also available and take around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

What is the weather like in Chongqing?

Chongqing has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching above 40 degrees Celsius or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are mild and damp, with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Chongqing, with mild temperatures and pleasant weather.

What are some interesting facts about Chongqing?

Chongqing is known as both a fog city and a mountain city, with picturesque scenery attracting millions of visitors yearly. It is also the largest municipality in southwest China, covering an area of 31, 800 square miles (82,400 square kilometers). Chongqing is famous for its spicy cuisine, particularly its hotpot, which is a must-try for visitors.

What is the best way to explore Chongqing?

The best way to explore Chongqing is by foot, as it allows visitors to experience the city’s unique charm and culture up close. Visitors can also take a cruise along the Yangtze River to see the city from a different perspective. Chongqing also has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, metros, and taxis, which make it easy to get around the city.

What are some local delicacies to try in Chongqing?

Chongqing is famous for its spicy cuisine, particularly its hotpot, which is a must-try for visitors. Other local delicacies include Chongqing noodles, Chongqing chicken, and Chongqing grilled fish. Visitors can also try some of the city’s street food, such as spicy tofu and steamed buns.

Chongqing Travel Guide and Tour Packages

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Read: Top 17 Best Places to visit in China

Written by Melo Villareal

Melo Villareal is the Online Publisher of Outoftownblog.com. He is an Accountant by profession who left the corporate world at the age of 23 to explore his beautiful country and the rest of the world. Today, Melo works as a part-time Social Media Manager for local and international clients. His full-time work focuses on discovering interesting culture, explore different cuisines and take memorable photos from local and international destinations he's visiting.

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Chongqing travel guide

Upstream on the mighty Yangtze, Chongqing serves as China's southwest gateway. This former wartime capital became a direct-controlled municipality in 1997. Mention Chongqing, and steaming hotpot comes to mind! Slurping spicy broth and grilled meats while sipping chilled beer is the perfect antidote to Chongqing's sweltering summers. The fiery cuisine matches the locals' fiery passion - straightforward and straight to the heart.

For foodies, Chongqing is a must. Hole-in-the-wall eateries hide authentic flavors waiting to be discovered. Beyond the food, sights like the Hong Kong-esque nightscape, leggy beauties, a hearty dash of roguish charm, and even the frequent fog make for an unforgettable visit.

But Chongqing's dizzying mountainous terrain steals the show - even GPS gets lost navigating the sheer slopes and endless staircases. Add the city's intricate transport network spanning heights and depths, and this 3D metropolis becomes forever etched in memory. Scrambling up and plunging down while making heads or tails of the map provides daily adventure. There's nowhere quite like it.

Consumption level

Chongqing offers affordable travel, with most attractions in the main city center area requiring no admission fees. Sites like People's Square, Hongya Cave, and the Three Gorges Museum are free. Cable cars across the Yangtze cost 10RMB and views from Nanshan are 30RMB. Day trips to Wulong Karst run about 200RMB per person. Hot pot meals average 40-60RMB per person. Budget hotels are 100-200RMB per night. Getting around by metro costs 2-7RMB, with top sites walkable downtown.

For two people visiting Chongqing for 3 days, excluding transportation costs, plan on spending 800-1500RMB total during non-peak times. Focus your time on free attractions and affordable local cuisine. With good planning, you can experience Chongqing's scenery, history, and famous spicy hot pot on a budget of under 500RMB per person per day.

Overview of urban transportation

Sanya is one of China's best cities for driving yourself. Rent a car and cruise Sanya's famous Binhai Avenue coconut palm coastline for pure vacation bliss.

Rental locations: Abundant agencies like Shenzhou and Yihi operate right at Sanya Phoenix Airport, making pickup and dropoff effortless. Hotels also offer car rentals, though usually at higher prices than independent companies.

Coast down Binhai Avenue with the warm tropical breeze in your hair. Discover secluded beach coves and scenic overlooks. Stop spontaneously whenever and wherever you please. With convenient airport access and competitive rates, self-driving in Sanya grants total freedom to follow your whims across Hainan Island's lush tropical paradise.

Transportation to surrounding cities

Best travel time, suggested playing days, dressing guidelines.

三亚气候属热带海洋季风气候。年平均气温25.4℃。不管哪个季节到三亚，都只需穿轻薄的短款棉质衣裤或长裙，冬季可以准备一件长袖外套。比基尼泳衣自然是女生们必不可少的装备。5月至11月是台风季节，建议准备好雨具。三亚常年日照强烈，防晒措施一定要做好。由于阳光强烈，太阳镜、帽子为必带物品，出门之前至少搽SPF30以上防晒霜，下海之前最好再抹一次，而且要注意一定是防水的。回去后，如果皮肤发红发痒还要擦点晒后镇定修护露，保湿喷雾、美白面膜等都可以用上。黄瓜和酸奶都属于紧急保护品，晒伤后可以抹上

你现在是一位英文旅游网站编辑，参考以上中文内容，用美式英语格式改写一篇符合英文说话习惯的关于【中国三亚穿衣指南】的文章，输出英文段落

Chongqing Jiangbei Airport

Beihai has a well-developed highway network with convenient road connections. Some major highways intersecting Beihai include:

- G209 (Hubei Line) - G325 (Guangnan Line) - Beihai to Tieshan Port - Nanning to Beihai - Guilin to Beihai via Nanning - Beihai to Chongqing - Beihai to Zhanjiang

The driving time from Beihai to Nanning is around 2-3 hours for 206km. Beihai to Guilin is around 7 hours for 630km.

The Beihai-Zhanjiang Expressway connects to eastern China's expressway network. It's just over 1.5 hours or 160km from Beihai to Zhanjiang. From there, Zhanjiang to Haikou is 160km, to Guangzhou is 459km, and to Shenzhen/Hong Kong is about 500km or a 5 hour drive.

The extensive highways make self-driving in Beihai a great option. You can easily rent a car and head out to surrounding attractions and cities. Just be sure to plan your route ahead of time and account for rest stops. With the freedom of a rental car, you can discover Beihai's beautiful coastal scenery at your own pace.

Chongqing North Railway Station

Traffic between the north and south squares of chongqing north railway station, chongqing railway station.

Chongqing Railway Station is the old train station located closer to downtown with a chaotic environment. Most trains starting with K stop here. It's right next to Chongqing Bus Station, which has buses to Dazuo Stone Carvings, Wulong, etc., making it very convenient.

Address: 6 Caiyuan Lu (near Lianglukou) Tel: +86 23 61681114

[Getting There] - Take Metro Line 1 or 3 to Lianglukou Station. The station is right downstairs after taking the large escalator, just 2RMB.

- For Jiefangbei, take Line 1 and get off at Xiaoshizi Station, about 20 minutes.

- For Chongqing North Station, take Line 3 direct, about 30 minutes.

- For the bus, take #419 from the train station to North Station.

The old Chongqing Railway Station is an easy metro ride to downtown attractions like Jiefangbei. With bus connections nearby, it provides a central transportation hub to reach destinations around Chongqing.

Self driving

Driving in Chongqing can be challenging due to the many winding roads, overpasses, and one-way streets. It's easy to miss a turn and have to loop far around to get back on route. Heavy traffic and congestion are common too. For easier driving, use an automatic car if possible. Also watch out for the many speed cameras around the city!

Chengdu to Chongqing: Take the Chengyu or Chengnan Expressways, about 300km and 3 hours. Or avoid driving altogether and take the high-speed train, under 2 hours travel time and much more convenient.

Chongqing to Wulong: Take the Baomao Expressway, about 190km on nice roads. But the mountain roads in Wulong only have two lanes and can get congested.

In summary, driving in Chongqing requires caution and preparation. Use a GPS, allow extra time, and consider public transport options like the high-speed train to avoid traffic headaches. The winding roads and one-way streets take some getting used to.

Post Office and Postcards

Here are some tips for finding postcards and mailing them in Chongqing, China:

There are post offices around Liberation Monument where you can buy stamps and mail postcards. Chongqing Book Mall nearby also sells nice postcards. The small shops in Ciqikou sell locally themed postcards, though they are a bit pricier at 2-3 RMB each. You can have the shops mail them or take them to a nearby post office yourself.

Hongyadong, the Three Gorges Museum gift shop, and Kafka's Bookstore have good selections of Chongqing-themed postcards as well.

At Tiansheng Sanqiao in Wulong, there is a post office inside the Tianfu Government Hostel where you can mail postcards featuring the scenic area's natural bridges. These cost around 3 RMB each.

So you have plenty of options to find fun, unique Chongqing postcards during your travels and mail them home or to friends!

Safety considerations

As the only direct-controlled municipality in western China, Chongqing takes security very seriously. Safety is ensured even in suburban districts and counties. Police patrol cars are stationed every few blocks in commercial areas, transportation hubs, and the airport. The Chongqing Armed Police also have roving patrols present in shopping centers, metro stations, and the airport. They can be contacted for any issues. Crossing guards are positioned at nearly every intersection. With such a strong police presence across the municipality, visitors can feel at ease exploring Chongqing. Even if venturing to the outer districts, rest assured that security measures are firmly in place. Do not hesitate to approach one of the many police or armed police officers if you need any assistance. Their widespread coverage and attentiveness help maintain Chongqing's reputation as a safe city for travelers.

Medical treatment

Emergency call, chongqing surrounding cities.

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Rachel Meets China

3 Day Chongqing Itinerary: Best Things To See in 72 Hours

Located in the southwestern part of China, Chongqing is a major economic and transportation hub in China. The city proper has more than 9 million people, and the municipality as a whole has a population of more than 30 million.

3 Day Chongqing Itinerary

If you’re just passing through for a few days like I was it may be difficult to choose what’s best to do, so I wanted to share my 3 day itinerary for Chongqing to help you plan your trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Chongqing, Hongyadong, Eling Park

Day 2: Yangzte River Cablecar and Hong’en Daoist Temple
Day 3: Ciqikou Ancient Town, Guanyuemiao Temple, Zhongshuge Bookstore

My focus was to try a mix of popular attractions, temples, food, and lesser known areas, and taking lots of photos. You might want to swap some activities if you have other things you’d prefer doing. For more detailed information about Chongqing, check out my Chongqing City Travel Guide: Where To Stay and Top Things To Do .

I arrived in the morning on my first day and really hit the ground running after I left the airport and checked into my hotel. You can always adjust this itinerary depending on your arrival time.

Morning: Arrival

Metro/taxi from the airport to my hotel in the Jiefangbei area. Check in and get ready to explore!

Afternoon: Hongyadong, Lunch, Liziba Station, Eling Park

I walked to Honyadong, which was a 10 minute walk from my hotel. This is a famous stilted building filled with restaurants and shops, and is one of the top attractions to visit in Chongqing.

After exploring, I ate lunch at one of the many shops inside Hongyadong. These shops have many photos on the walls, and it’s very easy to point and choose what you want if you don’t know any Chinese. Most of the dishes are spicy Chongqing style, which you definitely should try!

I then took Line 1 from Xiaoshizi, transferred to Line 2 and hopped off at Liziba. This station is famous for the metro train that goes right through an apartment building!

Eling Park is nearby Liziba, so I grabbed a Didi to the park (you can walk, but it’s all uphill and would take quite awhile.) The park has free entrance and offers a great overview of the city! Take the stairs all the way to the top of the pagoda for a 360 view of Chongqing.

Evening: Hongyadong Night Photos

I went back to Hongyadong again to catch the night time view, which is when Hongyadong really lights up and feels alive! For dinner I found another local Chongqing shop nearby, but you can also try the famous Chongqing spicy hot pot! Then I walked around the Jiefangbei area where there are lots of malls and shops.

Day 2: Yangzte River Cablecar and Hongen Daoist Temple

Morning: cable car across the yangzte river.

In the morning I walked to Line 1 Xiaoshizi Exit 5b, where the Yangzte River Cable car ticket office is. The cable car is a great way to see the Yangzte River and get a great city view. It costs 20 RMB one way or 30 RMB round trip, cash only.

It can be quite crowded in the cable car line depending on when you go. If you want to enjoy the cable car with less crowds, you can just take a taxi to the other side of the river and take the cable on the way back.

I walked along Nanbinlu for awhile to admire the city before taking the cable car back to Jiefangbei. You can spend much more time on Nanbinlu and explore the shops and restaurants here, but I had other things I wanted to do in the afternoon!

Afternoon: Hongen Daoist Temple 鸿恩寺公园

There was a beautiful temple I really wanted to see, but there isn’t a direct metro line there. I took the Line 3 metro to Guangyinqiao and stopped for lunch and coffee in the area. It’s a big shopping mall area, so you’ll find plenty of food options!

Then I took a taxi or Didi about 10 minutes away (20 RMB) to get to Hong’en Temple Park.

Night Hong’en Daoist Temple

The temple is lovely during the day, but is especially beautiful at night! You definitely need to wait for sundown and see this temple light up. If you just want to see it at night, you can do something else during the afternoon and arrive here during the evening.

Day 3: Ciqikou Ancient Town, Guanyuemiao Temple, Bookstore

Morning: ciqikou ancient town.

In the morning I took Line 1 to Ciqikou Ancient Town station, and walked around the area. Most cities in China will have pedestrian or ancient town streets filled with shops food and tourist souvenirs. These are especially great if you’re new to China. If you’ve traveled a lot around China and have seen many, you may be looking for other places to go. For me, I was happy I went to walk around for a bit and feel the atmosphere, but it’s not a top must do for me.

Afterwards I found a local noodle shop outside the ancient town area to stop for some famous xiao mian noodles!

Afternoon: Guanyuemiao Temple 关岳庙

I took Line 1 down to Daping station and walked to the beautiful Guanyuemiao Temple area. I’ve always seen photos of this temple because of the giant Yin Yang symbol in the middle.

I don’t recommend walking from the metro station – it goes up and down through local neighborhoods and around small staircases and is a bit confusing! Unless you use Baidu maps it is difficult to navigate, and even if you do it takes longer than the map says. Take a taxi instead! Once you arrive, you’ll find the famous Yinyang temple behind a series of three other temples

Late Afternoon: Zhongshuge Book Store

Up next I went to Zhongshuge Bookstore, which is famous for it’s beautiful design inside! Go to Yangjiaping Metro Station Line 2, or you can take a Didi to Zhengcheng Broadway Plaza and walk from there.

The actual address of the Bookstore was very difficult to track down – I tried searching on Google Maps in English and Baidu Maps in Chinese, but kept getting weird results. Finally I found it – and I’ve got it here just for you 😉

Chinese Address: 九龙坡区杨家坪杨正街8号中迪广场3楼 English Address: Zodi Plaza Mall, 3rd Floor

It’s just as beautiful as the photos I saw! Lots of other people were there taking photos as well, so you really have to wait with patience to get photos you want.

Night: Hongyadong and Bridge Night Photos

I wanted one last look around Hongyadong at night, so I went back to the area to take more photos! It was a great way to end my last night in Chongqing.

Travel for 3 Days in Chongqing

I had a very packed three days in Chongqing, but really enjoy seeing as much as I can when I visit a new city! I was able to check off all my top priority attractions as well. There are still many more things I didn’t get to do, so I would love to revisit Chongqing again (maybe in the spring!) to do more.

Check out my other itineraries for traveling in China:

A Three Day Itinerary for Hiking Huangshan
The Ultimate 7-Day Beijing Itinerary
8 Day Hunan Itinerary: Zhangjiajie, Furong Ancient Town, & Fenghuang Phoenix Village

A Complete Travel Guide to Chongqing

Chongqing is featured by "Mountain City" and "The City of Fog", which shows the city is located in a mountainous area and is just like a fairyland in a thin mist. It has beautiful scenery, especially the night views, standing alongside the upper Yangtze River in southwest China. This city attracts visitors from home and abroad for its natural scenery and cultural wonders .

Top Attractions

1. three gorges.

They are grand canyons on the Yangtze River, made up of the Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge. The Three Gorges are beautiful, like a stunning gallery with many notable peaks, cliffs, and rivers. The Three Gorges Cruise along the Yangtze River and cable cars can offer a unique experience to enjoy the panoramic views. The Yangtze Cruise's boarding wharf is located at the Chaotianmen Dock. The cruise also provides natural attractions you can go offshore to explore: Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai, Zhang Fei Temple, etc. Besides, you can visit the impressive Three Gorges Dam, which is one of the world's biggest hydropower complex projects.

2. Hongya Cave

It's not a cave but a Disney-esque recreation of the old stilt houses. This popular destination is known for its night views and attracts many visitors to experience the unique scenery. This site owns a large-scale stilt on a steep cliff on the bank of the Jialing River. This area mainly contains stilted buildings and an antique commercial street. Visitors can take an elevator to explore the bars, coffee shops, restaurants, and craft stores amid eleven floors. When dusk falls, lanterns and warm-toned lamps light up the Hongya Cave, which is a stunning nightscape. The lit-up complex is spectacular.

3. Ciqikou Ancient Town

Ciqikou, which literally means Porcelain Port, is a pedestrian shopping and dining area. It's a great place to buy unique souvenirs and appreciates the local traditional architecture. The main attractions are Baolun Temple, Zhong's Courtyard, Hanlin Academy, and Pedestrian Street. Baolun Temple is the oldest part of the town, with more than 1500 years of history. Zhong's Courtyard contains abundant porcelain and other traditional and ancient household items. There are featured folk houses, temples, and teahouses you can visit, and there are featured local foods you can try. Take your time to enjoy the tea break and watch the unique folk opera. There are nearby attractions you can visit, including the Three Gorges Museum and the Great Hall of the People.

4. Chaotianmen Square

Chaotianmen Square is a prosperous zone situated at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Jialing River. Standing at the square, you can view the gorgeous river scenery and Chaotianmen Bridge. It's a great place to enjoy the night view of Chongqing with the colorful lights of the buildings and ships on the river. Shopping is also available there. It is featured in the prosperous commercial wholesale and retail area of Chongqing. Chaotianmen Dock, nearby, is famous as a water transportation port. Chaotianmen Dock serves all Yangtze River cruise ships. The vital dock shows the thriving economy, growth, and well-developed traffic in Chongqing.

5. Dazu Rock Carvings

It has been designated as a World Cultural Heritage site. There exists an exceptional series of rock carvings on the steep hillside in Dazu County. There are lots of great works of Chinese cave art. The Buddhist statues are the majority among the rock carving groups, and the Confucian as well as the Taoist stone figures can be seen. Dazu is the home of rock carvings and contains over 40 rock carvings and 50,000 statues. This indicates the highest level of grotto art from the 9th to the 13th century during the Tang and Song dynasties in ancient China. These kinds of statues are also called Moya carvings, which is a technique for carving the statues directly into the cliffside. Inscriptions depict history, religious beliefs, historical events, and everyday life in China, as well as showing respect for religious figures. Baodingshan and Beishan are the most famous and largest sites. Baodingshan is the most famous of these sites. The reclining Buddha and the 1000-armed goddess are the highlights of Baodingshan Carvings. The Beishan Carvings are well-preserved and present elaborate craftsmanship. The graceful statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva, known as Oriental Venus, is placed here. These statues are lifelike, and the ones of Guan Yin, Wen Shu, and Pu Xian are the most gorgeous.

6. Wulong Karst Landscape

Wulong Karst is a natural treasure, showing visitors its bridges, gorges, caves, eroded dolines, and other spectacular sceneries. This karst landscape includes the three main famous sites: Furong Cave, Three Natural Bridges, and Houping Giant Doline. Three Natural Bridges is a unique geological phenomenon. The three natural karst stone arch bridges, with an average height of over 656 feet, comprise the largest natural bridge cluster in Asia. A colorful rainbow appears amid the mist of a waterfall after the rains. You can enjoy the beauty of nature leisurely here when walking through these natural mountains and waterfalls. This area provides some of the settings for Transformers 4: Age of Extinction. A model of Optimus can be seen at the entrance. Furong Cave is well-known as a large limestone cave. It was formed in the carbonate rocks of the Cambrian-Ordovician Period. It has a plethora of speleothems that shape the stunning karst landscapes. The splendid stelae, stalagmites, and stalactites definitely will surprise you, as well as the huge stone curtain and waterfall. The integrated karst ecosystem of Houping Giant Doline includes gorges, shafts, dolines, and underground caves. It consists of five smaller ones. Located in a primitive forest, they are well-preserved of the feature of karst landforms. Viewed from the bottom of the dove, you can see the steep walls extending to heaven, the floating white clouds, and a clear sky.

7. E'ling Park

Because of its narrow shape, it is also known as Goose Neck Park and is located on E'ling Mountain. It offers a splendid view of the Yangtze River and Jialing River, as well as the Chongqing skyline. The park was used as a military sight in 1950. The park presents the typical layout of Suzhou gardens. The architecture of this park is in traditional Chinese style. The park contains many historical buildings, such as the former Australian legation. It's a great place to enjoy the cool since there are lots of trees, pavilions, and various flowers. The beauty of E'ling Park has been the subject of many Chinese poems.

8. Chongqing Zoo

Chongqing Zoo is home to various species of animals and plants, such as giant pandas, golden monkeys, etc. The rare South China Tiger, which used to live in forests in southern China, is now protected here. It is not only a tourist attraction for animals but also a base for wild animal protection and research. In the panda room, you can see the pandas feeding. There are a teahouse, restaurants, and amusement facilities, including an open stage and a roller skating rink. You can wander around the park, visiting the animals. The amusement areas and roller skating should appeal to children.

Things to Do

Take a 4 days and 3 nights yangtze river cruise running between chongqing and yichang..

The great night view of the modern buildings, bridges, and crossing roads can be seen from the board. Other sightseeing cruise ships are also illuminating the river with colorful, gleaming lights. There are some attractions you can go offshore for a visit: the Three Gorges, Shibaozhai Pagoda, and Shennv Stream.

Immerse in the stunning night view of Chongqing.

Hongya Cave is the most popular destination for the night view. Being built along the waterfront cliff makes these restaurants and coffee shops good places to enjoy the splendid night.

Take LRT to experience the unique geography of Chongqing.

Line 2 makes a metro line cross the building reality. Taking the LRT in Chongqing is sort of like riding a roller coaster because of the terrain.

Take the Yangtze River Cableway to overlook the magnificent panoramic beauty of Chongqing.

The cable cars start at Chang'an Temple in Yuzhong District, fly over the Yangtze River, and cut through high-rise buildings. It just takes 4 minutes to send you to the other side of the Yangtze River.

Try spicy hot pots and various local food.

The representative food-hot pot that you must not miss. You can order a variety of cuisines to put in a boiling pot of spicy soup with various ingredients. Other local foods such as Xiaomian, Hot, and Sour Rice Noodles, Crispy Fried Meat, and other delicious cuisine. There are many popular food streets in prosperous areas, like Bayi Food Street and Guanyinqiao Food Street.

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Chongqing. In addition to the unique terrain and climate, it is pretty hot in the summer. While it's a great time to visit Fairy Mountain in Wulong Karst Landscape to see snowy scenery and enjoy a hot spring bath in winter.

Usually, you can get here from other cities in China by air, train, or coach. There is a Jiangbei International Airport.

Make sure you wear suitable shoes due to the mountainous terrain around Chongqing.

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Chongqing travel blog — the fullest chongqing travel guide for first-timers.

Chongqing is one of the mountain cities with the most impressive transport system in the world. Chongqing is loved by Chinese people and also loved by international tourists. So, is Chongqing worth visiting, how to visit Chongqing, what to do in Chongqing and how to plan a budget trip to Chongqing for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Chongqing travel blog (Chongqing blog) with the fullest Chongqing travel guide (Chongqing tourist guide, Chongqing city guide, Chongqing guide) from how to get to Chongqing, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Chongqing to help you maximize your trip as follows!

Guide to Chongqing nightlife — 5+ best things to do in Chongqing at night
Top things to do in Chongqing — 8 what to do in Chongqing & best things to do in Chongqing
Where to go in Chongqing? — 11+ Top Chongqing attractions & best places to visit in Chongqing

Guide to Shenzhen nightlife — Top 5 things & what to do in Shenzhen at night

Where to go in kunming — 15+ top kunming attractions & best places to visit in kunming.

Chongqing is one of the fastest growing metropolises in the country, located in southwest China. With a system of 24 bridges connecting urban areas on both sides of the Yangtze River, Chongqing is also known as the “city of bridges”. Visitors to Chongqing can visit neighborhoods with a long history and large, modern shopping centers with the world’s leading brands.

Overview of Chongqing (# chongqing travel blog)

Chongqing is one of four centrally run cities in China, bordering Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Shaanxi provinces. Chongqing has a unique combination of past and present. From ancient structures such as temples, rock carvings to modern buildings like shopping malls and skyscrapers, Chongqing offers a harmonious blend of two worlds. You can easily find winding old streets, modern neighborhoods with vibrant shops, restaurants and cafes.

In addition, the city is also a vibrant economic center with modern commercial centers and luxury shopping areas. Chongqing’s old town, with its wide streets, colorful lanterns and stalls selling traditional crafts, attracts visitors with its distinctly Chinese appeal.

Chongqing is a major tourist city in China located right upstream of the river, at the confluence of the Yangtze River and Xiangjiang River, making this place bring a breath of fresh and vibrant nature with sparkling lights. night. Chongqing is truly a place worth visiting for those who love Chinese tourism and culture.

Chongqing not only plays an important role in China’s economic, cultural and technological development, but is also one of the tourist cities that attracts the most tourists in China. When traveling to Chongqing, you will see that this city has a very special beauty that is both modern and ancient.

When is the best time to travel to Chongqing? (# chongqing blog)

The Chongqing climate with four distinct seasons with cool autumn and spring. Summer has many night rains (the city is famous for its night rains in the 3rd mountain range with average temperature/year: 18 degrees Celsius. On average there are about 100 foggy days a year.

There are two extremely suitable times to travel to China: the period from March to May every year and the period from September to October in the fall. The temperature in Chongqing during these two periods is about 20 degrees.

Spring (March – May): Spring in Chongqing has a mild climate and warm weather. At this time, the flowers are in full bloom, creating a beautiful scene and attracting many tourists. This is the right time to explore local culture, participate in traditional festivals and enjoy the fresh air of spring.

Summer (June – August): Summer can be hot and humid. However, this weather also brings opportunities to participate in outdoor activities such as climbing mountains, walking in the park and enjoying the natural landscape of the mountains. If you enjoy exploring nature, then summer might be the right time. But in summer the temperature can reach up to 38 degrees Celsius and often has showers.

Autumn (September – November): Autumn brings beautiful scenery with ripe rice fields and changing leaves. The cool and pleasant weather makes visiting tourist attractions and exploring local culture more enjoyable. In this season you will have the opportunity to admire those leafy forests at Garden Expo Park.

Winter (December – February): Winter can be cold and frigid, especially in the mountains. However, if you love chilly air and enjoy activities like skiing, winter can also be a fun time to visit Chongqing. Coming to Chongqing in winter, you will feel the cold, quite romantic. Just imagine that on a cold winter night, there’s nothing better than sitting down to eat spicy hot pot and looking at the brilliant streets and bustling crowds of people here, right?

If Shanghai has a modern, bustling beauty and Beijing has a nostalgic, ancient look, Chongqing is a harmonious combination of the ancient in ancient architecturures and the modern, vibrant of a dynamic city. So coming here in any season, you can experience a poetic atmosphere that only Chongqing has to offer.

Getting to Chongqing (# chongqing travel guide)

Plane (# chongqing travel blog).

From Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, there are direct flights to Chongqing city. Visitors can easily search and book air tickets through ticket booking apps such as Ctrip, Agoda, Tripadvisor… Ticket prices fluctuate depending on the time you book the ticket.

Most flights will transit at Baiyun international airport in Guangzhou city and then continue to fly to Chongqing Jiangbei airport about 20km from Chongqing center. There are many airlines operating this route such as Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Asiana Airlines, etc. Ticket prices range from 272 – 333 USD/way depending on the airline, departure point, and ticket booking time…

To getting from the airport to the city center: Airport shuttle bus (about 15 yuan), taxi (from 50 yuan), subway (lines 3 and 10).

Train (# chongqing blog)

Chongqing has several important railway stations such as Chongqing west railway station or Chongqing north railway station, allowing you to travel by train from neighboring cities. Travelers can find out timetables and book train tickets through booking websites or at railway stations.

Getting around Chongqing (# chongqing guide)

To getting around this city, you can choose a number of popular means of transport such as subway, bus, bicycles, taxis… However, the traffic system in Chongqing is very overlapping like a maze, easily confusing you up if you don’t pay attention. The bus is chosen by many tourists because it is cheap, quite developed and almost accessible to tourist attractions. Taxis are more expensive but they are extremely convenient and comfortable. However, no matter which means you choose, you should learn a few Chinese sentences or download a translation app in case you need to ask for directions.

Subway: Includes 6 lines, ticket prices are based on distance
Taxi: 10 yuan/3km first, 2 yuan/km next. Peak and off-peak surcharges are different
Bus: 500 routes, average ticket price 2 yuan/person
Yangtze River cable car

Public bicycles

Chongqing offers public bicycle services to residents and visitors. This system allows you to rent a bike at one location and return it at another. This is a convenient and environmentally friendly way to explore the city.

Chongqing has subway lines operating on the city’s main streets. Subway are a popular travel option with the ability to enjoy cityscapes while traveling in comfort.

On foot (# chongqing guide)

If you want to explore the city slowly and enjoy the local atmosphere, then walking is a good choice. In Chongqing there are many streets, squares and areas for pedestrians, creating favorable conditions for exploring beautiful places to visit and landscapes in the city.

Where to go and what to do in Chongqing?

The mountain city of Chongqing attracts tourists with ancient buildings, poetic rivers, hot springs, or wild gorges of exotic beauty. Below are tourist attractions which you should not miss in Chongqing.

Hongyadong (Hongya Cave)

If mentioning the most famous tourist place in Chongqing, Hongyadong scenic area is at the top. Hongyadong is a 4A level tourist scenic attraction (5A is the highest level in the scenic classification criteria in China). Hongyadong Scenic Area is a perfect combination of river scenery, urban landscape and ancient traditional Chinese architecture.

Hongyadong is massive during the day and sparkling when lit up. If you have ever watched the movie “Spirited Away” – a famous Japanese anime movie, you will see animated scenes realized here.

Chaotianmen Dock (# chongqing city guide)

Address: HH7Q+8PJ, Changjiangbinjiang Rd, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China, 400013

Chaotianmen is one of the most beautiful river junctions in the world. This is the intersection of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Chaotianmen is Chongqing’s most important river port. This place is the gathering place for ships carrying thousands of tons of traded goods every day and is the place to welcome passengers of yachts or passenger ships across the river to the Three Gorges Dam. Chaotianmen’s night scene is extremely brilliant with lights and cruise ships traveling back and forth on the river.

Dazu Rock Carvings

Dazu Rock Carvings are a series of religious sculptures located in Dazu District, Chongqing City, 163 km from the city center. Statues began to be carved at the end of the Tang Dynasty, spanning five dynasties, reaching their peak during the Song Dynasty.

This is China’s cave art treasure with more than 50,000 rock carved statues, distributed in more than 40 locations in Dazu district, mainly Buddhist statues, followed by Buddhist statues, Taoism and Confucianism, and statues of a few historical figures.

Dazu Rock Carvings is a heritage recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. Dazu Rock Carvings is the general name for rock carvings including Baoding Mountain, Beishan Mountain, Nanshan Mountain, Shizhuan Mountain and Shimen Mountain. The works carved on stone include images, characters, Buddha statues, ancient writing and many epitaphs related to Buddhism that are extremely sophisticated and vivid. In addition to works related to Buddhism, there are many works related to Taoism, Confucianism and historical figures that demonstrate the cultural and religious interference of the people here during the period dating back to the XIX – XVIII centuries.

Yangtze River cable way (Chang Jiang Suo Dao)

Experiencing the Yangtze River cable car is an activity you must definitely try out. This is what the Chinese call the “air bus of the mountain city”. The transparent cable car glass with the cable car line crossing the river from one end to the other will help visitors enjoy the breathtaking view of the river and Chongqing city.

During the day, you can enjoy the natural scenery and at night when the city lights up, it is also extremely brilliant. This is also the filming location of many movies such as “Crazy Stone” and “A Bite of China”. Ticket prices range from 20 yuan – 30 yuan depending on one-way or round-trip travel. Children under 1.3m get free transportation tickets.

Ci Qi Kou Ancient Town

Ciqikou is a well-preserved ancient town about an hour’s drive from downtown Chongqing. This town was built during the Ming and Qing dynasties, originally named Longyin.

However, around 1918, the porcelain trade here began to prosper, so people gradually used the name Ciqikou meaning “porcelain port” instead of the old name and also representing the main profession of this town.

Ciqikou Old Town (Ciqikou) is an old town located on the outskirts of Chongqing city. This old town is mostly made up of buildings dating back a long time, some even built during the Ming Dynasty. On both sides of the road are teahouses with red lanterns hanging high in Chinese style. Visit the old town of Ciqikou, walk on the green stone streets and enjoy light snacks of Chongqing like you are returning to the past era of wuxia movies.

With a history of more than 1,800 years, Ciqikou ancient town has many characteristics of traditional culture typical of the mountains. This was a bustling area in the past with 2 main streets, both of which are currently busy trading areas. Now, the town has a total of 12 streets and teahouses play an important role in local culture.

Coming to Ciqikou, visitors not only have the opportunity to admire a typical mountain old town, but also have the opportunity to experience and shop for ceramic products, handicrafts and especially teas – a special feature represents the region’s culture before Chongqing became the modern, developed region it is today.

In addition, with its location along the Jialing River, Ciqikou also offers beautiful natural landscapes. You can walk on the road along the river, admiring the peaceful river scene and the old houses on the shore. Especially in the evening, when hundreds of lanterns are hung throughout the old town, the atmosphere becomes more romantic and interesting than ever.

People’s Liberation Monument

The People’s Liberation Monument is located in the heart of Chongqing city, the most prosperous area, and is a symbol of culture and a witness to the city’s history of resistance. This is a 27.5 meter high structure located at the intersection of Minquan, Minzu and Zourong roads of Yuzhong district.

Located in the middle of a large pedestrian square, the Liberation Monument is considered the heart of Chongqing’s commercial district, surrounded by about 3,000 shops and offices, along with dozens of major shopping malls. , many modern hotels as well as important business establishments.

Besides, about 300 meters from the Monument is the largest food street in the city, attracting thousands of visitors every day. It can be said that this is the most modern and vibrant place in Chongqing city today.

Chongqing Zoo

Found in 1953, Chongqing Zoo covers an area of 45 hectares, making it the largest urban zoo in China. This is the residence of about 230 species of rare wild animals. The most prominent one is the Panda House with an area of about 2 hectares.

If you can’t go to Chengdu, Sichuan, you can see giant pandas at Chongqing Zoo. Currently in Chongqing zoo there are up to 21 animals specifically such as Lanxiang, Ershun, Mangzai, Shuangshuang, Chongzhong, Xixi, Qingqing, Xingxing, Chenchen, Yuke, Yuai, Yubao, Qizhen, Qibao, Xinxing, Youyou, Liangyue, Yubei, Curious, Tin Tin. Ticket price is about 25 yuan/person.

The zoo serves as a conservation as well as breeding area for many types of pandas, including giant pandas, small pandas, South China tigers and several other endangered species. In recent years, the zoo has expanded and added many new animal species such as antelopes, elephants, giraffes, some birds…

The panda breeding area is always the most attractive attraction at Chongqing Zoo. Renovated to resemble a natural environment, visitors here will have the opportunity to admire pandas at close range and their adorable daily activities. This location attracts about 1 million visitors each year.

Stilwell Museum

Stilwell Museum will be a suitable place to visit if you want to learn more about the history and culture of Chongqing people. The museum is a building located on a total area of 5,000 m2 with two floors and a basement. This place stores many living utensils, household appliances and more than a hundred articles of Joseph W. Stilwell – an American general who made many contributions to the Chinese people.

Chongqing Amusement Park

Chongqing Amusement Park is always bustling with tourists coming to participate in thrilling rides. The park is located right in the heart of Chongqing city. The reason the park is so attractive is because the games are designed to be extremely novel, making visitors feel extremely adventurous.

Chongqing Great Hall of the People

The Chongqing People’s Great Hall is also known as the Chongqing People’s Auditorium. The hall is currently located in the center of Chongqing city. This is a large ceremony hall, and is the venue for political meetings and national cultural events. Chongqing Great Hall of the People is considered one of the iconic architectural works of Chongqing, and is an important address on the Chongqing tourist map.

Three Gorges Museum

Address: 236 Renmin Rd, Daxigou, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China, 400015

Located opposite the Chongqing People’s Hall, the Three Gorges museum is not only China’s largest monographic museum but is also a conservation, research, and education facility for cultural relics and the natural environment of Chongqing and the Three Gorges region.

Built on an area of 42,500 square meters, the museum opened to visitors on June 18, 2005. This is the place to help visitors have an overview of the entire Three Gorges area using high technology on every aspect.

In addition, the museum also has a 360-degree cinema showing the natural and social landscape of the entire Three Gorges area before the dam construction.

Ronghui Hot Springs

Ronghui Hot Spring is famous for being the favored resort of many famous people such as Chiang Kai-shek, Soong Mei-lin and Deng Xiaoping.

This place has the best hot spring source in China and was discovered during the Ming Dynasty. Coming here, you can also admire the buildings next to the hot springs that have the architectural style of the Qing Dynasty such as waiting houses, rest houses, bathrooms…

Cruise on the Yangtze River

The Yangtze River is the longest river in China and one of the most beautiful waterways in the world. You can cruise from Chongqing to Yichang or vice versa, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Three Gorges, the world’s largest dam, and many cultural and historical relics along the way.

Location: Shigu Town, Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, Lijiang City, Yunnan Province and Shasong Bi Village, Southern Shangri-La County

Shopping at Jiefangbei Square

Jiefangbei Square is the commercial center of Chongqing and a city landmark. It is surrounded by skyscrapers, shopping malls, department stores, restaurants and entertainment venues. You can find everything from local specialties to international brands here.

Chaotianmen Bridge

Address: HHPJ+6RW, Chaotianmenchangjiang Brg, Nan’An, China, 400062

Chaotianmen Bridge is a rope bridge spanning the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. This is one of the longest arch bridges in the world and is a marvel of engineering. You can enjoy the bridge’s stunning views from both sides of the river or on a boat.

Experience local life at Huguang Guild Hall

Huguang Guild Hall is a complex of ancient buildings that served as a community center for migrants from Huguang province (now Hunan and Hubei provinces) during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It has a theater, a temple, a garden and a museum. You can watch traditional Sichuan opera performances here or learn about local history and culture.

Address: No. 3 Hufang Road, Xi Cheng Qu, China Opening hours: All day Ticket price: 25 yuan

Wulong Karst

Located in the southeast of Chongqing city, Wulong Karst is not only famous for its majestic limestone mountain natural scenery, but is also the setting of the movie Golden Armor by famous director Zhang Yimou. Then, in 2014, the movie Transformers: Age of Extinction also had many scenes filmed here, making this scenic area even more famous.

Most of the attractions in Wulong are natural landscapes, and several of them have been recognized as World Natural Heritage sites by UNESCO. The four most attractive tourist attractions when coming here include: Tiankeng Three Bridges – three dome-shaped natural rock bridges; Furong cave; Qingkou Tiankeng; Longshui Gorge and many other majestic natural landscapes that visitors can explore here.

Three Gorges

Three Gorges is a famous tourist attraction with its wonderful natural landscape and exceptional cultural and historical value. Named after three majestic green mountains overlapping each other, this mountain has become a favorite destination for domestic and foreign tourists, attracted by the wonderful harmony between nature and people.

Three Gorges Mountain rises into the sky with its long mountain ranges and lush green vegetation. With a high mountain peak, visitors can enjoy not only the beautiful scenery from above but also experience exciting and challenging climbs. The paths to the top of the mountain are carefully designed, providing safety and convenience for those who want to explore the natural beauty.

The Yangtze River is about 6,300 km long and is currently the longest river in China and the third longest in the world. Next to the river are three gorges: Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Xiling Gorge, this area is called Sanxia or Three Gorges.

Choosing to visit here, you will experience the feeling of walking on glass bridge and below is a deep mountain abyss. This is definitely an interesting game for those who love adventure. Standing from the observatory, you will admire the panoramic view of majestic, green mountains and winding rivers, creating a unique poetry only found in the Three Gorges.

Location: 14 km west of the city center.

What to eat in Chongqing?

Chongqing cuisine is always characterized by a more spicy and richer flavor. Unlike Chengdu cuisine, local dishes in Chongqing are tastier and more authentic. The main spices in the dishes include chili, sesame, fermented black beans, green onions, ginger, garlic, wine, soy sauce and a variety of flavorings used with nearly 40 different processing methods. These methods include drying, salting, marinating, frying and smoking. The colors, smells, flavors, shapes and nutrients in every dish are carefully and meticulously considered. That’s why everyone says that Chongqing cuisine is not only attractive but also extremely nutritious.

Chongqing’s cuisine is likened to “Heavenly food”. Chongqing food is heavily influenced by Sichuan cuisine: spicy and hearty. There are many processing methods to preserve the most delicious flavor of that dish.

Kung Pao Chicken

This dish makes everyone fascinated with its wonderful combination of sweet, salty and spicy. This is a very “approachable” dish for tourists because the spicy taste is not too strong and can be easily found at eateries on the street. You can also make this dish at home if you want.

The way to make it is to cut chicken into small square pieces, then roll them in dry flour and fry them crispy in hot oil. The highlight of the dish is the rich and attractive Kung Pao sauce. This sauce is made from chicken broth, black vinegar, soy sauce, fermented soybeans, peanuts and chili peppers, and a little wine to highlight the flavor. Indispensable in Kung Pao sauce is Sichuan pepper, which brings a unique flavor to the dish. This is also one of the main dishes chosen by China to Westernize their cuisine.

Spicy Sweet Potato Noodles (Suan La Fen)

This street food is not only popular in Chongqing but is also widely loved throughout China. This simple dish has a hot and sour taste mixed with the sweetness of fresh noodles and the eye-catching red color of satay chili, creating a feeling that is both delicious to the eye and delicious to the mouth. The main ingredients of this dish are sweet potato noodles and peas.

The main spices that make up the characteristics of this noodle dish are chili oil, Sichuan pepper corn and vinegar, which work to enhance the flavor of the dish and stimulate the taste buds. Currently, there are two types of noodles to make Suan La Fen, one is dry noodles that are pre-prepared and convenient, and the other is fresh noodles that are prepared on the spot. Most traditional noodle shops still choose this processing method to ensure the freshness of the noodles, ensure hygiene and attract diners while enjoying the dish and seeing firsthand the interesting way the noodles are prepared.

Chuan chuan xiang (Skewered hot pot)

Another version of the famous Sichuan hot pot is Chuan Chuan Xiang, a dish loved by many people and popular in Chongqing today. The difference of Chuan chuan is that the accompanying ingredients are skewered onto small sticks, from vegetables to meats, then dipped in a special sauce cooked in an iron or clay pot. This way of eating makes enjoying food more convenient.

Chuan chuan xiang’s specialty is the richness of the ingredients and the distinct flavor of the sauce, making diners want to come back again and again to discover new flavors. Many Chuan chuan restaurants are located in old apartment buildings or small alleys but are always bustling with people, showing people’s love for this skewered hot pot dish.

Chongqing Hot Pot

One of the famous specialties of Chongqing cuisine is the rich spicy hot pot. This hot pot dish has a variety of ingredients such as beef stomach, duck intestines, pork tendon or beef, along with fresh vegetables.

The special feature of this hot pot is that the broth is made from beef fat and chili, spices creating an unforgettable spicy flavor. Chongqing spicy hot pot is often served in pots with compartments so customers can choose the spicy level that suits their taste. In addition, this hot pot can also be combined with other spices and herbs to increase the appeal and nutrition of the dish.

In the city of Chongqing, hot pot restaurants can be found everywhere and many have become extremely popular in local as well as international circles. Some restaurants to try include: Xiao Tian E (Cygnet Hot-Pot Palace) and Su Da Jie, E Zhang Men,… In addition, hot pot restaurants in Harbor Plaza also serve this delicious hot pot.

Mapo tofu is a traditional Chongqing dish famous for its rich and spicy flavor. Considered one of the typical delicacies of Chinese cuisine, Mapo tofu has conquered many diners with its unique flavor and simple yet sophisticated preparation.

This dish is usually made from fresh and soft tofu, cut into small, bite-sized pieces. Tofu will be cooked in a pot with some spices such as onions, garlic, chili and typical spices such as black bean paste and Sichuan black pepper. Mapo tofu has a special flavor, combining spicy, salty and slightly sweet flavors from the spices.

The way to prepare Mapo tofu is quite simple but requires technique and sophistication to create the perfect flavor. Tofu will be cooked in the pot with spices and rich sauce, creating an eye-catching red-brown color mixture. This dish is often enjoyed with white rice, creating a complete and delicious meal.

Dandan noodles

The ingredients of Dandan noodles include many different vegetables, along with chili oil, minced meat, and green onions. This dish is a rustic snack associated with people living in this city. In the past, Dandan noodles were sold on street vendors, but now they are sold in stores or stalls.

Jiangtuan Fish

Jiangtuan Fish is the most abundant and widely cultured fish in Chongqing, and most eateries and restaurants serve dishes prepared from it, in many different ways.

Like many other types of fish, Jiangtuan has many different cooking methods such as grilled, steamed, fried… Each dish brings a unique flavor that diners love and remember forever. Just once enjoy Jiangtuan Fish, you will definitely not forget its taste.

Sichuan boiled fish

Sichuan boiled fish is usually made from fresh boiled fish, raised in clean water and natural environment. The traditional cooking method involves soaking the fish in salt water and spices for a short time to remove the fishy smell and increase the tenderness of the fish. After that, the fish is boiled in boiling water, keeping the fish meat soft and sweet and crispy. When serving in a bowl, the cook will pour hot cooking oil directly onto the fish and add some fragrant onions.

One of the important elements of Sichuan Boiled Fish is the unique spice mixture. Spices include garlic, ginger, onion, pepper, most especially chili and other spices that are delicately combined to create a unique and attractive flavor. This boiled fish dish is often decorated with herbs such as basil, coriander and green onions to create an attractive and eye-catching aroma.

When enjoying Sichuan Boiled Fish, you will feel the wonderful flavor of sweet and soft fragrant fish meat mixed with the spicy taste and characteristic aroma from the spices. Boiled fish is often enjoyed with some side dishes such as garlic fish sauce, fresh lettuce and crispy toast, creating a balance and richness in flavor.

BBQ pork rice

This is originally a typical dish of Hong Kong people, but thanks to its delicious taste, easy cooking, and attractive presentation, it has become extremely popular in Chongqing. You can enjoy BBQ pork rice dishes at many roadside eateries or restaurants. They are not only delicious but also eye-catching, affordable and convenient.

Chongqing Chicken with Chili Sauce

As a famous cold dish in Chongqing, it is not difficult for you to enjoy Chili Sauce chicken when you come to this city. When preparing this dish, the chef must choose homebrew roosters to get the right fresh, fragrant and spicy flavor. Each piece of white, firm, fragrant chicken is cooked with chili, making it quite spicy. Taking a bite, you can immediately feel the spicy, salty, and sweet flavors blending in the dish.

Where to stay?

As a developed city in China, Chongqing has a developed, diverse and rich hotel system, depending on your choice, choose a suitable resting spot.

Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing: Only 3.9 km from the city center, the hotel is located in a beautiful location to ensure you can visit tourist attractions easily and quickly. Among them, we can mention some tourist attractions such as ChongQing ShiZi Jin Jie, ChongQing HaoChi Jie… ( Agoda , Booking )

Sheraton Chongqing Hotel: The hotel is only 1.8 km from the city center so it is very convenient for you to move to interesting attractions such as DongDong ShangYe Jie, LongMenHao ShangYeJie… ( Agoda , Booking )

Kempinski Hotel Chongqing: If you choose Kempinski Hotel Chongqing as your stopover, you can visit many interesting attractions in the city such as WanDaJin Jie, YaTai ShangGu HuiZhan BuXingJie, NanAn NanHu RenJia XiuXian MeiShiJie. ( Agoda , Booking )

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Niccolo Chongqing ( Agoda , Booking )
Ascott Raffles City Chongqing ( Agoda , Booking )
Intercontinental Chongqing Raffles City ( Agoda , Booking )
The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square ( Agoda , Booking )
Hilton Chongqing ( Agoda , Booking )
Somerset Yangtze River Chongqing ( Agoda , Booking )
Zou Qu Ye Travel Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Chongqing on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Some notes before you go

Most airports, train stations, and bus stations have “car cheaters”, many of whom have their fares increased midway, so you should take a clearly branded taxi.
Avoid from too spicy foods: Chongqing was formerly a city under Sichuan province, and Sichuan is one of the spiciest provinces in China, so Chongqing hot pot is very spicy for foreigners. Therefore, when going to eat hot pot, you should ask the restaurant to serve 2-compartment mandarin hot pot or 4-compartment hot pot so that you can both experience Chongqing’s spicy food and have a different hot pot taste. In addition, you should order more milk or cold drinks while eating.
Chongqing is a city with high humidity, Chinese people also call this a foggy city because there is little time to see the sun. You should bring some medicine and corresponding skincare items to avoid skin allergies.
Chongqing has mountainous terrain and undulating streets, so this is not a suitable place for cycling. Public transportation such as buses and railways are developing here. When traveling to Chongqing, you should plan your route in advance or have a local guide to choose the appropriate means of transportation.

Questions and answers about Chongqing

Question: I heard that Chongqing transport is very special?

Chongqing is built on mountains, and there are many high-rise buildings on the riverbank. Transportation in Chongqing is so complicated that even if you are not a local driver, you can easily get lost by the roads here. Chongqing also has subways passing through buildings, public areas above buildings… The complexity of Chongqing traffic is a hassle for tourists and outsiders but is something that Chongqing residents proud.

Q: Is Chongqing suitable for traveling by renting a car?

As a mountainous city with complex road conditions, there are many cars, bridges, curves, tunnels, one-way lanes, especially traffic jams are a nightmare for drivers who are not familiar with the road. Unless there is a special need for self-driving cars, it is better to make good use of public transportation resources.

Q: Where is the best place to stay in Chongqing?

Finding hotels in Jiefangbei area or in Shapingba where there are many entertainment activities is more convenient for tourists.

Question: Is the food in Chongqing very spicy?

Compared to Chengdu, it is also a city with hot and spicy cuisine. Chongqing cuisine is more “gypsy” and even harder. If you can’t eat spicy food, you must tell the restaurant owner in advance if you don’t want to be unable to eat any dishes when you come here!

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Chongqing you can refer to

Shenlong Gorge Scenic Area Ticket
Simian Shan Scenic Area Ticket in Chongqing
Jinfo Mountain North Slope Scenic Area Ticket in Chongqing Three Little Gorges Combo Ticket
Dazu Rock Carvings Ticket with Round Trip Transfers in Chongqing
Chongqing Ciqikou, Secret Viewing Platform, and Yangtze River Cable Half Day Tour
Chongqing Wulong Scenic Area Attractions Ticket with Round Trip Shared Transfer
Chongqing Dazu Rock Carvings Museum Day Tour
Chongqing Hongyadong, Beibin Road, and Nanbin Road Night Tour
Chongqing Ciqikou, Secret Viewing Platform, and Yangtze River Cableway Day Tour
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Chongqing China – Your Quick Travel Guide

In a nutshell.

Chongqing is known as the “Mountain City” and is the largest city in the south west of China on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River at the point where it is met by the Jialing River; it is regularly used as a starting point for cruises on the Three Gorges.

Why You Should Visit Chongqing

Chongqing has several attractions that are not instantly known worldwide including the Dazu Rock Carvings and several natural attractions created over millions of years such as the Wulong Karst Scenic Area. In the city is Ciqikou, an ancient village on the edge of the city that has been an important centre for trade for centuries.

It is an important transport hub, Chongqing is one of the major inland ports on the Yangtze River, it has good travel connections through the railway with two major stations in the city and an international airport that is continually expanding.

When is the Best Time to Visit Chongqing?

Chongqing has plenty of rain throughout the year and it is one of the cities in China that see the least amount of sunshine. The winters are chilly rather than cold with snow a rare occurrence. The summer months are hot and humid, Chongqing is one of the cities to avoid during the summer due to the humidity. The summer temperature does not drop below 30C with occasional days reaching 40C or over. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit with favorable temperatures and the least amount of rain.

Where to Stay in Chongqing?

There are more than 3000 hotels in Chongqing to suit all tastes from cheap hotels and hostels up to luxury suites at the best five star hotels. An alternative if you are staying for a while is an apartment hotel, there are several of these in the city. Hostels have beds in dorm rooms available from less than CNY50 per night. You can stay in a reasonable 3 star hotel for under CNY200 per night while if you really want to be extravagant them a luxury suite can be yours for around CNY2000. There really is something for everyone.

The best area for accommodation is around Jiefangbei in the city centre, there is a good selection of hotels and hostels here and it is close to major attractions as well as being close to several metro stops making it easy to travel elsewhere in the city should you need to.

Where and What to Eat in Chongqing

Chongqing is famous as being the home of the fiery hot pot, you can now get hot pot all over China but to taste the real thing you should come to Chongqing. There are restaurants all over the city that specialize in only serving hot pot.

There are a few areas of Chongqing that are now becoming known as food streets. Bayi Street was the first and now other food streets are Nanbin Road and the streets around Jiefangbei. There are several snack foods including honey cake, steamed buns or glutinous rice balls. Dan dan chicken or fried crabs are other local favourites, not forgetting that Chongqing was part of Sichuan province until 1997 so Sichuan food is still very popular here.

How to Get Around Chongqing

There are more than 500 bus routes serving the city of Chongqing. In most buses you pay as you enter the bus, usually CNY2-3 per journey regardless of the distance covered, have the exact change ready as you will not get change. All bus information is in Chinese so you will need to know what bus number you need and the stop you need to get off.

The subway or metro is the easiest way to get around the city; it has been greatly expanded since my first visit to the city when there was just one line. There are now six lines with more under construction. You can travel from the airport into the city, the two railway stations and most bus stations are connected by this system. The fare starts at CNY2 and is calculated at the distance you intend to travel.

Taxis are a useful way to get around the city but some areas of the city are notorious for their traffic jams, so taking a taxi is not always the quickest option. Drivers do not speak English so have your destination written down in Chinese. Taxis in Chongqing charge CNY10 for the first 3km then CNY2 for every additional km. the worst times to get a taxi are from 7am until 9.30am, 3pm until pm and from 5pm until 7pm.

How to Get To and From Chongqing

Chongqing has good connections to the rest of China through several modes of transport.

Firstly, its international airport known as Jiangbei International Airport is located almost 20km to the north of the city and serves over 120 cities both in China and overseas. There are actually flights to 37 worldwide destinations including cities in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. A direct flight from Beijing to Chongqing takes 2 hours and 35 minutes and costs from CNY1130. You can fly from Chongqing to Guangzhou in 2 hours and 10 minutes and the cost is from CNY680, while an international flight from Doha in Qatar takes 8 hours and 30 minutes and costs from CNY4170.

There are a number of options for travelling into the city centre from the airport including 6 shuttle bus routes that depart from terminals 2 and 3 to various points in the city centre. It takes about an hour to get into the city centre from the airport.

The metro line 3 operates from the airport to the north railway station and the city centre and takes about 50 minutes. Line 10 is currently under construction and will be a fast connection to the north railway station. There are also taxis available at the airport, just make sure you get one from the official taxi rank and the driver uses the meter.

There are 8 expressways that connect Chongqing with other cities in China and long distance buses are an important method of transportation particularly the further west you go as there are fewer railways. There are six long distance bus stations in Chongqing and the larger cities are covered by most stations.

Chongqing has two major train stations, the Chongqing Railway Station in Yuzhong district is the oldest station in the city close to the city centre. It is long overdue being modernized and only handles ordinary trains mostly heading south or into Sichuan province. Chongqing North Railway station was opened in 2006 and handles most of the rail traffic to and from the city including all the high speed trains. Chongqing West Railway Station in Shapingba is a small station used for local and regional trains only.

There are more than 40 trains in each direction every day between Guangzhou and Chongqing, the fastest trains take around 7 hour 30 minutes and a 2nd class seat costs from CNY392.50. Normal trains are much slower taking around 30 hours and a hard sleeper costs from CNY361.

Is it Safe in Chongqing?

Chongqing is generally safe for foreigners to visit even walking alone at night it is safe. The biggest danger is in crossing the road and being hit by a vehicle that ignores the red light. This happens a lot all over China so extreme care should be taken even when you have a green crossing signal in your favor.

Should you need to seek medical attention then in Chongqing there is some excellent hospitals and one is registered to treat foreigners.

Tel: (86) 18977321572 (24hrs available)

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Chongqing travel guide

Chongqing in brief The city of Chongqing is a major metropolis and municipality of southwest China. Standing as one of the five national central cities of the PRC, the city has its own Central Government like Beijing, Shanghai or Tianjin cities. Seen as a key point to increase the interior economic growth, Chongqing is a typical sprawling Chinese city. Located on the confluence of the Yangtze and the Jialing River, the city is a high stop-off and departure point on up or downstream Yangtze River Cruises. Chongqing is situated on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau and enjoys a monsoon humid subtropical climate. Literally meaning double happiness or repeated good luck, the city really overpopulates and overstrains. Chongqing is home to different ethnic nationalities among which the Han are the most important one. This city is the archetypal big Chinese city where turmoils of city life give rhythm to everything. History of Chongqing A strategic point to inner Province's economic growth Chongqing is a city that experienced many changes in terms of kingdom, government and names for the past 3000 years. Tracing back to the 11th century BC, the city was governed by the State of Ba and the... More information about Chongqing »

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Ringed by mountains that, according to the Tang poet Li Bai, made the journey here “harder than the road to heaven”, Sichuan (四川, sìchuān) and Chongqing (重庆, chóngqìng) stretch for more than 1000km across China’s southwest. Administratively divided in 1997, when Chongqing was carved off the eastern end of Sichuan province, the region has long played the renegade, differing from the rest of China in everything from food to politics and inaccessible enough both to ignore central authority and to provide sanctuary for those fleeing it. Recent divisions aside, Sichuan and Chongqing share a common history, and the area splits more convincingly into very different geographic halves. The more gentle of the two lies east, where peaks surround one of the country’s most densely settled areas, the fertile Red Basin, whose subtropical climate and rich soil conspire to produce endless green fields turning out three harvests a year.

Brief history

Northeastern sichuan, sichuanese cooking, southeastern sichuan, southern sichuan, around chengdu, sichuan opera, cruising the yangzi, the giant panda breeding research base, western sichuan, visiting monasteries.

This bounty has created an air of easy affluence in Chengdu, Sichuan’s relaxed capital, and the southern river towns such as Zigong. Elsewhere, visitors have the opportunity to join pilgrims on Emei Shan in a hike up the holy mountain’s forested slopes, or to cruise down the Yangzi from Chongqing, industrial powerhouse and jumping-off point for one of the world’s great river journeys. You’ll also find that the influence of Buddhism has literally become part of the landscape, most notably at Leshan, where a giant Buddha sculpted into riverside cliffs provides one of the most evocative images of China; and farther east at Dazu, whose wooded hillsides conceal a marvellous procession of stone carvings.

In contrast, western Sichuan is dominated by densely buckled ranges overflowing from the heights of Tibet: a wild, thinly populated land of snowcapped peaks, where yaks roam the tree line and roads negotiate hair-raising gradients as they cross ridges or follow deep river valleys. The west’s appeal is its Tibetan heritage – clearly visible in the many important monasteries – and raw, rugged alpine scenery. Travelling north towards Gansu takes you through ethnic Hui and Qiang heartlands past the vivid blue lakes and medieval battlements at Songpan and Jiuzhaigou, with the tranquil village of Langmusi the most remote of targets, right on the provincial border. Due west of Chengdu, the real wilds begin beyond Kangding, with the monastery towns of Dêgê and Litang the pick of destinations – not forgetting an exciting back-road route to Yunnan.

Travelling around Sichuan is fairly straightforward, but those heading westwards need to prepare for unpredictably long and uncomfortable journeys. The most useful rail routes are the high-speed Chengdu–Chongqing link, and the Xi’an–Kunming line, which runs southwest from Chengdu via Emei Shan and Xichang. Expect hot, humid summers and cold winters, with the north and west frequently buried under snow for three months of the year.

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In prehistoric times, what is now eastern Sichuan and Chongqing was divided into the eastern Ba and western Shu kingdoms, slave societies with highly developed metalworking skills and bizarre aesthetics. Agricultural innovations at the end of the third century BC opened up eastern Sichuan to intensive farming, and when the Qin armies stormed through, they found an economic base that financed their unification of China in 221 BC – as did Genghis Khan’s forces almost 1500 years later. In between, the area became the Three Kingdoms state of Shu – a name by which Sichuan is still sometimes known – and later twice provided refuge for deposed emperors.

Otherwise too distant to play a central role in China’s history, the region leapt to prominence in 1911, when government interference in local rail industries sparked the nationwide rebellions that toppled the Qing empire. The next four decades saw rival warlords fighting for control, though some stability came when the Nationalist government made Chongqing their capital after the Japanese invaded China in 1937. The province suffered badly during the Cultural Revolution – Jung Chang’s autobiography, Wild Swans, gives a first-hand account of the vicious arbitrariness of the times in Sichuan. Typically, it was the first province to reject Maoist ideals, when the Sichuan governor, Zhao Ziyang, allowed farmers to sell produce on the free market, spearheading the reforms of his fellow native Sichuanese, Deng Xiaoping. So effective were these reforms that by the 1990s Sichuan was competing vigorously with the east-coast economy, a situation for which Chongqing – the already heavily industrialized gateway river port between Sichuan and eastern China – claimed a large part of the credit; Chongqing’s economic weight secured separate administrative status for the city and its surrounds. Meanwhile, development continues across the region, bringing all the problems of runaway growth: appalling industrial pollution, ecological devastation and an unbelievable scale of urban reconstruction.

The fertile valleys of northeastern Sichuan wind through hilly, heavily farmed countryside, terminating around 400km from Chengdu at severe escarpments marking the border with Shaanxi. Originally, the sole way through these ranges was provided by Shudao, the “Road to Sichuan” linking Chengdu with the former imperial capital Xi’an, along which culture and personalities flowed over the centuries. The region contains the hometowns of the great poet Li Bai and the country’s only empress; it was the escape route down which the Tang emperor Xuan Zong fled the An Lushan rebellion of 756 AD; while Shudao itself breaks out of the region through a sheer cleft in the ranges known as Jianmenguan, the Sword Pass. Shudao can also serve as the first stage in a journey to Jiuzhaigou; given the seemingly permanent roadworks under way on the Chengdu–Songpan highway, it’s sometimes the only viable route.

Well east from Shudao, a large grid of old streets at the pleasant riverside town of Langzhong is one of the few places in Sichuan where you can still see substantial areas of archaic architecture – a welcome refuge from the country’s frenzied demolition of its past.

Dominating the southwestern China cooking school, Sichuanese cooking is noted for its heavy use of chilli, which locals explain as a result of climate – according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, chillies dispel “wet” illnesses caused by Sichuan’s seasonally damp or humid weather. But chillies don’t simply blast the tastebuds, they stimulate them as well, and flavours here are far more complex than they might appear at the initial, eye-watering, mouthful.

Sichuan cuisine’s defining taste is described as mala – “numb and hot” – created by the potent mix of chillies and huajiao (Sichuan pepper), with its soapy perfume and mouth-tingling afterbuzz. One classic mala dish is mapo doufu, bean curd and minced pork; others include “strange-flavoured chicken” (dressed with sesame paste, soy sauce, sugar and green onions mixed in with the chillies and huajiao), and the innocently named “boiled beef slices”, which actually packs more chillies per spoonful than almost any other Sichuanese dish.

Other more general dishes include hot and sour soup, flavoured with pepper and vinegar; double-cooked pork, where a piece of fatty meat is boiled, sliced thinly and then stir-fried with green chillies; fish-flavoured pork (whose “seafood” sauce is made from vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, ginger and sesame oil); gongbao chicken, the local version of stir-fried chicken and peanuts; and smoked duck, a chilli-free cold dish, aromatic and juicy. There’s also a great number of Sichuanese snacks – xiaochi – which some restaurants specialize in: green beans with ginger, pork with puréed garlic, cucumber with chilli-oil and sesame seeds, dandan mian (“carry-pole” noodles, named for the way in which street vendors used to carry them around), tiger-skin peppers, scorched then fried with salt and dark vinegar, pork steamed in ground rice (served in the bamboo steamer), and a huge variety of sweet and savoury dumplings.

One Chongqing speciality now found all over China is huoguo (hotpot), a social dish eaten everywhere from streetside canteens to specialist restaurants. You get plates or skewers of meat, boiled eggs or vegetables, cooked – by you at the table – in a bubbling pot of stock liberally laced with chillies and cardamom pods. You then season the cooked food in oil spiced with MSG, salt and chilli powder. The effect is powerful, and during a cold winter you may well find that hotpots fast become your favourite food.

Surrounding the fertile confluence of the Yangzi and Min rivers 250km from Chengdu, where Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou provinces meet, southeastern Sichuan has some intriguing attractions. The town of Zigong is a treat, with some well-preserved architecture, dinosaurs and salt mines, especially worth checking out during its Spring Festival lantern displays. Some 80km farther south, Yibin offers access to the aptly named Shunan Bamboo Sea; and, further eastwards towards Chongqing, you shouldn’t miss the carved gallery of comic-book-like Buddhist rock art at Dazu.

About 200km east of Chengdu and 100km west of Chongqing, sleepy Dazu town is the base for viewing some fifty thousand Tang- and Song-dynasty Buddhist cliff sculptures, which are carved into caves and overhangs in the surrounding lush green hills – most notably at Baoding Shan. What makes these carvings so special is not their scale – they cover very small areas compared with better-known sites at Luoyang or Dunhuang – but their quality, state of preservation, and variety of subject and style. Some are small, others huge, many are brightly painted and form comic-strip-like narratives, their characters portraying religious, moral and historical tales. While most are set fairly deeply into rockfaces or are protected by galleries, all can be viewed in natural light, and are connected by walkways and paths.

ZIGONG, a thriving industrial centre, has long been an important source of salt, tapped for thousands of years from artesian basins below the city. In the fourth century, the Sichuanese were sinking 300m-deep boreholes here using bamboo-fibre cables attached to massive stone bits; by the 1600s, bamboo buckets were drawing brine from wells bored almost 1km beneath Zigong, centuries before European technology (which borrowed Chinese techniques) could reach this deep. Natural gas, a by-product of drilling, was used from the second century to boil brine in evaporation tanks, and now also powers Zigong’s buses and taxis.

Southwest of Chengdu, fast-flowing rivers converge at Leshan, where more than a thousand years ago sculptors created a giant Buddha overlooking the waters, one of the world’s most imposing religious monuments. An hour away, Emei Shan rises to more than 3000m, its forested slopes rich in scenery and temples. As Sichuan’s most famous sights, the Buddha and Emei Shan have become tourist black holes thanks to easy access – don’t go near either during holidays, when crowds are so awful that the army is sometimes called in to sort out the chaos – but at other times they are well worth the effort.

If you’re on your way down south to Yunnan, you might also want to break your journey at Xichang, a Yi minority town with a backroad route to Lugu Lake, right on the Yunnanese border. Emei and Dafo are best reached on buses, but it’s easier to get to Xichang via the Chengdu–Emei Shan–Kunming rail line.

Some 160km southwest of Chengdu, Emei Shan’s thickly forested peaks and dozens of temples, all linked by exhausting flights of stone steps, have been pulling in pilgrims (and tourists) ever since the sixth-century visit of Bodhisattva Puxian and his six-tusked elephant, images of whom you’ll see everywhere. Religion aside, the pristine natural environment is a major draw, and changes markedly through the year – lush, green and wet in the summer; brilliant with reds and yellows in autumn; white, clear and very cold in winter.

You can see something of the mountain in a single day, but three would allow you to experience more of the forests, spend a night or two in a temple, and perhaps assault Emei’s sumit. It’s only worth climbing this high if the weather’s good, however: for a richer bag of views, temples, streams and vegetation, you won’t be disappointed with the lower paths.

Ascending Emei Shan

An ascent of Emei Shan can be tackled via two main routes from Baoguo: the 60km, three-day long route; and the 40km, two-day short route. Most people knock 15km or so off these by catching buses from Baoguo to alternative starting points near Qingyin Ge (Wuxianggang bus stop) or Wannian Temple; leaving early enough, you could make it to the top in one day from either of these via the short route, descending the next day – though your legs will be like jelly afterwards. If you’re really pushed for time, you could get up and down in a single day by catching a minibus between Baoguo Temple and Jieyin Hall (Leidongping bus stop), located a cable-car ride (¥120 return) from the summit, but this way you’ll miss out on what makes Emei Shan such a special place.

Bring a torch in case you unexpectedly find yourself on a path after dark. Footwear needs to have a firm grip; in winter, when stone steps become dangerously icy, straw sandals and even iron cleats (sold for a few yuan and tied onto your soles) are an absolute necessity. Don’t forget warm clothing for the top, which is around 15°C cooler than the plains and so liable to be below freezing between October and April; lower paths are very humid during the summer. You’ll also want some protection against the near certainty of rain. A walking stick is handy for easing the pressure on thigh muscles during descent – a range is sold along the way – or for fending off aggressive monkeys (the macaques here have been known to go for people, particularly when food is present). Store any heavy gear at the bottom of the mountain, or in Chengdu if you’re contemplating a round trip.

If you need a guide, an excellent choice is Patrick Yang (0137 08131210, emeiguides.com), who speaks good English and often takes tour groups up Emei Shan. He also arranges local “culture tours” for about ¥100 per person, touring a kung-fu school, noodle factory and kindergarten, with lunch in a farmer’s house.

Set beside the wide convergence of the Qingyi, Min and Dadu rivers, 180km from Chengdu and 50km from Emei Shan, LESHAN is a dull, spread-out market town with a modern northern fringe and older riverside core, a transit point for visiting the Big Buddha, carved deep into a niche in the facing cliffs.

The Big Buddha

Impassive and gargantuan, the Big Buddha peers out from under half-lidded eyes, oblivious to the swarms of sightseers trying to photograph his bulk. In 713 AD the monk Haitong came up with the idea of carving the Buddha into the riverside’s red sandstone cliffs, using the rubble produced to fill in dangerous shoals below. The project took ninety years to complete and, once construction started, temples sprang up on the hills above the Buddha. At 71m tall, this is the world’s largest Buddhist sculpture – his ears are 7m long, his eyes 10m wide, and around six people at once can stand on his big toenail – though statistics can’t convey the initial sight of this squat icon, comfortably seated with his hands on his knees, looming over you.

Set on the western side of the Red Basin, CHENGDU is a determinedly modern city, full of construction sites, high-rise department stores and residential blocks. But it’s also a cheerful place: seasonal floral displays and ubiquitous ginkgo trees lend colour to its many excellent parks, and the population is also nicely laidback, enjoying its teahouse culture at every opportunity and unfazed by this being interpreted as laziness by other Chinese.

Chengdu was styled Brocade City in Han times, when the urban elite were buried in elegantly decorated tombs, and its silk travelled west along the caravan routes as far as imperial Rome. A refuge for the eighth-century Tang emperor Xuan Zong after his army mutinied over his infatuation with the beautiful concubine Yang Guifei, the city later became a printing centre, producing the world’s first paper money. Sacked by the Mongols in 1271, Chengdu recovered soon enough to impress Marco Polo with its busy artisans and handsome bridges, since when it has survived similar cycles of war and restoration to become a major industrial, educational and business centre. There are some downsides – the city’s traffic congestion and pollution can be atrocious – but on the whole it’s not hard to spend a couple of days here touring historical monuments, spiking your tastebuds on one of China’s most outstanding cuisines, and getting close-up views of locally bred pandas.

Chengdu’s surrounding attractions all make worthy day-trips from the capital, and most can be used as first stops on longer routes. Just to the northeast, the Sanxingdui Museum is stuffed with prehistoric bronzes, while unpretentious Qing architecture graces the picturesque market town of Huanglongxi southwest of Chengdu. Northwest, Dujiangyan sports a still-functional two-thousand-year-old irrigation scheme surrounded by wooded parkland, and nearby forested Qingcheng Shan is peppered with Taoist shrines.

Huanglongxi

HUANGLONGXI, 40km south of Chengdu, is a riverside village with a half-dozen Qing-dynasty streets, all narrow, flagstoned and sided in rickety wooden shops. Tourism aside – visitor numbers are frankly overwhelming at weekends or during holidays – it’s a pretty place to wander around for an hour and then have lunch or a cup of tea at one of the many riverside restaurants; it’s also popular with old ladies coming to pray for grandchildren to Guanyin, to whom all the village’s temples are dedicated.

From the old village gate, take the left-hand lane, which is almost narrow enough to touch either side as you walk down the middle. You soon reach the 500m-long main street; turn left for two tiny nunneries (one on the left, the other at the end of the street beside a beribboned banyan tree), both containing brightly painted statues of Guanyin, Puxian and Wenshu. At the opposite end of town, larger Gulong Temple (古龙寺, gŭlóng sì; ¥5) is in a wobbly state of repair: one of the halls features a dog-headed guillotine for executing criminals, while another contains an unusually three-dimensional, fifty-armed Guanyin statue.

Sichuan opera – chuanxi – is a rustic variant on Beijing’s, based on everyday events and local legends. Most pieces are performed in Sichuanese, a rhythmic dialect well suited to theatre, which allows for humour and clever wordplay to shine through. As well as the usual bright costumes, stylized action and glass-cracking vocals, chuanxi has two specialities: fire-breathing and rapid face-changing, where the performers – apparently simply by turning around or waving their arms across their faces – completely change their make-up.

Today, chuanxi has gone into a decline as a form of popular entertainment, though there are several places around town to catch tourist-oriented variety shows featuring short opera scenes, fire-breathing and face-changing, comedy skits, puppetry, shadow-lantern play and storytelling. These are pretty enjoyable and you might even catch occasional full-length operas. Venues include Shufeng Yayun (蜀风雅韵, shŭfēng yăyùn) in the Cultural Park (enter off Qintai Lu); the Ming-style open-air stage at the end of Jin Li, near Wuhou Ci; and the downtown Jinjiang Theatre (锦江川戏馆, jǐnjiāng chuānxìguăn) in a lane north of Shangdong Jie. Seats cost ¥120–220, depending on the venue and row.

Teahouses hold much the same place in Sichuanese life as a local bar or pub does in the West; some are formal establishments with illuminated signs; others are just a humble spread of bamboo or plastic chairs in the corner of a park, a temple or indeed any available public space. Whatever the establishment, just sit down to have a waiter come over and ask you what sort of tea you’d like – the standard jasmine-scented variety costs around ¥5 a cup, up to ¥40 or more for a really fine brew. Most are served in the three-piece Sichuanese gaiwancha, a squat, handleless cup with lid and saucer. Refills are unlimited – either the waiter will give you a top-up on passing your table, or you’ll be left with a flask of boiling water. In a country where it’s usually difficult to find somewhere to relax in public, teahouses are very welcome: idlers can spend the whole day chatting, playing mahjong, reading or just staring into space, without anyone interrupting – except cruising masseurs and ear-wax removers.

Based around a hilly, comma-shaped peninsula at the junction of the Yangzi and Jialing rivers, CHONGQING (重庆, chóngqìng) is southwestern China’s dynamo, its largest city both in scale and population. Formerly part of Sichuan province and now the heavily industrialized core of Chongqing Municipality, which stretches 300km east to the Hubei border, the city is also a busy port, whose location 2400km upstream from Shanghai at the gateway between eastern and southwestern China has given Chongqing an enviable commercial acumen. While it’s not such a bad spot to spend a day or two while arranging Yangzi River cruises, in many other respects the Mountain City (as locals refer to it) has little appeal. Overcrowded and fast-paced, the city is plagued by oppressive pollution, winter fogs and summer humidity. Nor is there much to illustrate Chongqing’s history – as China’s wartime capital, it was heavily bombed by the Japanese – though the nearby village of Ciqi Kou retains a glimmer of Qing times.

Chongqing has a long tradition as a place of defiance against hostile powers, despite being ceded as a nineteenth-century treaty port to Britain and Japan. From 1242, Song forces held Mongol invaders at bay for 36 years at nearby Hechuan, during the longest continuous campaign on Chinese soil, and it was to Chongqing that the Guomindang government withdrew in 1937, having been driven out of Nanjing by the Japanese. The US military also had a toehold here under General Stilwell, who worked alongside the Nationalists until falling out with Chiang Kai-shek in 1944. Though still showing a few wartime scars, since the 1990s Chongqing has boomed; now over two million people rub elbows on the peninsula, with five times that number in the ever-expanding mantle of suburbs and industrial developments spreading away from the river.

Chongqing is the departure point for the two-day cruise downriver through the Three Gorges to Yichang. There are two main cruise options, both of which run year-round: relatively inexpensive public ferries, which stop along the way to pick up passengers; and upmarket cruise ships, which only stop at tour sites. For prices from Chongqing to Yichang, along with practical information on buying both ferry and cruise-ship tickets.

Public ferries are crowded and noisy, with berths starting at first class – a small and functional double cabin with bathroom – and descending in varying permutations through triples and quads with shared toilets, to a bed in sixteen-person cabins. Timing is important: try to avoid leaving Chongqing between 10am and noon, as you’ll hit the first gorge too early and the third too late to see much. Not all ferries pull in at all ports, and schedules can change en route to compensate for delays, so it’s possible that you’ll miss some key sights. At each stop, departure times are announced in Chinese. Meals (buy tickets from the mid-deck office) are cheap, basic and only available for a short time at 7am, 10am and 6pm, though there’s plenty available onshore at stops. Bring snacks and, in winter, warm clothing. Many tourists complain of unhelpful or plain useless tour guides, and of being harassed by ferry staff to buy expensive on-board tickets for observation decks when access is, in fact, free or much cheaper than advertised.

Alternatively, you could travel in style on a cruise ship. These vessels verge on five-star luxury, with comfortable cabins, glassed-in observation decks, games rooms and real restaurants. They’re usually booked out by tour parties during peak season, though at other times you can often wrangle discounts and get a berth at short notice.

Some 8km northeast of central Chengdu, the excellent Giant Panda Breeding Research Base offers close-up views of both giant and arboreal red pandas. Perhaps uniquely for China, this zoo is a genuinely pleasant place to visit, well laid out with a decent amount of information in English, and even spacious enclosures for the animals, who are fed truckloads of fresh bamboo by concerned staff. If you feel flush, several hostels and travel agencies offer the chance to be a “volunteer keeper” for the day (¥700) – basically a worthy-sounding way of paying to hand-feed a few of the inhabitants. Try to get here early, as the pandas slump into a stupor around 10am after munching their way through piles of bamboo.

Two animals share the name panda: the giant panda, black-eyed symbol of endangered species worldwide; and the unrelated, raccoon-like red panda, to which the Nepalese name “panda” was originally applied in the West. The Chinese call the giant panda da xiongmao, meaning “big bear-cat”.

News of giant pandas first reached Europe in the nineteenth century through the French zoologist and traveller Père Armand David, who came across a skin in China in 1869. They are decidedly odd creatures, bearlike, endowed with a carnivore’s teeth and a digestive tract poorly adapted to their largely vegetarian diet. Though once widespread in southwestern China, they’ve probably never been very common, and today their endangered status is a result of human encroachment combined with the vagaries of their preferred food – fountain bamboo – which periodically flowers and dies off over huge areas, leaving the animals to make do with lesser shrubs and carrion, or starve. Half of Sichuan’s panda habitat was lost to logging between 1974 and 1989, which, coupled with the results of a bamboo flowering during the 1980s, reduced the total wild population to just over a thousand animals, scattered through reserves in Sichuan, Yunnan and Guizhou.

Sichuan’s western half, sprawling towards Gansu, Yunnan and Tibet, is in every respect an exciting place to travel. The countryside couldn’t be farther from the Chengdu plains, with the western highlands forming some of China’s most imposing scenery – broad grasslands grazed by yaks and horses, ravens tumbling over snowbound gullies and passes, and unforgettable views of mountain ranges rising up against crisp blue skies.

How you explore western Sichuan will depend on your long-term travel plans. If you’re heading north out of the province to Gansu, you first want to aim for the walled town of Songpan, horse-trekking centre and base for excursions to the nearby scenic reserves of Huanglong and Jiuzhaigou. Beyond Songpan, the road continues north via the monastery town of Langmusi, and so over into Gansu province.

Sichuan’s immense far west is accessed from the administrative capital Kangding – itself worth a stopover for easy access to the nearby scenery, or as a springboard north to pretty Danba. Alternatively, you can either weave northwest to Tibet via the monastery towns of Ganzi and Dêgê, with a faith-inducing mountain pass and Dêgê’s Scripture Printing Hall as the pick of the sights along the way; or head due west to the high-altitude monastic seat of Litang, from where you can continue down into Yunnan.

Though larger towns throughout the west have to a certain extent been settled by Han and Hui (Muslims) – the latter spread between their major populations in adjoining provinces – historically the region was not part of Sichuan at all but was known as Kham, a set of small states which spilled into the fringes of Qinghai and Yunnan. The Tibetans who live here, the Khampas, speak their own dialect, and see themselves as distinct from Tibetans further west – it wasn’t until the seventeenth century, during the aggressive rule of the Fifth Dalai Lama, that monasteries here were forcibly converted to the dominant Gelugpa sect and the people brought under Lhasa’s thumb. The Khampas retain their tough, independent reputation today, and culturally the region remains emphatically Tibetan, containing not only some of the country’s most important lamaseries, but also an overwhelmingly Tibetan population – indeed, statistically a far greater percentage than in Tibet proper. For details on Tibetan food, language and religious thought, see the relevant sections at the start of Chapter 14.

Eight hours from Ganzi via the crossroads town of Manigange (马尼干戈, mănígàngē) and the scary, 5500m-high Chola Shan mountain pass, DÊGÊ initially appears to be no more than a small cluster of ageing concrete buildings squeezed into a narrow gorge. Dêgê was, however, once the most powerful Kham state, and the only one to resist the seventeenth-century Mongol invasion – hence the absence of Gelugpa-sect monasteries in the region.

Around 100km northeast of Songpan, the perpetually snow-clad Min Shan range encloses Jiuzhaigou – “Nine Stockades Valley” – named after it was settled by Tibetans several hundred years ago. The reserve forms a Y-shaped series of valleys clothed in thick alpine forests and strung with hundreds of impossibly toned blue lakes – said to be the scattered shards of a mirror belonging to the Tibetan goddess Semo. Jiuzhaigou’s landscape looks spectacular in the autumn when the gold and red leaves contrast brilliantly with the water, or at the onset of winter in early December, when everything is dusted by snow.

Despite its remote location, Jiuzhaigou is the target of intense tourism – packages are offered by every travel agent in Sichuan – so don’t come here expecting a quiet commune with nature, as the park clocks up over a million visitors annually. The best you can do is to get in when the gates open at 7am and try to stay one step ahead of the hordes.

Jiuzhaigou eco-tours

If you’re fairly fit and want to escape Jiuzhaigou’s tourist overload, it’s possible to organize three-day treks through the otherwise inaccessible Zharu Valley with Jiuzhaigou’s eco-tourism department (¥1580, including entry fees, guides, food and all camping gear; 0837 7739753, jiuzhai.com); the route circuits 4500m-high Zhayi Zhaga mountain.

KANGDING, 250km from Chengdu at the gateway to Sichuan’s far west, is a crowded, expanding collection of artless modern white-tiled blocks packed along the fast-flowing Zheduo River. Visually this is a very Chinese town, but the deep gorge that Kangding is set in is overlooked by chortens and the frosted peaks of Daxue Shan (the Great Snowy Mountains), and, whatever the maps might say, this is where Tibet really begins.

The town is the capital of huge Ganzi prefecture and bus schedules mean that a stopover here is likely, but with a couple of temples to check out and huge, communal evening dancing in the central square, it’s not the worst of fates. In addition, Kangding is a stepping stone for day-trips to the Hailuogou Glacier Park, which descends Gongga Shan, western China’s highest peak.

Just off the Songpan–Hezuo highway, 90km from Zöigê, you’ll find the scruffy, single-street village of LANGMUSI, whose surrounding forests, mountain scenery and lamaseries give an easy taster of Tibet.

Langmusi’s two small eighteenth-century lamaseries (¥30) sit at the western end of the village. Walk up the main street and bear right over a bridge, and the road leads uphill to Saizu Gompa, whose main hall’s walls are covered in pictures of meditating Buddhas and where you might see monks debating in the courtyard outside. For Gaerdi Gompa, bear left along the main road and then aim for the temple buildings in the back lanes; this is the larger complex with several sizeable, tin-roofed halls, but seems almost totally deserted.

Accommodation and eating in Langmusi

For food, there are plenty of places to grab a simple meal, or you can just hang out at the A-Lang teahouse across from the post office on Shangye Jie.

Eating in Langmusi

For food, there are several simple Muslim and Chinese restaurants along the main street, though foreigners tend to gravitate towards Leisha’s.

Trekking at Langmusi

There’s immense hiking potential up to ridges and peaks above Langmusi, but make sure you’re equipped for dogs and changeable weather. To arrange longer guided hikes or horse-trekking, contact Langmusi Tibetan Horse Trekking (t 1389 3991541, w langmusi.net), near the bus stop, a very organized operation whose one- to four-day trips take in nomad camps and mountain scenery – the website has current schedules and costs, currently around ¥220 per person per day.

LITANG, 300km west of Kangding, is a lively, gruff place with a large Tibetan population and an obvious Han presence in its businesses, army barracks, and expanding spread of concrete-and-tile architecture. Wild West comparisons are inevitable: you’ll have to get used to sharing the pavement with livestock, and watching monks and dreadlocked Khampa toughs tearing around the windy, dusty streets on motorbikes. Litang is also inescapably high – at 4014m above sea level, it actually beats Lhasa by over 300m – so don’t be surprised if you find even gentle slopes strangely exhausting. As usual, the main distraction here is people-watching: the shops are packed with Tibetans bargaining for temple accessories, solar-power systems for tents and practical paraphernalia for daily use, while Muslim smiths are busy in workshops along the main street, turning out the town’s renowned knives and jewellery.

Litang’s horse festival

Litang’s week-long horse festival kicks off each year in late July/early August on the plains outside town. Horsemen from all over Kham descend to compete, decking their stocky steeds in bells and brightly decorated bridles and saddles. As well as the four daily races, the festival features amazing demonstrations of horsemanship, including acrobatics, plucking silk scarves off the ground, and shooting (guns and bows) – all performed at full tilt. In between, you’ll see plenty of dancing, both religious (the dancers wearing grotesque wooden masks) and for fun, with both men and women gorgeously dressed in heavily embroidered long-sleeved smocks. The exact date varies each year: contact the Potala Inn or Summer Youth Hostel before you arrive, for confirmation.

SONGPAN, 320km north of Chengdu, was founded in Qing times as a garrison town straddling both the Min River and the main road to Gansu. Strategically, it guards the neck of a valley, built up against a stony ridge to the west and surrounded on the remaining three sides by 8m-high stone walls. These have been partially restored, and you can walk between the north and east gates and above the south gate. Though increasingly touristed, Songpan’s shops, stocked with handmade woollen blankets, fur-lined jackets, ornate knives, saddles, stirrups, bridles and all sorts of jewellery, cater to local Tibetans and Qiang, another mountain-dwelling minority. In spring, Songpan – along with every town in western Sichuan – becomes a marketplace for bizarre caterpillar fungus (虫草, chóngcăo); for more on this strange trade.

Horse-trekking at Songpan

The reason to stop in Songpan is to spend a few days horse-trekking through the surrounding hills, which harbour hot springs and waterfalls, grassland plateaus and permanently icy mountains. Shunjiang Horse Treks (0837 17231161 or 0139 09043513), on the main road between the bus station and the north gate, charge ¥220 a person per day, including everything except entry fees to reserves. Accommodation is in tents, and the guides are generally attentive, though may not speak much English. Prepare for extreme cold and tasteless food; some groups have bought and slaughtered a goat (¥400) to bolster rations. Note that the friendly veneer of the company’s staff disappears rapidly if they’re presented with a complaint, so be sure to agree beforehand on exactly what your money is buying.

Among the draws of many towns in western Sichuan are their Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, most of which belong to the yellow-hat Gelugpa sect. Monasteries form huge medieval-looking complexes sprawling over hillsides, with a central core of large, red-walled, gold-roofed temples surrounded by a maze of smaller buildings housing monks and staff. Monasteries are usually free to enter; if there are no signs to the contrary, assume that photography is forbidden inside temples. Monks are generally friendly, encouraging you to explore, steering you firmly away from closed areas, and sometimes offering food and accommodation – though don’t take these for granted. Most importantly, remember to orbit clockwise around both individual temples and the complex as a whole (the only exception to this rule being at the region’s few Bon temples).

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15 Things to Know Before Visiting Chongqing | Chongqing Travel Tips

The size of Chongqing is larger than as you imagine, which is around the size of Austria, including the city of Chongqing and various non-connected cities. Most of travelers come to Chongqing are mainly for the relaxing 4 / 5 days Yangtze River cruise, but, the city itself, has many things to see and explore. If you like, you can spend another half day to two days visiting the mountain city and around. The following questions have been collected from our dear customers, TripAdvisor travelers and Quora.com. Check the 15 Things to Know before Visiting Chongqing , that you can plan your Chongqing and Chongqing Yangtze Cruise tour better!

Q1: What is Chongqing famous for?

Hot Food. Along with some shared dishes with Sichuan cuisine, Chongqing is all about the hot pot (火锅), a fondue-like dining experience with hot red soup of boiling oil containing both chilies and Sichuan peppers into which the locals dip meats and innards and sweat away the evening.

Mountain City. Chongqing is the only city that is built on mountains among the list of super large-sized, and extra large-sized city in China (evaluated by population). The most condensed and civilized district (Yuzhong District) is located on a narrow Yangtze River peninsula with very steep hills in the middle and lower lands closer to the river. Except for Yubei District, where the airport is reluctantly located, other metro districts of the Chongqing are having similar landscapes.

Skyscrapers. No, Chongqing does not have the tallest skyscraper in China nor even in West China. However its skyline is still spectacular and astonishing. 1. Most of the skyscrapers (over 200m) in Chongqing are condensed in a one square kilometer city center area. 2. Hills, some skyscrapers have inherent advantages of higher hill land, causing a funny height difference from distance. In the recent decade, besides the city center area, skyscrapers also appear in other potentially CBD areas. Such as two twin tower projects on the south river front road.

Hot People. People in Chongqing are very straightforward and loyal to friendship or brotherhood that makes a change from typical southerners. Also, it is commonly said that they tend to speak loudly and their language sounds like having a fight. However, most of them are easy going and warmhearted, and they are just born with it.

You can check more on our 2024 Chongqing Travel Guide >>

Q2: How many days do you need in Chongqing?

Usually, travelers need to plan 4 to 6 days for Chongqing tours with Yangtze River cruise experience. For cruise only, it takes 4 days or 5 days sailing between Chongqing and Yichang. And many travelers choose to do half day or one day Chongqing tour before or after the cruise. If you want to travel further, you need another day to get out of Chongqing downtown. All in all, 4 to 6 days are the common choice for most travelers.

Q3: What are the top attractions to visit in Chongqing?

The top attractions to visit in Chongqing are:

● Three Gorges ● Three Gorges Museum ● Hongya Cave ● CiqiKou Ancient Town ● Ghost City of Fengdu

To get more attractions to see in Chongqing, you can learn more on Top 15 Chongqing Attractions or Top 5 Yangtze River Attractions in Chongqing Section .

Q4: What are the most popular things to do in Chongqing with kids?

The most popular things to do in Chongqing with kids highly recommended by our previous customers are:

• Three Gorges Museum • Hongya Cave • Chongqing Zoo (to see lovely giant pandas) • Ciqikou Ancient Town • Liziba House-crossing Metro Experience

If you have your own ideas about traveling with kids, just feel free to let our travel consultants know and they can help you customize Chongqing family tour for you.

Q5: What are the best recommended cruise companies for my Yangtze Cruise Starting from Chongqing City?

The top cruise companies are Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, President Cruises, Yangtze Explorer, and Changjiang Cruises.

Among them, Century Cruises and Victoria Cruises are chosen by most travelers for their new facilities and high quality service.

Q6: How long is the Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing? What to see along the river?

All the cruise companies have been offering 4 days and 3 nights downstream cruises from Chongqing to Yichang. If you would like to go upstream, you can take 5 days and 4 nights upstream cruises from Yichang to Chongqing. You can both relax onboard and explore offshore in different destinations and tourist spots, including Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam, Shennv Stream, Shibaozhai Pagoda and more.

To book the Yangtze River cruise, you can turn to All Yangtze River Cruise Ship List & Schedules 2024 .

Q7: What are the most recommended cruise ships for my Yangtze River tour?

The most recommended Yangtze cruise ships are Century Glory, Century Paragon, Century Legend, Victoria Jenna, Victoria Anna, Victoria Sabrina, Yangtze Explorer, President No.7 & No.8, etc. To filter your likes in a short time, please check:

>> Best-value Yangtze River Cruise Ships

>> Top Family-friendly Yangtze Cruise Ships

>> Top Luxury Yangtze Cruise Ships

Q8: Any other recommended ways to see the Yangtze River Three Gorges?

I should put an answer here: about 95% travelers would like to take the Yangtze River cruise no matter downstream or upstream to see the magnificent Yangtze River Three Gorges - Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge and Xiling Gorge. Staying onboard on the sundeck or in your cabin, you can appreciate the beauty of Three Gorges in the most leisure way, with green scenery passing by. You never feel hurry but comfortable. Also, the cruise companies have designed shore excursions into its branches of Three Gorges to see the primitive charm and its local people. Very interesting way to explore offshore.

Most importantly, the price for taking a cruise is very cost-effective and money-saving way which includes everything. If you want to see the Three Gorges separately without by taking a cruise, the transportation is a little complicated (you need to take our arranged private car sending you from Chongqing downtown to Three Gorges and live in local cities and visit in a hurry) and it is not recommended to do so.

Q9: I will be in Chongqing for a short period of time. Is it worth to visit Dazu or Wulong?

Chongqing is a big city and often overlooked as a tourist destination. There are some interesting places to see within Chongqing itself and also day trips. The highlights of Chongqing include Ciqikou Ancient Town, E’ling Park, Three Gorges Museum…

>> 2 Days Chongqing Highlights Tour with Dazu Rock Carvings

>> 4 Days Chongqing & Wulong Karst Landscape Exploration Tour

Q10: What is the best time to visit Chongqing?

Chongqing, together with Nanjing and Wuhan, are the “Three Furnace Cities” in China. Spring and autumn are the most recommended seasons to visit Chongqing . While taking a relaxing cruise on the cool Yangtze River is the best way to escape the hot summer.

Learn more about Chongqing Weather & Best Time to Visit >>

Q11: Chongqing Transport to other cities?

Usually, you could get to other cities from Chongqing by air, train or coach. If you want to get to Yichang, Wuhan, Nanjing, or Shanghai, you could take the relaxing Yangtze River cruise. If you get to Chengdu from Chongqing, the bullet train is very convenient within 1-2 hours’ transfer.

>> How to Get to & away Chongqing?

Q12: How can I get to Chaotianmen Port from Jiangbei Airport to take the cruise?

The distance between Jiangbei International Airport and Chaotianmen Docks is 25 kilometers, which will costs you about 45-50 RMB for 35 minutes’ drive. Or you could book our private local transfer service to get to the right dock from the airport.

Learn more about How to Get from Chongqing Airport to Chaotianmen Dock >>

Q13: How can I get to Chaotianmen Port from Chongqing North Railway Station?

Taking a taxi from North Railway Station to Chaotianmen Dock will cost passengers 20-30 Yuan in 20 minutes. Or you could book our private local transfer service to get to the right dock from the train station.

If you arrive in Chongqing at Chonqging West Railway Station or Shapingba Railway Station, you can also check more information on How to Get from Chongqing Train Stations to Chaotianmen Dock >>

Q14: What are the best day trips from Chongqing?

If you have never taken the Yangtze River cruise before, you can add it into your travel list. Cruising on the Yangtze River is one of the Top 10 Things to Do in China that you should not miss.

Chongqing + Yangtze River Cruise Trips:

>> 4 Days Chongqing Essence Tour with Yangtze Cruise

>> 5 Days Chongqing & Yangtze River Cruise Tour

If you just want a day tour in Chongqing city or the transfer service, you can also check:

>> 1 Day Chongqing Short Stay Tour

No matter what kind of trips you are interested in, you can contact our professional travel consultants to discuss your itineraries of Chongqing or Yangtze tour.

Q15: How do I get from Chengdu to Chongqing?

Chengdu is about 265km northwest of Chongqing. The most popular way to get from Chengdu to Chongqing is by high speed train.

Every day from about 7:30am to 22:00pm, you can usually easily find a high-speed train from Chengdu to Chongqing. These trains depart from Chongqing East Railway Station and arrive at Chongqing North Railway Station or Chongqing West Railway Station after about 1.5-2.5 hours’ running. You can select the arrival train station according to the distance and transportation from the train station to your hotel. Usually, Chongqing North Railway Station is more recommended, because it is a little bit closer to Chongqing downtown than Chongqing West Railway Station. And it can be reached by metro lines, while Chongqing West Railway Station cannot.

Learn more about Chengdu to Chongqing: Train, Flight, Taxi & Car >>

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Top 3 Chongqing city tours chosen by most customers to explore Chongqing in the best way. Check the detailed itinerary,or tailor your own trip now with us.

A Lifetime Relaxing Yangtze River Cruise

4 Days Chongqing Essence Tour with Yangtze River Cruise

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2 Days Chongqing Dazu Tour with UNESCO Heritage Site Dazu Rock Carvings

Chongqing/Dazu

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Text: A A A Print Politics

Xi inspects southwest china's chongqing municipality.

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected southwest China's Chongqing Municipality from Monday to Tuesday.

During the inspection, Xi visited an international logistics hub park, a community in Jiulongpo District, and a digital urban operation and governance center.

He learned about the municipality's efforts in accelerating the development of the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor in west China, carrying out urban renewal projects, ensuring and improving the people's wellbeing, and enhancing the modernization of city governance.

Qingdao illuminated in celebration of 75th founding anniversary of Chinese PLA navy

Preview of international horticultural exhibition 2024 chengdu, rongshan yangtze river bridge connected in sichuan, chinese pla navy celebrates 75th founding anniversary, china's first deep-sea multi-functional vessel launched in s china, light show staged to mark 9th space day of china in wuhan, pearl river basin in s china braces for flood, cradle of civilization: the cangjie temple, in numbers: china-slovenia relations, culture fact: un chinese language day, tunnel boring machine yongzhou installed in e china, 4th china international consumer products expo concludes, centuries-old tree blooms in hangzhou, china post issues commemorative stamps of chengjiang fossil site, in numbers: china's economic indicators in q1 of 2024, china receives 38 cultural relics returned from u.s., storm dumps heaviest rain ever recorded in uae, panda strolls in flowers, historic copenhagen stock exchange in flames, china ready to launch shenzhou-18 crewed spaceship, products of chinese culture shine at cicpe 2024, flame for paris 2024 summer olympic games lit in ancient olympia, blooming water lilies in west lake resemble monet's painting, xi meets german chancellor, calls for achieving mutual success, in pics: 798 art zone, pear blossoms accentuate the beauty of hanfu, transportation hub undergoes load testing in greater bay area, national security education day marked in hong kong, 135th canton fair opens with over 29,000 exhibitors, notre dame cathedral restoration nears completion after 5 years, culture fact: shangsi festival, un security council holds emergency meeting after iran's retaliatory attacks on israel, german chancellor olaf scholz starts china visit, in numbers: china, germany cooperation yields fruitful results, cradle of civilization: zuojiang huashan rock art, china is committed to managing ren'ai jiao issue through dialogue and consultation: fm spokesperson, most popular in 24h, more top news.

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Chongqing Travel China: City Map, Tours, Attractions, Weather
Chongqing Travel Guide. Chongqing is the largest municipality in southwest China. It is a modern port city on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. With an area of 31, 800 square miles (82,400 square kilometers), it shares borders with provinces of Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Shaanxi
Chongqing City travel
Chongqing makes up for a lack of top-notch sights with fantastic food and charismatic geography: its combination of steep hills at the confluence of the Yangzi and Jialing Rivers is a prelude to the even more dramatic scenery of the Three Gorges downstream. 01 / Attractions Must-see attractions Huguang Guild Hall Chongqing City
Chongqing 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 21 Activities
🌟Chongqing Travel Planning Guide Considering a last-minute trip to Chongqing? 🇨🇳 Top Activities and Tours in Chongqing: 1. Chongqing Wulong National Park Private Tour 2. Dazu Ancient Rock Carvings Private Tour Extension 3. All-In-One Chongqing Trendy Spots Private Tour 4.
Chongqing Travel Guide
The Chongqing urban area has about 8,000,000 people. This puts it at about the same size as Wuhan down the river. Chongqing is quickly growing. Along with the main city, there are smaller cities and towns. Chongqing Municipality is divided into 38 subdivisions: 21 districts, 13 counties, and 4 autonomous counties.
Chongqing Travel Guide, Chongqing Travel
Chongqing Travel Guide: plan China Chongqing tour by checking top attractions, things to do, weather, transportation, accommodation, maps and other popular destinations in China. Tailor-made Tour Package Refundable Quick Response 3,630+ comments (1,850+ reviews)
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Chongqing
Nature and Wildlife Tours (37) Bus Tours (98) Shopping Malls (7) Multi-day Cruises (13) Cultural Tours (56) Hot Springs & Geysers (5) Walking Tours (11) Underground Tours (7) Bridges (7) Ports of Call Tours (20) Rail Tours (21)
Chongqing Travel Guide
Chongqing's train system is modern and extensive, with more than 100 trains each day traveling to cities all over China. There are two main railway stations, though a third is meant to open in 2022. Trains are the best way to travel from Chongqing to other parts of China as they're fast and relatively inexpensive. Long distance buses
Chongqing City Travel Guide: Where To Stay and Top Things To Do
Chongqing is actually an administrative municipality, one of four in China (the others are Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin). Besides being famous for its spicy food, Chongqing is also well known for giant skyscrapers and beautiful scenic views along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers.
Chongqing
Chongqing (重庆; Chóngqìng, formerly spelled Chungking) is fast becoming the most economically important city in the interior West China, with an urban population of around 8.8 million.In addition to the central urban area, the municipality of Chongqing also includes some 80,000 km² (31,000 sq mi) of the neighboring countryside and smaller towns, with approximately 30 million people ...
Chongqing Travel Guide: A Booming Mega City in China
As the largest municipality in southwest China, Chongqing is a bustling port city situated at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. It shares borders with Hubei, Hunan, Guizhou, Sichuan, and Shaanxi provinces. Chongqing at Night By Jay Huang, CC BY 2.0, cc. Chongqing is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors ...
Chongqing Travel Guide: Gateway to Southwest China's Culinary and
Consumption level Chongqing offers affordable travel, with most attractions in the main city center area requiring no admission fees. Sites like People's Square, Hongya Cave, and the Three Gorges Museum are free. Cable cars across the Yangtze cost 10RMB and views from Nanshan are 30RMB. Day trips to Wulong Karst run about 200RMB per person.
3 Day Chongqing Itinerary: Best Things To See in 72 Hours
Day 1: Arrive in Chongqing, Hongyadong, Eling Park. Day 2: Yangzte River Cablecar and Hong'en Daoist Temple. Day 3: Ciqikou Ancient Town, Guanyuemiao Temple, Zhongshuge Bookstore. My focus was to try a mix of popular attractions, temples, food, and lesser known areas, and taking lots of photos.
Chongqing Travel Guide: Best Attractions & Activities
Chaotianmen Dock, nearby, is famous as a water transportation port. Chaotianmen Dock serves all Yangtze River cruise ships. The vital dock shows the thriving economy, growth, and well-developed traffic in Chongqing. 5. Dazu Rock Carvings. It has been designated as a World Cultural Heritage site.
How to Plan a Chongqing Tour
Plan A. Day 1: arrive in Chongqing in the morning, and take half-day city tour to Ciqikou Ancient Town, Three Gorges Museum, Hongya Cave, board the ship in the evening, departing from Chongqing; Day 2 - Day 4: enjoy Three Gorges scenery onboard and take short trip to Three Gorges Dam, arrive in Yichang. Classic and most famous sites.
Top 10 Things to Do in Chongqing
Chongqing is the only southeast municipality in China, serving as the starting/ending point of breathtaking downstream/upstream Yangtze River cruise. As one of the most relaxing and rewarding way to discover the charm central part of China and savor the natural scenery, Yangtze River cruise becomes a must take tour while visiting China and the ...
Chongqing travel blog
By Living + Nomads - September 20, 2023 Chongqing is located in the southwest of China. In ancient history, Chongqing was the main production center and economic center of the upper Yangtze River region. Chongqing is one of the mountain cities with the most impressive transport system in the world.
Chongqing China
Chongqing China - Your Quick Travel Guide. In a nutshell. Chongqing is known as the "Mountain City" and is the largest city in the south west of China on the upper reaches of the Yangtze River at the point where it is met by the Jialing River; it is regularly used as a starting point for cruises on the Three Gorges. ...
Chongqing Attractions, What to See in Chongqing
There are lots of places worth to visit in Chongqing. You can enjoy Ba and Shu art, culture and delicious food in Chongqing downtown, visit Ciqikou Ancient Town, Hongya Cave, Three Gorges Museum, and Chaotianmen Bridge etc.
Chongqing travel guide
Chongqing travel guide. Chongqing in brief The city of Chongqing is a major metropolis and municipality of southwest China. Standing as one of the five national central cities of the PRC, the city has its own Central Government like Beijing, Shanghai or Tianjin cities.
Sichuan and Chongqing Travel Guide
Plan your visit to Sichuan and Chongqing, China: find out where to go and what to do in Sichuan and Chongqing with Rough Guides. Read about itineraries, activities, places to stay and travel essentials and get inspiration from the blog in the best guide to Sichuan and Chongqing.
15 Things to Know Before Visiting Chongqing
However its skyline is still spectacular and astonishing. 1. Most of the skyscrapers (over 200m) in Chongqing are condensed in a one square kilometer city center area. 2. Hills, some skyscrapers have inherent advantages of higher hill land, causing a funny height difference from distance.
Xi inspects southwest China's Chongqing Municipality
Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, inspected southwest China's Chongqing Municipality from Monday to Tuesday. During the inspection, Xi visited an ...

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Chongqing 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to the Top 21 Activities

Table of Contents

1. Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)

📌 Exploring the 11th Level of Hongya Cave

📷 Best Spots for Viewing Hongya Cave

💡 Tips for Visiting Hongya Cave

2. Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)

3. Jiefangbei CBD (解放碑)

Here’s why it’s a top choice:

4. Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform (南山一棵树)

💡Tips for Visiting Nanshan Tree Viewing Platform

5. Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道)

6. Mountain City Footpath (山城步道)

7. Huguang Guild Hall (湖广会馆)

8. Longmenhao Old Street (龙门浩老街)

9. Eling No. 2 Factory ( 鹅岭二厂 )

10. Jiaotong Teahouse (交通茶馆)

11. Sichuan Fine Arts Institute (四川美术学院)

12. Liziba Station (李子坝)

13. Zhongshan Fourth Road (中山四路)

14. Chaotianmen (朝天门)

15. Chongqing Yangtze River Night Cruise Tour

16. Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻)

Baodingshan Rock Carving

Beishan Rock Carving

17. Three Natural Bridges (天生三桥)

Tianlong Bridge

Qinglong Bridge

Heilong Bridge

18. Longshui Gorge (龙水峡地缝)

19. Furong Cave (芙蓉洞)

20. Fairy Mountain (仙女山)

21. Yangtze River Cruise: Chongqing to Yichang

Chongqing Noodles

Hot and Sour Rice Noodles

Boiled Fish

Fried Chicken Giblets

Mao Xue Wang

Chongqing Mala Chicken

Spring Water Chicken

🛫 How Do I Travel to Chongqing

Chongqing North Railway Station (Chongqingbei)

Niccolo Chongqing

Regent Chongqing

InterContinental Chongqing Raffles City

Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei

Chongqing Jixiashan SUNYATA Resort Hotel

Westin Chongqing Liberation Square

Qianhe Zhixuan Gaokong Hotel

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✈️ What’s the best site to purchase flight tickets for China?

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