Nestled in southwestern China, Chongqing is a sprawling megacity known for its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and fiery cuisine. As one of China's four direct-controlled municipalities, Chongqing offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Highlights of Chongqing
Iconic Landmarks
Hongya Cave 
Hongya Cave is an 11-storey, 75 meters (245 feet) stilt house abutting a steep cliff. It is popular with tourists because it has a similar appearance to a building in Spirited Away - a masterpiece of a famous Japanese cartoonist, Hayao Miyazaki. It is incredible that the 1st floor and the 11th floor are accessible by two different roads. Visitors can take an elevator to each level where various bars, café and restaurants are arranged. Visitors can also see the symbolic Hongya Dripping on the 2nd floor, which is a small waterfall cascading down the cliff-face. It is regarded as one of the 12 Bayu Sites.
Nightscape from 18:00 to 22:00
The nightscape of Hongya Cave is a highlight and is a unique feature of Chongqing. When dusk falls, warm-toned lamps and lanterns brightly light up the stilt house. Together with its reflection on the water, this shining complex is like a dreamlike pavilion floating among the surrounding towering skyscrapers. Visitors can view the stunning nightscape from different angles.
Dazu Rock Carvings
The steep hillsides in the Dazu area near Chongqing, contain an exceptional series of five clusters of rock carvings dating from the 9th to 13th centuries. The largest cluster at Beishan contains two groups along a cliff face 7-10m high stretching for around 300m.The carvings are known for their grand scale, aesthetic quality and rich diversity of subject matter as well as for being well preserved. Standing as an example of the highest level of Chinese cave temple art dating from the 9th to 13th centuries, the Dazu Rock Carvings not only underline the harmonious coexistence in China of three different religions, namely Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism, but also provide material proof that cave temple art has increasingly shed light on everyday life. Large numbers of carvings and written historical materials within the heritage site show the great changes in and development of cave temple art and religious beliefs in China during that period.
Ciqi Kou Ancient Town
Ci Qi Kou situated on the banks of the Jia Ling River, not far from its confluence with the mighty Yangtze, is the ancient village of Ci Qi Kou, formerly known as Long Yin. Covering an area of some 291.6 acres (1.2 square kilometres), it is 9 miles (14 kilometres) to the west of Chongqing Municipality.
The history of Ci Qi Kou can be traced back for more than 1,700 years. During the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911), it was famous for its production of porcelain. To date, over twenty old kiln sites have been discovered there. It is because of the importance of the porcelain industry that the name has been changed from Long Yin to Ci Qi Kou which is translated as Porcelain Village. Moreover, the village was an important supply post for shipping on the river, a fact that explains why there are so many shops lining the twelve lanes paved with their large flag stones that form the main routes. Here you will find many outlets for craftwork, groceries and the like as well as a horologist, photography supplies, and a tempting supply of roasted nuts and seeds. As one would expect, there are also many teashops and restaurants to cater for the many visitors who come to see something of a way of life that has existed here for so many centuries.
The three notable attractions of the village are the tea bars, the artists' studios and the Shu Embroidery workshops. Surprisingly, there are more than a hundred tea bars, each with their own particular characteristics. Here friends enjoy a chat or meet to discuss business. So the tea bars offer the opportunity for you to meet the locals and also become acquainted with the unique folk opera.
Natural Wonders
Wulong Karst National Geology Park
Wulong Karst National Geology Park. With its echoing caves, plunging sinkholes, stony ravines, and breath-taking natural bridges, it represents an integral part of the karst landscape in southern China and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. There are some interesting nature surroundings in this area, like Furong Cave, Longshuixia Gap and Fairy Mountain.
Three Natural Bridges is located 20 kilometers (12 miles) southeast of Chongqing City in Wulong County. It is a rare geological wonder and an eco-tourist's delight. It features three natural karst bridges: Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridgeand Heilong Bridge.
Fairy Mountain located on north bank of WuJiang River of Wulong Country, Chongqing, within the Wuling Mountain Range.Its dense forests, peculiar peaks, pastures and snowfields are known by tourists as Fairy Mountain's "Four Wonders", all of which hold great potential for paintings and poems.
Located on the bank of the Furong River, the final scenic area revolves around Furong or “Lotus” Cave. Alongside limestone, the cave also boasts numerous red coral and calcite crystal deposits, which sparkle like precious jewels in the darkness.
Modern Attractions
Jiefangbei CBD
Located in the center of downtown Chongqing, Jiefangbei CBD, also known as Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street or Jiefangbei Square, is the busiest and most prosperous business district in West China.
In 1997, Chongqing government built the first business pedestrian of West China, Jiefangbei Central Shopping Square, in the 24,000 m² area around People's Liberation Monument. Then in 2000 and 2001, the pedestrian street was further expanded to Bayi Road and Minzu Road.
Today this CBD is the heart of Chongqing’s economy, with retail revenues of 41.4 billion CNY, and so it is the CBD with the best investment value in China. 47 of the Fortune 500 companies set up branches here.
Jiefangbei CBD is the most prominent and vibrant business circle in West China, and the modern landmark of Chongqing. Come here and feel this lively city and beautiful night views with colorful neon flashing everywhere.
Chaotianmen Dock
Chaotianmen Dock is a major water transportation hub in Chongqing, where the Jialing River and the Yangtze River meet. It is also the landmark and a must-visit attraction of Chongqing.
Chaotianmen was built in 314 BC as a city gate. In ancient time, local officials knelt down to receive the emperor’s decrees in front of the gate. The emperor was considered the son of the heaven in that time, so the place is called Chaotianmen, meaning “towards the heaven gate”.
Chaotianmen is the largest dock in Chongqing and one of the busiest docks in China. The Yangtze River cruise ships, the city sightseeing ships, and the city ferries all start off from here. A Yangtze River Cruise is the best way to appreciate the most beautiful section of Yangtze River, the Three Gorges. The sightseeing ships shuttle between Chaotianmen Dock and Jialing River Bridge, or the Yangtze River Bridge; it is a good way to appreciate the landscapes and night view of the city. The ferries run between the dock and Foreigners’ Street, a place with architecture in various styles and delicious food.
The most beautiful night view of Chongqing is on Yuzhong Peninsula, while the most beautiful night view of Yuzhong Peninsula is in Chaotianmen. The colorful lights of the buildings along the bank, of the ships on the river, and of the stars in the sky together form this charming night view, which is different from the night view of other places.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May): Mild weather and blooming flowers make this season ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Popular spots include Nanshan Botanical Garden and Chongqing Zoo.
Autumn (September–November): Cool temperatures and clear skies are perfect for exploring natural attractions like Wulong Karst and Jinfo Mountain.
Avoid Summer (June–August): High temperatures and humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, though the city’s nightlife and hot pot culture thrive during this time.
Travel Tips
Getting Around
Public Transport: Chongqing's metro system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Use apps like Alipay or WeChat to pay for rides.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Affordable and convenient for short distances.
Accommodation
Stay near Jiefangbei CBDor Hongya Cave for easy access to major attractions and dining options.
Must-Try Foods
Chongqing Hot Pot: Visit Hongya Cave or Ciqi Kou for authentic experiences.
Chongqing Noodles: A local breakfast staple, best enjoyed at street-side stalls.
-
Cultural Etiquette
Respect local customs, especially when visiting temples or historical sites.
Be prepared for spicy food—Chongqing cuisine is known for its heat!
Chongqing Noodles Chongqing Hot Pot
