Chongqing: The Most Complex Transportation City in the World

Chongqing Overview:

Chongqing is located in the southwestern part of China, along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. During World War II, it gained prominence as the wartime capital of the Republic of China. In 1997, Chongqing was designated as a municipality directly under the central government. The traditional central districts include Yuzhong, Jiangbei, Shapingba, Jiulongpo, Nan’an, and Beibei.

Surrounded by mountains, Chongqing is built on hills and is known as the “Mountain City.” It’s also called the “River City” due to the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. The night view of the mountain city is particularly famous; standing on various observation decks, you can take in the stunning scenery of the two rivers and enjoy what’s known as the “million-dollar night view.”

Chongqing hotpot is renowned for its spicy and flavorful taste, making it an addictive culinary experience. The city is also famous for its beautiful women, with popular shopping districts like Jiefangbei and Guanyinqiao being prime spots for enjoying the local scene. Thus, the night view, hotpot, and beautiful women are Chongqing’s three major attractions. It is also nicknamed “Foggy City” and “Vibrant Chongqing.”

Personal Impression: From August to September, Chongqing experiences extreme heat, often exceeding 45°C, making it the hottest city in China.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel to Chongqing. However, from October to April, the city tends to be foggy, so while summer is hot, the fog is lighter compared to other seasons, making it a good time to enjoy the night views. Additionally, two of Chongqing’s highlights—hotpot and beautiful women—are best experienced in the summer. Visiting in winter can also be rewarding, as many attractions offer off-season ticket prices, and even without discounts, exploring indoor exhibitions, nearby ancient towns, or soaking in hot springs can be enjoyable.

Clothing Guide:

When visiting Chongqing, there are no strict dress codes. In spring and autumn, temperatures are mild, so it’s a good idea to bring long-sleeve clothing for warmth. In summer, opt for lightweight long sleeves, or consider wearing a shawl, hat, and sunglasses for sun protection to prevent UV damage to your skin. Don’t forget to pack rain gear and mosquito repellent as well.

Jiefangbei is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in downtown Chongqing and a top destination for visitors. This monument is the only one in China commemorating the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan, built on March 12, 1940, the anniversary of Sun Yat-sen’s passing. Over the years, it has evolved into a directional marker for “north, south, east, and west,” with the Rolex clock atop it chiming every hour, drawing crowds who come to hear the New Year’s bells.

Today, visiting Jiefangbei is about more than just seeing the monument. The surrounding pedestrian street is lined with a variety of bustling shops and commercial buildings, such as Chongqing Department Store and Times Square, making it a great spot for people-watching, shopping, and enjoying local delicacies. The area is especially beautiful as the lights come on, and the nearby Jiachangkou has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, making it a paradise for night owls.

Hongya Cave is a must-visit when exploring Chongqing at night. Although it has been rebuilt, the wooden stilt houses still cascade down the mountainside, showcasing the stunning traditional architecture of the Bayu culture. As night falls and the neon lights come to life, it’s impossible not to capture the dazzling array of colors with your camera. If you’re a Studio Ghibli fan, looking up at Hongya Cave under the night sky might remind you of the “Unbelievable Town” from the animated film Spirited Away, as if it were standing right before you.

Entering this “fairy tale world,” Hongya Cave spans 11 levels from the riverside road to the top level on Cangbai Road. Each floor serves a different purpose, and visitors can easily access any level via escalators or elevators from Jiefangbei. You can relax in a café with views of the river, catch a live performance at a bar, indulge in international cuisine on the fourth floor, or head down to the first or second levels to explore the local craft shops and the Chongqing tourism merchandise center for some unique souvenirs. The eleventh floor features the Hongya Cave Hotel, a viewing platform, and a bus stop. Notably, the pirate bar sculpture on the Paper Salt River bar street is also a popular photo spot.

The Yangtze River Cableway starts at Chang’an Temple in Yuzhong District and spans across the river to the Shangxin Street in Nanan District. It’s the first cableway over the Yangtze River and the only one in Chongqing, holding many childhood memories for locals.

Riding the cableway not only offers stunning views of the two rivers but also provides a bird’s-eye view of famous landmarks like Hongya Cave, Huguang Guild Hall, and Nanbin Road. Notably, the newly adjusted speed at night makes it easier for visitors to take in the scenery and snap photos of the city’s night views. If you have the time, try riding it both during the day and at night, as each offers a unique charm. Most tourists board from the upper station (Xinhua Road Cableway Station), while those exploring the Nanan area can start from the lower station (Shangxin Street Cableway Station), which typically has fewer crowds, allowing for better photo opportunities.

Chaotianmen was one of the seventeen ancient city gates of Chongqing and is situated at the meeting point of the two rivers, making it the city’s oldest dock. Above the dock, Chaotianmen Square was constructed, resembling the bow of a ship setting sail. During the day, visiting the front of the square to witness the confluence of the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers is a must. The mingling of muddy yellow and dark green waters creates a striking visual, particularly on clear days when the boundaries are sharp, offering a uniquely beautiful scene.

The China Three Gorges Museum is arguably one of the most cost-effective attractions in Chongqing. Originally known as the Chongqing Museum, it showcases a diverse collection, including specimens of ancient humans, Bashu bronze ware, Han dynasty artifacts (like stone carvings, stone steles, and mural bricks), Southwest ethnic artifacts, World War II relics, and ceramics accumulated during the wartime capital era, along with items related to the Three Gorges.

While the collection is somewhat eclectic, the way it’s presented is modern and engaging, utilizing high-tech and interactive exhibits to help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the museum. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a free screening of the “Three Gorges” panoramic film in the west side of the main hall (showtimes at 10:30, 14:30, and 15:30), which provides a visual journey through the natural landscapes and cultural scenes of Chongqing and the reservoir area before and after the dam’s construction.

If you want to truly experience the essence of the mountain city and old Chongqing, Eighteen Steps is the best place to start. This area captures the everyday life of the local people, showcasing the authentic vibe of the old city. Chongqing is divided into the upper and lower city, and Eighteen Steps is an old street connecting the mountaintop to the foot of the hill.

On either side of Eighteen Steps, you’ll find ordinary residents, and the street is filled with the lively atmosphere of local life, reflecting the reality of how Chongqing’s citizens once lived. From the top of the steps, you can overlook the city and really feel the contrast between the old and new. Although Eighteen Steps hasn’t escaped the tide of urban development, with only weathered barbershops, bustling tea houses, and lonely small business owners left, the area still tells a story of the past amidst the ruins and signs of demolition.

The Mountain City Trail is the perfect way to experience the unique ups and downs of Chongqing. This fitness path connects several charming spots, including the Anti-Japanese War Hall, the Bodhi King Kong Tower, the First Water Plant Tower, Ren’ai Hall, and the Shikumen buildings, all embodying the flavor of old Chongqing.

Starting from the old courthouse on Zhongxing Road, you’ll hike uphill. One of the highlights is the cantilevered walkway built into the steep cliff, offering stunning views of the Yangtze River Bridge and the Shibanpo Interchange. With its bright yellow railings, this section of the trail gives visitors a “sky city” vibe. You’ll also discover the historic site of the first hospital in Chongqing, the French Ren’ai Hall, and a charming remaining clock tower along the way. There’s no need for a strict itinerary—just take your time to soak in the essence of old Chongqing.

Nanshan Yikeshu is one of the best spots to capture the night views of Chongqing. This observation deck, resembling a radar dish, can accommodate thousands of people and lights up beautifully at night, making it easy to spot. If the days are longer, you might want to start with a meal on Nanshan Spring Chicken Street. After a satisfying dinner, take a leisurely walk up the mountain in the early evening. Enjoy the scenic park before heading to the observation deck just before dark to take in the stunning city lights. If you’re lucky enough to catch the full lighting display, you’re in for a real treat.

Alternatively, you could dine at Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications, where there are plenty of eateries across the street from the old and new campus gates. You’ll find delicious options ranging from hot pot and stir-fried dishes to grilled fish, spicy skewers, buffet-style fish, various noodles, and snacks. After filling up, take a bus to the Sizhong Station and then head to the observation deck.

Ciqikou Ancient Town is located within the Chongqing urban area and was originally a dock. Today, it’s a bustling street that blends dining, entertainment, and shopping. The cobblestone paths are lined with shops, mostly restaurants, snack stalls, specialty stores, tea houses, and inns. Here, you can indulge in local delicacies like chicken giblets and twist pastries, and enjoy street performances such as ear cleaning and face-changing acts. The narrow streets are often crowded and noisy with the daily influx of visitors, especially on weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive early when the town is still waking up, showcasing its most charming side. Of course, lively visitors shouldn’t miss the traditional temple fairs held during the Spring Festival.

If food isn’t your focus, head away from the main street at either of the two side alleys behind Ciqikou. Stroll into the narrow lanes leading to Shuiguanyin, a nearly one-kilometer stretch where you can truly experience the everyday lives of local residents. Along the way, you’ll find some quaint coffee shops, tea houses, and unique boutiques. For a different experience, you can rent a bike at the archway entrance and ride along the riverside on Shabin Road, which is straight and spacious, making for a pleasant cycling adventure.

The Graffiti Street is located a bit far from the city center, making it less convenient to reach, but the giant 3D graffiti artworks will definitely impress art enthusiasts. Stretching 1.25 kilometers from the Railway Primary School in the Jiulongpo District to the Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, this old street, built in the 1960s and 70s, is filled with vibrant graffiti on walls, building facades, campuses, and shop exteriors. While the graffiti may show signs of age, the area is less crowded and offers a sense of freedom, making it a perfect spot for photography and attracting many art lovers. In the evenings, you’ll also see students setting up easels to paint, adding another layer to the scenery.

For those wanting more, don’t miss the nearby Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. Two highlights here are the art museum and the tank garage, which evoke a vibe similar to Beijing’s 798 Art District, where surprises await around every corner.

The area is lined with shops selling paints, brushes, and other art supplies, plus a night market offering stylish clothes and unique items, so you can enjoy some shopping as you explore. Foodies will love it here too—be sure to try the douhua (tofu pudding) or Erwa noodles right across from the entrance of the art school, both priced at just 8 yuan, perfect for student budgets—delicious and affordable! A bit further away, Hu Ji’s trotters soup is another must-try that will fill you up nicely.

The Dazu Rock Carvings, located in Dazu County, are renowned for their cliffside sculptures and are one of the world’s eight major grottoes, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is truly a place worth spending time exploring, though the entrance fee is relatively high.

The site features over 70 locations with a total of around 100,000 statues, celebrated for their grand scale, exquisite carvings, diverse themes, rich connotations, and well-preserved condition. The carvings represent the essence of Chinese Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian art.

The Dazu Rock Carvings include five main sites: Baoding Mountain, Beishan, Nanshan, Shizhuan Mountain, and Shimen Mountain. These sites are spread out and require about two days to fully explore. Typically, visitors focus on Baoding Mountain for a day, as it is the largest and features the most detailed reflections of social contexts. After visiting Baoding, you can decide based on your time and interests whether to go to Beishan, which, despite significant damage, still has some remarkable caves worth seeing. If you’re also interested in the other sites (Nanshan, Shizhuan Mountain, Shimen Mountain), you can visit them, but keep in mind that transportation may be less convenient.

Accommodation Guide:

First-time visitors to Chongqing often choose to stay around the Jiefangbei area, which offers convenient transportation, a concentration of attractions, and easy access to dining and entertainment. Other popular districts for accommodation include Nanan District, Shapingba District, and Jiangbei District. While these areas are a bit farther from Jiefangbei, they are favored for their affordable rates and pleasant environments, along with several attractions.

Chongqing has a variety of accommodation types, ranging from luxury international brand hotels to budget chain hotels, family inns, and even hostels beloved by backpackers. Dormitory beds in hostels typically cost around 80-120 RMB per person, while budget hotel standard rooms range from 150-300 RMB per night. Star-rated hotels usually charge between 500-1500 RMB per night. During peak seasons, availability might be tight, and prices can rise during Chinese holidays, so it’s best to book in advance.

If you plan to explore areas around Chongqing, like Jindao Gorge, Dazu, and Gongtan Ancient Town, there are plenty of farm stays available for just a few dozen RMB per night, though the conditions may be more basic.

Food Guide:

Chongqing cuisine falls under the Sichuan culinary tradition and is one of China’s eight major cuisines. It’s renowned for its motto, “one dish, one style; a hundred dishes, a hundred flavors,” showcasing a rich history and deep cultural roots. Historical records indicate that Sichuan cuisine originated in the ancient states of Ba and Shu.

The standout feature of Chongqing dishes is their diverse flavor profiles. Key ingredients include chili peppers, black pepper, Sichuan peppercorns, and Doubanjiang (fermented bean paste). The unique combinations create a range of tastes like spicy, sour-spicy, numbing, sesame, garlic, mustard, red oil, sweet-sour, fish-flavored, and unique blends, all bursting with rich flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

When it comes to signature dishes, nothing beats Chongqing hot pot. This dish was originally created by boatmen and porters to cope with the chilly winter months.

Travel Itinerary Guide: Chongqing Relaxation Two-Day Tour

Route Highlights: This itinerary captures the essence of Chongqing, showcasing historical sites and delicious food, perfect for visitors on a tight schedule.

Itinerary Design:

• Day 1: Ciqikou Ancient Town → Chaotianmen Square → Jiefangbei → Hongya Cave
• Day 2: Yangren Street → Sichuan Fine Arts Institute → Graffiti Street

Itinerary Details:

Day 1: After breakfast, head to Ciqikou, the most famous ancient town in Chongqing. Be sure to explore some of the quieter alleys to soak in the serene atmosphere. Next, make your way to Chaotianmen, where the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers converge. You can take a ferry to get up close to the Yangtze or just sit by the riverside, enjoying the breeze and listening to street musicians. After that, visit Hongya Cave, known for its traditional stilt houses and beautiful views. It’s a great spot to explore the old streets, appreciate Ba Yu culture, and savor Chongqing hot pot while taking in the stunning scenery of the two rivers. After lunch, walk about 10 minutes to Jiefangbei, a must-see area in Chongqing, buzzing with neon lights and crowds—perfect for people-watching. Spend the night at a hotel near Jiefangbei.

Day 2: Choose to visit Yangren Street in the Nanan District, a testament to the creativity of Chongqing’s residents. This picturesque area along the Yangtze River exudes European and American charm, filled with mouthwatering snacks. Since Sichuan Fine Arts Institute is a bit further away, expect a 1-2 hour trip from Jiangbei to Nanan. If time permits, try the cross-river cableway for a unique view. The Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, located by the Yangtze in the western suburbs, is a shining jewel of art in the region, with its name penned by the famous Guo Moruo. The highlight here is Huangjueping Graffiti Street, where vibrant murals adorn the walls, creating a stunning visual feast.