Chongqing
Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City" and one of China's four direct-administered municipalities, is a dramatic metropolis straddling the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. This unique city is famous for its mountainous landscape, spicy cuisine, and rich history as a wartime capital.
Built on steep hills and surrounded by rivers, Chongqing presents a striking cityscape where skyscrapers seem to grow directly from the mountainsides. The city is renowned for its hot pot cuisine, historic sites, and the nearby Three Gorges region. As a major industrial center and transportation hub in southwestern China, Chongqing combines traditional Bayu culture with modern urban development.
Essential Travel Information
Weather
Chongqing is known as one of China's "Three Furnaces" due to its hot summers. The city experiences:
- Hot, humid summers with frequent rainfall
- Mild winters with occasional frost
- Short but pleasant spring and autumn seasons
- High humidity and frequent fog throughout the year
Transportation
Getting There
- By Air: Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport serves domestic and international flights
- By Train: Multiple railway stations including Chongqing North and West stations
- Airport Transfer Options: Metro lines 3 and 10, airport shuttle buses, taxis
Getting Around
- Metro: Extensive network covering major attractions and districts
- Bus: Comprehensive system with routes throughout the city
- Light Rail: Unique suspended monorail system
- Taxi: Readily available, with both traditional taxis and ride-hailing services
Explore Chongqing
Trending Attractions in Chongqing
Hongya Cave
Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
Baixiang Residence
Yangtze River Cableway
Raffles City Chongqing
Mountain City Walkway
18 Steps
Huguang Guild Hall
Eling Factory
Liziba Monorail Station
Hong'en Temple Forest Park
Beicang Cultural Creative Park
Huangjueping Graffiti Street
Ciqikou Ancient Town
Chongqing Grand Theatre
Three Gorges Museum
Sichuan Fine Arts Institute Museum
Yihua Night View Park
Longmenhao Old Street
People's Auditorium
Chongqing Zoo
Must-Visit Attractions
Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)
This iconic stilted complex represents traditional Bayu architecture:
- 11 levels of traditional architecture built into the mountainside
- Best viewed from Qiansimen Bridge at night
- Operating hours: 18:30 - 23:00
- Features restaurants, shops, and cultural exhibitions
Jiefangbei CBD (解放碑)
The central business district features:
- Historic Liberation Monument
- Premium shopping centers and international brands
- Famous food street (八一好吃街) with local delicacies
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)
A well-preserved historical district offering:
- Traditional architecture dating back to the Song Dynasty
- Famous local snacks including Chen's Twisted Rolls (陈麻花)
- Tea houses and cultural performances
- Porcelain workshops and souvenir shops
Liziba Monorail Station (李子坝轻轨站)
Famous for its unique "train through building" design:
- Line 2 monorail passes through a residential building
- Popular photography spot
- Viewing platform for train spotting
- Surrounding area features local restaurants and historical sites
Local Cuisine
Hot Pot (火锅)
Chongqing's signature dish featuring:
- Spicy oil-based broth with numerous ingredients
- Famous restaurants include Peijie (珮姐老火锅) and Zhoushixiong (周师兄重庆火锅)
- Essential ingredients: tripe, duck intestine, beef slices
- Optional split pot available for less spicy preferences
Street Food
Popular local specialties:
- Chongqing Noodles (重庆小面)
- Spicy Duck Neck (麻辣鸭脖)
- Fried Chicken with Chilies (辣子鸡)
- Sweet Rice Cakes (糍粑)
Accommodation
Jiefangbei Area
Best for:
- Easy access to shopping and dining
- Convenient transportation links
Nanbin Road
Featuring:
- River view hotels
- Premium accommodations like W Hotel
- Boutique riverside guesthouses
- Walking distance to riverside attractions
Shopping for Souvenirs
Popular items include:
- Chongqing Hot Pot seasoning packets
- Chen's Twisted Rolls (陈麻花)
- Local snacks and condiments
- Traditional crafts from Ciqikou
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes due to hilly terrain
- Carry rain gear as weather can be unpredictable
- Start with mild spicy food if not used to local cuisine
- Visit popular attractions early to avoid crowds
- Use the metro to avoid traffic congestion
- Keep valuables secure in crowded areas