18 Steps (十八梯)

Introduction

The 18 Steps Historic District, located in Chongqing's mountainous landscape, represents a perfect blend of traditional heritage and modern development. This historic pathway once served as a crucial connection between the upper and lower parts of Chongqing city. After recent renovations, it has become a must-visit destination that showcases both historical charm and contemporary attractions.

Historical Background

Located at No. 1 Zhongxing Road, Yuzhong District, the 18 Steps dates back to the Three Kingdoms period. The stone steps were officially constructed during the Southern Song Dynasty, and by the Ming Dynasty, the area was surrounded by four city gates. The name "18 Steps" has two possible origins:

• One theory suggests it was named after the eighteen stone steps leading from a well to the city entrance
• Another attributes the name to the eighteen platforms built during the Qing Dynasty, which divided the 200+ steps into sections for rest stops

Getting There

By Metro

• Take Line 1 or Line 2 to Jiefangkou Station
• Exit from Gate 4 and walk about 139 meters
• New Exit 11 (opened September 30) connects directly to the scenic area
• Exit 3 is exit-only during peak hours

By Bus

Multiple bus stops serve the area:

• Peace Road Sun Moon Plaza Station: Routes 476, 0491
• Xiaomishi Station: Routes 322, 440, 651, 871, 881, T480, T002
• Porcelain Street Station: Routes 10, 124, 152, 429, 308, 321
• Jiefangbei Station: Routes 462, 465, 601, T001, T480, K01

By Car

Recommended parking locations:

• Leijiapo Parking Building
• Deyi World
• Jiefangkou Sun Moon
• Galaxy Building

District Layout

The 18 Steps Historic District covers 88 mu (approximately 14.5 acres) with a building area of 161,000 square meters. It's divided into five zones (A-E):

Traditional Culture Experience (Zones A & B)

• Features traditional Bayu culture and folk customs
• Houses cultural exhibitions, dining venues, and specialty shops
• Showcases intangible cultural heritage

Modern Cultural Creative Zone (Zone C)

• Focuses on traditional crafts innovation
• Houses trendy restaurants and entertainment venues
• Features a travel library and cultural markets

International Exchange Center (Zone D)

• Offers international cuisine
• Houses specialty coffee shops and retail spaces
• Features international brand pop-up stores

Lifestyle Center (Zone E)

• Focuses on nightlife and entertainment
• Features bars, performance venues, and themed nightclubs
• Hosts "Five Night Carnival" activities

Must-See Attractions

Natural Landscapes

1. Flower Street Bird Song (花街鸟语)

• A beautifully preserved area with blooming flowers and birdsong
• Former entertainment district transformed into an ecological leisure space
• Perfect spot for experiencing urban nature

2. Moon View Platform (黄葛挂月)

• Located at the northeastern end of 18 Steps
• Famous for full moon views on the 15th of each lunar month
• Popular spot for couples and photographers

Cultural Landmarks

1. Ancient Well Plaza (古井春风)

• Historic well dating back to the Song Dynasty
• Features restored well scenery and cultural art plaza
• Starting point for traditional transportation experiences

2. Jiefangkou Viewing Platform (较场揽胜)

• Main northern entrance landmark
• Offers panoramic views of Jiefangbei area
• Four viewing spaces themed around mountains, water, moon, and city views

Historical Sites

1. Mountain City Memory Museum (山城记忆馆)

• Located at the northern entrance
• Four-floor exhibition space
• Features 3D projections and interactive displays
• Chronicles Chongqing's history through multimedia exhibits

2. Air Raid Shelter Site (十八梯大隧道遗址)

• World War II-era tunnel system
• Interactive exhibitions about wartime life
• Preserves memories of Chongqing's resilience during bombing raids

Dining Highlights

Hot Pot Restaurants

1. Cave Hot Pot (洞子老火锅)

• 20-year history
• Unique underground bunker dining experience
• Traditional courtyard setting upstairs

2. Yulihuoguo (渝里火锅)

• Established in the 1930s
• Modern interpretation of traditional hot pot
• Popular among locals and tourists

Local Specialties

1. Wuxi Grilled Fish (巫溪烤鱼)

• Intangible cultural heritage dish
• Traditional charcoal grilling method
• Signature spicy flavor profile

2. Traditional Snacks

• Oil Tea (巷巷油茶): Traditional breakfast dish with rice soup and crispy toppings
• Ice Jelly (冰恬冰粉): Natural plant-based summer dessert
• Various street foods including tripe, tofu pudding, and potato dishes

Shopping & Entertainment

Shopping Spots

1. Sishu Travel Space (司曙旅行空间)

• Creative souvenirs featuring Chongqing landmarks
• Local dialect-inspired products
• Perfect for gifts and mementos

2. Zhu Bingren Copper Store (朱炳仁・铜)

• Fine copper crafts
• Traditional metalwork displays
• Unique cultural artifacts

Entertainment

1. Yuchao Theater (渝潮坊剧场)

• 70-minute cultural performances
• Traditional Sichuan opera face-changing
• Kung fu tea ceremonies
• Acrobatic shows

Visitor Tips

Best Time to Visit

• Open year-round
• Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather
• Early mornings on weekdays for smaller crowds

Recommended Route

• Start from Jiefangkou City Balcony
• Follow main street downhill
• End at Houci Street

Practical Advice

• Wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring rain gear (weather can change quickly)
• Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
• Free admission
• Open 24 hours

The 18 Steps Historic District offers a unique glimpse into Chongqing's past while embracing modern culture. Whether you're interested in history, local cuisine, or cultural experiences, this renovated historic area provides an authentic taste of mountain city life.