Chongqing Itinerary: A Complete 3-Day Guide for First-Time Visitors

Chongqing is located in southwest China and has a population of about 25 million. It’s best known for its dramatic mountain setting and its famous spicy hot pot. by Zhang qc | Andy Arbeit | Li Yuanhe

Best Time to Visit Chongqing

Chongqing’s climate varies significantly by season. Summers are hot and rainy, while winters are damp, chilly, and often foggy. Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for sightseeing.

If you’re considering a summer trip, take the heat seriously. Chongqing is often listed as one of China’s “Four Furnaces,” a nickname for cities known for extreme summer temperatures. Highs can reach around 44.5°C (112°F). The city is surrounded by mountains, which limit air circulation, and the rivers running through the city add significant humidity. As a result, sweat doesn’t evaporate easily, and the heat can feel intensely sticky and oppressive.

It’s also wise to avoid major Chinese holidays if possible, when domestic tourism peaks and attractions become extremely crowded. These include:

• Labor Day holiday (May 1–5)
• National Day holiday (October 1–7)
• Chinese New Year (for example, February 5–13 in 2027) During these periods, popular sights can be packed, and transportation and hotels may book up well in advance.

Where to Stay in Chongqing

The following three areas are the most practical bases for visitors. Each offers a different balance of convenience, atmosphere, and price.

Jiefangbei Area

If this is your first time in Chongqing, Jiefangbei is the most convenient place to stay. It is the absolute center of the city, within walking distance of many major attractions, restaurants, and shopping streets.

The trade-off is price and hotel condition. Because this is the prime location, room rates tend to be higher. Many hotels in the area are older, and while they are generally well maintained, the overall value for money may be lower compared to newer districts.

JI Hotel (Chongqing Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street)
Rating: 9.6 (4,000+ reviews)
Located just 100 meters from Exit 9 of Jiaochangkou Metro Station.

Atour Hotel, Bayi Square, Jiefangbei, Chongqing
Rating: 9.5 (8,000+ reviews)
About a 3-minute walk (300 meters) from Exit 9 of Jiaochangkou Metro Station.

Guanyinqiao Area

Guanyinqiao is a lively commercial district popular with local residents. If you prefer staying somewhere that feels more “local” and less centered on tourism, this is a strong choice.

However, it is not within walking distance of the main sightseeing spots. You will need to take the metro or a taxi to reach areas like Jiefangbei. The metro ride usually involves one transfer and takes around 30–35 minutes, while a taxi ride is roughly 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Atour Hotel Century New Town, Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street, Chongqing
Rating: 9.8 (60+ reviews)
A newly opened hotel (2026). Exit 2 of Line 3 Guanyinqiao Station leads to the adjacent building, while Exit 7 of Line 9 is about a 3-minute walk away.

Yunjian Hotel (Chongqing Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street)
Rating: 9.6 (2,000+ reviews)
Across the street from Exit 1 of Line 3 Guanyinqiao Station and about a 3-minute walk from Exit 7 of Line 9.

Daping Area

Daping is a practical choice if you’re looking for lower hotel prices and a quieter, less commercial atmosphere.

The trade-off is location. Daping is not within walking distance of the main sightseeing areas. However, it has a direct metro connection to Jiefangbei with no transfers required, and the ride takes about 23 minutes. By taxi, the trip to Jiefangbei typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Chongqing Shidai Tianjie Daping Metro Station Qingju Hotel
Rating: 9.8 (1,800+ reviews)
About a 6-minute walk from Exit 6 of Daping Metro Station.

Homeinn Plus Hotel (Chongqing Daping Longhu Times Tianjie Store)
Rating: 9.2 (1,500+ reviews)
About a 5-minute walk from Exit 1 of Daping Metro Station.

Getting to Chongqing

From Major Chinese Cities

Here is Chongqing’s location in relation to other major Chinese cities:

Getting from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport to the City
Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport is located about 25 km (15 miles) from central Chongqing. There are three main ways to reach the city: taxi, ride-hailing, or metro. Each has its pros and cons.
Watch: How did I end up in China CHONGQING airport WITHOUT my Alipay and Wechat e-wallets?

Taxi
Typical fares are around ¥50–70 to Jiefangbei or Guanyinqiao, and about ¥70–100 to Daping, depending on traffic conditions.
Pros: The simplest and most straightforward option. Just follow the airport signs to the official taxi queue and get in line.
Cons: Chongqing taxis are sometimes nicknamed “yellow Ferraris” because drivers tend to drive fast, which can feel a bit intense if you’re not used to it. Fares are typically 50–100% higher than ride-hailing services.

Ride-Hailing
Typical fare to Jiefangbei or Guanyinqiao is around ¥40, and about ¥60 to Daping, though prices fluctuate depending on demand and traffic.
Pros: Usually cheaper than taxis.
Cons: During busy periods, drivers may not be able to stop directly at the terminal entrance. Instead, they might park nearby and call you to guide you to their pickup point. If you don’t speak Chinese, locating your driver may require some patience.

Metro
The metro is the most economical option and avoids traffic, though it does require one transfer for all three destinations. Follow airport signs to the B1 level to access the metro station.

From Chengdu

Chengdu is about 300 km (186 miles) from Chongqing.
The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by train. Depending on whether you take a regular train or a high-speed train, the journey takes about 1–2 hours. You can check train schedules and ticket prices on the Trip.com or the 12306 (China Railway’s official app).

When departing from Chengdu, Chengdudong (Chengdu East Railway Station) is usually the most convenient and well-connected option.

Chongqing has three main railway stations that are commonly used by travelers: Shapingba, Chongqingbei, and Chongqingxi. All three are within reasonable distance of the city’s core areas. Which one works best for you depends largely on your train schedule and where your hotel is located.

• Shapingba
  Shapingba is a convenient option if you are staying in central areas, especially since it offers several direct metro connections.

  Destination	Distance & Car	Metro Route
  Jiefangbei	About 13 km (Car: 35 minutes)	Take Line 1 directly to Jiaochangkou. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥5.
  Guanyinqiao	About 10.5 km (Car: 30 minutes)	Take Line 9 directly to Guanyinqiao. The trip takes roughly 30 minutes and costs ¥4.
  Daping	About 9 km (Car: 25 minutes)	Take Line 1 directly to Daping. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥3.

• Chongqingbei (Chongqing North)
  Chongqing North is often the most convenient station for visitors staying in central districts, thanks to its shorter distances and relatively efficient metro connections.

  Destination	Distance & Car	Metro Route
  Jiefangbei	About 9 km (Car: 25 minutes)	Take Line 10 to Zengjiayan, then transfer to Line 2 to Jiaochangkou. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs ¥3.
  Guanyinqiao	About 7 km (Car: 25 minutes)	Take Line 3 directly to Guanyinqiao. The trip takes roughly 20 minutes and costs ¥3.
  Daping	About 14 km (Car: 35 minutes)	Take Line 10 to Zengjiayan, then transfer to Line 2 to Daping. The journey takes about 35 minutes and costs ¥4.

• Chongqingxi (Chongqing West)
  Chongqing West is slightly farther from the city center and usually requires at least one metro transfer.

  Destination	Distance & Car	Metro Route
  Jiefangbei	About 16 km (Car: 35 minutes)	Take Line 5 to Shiqiaopu, then transfer to Line 1 to Jiaochangkou. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs ¥5.
  Guanyinqiao	About 16 km (Car: 35 minutes)	Take Line 5 to Hongyancun, then transfer to Line 9 to Guanyinqiao. The trip takes roughly 40–45 minutes and costs ¥5.
  Daping	About 11 km (Car: 25 minutes)	Take Line 5 to Shiqiaopu, then transfer to Line 1 to Daping. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥4.

Chongqing Itinerary & Map

Day 1:
Morning: Start with 1.Shancheng Lane, continue downhill to 2.Shibati, and finish the morning at 3.Kuixinglou — the entire route can be completed on foot if you have good stamina.
Afternoon: Explore 4.Jiefangbei, then head to 5.Raffles City Chongqing for the observation deck or Skywalk experience — the two locations are about 1.7 km apart, roughly a 25-minute walk.
Evening: Take a 6.Two Rivers night cruise for the skyline view.

Day 2:
Morning: Visit 7.Eling Park, then walk downhill to 8.Liziba Monorail Station to see the train passing through the building. The walk takes about 20–30 minutes. It’s entirely downhill but includes many staircases. The route itself is part of the experience.
Afternoon: Take a taxi (25 minutes depending on traffic) or metro (about 50 minutes with one transfer) to 9.Longmenhao Old Street, and continue to 10.Xiahaoli.

Day 3: Full-day visit to Wulong Karst Tourism Area.

Getting Around Chongqing

Taxi
Taxis are widely available and easy to hail on the street. Drivers are generally very familiar with Chongqing’s complex road system, and fares are affordable compared to many major cities.
However:
- It’s common to notice cigarette smoke inside the car.
- Drivers tend to drive fast, especially on elevated roads and tunnels.

DiDi (Ride-Hailing App)
DiDi is China’s main ride-hailing platform.
Pros:
- Prices are often slightly lower than street taxis.
- Higher-tier vehicle options usually offer better car conditions.
Cons:
- You should wait at a clearly visible spot on the roadside.
- Due to Chongqing’s layered terrain, GPS positioning is not always precise. It’s possible for you to be standing on a road above while the driver waits on a road below. If this happens, call the driver directly in the app or use the in-app messaging with auto-translation. You can also cancel the ride, though a small cancellation fee (usually around ¥3) may apply.

Metro
The Chongqing Metro system covers nearly all major attractions and is generally the most efficient way to get around.
Main drawback: it can be crowded, especially during rush hour.
Hours: Typically 6:30am – 11:30pm (varies slightly by station)
Fares: ¥2–¥9 per ride, depending on distance
Tickets: Scan Alipay to enter and exit, or Purchase tickets from self-service machines or counters
Metro Passes:
- 1-Day Pass: ¥18 (valid 24 hours after activation)
- 3-Day Pass: ¥45 (valid 72 hours)
- 5-Day Pass: ¥70 (valid 120 hours)

Top Attractions in Chongqing

Hongyadong (Hongya Cave)

Hongyadong — officially known in English as Hongya Cave — is an 11-story complex built into the hillside and is one of Chongqing’s most recognizable landmarks. Both the 1st and 11th floors open directly onto roads at different elevations, offering a vivid example of Chongqing’s multi-level urban layout.

Hours: 9:00am – 11:00pm
Admission: Free
Lighting Schedule: 7:30pm to 11:00pm between May and September, and from 6:30pm to 11:00pm between October and April, with slight adjustments possible during holidays.
Tips:
- The night view is significantly more impressive than the daytime view.
- It’s best viewed from a distance. Inside, it functions largely as an older shopping complex filled with souvenir shops and snack stalls, and it can become extremely crowded.

Recommended Viewing Spots:

• Option 1: Take Metro Line 6 to Grand Theater Station, Exit 2. Walk about 10 minutes to the riverfront. You can use “Baodingmen City Wall Relic Site Park” as your walking destination. This area offers one of the best panoramic views.
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• Option 2: From Grand Theater Station, Exit 5, follow the crowd onto Qiansimen Bridge for an elevated view.
  Watch: 这个夏天一起吹吹嘉陵江的晚风吧 Watch: Explore China’s Cyberpunk City at Night

• Option 3: Take a paid river cruise for a view from the water (see section below).

  If you’re curious about the interior: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, Exit 9. Walk about 10 minutes to enter from the 11th-floor entrance.

Longmenhao & Xiahaoli

Both Longmenhao Old Street and Xiahaoli are redeveloped commercial areas built from restored historic buildings, located close to each other.

• Longmenhao offers more open river views and works especially well during the daytime.
• Xiahaoli has a younger, artsier atmosphere, with small independent shops and cafés that feel livelier in the evening.

Hours: Open 24 hours (most shops 10:00am – 10:00pm)
Admission: Free
Recommended Visit Time: 2–3 hours
Tips: The area is full of staircases and narrow pathways. If you get disoriented, it’s easier to ask a shop staff member than rely on GPS, which can be unreliable in Chongqing’s hillside neighborhoods.
Getting There: Metro Line 6 to Shangxinjie Station. Exit 2 leads toward Longmenhao; Exit 1 toward Xiahaoli.
Watch: Golden Hour in Chongqing: Sunset Walk Through Longmenhao Old Street & Xiahaoli

Kuixinglou

Kuixinglou refers to the building itself, which is primarily used by a local hospital. What visitors come for is the rooftop plaza.

When you arrive — whether by metro or taxi — it appears to be a normal ground-level square. Only when you walk to the edge do you realize you’re standing on top of a 22-story building. It’s a fun architectural illusion and makes for a memorable surprise if you’re visiting with someone who doesn’t know what to expect.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free
Recommended Visit Time: 10 minutes
Getting There: Metro Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station, Exit 2. Walk about 400 meters.
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Eling Park

Eling Park was originally built in 1909 as a private garden for a wealthy businessman and opened to the public in 1958. Its main landmark is the seven-story tower known as Kansheng Building, which offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Chongqing.

Hours: 9:00am – 10:00pm
Admission: Free
Recommended Visit Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Tips:
- If you have extra time, consider walking the Eling Cliffside Walkway (Eling Xuankong Budao) before entering the park. The entrance is about 100 meters west of the metro station. Passport identification is required for entry. The path is one-way, 460 meters long, and exits inside the park.
- After visiting Eling Park, many people continue to the Liziba viewing platform (where the train passes through the building). It’s about a 30-minute downhill walk involving multiple staircases. Taking a taxi from the park entrance is easier — about 10 minutes and roughly ¥10.

Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Eling Station, Exit 1.
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Watch: CHONGQING Sunset Walk in Eling Park

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Liziba Monorail Station

Built in 2004, Liziba Monorail Station is the world’s only large-scale monorail station integrated with a residential and commercial building.
- Floors 1–5: shops
- Floors 6–8: monorail station
- Floors 9–19: residential apartments

The train passes through the building for 132 meters. Because the track and the building’s stair structure are separated by a 20cm gap, residents don’t feel noticeable vibrations. Rubber tires and air springs keep noise low — around 60dB from the train, with about 42dB experienced inside the building thanks to soundproof barriers and absorbent materials.

Recommended Visit Time: 5–15 minutes
Tips:
- Take photos from the Liziba Viewing Platform beneath the building.
- Trains run roughly every 5–10 minutes, from about 6:30am to 11:00pm.
- Recommended route: visit Eling Park first, then take a taxi or walk to Liziba.

Getting There:
- Metro Line 2 to Liziba Station, Exit 1
- Taxi: search for “Liziba Viewing Platform (Liziba Dangui Chuanlou Sightseeing Platform)”

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Shancheng Lane & Shibati

These two attractions are close together and can be visited on the same route.

• Shancheng Lane (Shancheng Xiang) runs about 1.7 km along steep cliffs and historic residential areas. Though it may sound unremarkable, walking here is a very unique and authentic experience.
• Shibati (Eighteen Steps) is a reconstructed historic street area. It’s lively but heavily commercialized, so it’s worth visiting only if you enjoy tourist-oriented spots.

Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm
Admission: Free
Recommended Visit Time: Shancheng Lane: 1–2 hours, Shibati: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Tips: Start at Shancheng Lane, then continue downhill to Shibati — walking top-down is easier.
Getting There:
- Metro Line 1 or 10 to Qixinggang Station, Exit 1. Use navigation to “Yuzhong Jiashi Nursing Home,” about a 10-minute walk; the lane entrance is next to the nursing home.
- Taxi: search directly for “Yuzhong Jiashi Nursing Home.”
- After Shancheng Lane, Shibati is an 8-minute walk.
Watch: Easy walking route in Chongqing, China 🇨🇳: Shancheng Lane + Shibatidi

Watch: Arriving in Chongqing! Train Journey, Hotel & Exploring Shibati Old Town

Jiefangbei

Jiefangbei is one of Chongqing’s main commercial areas. Many visitors pass through while traveling between attractions, and some choose to stay nearby for convenience. There are several shopping malls in the area, though none are very large. For a more complete shopping experience, Park 108 (Guotai Park 108) is recommended.

Watch: Walking Tour in Chongqing Jiefangbei

Raffles City & Two Rivers Cruise

Raffles City Chongqing is one of Chongqing’s landmark complexes.
It consists of 8 towers:
-2 towers about 350m tall
-6 towers about 250m tall
-1 five-story podium

The towers are used for hotels, offices, and residences, while the podium is a shopping mall. The overall design symbolizes a “giant sailing ship” and was designed by architect Moshe Safdie, who also designed Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.

Getting There: Metro Line 1 or 6 to Chaotianmen Station, Exit 3
Watch: 这里是赛博朋克山城重庆

How to Experience:

• 1. Shopping & Dining:
  The five-story podium below the towers is a shopping and dining area.
  Most visitors are tourists; few locals shop here, so brand selection is limited. If you want a more local shopping experience, consider MixC (Wanxiangcheng). Chinese malls often focus on high-end or new items; locals usually shop online and treat malls more as dining, social, and entertainment spaces.

• 2. Sky View Deck & Skywalk (Raffles City Observation Deck):
  The entrance to the observation area is on Level 1 of the mall (ask staff for directions). After purchasing a ticket, take the elevator up to the observation levels. Hours: 10:00am – 10:00pm
  Tickets:
  -Observation Deck only: ¥130
  -Observation Deck + Skywalk: ¥198
  -Observation Deck + Sky Swing: ¥180
  -Observation Deck + Skywalk + Sky Swing: ¥248
  -Tickets are available on site.
  Other Info:
  -Glass Observation Deck: A 270° transparent glass platform with no time limit once inside.
  -Skywalk: A 380meter outdoor elevated walkway that takes about 30 minutes to complete. Phones must be placed/kept in a provided protective plastic cover, so photos may not be very sharp. Official photos are available for about ¥50. Participants must be at least 1m tall, weigh no more than 120kg, and be under 64 years old. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
  -Sky Swing: A swing suspended 250m above ground that lasts about 3 minutes. Requirements: height 1.2–1.85m, weight 35–100kg, age under 64.
  Tips: Chongqing’s weather can be foggy. On low visibility days, the views may be limited, so check the forecast before you go.
  Watch: I Climbed a 250-Meter-High Building, the View in Front of Me is Breathtaking!

• 3. Two Rivers Cruise:
  Multiple boarding points exist. The recommended departure is from Chaotianmen Pier 7, just below Raffles City, which is usually less crowded.
  Schedule: 7:30pm–9:00pm, rolling departures
  Duration: ~50 minutes
  Boarding: Chaotianmen Square, Pier 7
  Price: ¥168 (bookable via Klook.com)
  Tips:
  -Tickets can be booked in advance or on-site, though weekends/holidays may sell out.
  -Best departure: 7:30–8:30pm for optimal nightscape lighting. Earlier departures may have incomplete lighting; later ones may have lights off (season-dependent).
  -The bow and stern deck areas are VIP zones: ¥80 for stern, ¥100 for bow, with seating and snacks.
  Watch: Chongqing Spectacular Night Cruise Views & Insider Travel Tips

Wulong Karst Tourism Area

Wulong Karst Tourism Area is located about 165 km from central Chongqing. Wulong is one of Chongqing’s administrative districts, covering 2,901 km² — roughly 4.5 times the size of Singapore. The two most famous attractions here are:

Three Natural Bridges
This site consists of three massive natural stone arch bridges and two sinkholes. It frequently appears in films and travel vlogs and is the signature landmark of the Wulong area.

Longshuixia Fissure Gorge
A dramatic canyon ranging from 200 to 500 meters deep. Visitors walk along wooden pathways built into the cliff walls. Although less internationally known than the Three Natural Bridges, it often receives even better reviews and is well worth visiting.

Because they are close to each other, they are usually visited on the same day.

Recommended Visit Time: 1 full day
-Three Natural Bridges: ~2–2.5 hours
-Longshuixia Fissure Gorge: ~1.5 hours

How to Visit

• Option 1: Join a Day Tour
  Price: Around USD 55
  Booking: Available via Trip.com
  Pros: Simplifies transportation, which would otherwise require multiple transfers
  Cons:
  -The driver typically speaks only Chinese (or very limited English) and does not accompany you inside the attractions. However, both sites follow a single clearly marked walking route with English signage, so navigation is straightforward. Translation apps can be used if needed.
  -The driver may introduce an optional “Bridges Glass Viewing Platform + Wulong Leap” combo ticket (in Chinese). It is not mandatory, and the sales pitch is brief. Most visitors find it unnecessary.
  -The group usually stops at a partner restaurant for lunch (not included in the tour price). You are free to choose another restaurant, but with only about 45 minutes for lunch, most people stay. Prices are reasonable, though food quality is average.

• Option 2: Travel Independently by Public Transport
  Pros: Flexible schedule, More independent and engaging experience
  Cons: Transportation is manageable (high-speed rail + direct shuttle bus), but English signage is limited. Be prepared to use translation apps and ask staff for assistance.

Watch: HOW TO GET TO WULONG KARST GEOLOGICAL PARK FROM DOWNTOWN CHONGQING

Watch: Chongqing’s Most Beautiful Escape - WULONG CHINA

Independent Travel Guide (No Tour Required)

1. Take a high-speed train from Chongqingdong (Chongqing East Railway Station) to Wulongnan (Wulong South Railway Station).
   -Travel time: 38–51 minutes
   -Ticket price: around ¥70, Available via Trip.com
   -If your schedule is tight, consider purchasing a return ticket in advance (changes can usually be made in the app for a small fee).

2. From Wulongnan (Wulong South Railway Station), follow signs to the parking area and board the blue shuttle bus to Xiannvshan Tourist Center.
   -Bus name: Xiannvshan Tourism Line -Fare: ¥16
   -Travel time: ~45 minutes

3. At Xiannvshan Tourist Center, purchase the combined ticket for the Three Natural Bridges and Longshuixia Fissure Gorge.
   -Ticket price: ¥210
   -English-language self-service ticket machines are available
   -Alternatively, book online under “Multi-attraction Ticket” (select Longshuixia Fissure Gorge + Wulong Three Natural Bridges)

4. After purchasing tickets, take the elevator to Basement Level 2 and board the scenic shuttle bus to the Three Natural Bridges entrance (about 10 minutes; included in ticket).

5. Explore the Three Natural Bridges (approximately 2–2.5 hours). There is only one main walking route with English signage.

6. Exit and take the scenic shuttle bus to Longshuixia Fissure Gorge.
   -Travel time: 10 minutes
   -Fare: ¥15 (not included in the combined ticket)

7. Explore Longshuixia Fissure Gorge (~1.5 hours). Again, there is only one main walking path.

8. After finishing, take the scenic shuttle bus back to Xiannvshan Tourist Center (about 30 minutes; included in ticket).

9. Take the blue direct bus back to Wulong South Railway Station. Note: the tourist center also has buses to Wulong Railway Station — make sure you board the correct one.

10. Return to Chongqing by high-speed rail.

Popular Attractions You Might Consider Skipping

Yangtze River Cableway

The Yangtze River Cableway was built in 1987 as a practical way for residents to cross the Yangtze River. As bridges and metro lines expanded, it gradually lost its transportation function and was officially repositioned as a tourist attraction in 2014. The cableway stretches 1,166 meters. A one-way ride takes about 4.5 minutes, and each cabin can hold up to 50 passengers.

Hours: 7:30am–9:30pm / 10:30pm
Admission: Tickets: ¥30 one way, ¥50 round trip (available on site)
Getting There:
- North Station: Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, Exit 5B (about a 15-minute walk to Jiefangbei)
- South Station: Metro Line 6 to Shangxinjie, Exit 2, then about a 15-minute walk (near Longmenhao Old Street)

Why You Might Consider Skipping It:
- Wait times can reach 30–60 minutes on weekends and holidays.
- The ride itself is short. Cabins are often crowded, and unless you’re standing by the window, the view can be limited.
- For many visitors, the skyline views from riverside parks or rooftop viewpoints can be just as rewarding — without the wait.

Watch: Rainy Ride on Yangtze River Cableway

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Baixiangju

Baixiangju is a residential complex built in 1992, consisting of six 24-story apartment buildings. It became popular on social media because you can photograph the cableway passing in front of older-style buildings — a contrast that feels very “Chongqing.”

Why You Might Consider Skipping It:
The complex is still fully residential. With the rise in visitors, some residents — especially elderly ones — have expressed frustration about constant foot traffic and photography inside the buildings. Occasional disputes have occurred. Unless you are particularly interested in urban photography, it may be more respectful (and more comfortable) to admire this kind of scenery elsewhere.

Watch: Get Lost in Chongqing’s Urban maze — Baixiangju

Ciqikou Ancient Town

The name Ciqikou Ancient Town literally means “Porcelain Port,” as it was once an important trading dock for porcelain. Today, however, it functions largely as a commercial pedestrian street. You can think of it as a larger, more developed version of Shibati.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Admission: Free
Recommended Visit Time: 1–3 hours
Getting There: Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station
Tips: If you decide to visit, consider walking about 1 km from the metro station to Baolun Temple and exploring the surrounding area. That section retains more of the traditional atmosphere, while the zone near the station is heavily commercialized.

Why You Might Consider Skipping It:
- The area is quite commercial.
- It’s about 20 km from downtown. A taxi takes around 30 minutes; the metro takes about an hour.
- If your time in Chongqing is limited, there may be more distinctive experiences closer to the city center.

Watch: Ciqikou Ancient Town : The Soul of Chongqing’s History and Vibrant Street Life

Drone Light Show

Chongqing occasionally hosts a government-organized drone light show along the river, designed to attract visitors and energize the nearby dining and retail areas.

Admission: Free
Duration: About 15 minutes
Typical Start Times:
- May 1 – September 30: 9:00pm
- October 1 – April 30: 8:30pm
- Schedules may change on holidays, and shows can be canceled due to weather. Arriving about an hour early is recommended, as traffic controls are often implemented before the show.

Best Viewing Area: Changjiahui Shopping Park (Landmark Riverside Park) and surrounding riverfront
Getting There: Metro to Danzishi Station, Exit 3, then about a 20-minute walk
Why You Might Consider Skipping It:
- The content changes frequently. Some shows are impressive; others feel fairly standard. - Even light rain can lead to last-minute cancellation.
- After the show, ride-hailing demand surges sharply, and taxis may be difficult to find.
- Metro trains can also become extremely crowded.
- If you’re already nearby in the evening, it can be a pleasant bonus. But it may not be worth planning your entire night around.

Watch: Chongqing - Drone Show 16 Oct 2025

About Chongqing Hot Pot

People in Chongqing love spicy food, and the city’s signature dish is Chongqing hot pot. But there are a few things you should know before trying it:

1. It is genuinely very spicy.
Even many people from other parts of China find it hard to handle. If you’re not used to spicy food, it can easily upset your stomach.

2. If you really want to try it, prepare your stomach first.
Having some yogurt or milk beforehand may help coat your stomach slightly and reduce irritation from the chili oil. It’s not a guarantee, but it can make the experience a bit gentler.

3. Don’t eat only meat.
Have some carbs (like rice or noodles) along with the meat and vegetables. Also, avoid iced drinks — they may make stomach discomfort worse rather than better.

4. If your mouth feels unbearably spicy, avoid drinking water.
Water doesn’t help much because capsaicin (the compound that makes chilies hot) doesn’t dissolve in water. Dairy products like milk or yogurt work much better and can quickly relieve the burning sensation.

5. Beginners should order a “yuan yang” pot.
This is a divided pot with one spicy broth and one non-spicy broth, so you can adjust as you go.

Where to Eat Chongqing Hot Pot

• Hot pot restaurants are everywhere in the city. You can simply choose a place with a long line — that’s usually a good sign.
• Many locals believe the best hot pot is found in small neighborhood restaurants near their homes, and that tourist-area restaurants are overpriced and less authentic. There may be some truth to this. However, it’s probably not worth traveling an hour just to eat at a random residential spot.

Watch: I Tried The World’s Spiciest Hotpot with Chinese Trump!

A Few Things to Be Prepared For

Chongqing is a fascinating city — but it’s not always easy. Setting the right expectations will make your trip much more enjoyable.

1. It’s extremely crowded.
Chongqing is one of the largest cities in China by population. Its dramatic, cyberpunk-style skyline has made it hugely popular online, and it attracts hundreds of millions of domestic visitors each year — even more than cities like Beijing or Shanghai. Popular attractions can feel very busy, especially on weekends and holidays.

2. The city is steep — very steep.
Chongqing is built on hills, and you’ll encounter endless slopes and staircases in tourist areas. Walking here can feel like a workout. GPS navigation can also be confusing because of the multi-level roads and elevation changes.

3. Summers are intensely hot and humid.
It’s common for the heat index to exceed 40°C (104°F) in summer. Combined with high humidity, it can feel exhausting if you’re not used to this kind of climate.

4. Smoking is still relatively common.
Compared to many Western countries — and even some other Chinese cities — you may notice more people smoking, sometimes even indoors in restaurants or transit areas.

Thank you for reading. Hope you have a wonderful journey! ヽ(´▽`)/