Looking for a place in China that offers the best of both worlds? Look no further than the uniquely distinctive Chongqing, which merges together booming modernism alongside a traditional culture, heritage and history. Located in the mountains, it is surrounded by two rivers and the best time to go is summer or winter. There are a number of green areas nearby for when you need to escape from the city. We’ll cover all of them and much more in our definitive guide to the best things to do in Chongqing, China. So let’s dive straight in and start planning your perfect holiday.
1. Discover the true history of the Fengdu Ghost City
Don’t be put out off by the number of stairs to this beautiful shrine; there is a cable car that you can use. The Fengdu Ghost City is on a hillside overlooking Yangtze River. Although it may seem like a lot of staircases, each one has a meaning. The site itself was believed to be built about 500 years ago. Once you get to the top, you’ll soon be reveling in the sights.
Fengdu Ghost City
Address: China, Chongqing Shi, Fengdu Xian, Mingshanzhen, 名山路152号
Website: Fengdu Ghost City
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)
2. Enjoy tea in the historical Ciqikou Village (from USD 162.44)
Nestled on the banks of the Jia Ling River, this culturally unique area became a protected site in 1998. Most of the houses on the main streets date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. This tour lasts for four hours and we think you’ll love strolling around the village and enjoying the various tea shops or workshops along the way. After the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious hot pot meal.
Chongqing: Ciqikou Village & Hotpot Private Tour
Duration: 4 hour
3. Go hiking in Wulong Karst Geological Park
Be prepared to have your breath taken away by the sheer beauty of Wulong Karst Geological Park. Be warned, though, that this can be quite the test of fitness so make sure that you are fully prepared for the hike. This area is actually a world heritage site and it covers nine square kilometers of land. There are lots of interesting features such as three natural bridges, the gorge valley, caves, 45-degree Pingange Cableway, and Fairy Mt with the Mist Pavilion.
Wulong Karst Geological Park
Address: Furong River Bank, Jiangkou Town, Wulong County 408506, China
Website: Wulong Karst Geological Park
Opening hours: Mar - Oct: 8.30am - 4.30pm (daily); Nov - Feb: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Site dependent
4. Discover the hidden gems of Hongyadong
The unique area of Hongyadong is known for its excellent sightseeing spots, entertainment, and beautiful architecture. You can enjoy strolling down the many streets and taste authentic food in the eateries by the river. Hongyadong is set on the mountainside and it has a total of 11 ‘levels’ to explore.
Hongyadong
Address: Tiancheng Alley, Hongyadong, Chongqing, China
Website: Hongyadong
5. Check out the People’s Liberation Monument
This is a landmark of the area and it is the only monument to commemorate the Chinese people’s victory in the Sino-Japanese War. The monument is 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) high and is painstakingly decorated with red marbles. Interestingly, inside the monument walls are books, newspapers and photos from the 1940s. There is a small circular balcony which allows up to 20 visitors to admire the view.
People’s Liberation Monument
Address: Liberation Monument ShangquanYuzhong, Chongqing, China
Website: People’s Liberation Monument
Opening hours: All day
Price: Free
6. Ride the Chongqing Cable Car and get an aerial view of the city
For a cheap and unique way to see the city, take a ride in the cable car. It crosses the Yangtze River and has been used by locals and tourists alike since its first ride in 1987. You’ll get the best photos during the first and last ride of the day.
Chongqing Cable Car
Address: Xiaoshizi to Nanbinlu, Chongqing, China
Website: Chongqing Cable Car
Opening hours: 6.30am - 9.45pm (daily)
Price: 2.91 USD
7. Have a few drinks and enjoy VIP treatment at No. 88 Bar
This popular night-time spot is a great place to head to after dinner. It mainly plays R&B, hip-hop with New Jazz and Latin funk vibes. If you want an extra special treat, hire a private room at the back of the club and enjoy the more up-market furniture and drinks, including red wine. No. 88 Bar is a great spot for a friendly night out and is open until late.
No. 88 Bar
Address: 51 Minquan Rd, Jie Fang Bei Shang Quan, Yuzhong Qu, Chongqing Shi, China
Website: No. 88 Bar
Opening hours: 7pm - 4am (daily)
8. Check out the historic Dazu Rock Carvings
If you’re interested in history, you’ll be impressed with the series of large rock carvings that stand proud in the Dazu area. These rock carvings date back to the 9th century and have stood the test of time. The statues represent both a secular and religious theme to show the harmonious connection between Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. With over 10,000 carvings to explore, you can easily spend a day or two just exploring.
Dazu Rock Carvings
Address: Dazu, China
Website: Dazu Rock Carvings
Opening hours: 8.30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Site dependent
9. Explore the ancient Baidicheng (White Emperor City) Fortress
Dating back over 1800 years the White Emperor City sits atop a hill which has 368 steps from the bottom to the top. Make it to the top and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views over the surrounding area. It’s a great Insta-worthy location. This area is full of historical importance and value so we’d recommend finding a guide so that you can enjoy the full experience.
Baidicheng Fortress
Address: Yangtze River, Qutang Gap Mouth, Fengjie County 404600, China
Website: Baidicheng Fortress
Opening hours: 6.30am - 18pm (daily)
Price: 1.12 USD
10. Discover life in WW2 at Stilwell Museum
This museum was founded in 1991 in memory of an American general, Joseph W. Stilwell. Inside the museum, which is his former residence, you can see things as he had them, from the furniture, kitchenware and even his uniform has been carefully preserved. Not only will you learn more about the Second World War, but you’ll also be able to see how he lived. The highlight of the property is the four military cars.
Stilwell Museum
Address: Jialingjiang Binjiang Rd, Da Xi Gou, Yuzhong Qu, Chongqing Shi, China
Website: Stilwell Museum
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily) / (closed Jan & Feb)
Price: 2.18 USD
11. Try local delicacies at Haochi Jie, The Food Street
Calling out to all foodies! If you want to unearth some fantastic local grub, then your first stop should be Haochi Jie. Otherwise known as the ‘Food Street’ you can find everything your heart and stomach desires. There are plenty of snack and drinks so make sure you go hungry and simply walk down the street filling your stomach as you go.
Haochi Jie
Address: Bayi Rd, Jie Fang Bei Shang Quan, Yuzhong Qu, Chongqing Shi, China
Website: Haochi Jie
12. Visit the spectacular 19th-century St. Joseph’s Church
Originally built in 1893/5 this quaint and cozy church has undergone recent renovations. We think you’ll love the gothic feel of the design which has two short towers each with a red star. Inside, which is open to the public, you’ll find unique marble statues and stained glass windows. The capacity of this venue is 500 and you can check online if you would like to attend a service.
St. Joseph’s Church
Address: Minsheng Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400010, China
Website: St. Joseph’s Church
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
13. Check out beautiful night views at Chaotianmen Square
Created in 1998 the Chaotianmen Square has become a prosperous area and enjoys views of both the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. In total, this area covers about 800,000 square meters. Located in the heart of the historic district, it’s a great place to witness the past and present conjoining. During festivals, a large ship of thousands of flowers is placed in the center of the square.
Chaotianmen Square
Address: Changjiang Binjiang Rd, Chao Tian Men, Yuzhong Qu, Chongqing Shi, China
Website: Chaotianmen Square
14. Explore the vast collections at the Three Gorges Museum
This is the largest monographic museum and it is also focused on the preservation, education and research into the natural environment of the area. Be sure to check out the ‘Ecological Corridor’ which is our favorite spot. It also has 180,000 collections including ancient artifacts, materials and coins. There are a number of different exhibitions so be sure to set time aside to see everything.
Three Gorges Museum
Address: No.236 Renmin Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400015, China
Website: Three Gorges Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed Mon)
Price: Free
15. Experience Chinese culture at Huayan Temple
If you’re searching for that one place that will set your heart alight and you’ll remember for the rest of your life, Huayan Temple is the place to go. This stunning temple feels different from many others in the area and it features spectacular architecture. We recommend visiting the pagoda as well, although be warned that there are some steep steps.
Huayan Temple
Address: China, Shanxi, Datong, Huayan St, 下寺坡街14号
Website: Huayan Temple
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 7.27 USD
16. Be amazed by the musical fountain at Nanbin Road
Located in the Nan'an District, the popular Nanbin road is a great place to grab a fantastic meal before the musical fountain begins. When the giant musical fountain takes place you’ll be amazed by the colors which play amongst the water jets. They are perfectly integrated and make incredible photographs.
Musical fountain at Nanbin Road
Address: Nan Bin LuNanan Qu, Chongqing Shi, China
Website: Musical fountain at Nanbin Road
Opening hours: 8pm (daily)
17. Shop till you drop at Metropolitan Plaza
With many international stores and designer brands, Metropolitan Plaza is the best place to stock-up your wardrobe. Alongside the numerous trendy shops, there are also delicious eateries and even theaters. It is easy to spend a whole day shopping and relaxing at the Metropolitan Plaza. There also just so happens to be an awesome light corridor which is perfect for Instagram.
Metropolitan Plaza
Address: 68 Zourong Rd, Jie Fang Bei Shang Quan, Yuzhong Qu, China
Website: Metropolitan Plaza
Opening hours: 9.30am - 10pm (daily)
18. Visit the expansive Chongqing Graffiti Street
Known as the Graffiti street, the area of Huangjueping has become a burgeoning artist hub. It is claimed to be the largest graffiti area in the world and covers 1.25 km (0.8 miles) in total. The Graffiti Street project was launched by Luo Zhongli, president of Sichuan Fine Art Institute. In total, 37 buildings have been elaborately decorated. Be sure to check it out on your trip to Chongqing.
Chongqing Graffiti Street
Address: Huangjueping, Chongqing, China
Website: Chongqing Graffiti Street
19. Take a stroll in the lively Jiefangbei CBD
This bustling pedestrian area leads to the People’s Liberation Monument area. The pedestrian business area was first created in 1997 but was expanded further as it grew in popularity. Today on this strip you can enjoy shopping and eating until your heart is content. From designer shops to cheaper bargain-basements, there is something for everyone.
Jiefangbei CBD
Address: China, Chongqing, Yuzhong, Pedestrian St, 重庆时代广场附近
Website: Jiefangbei CBD
Opening hours: 9am - 10pm (daily)
20. Visit the People’s Assembly Hall and be amazed by the design
Nanbin Road is located in Nan’an District along the #YangtzeRiver. “Haitangyanyu” Park is the largest recreation area...
Posted by iChongqing on Friday, 23 November 2018
Across the road from the Three Gorges Museum is the People’s Assembly Hall. The construction of this building with its unique architecture began in 1950 and took 3 years to complete. In total, this impressive piece of building design and skill is five levels. The indoor auditorium has a total of 4,206 spectator seats.
People’s Assembly Hall
Address: No.173 Renming Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400015, China
Website: People’s Assembly Hall
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 1.45 USD
21. Visit the endangered giant pandas at the Chongqing Zoo
Located 8km (5 miles) from the city center, the zoo has been open to the public since 1995. It is used not only as a way to educate the public on wild animals and their needs but it is also an important base for protection and research for immigrant wild animals. There are over 230 different species of animals which the zoo is home to. You can spend a day happily coming face to face with many incredible creatures.
Chongqing Zoo
Address: Chongqing Zoo, Jiulongpo, China
Website: Chongqing Zoo
Opening hours: 10am - 4.30pm (daily)
Price: 3.63 USD (Jan - Nov), 2.91 USD (Dec)
22. Visit the historically important Laojun Cave Temple
Visiting this historic temple will give you a true feel of spiritualism in China. The location is fairly difficult to get to, the walk to the top can be a bit dangerous if you do not like heights and there are no English signs. But, make it to the top and you’ll bear witness to a beautiful red shrine, and glorious views across the surrounding area. It is the biggest and most important Taoist temple in Chongqing.
Laojun Cave Temple
Address: On Laojun Mountain, Nan'an District, Chongqing 400000, China
Website: Laojun Cave Temple
Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)
Price: Free
23. Take a glimpse of the city from Eling Park's Liangjiang Pavilion
This free public space is a popular area for relaxing and enjoying a sunny afternoon. There are two river pavilions in the park which boast great views of the Yangtze River and the Jialing River. It is also a popular nightspot for avid photographers as the surrounding natural environment juxtaposes with the urban lights.
Eling Park Liangjiang Pavilion
Address: Eling Park, Changjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, China
Website: Eling Park Liangjiang Pavilion
Opening hours: 8am - 10.30pm (daily)
Price: Free
24. Go on a half-day tour of Chongqing
This tour will start with a delicious Chinese lunch from the ancient town of Ciqikou. The houses in this area date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. You’ll have a great time exploring this local area. You’ll then pay a visit to the Stillwell Museum which we featured in this list. Finally, you’ll enjoy a relaxing river ride. It sounds like a perfect half-day to us.
Chongqing Half Day Highlight Tour
Address: Tour starts from the train station, aiport or Chaotianmen Dock
Website: Chongqing Half Day Highlight Tour
Opening hours: 9am (daily)
Price: 110 USD (discounts for groups)
25. Try a local delicacy, Chongqing Jiafu Hot Pot
Chongqing hot pot is world-renowned for its delicious taste. With the perfect amount of spice and its recognition in a popular television show, it has soared in popularity. Chongqing Hot Pot is different in that it has a special numbing, spicy soup base and delicious meats. The three top variations include ox stomach, duck intestine, and artery. There are lots of places to buy Chongqing Jiafu Hot Pot so do your research and choose your favorite option.
Chongqing Jiafu Hot Pot
Address: Various locations
26. Take your kids to the wacky Foreigner Street Theme Park
Technically, this street is called Yangren Jie (洋人街), but it is commonly known as ‘Foreigner Street.’ Although its existence came into being by accident it now acts as a 24-hour free Chinese theme park. otherwise known as Foreigner Street, it is a Chinese theme park open 24/7, for free. Opened in 2006, it includes a number of international landmarks such as the miniature Venetian canals, and a miniature New York. It is also oddly home to the worlds largest public bathroom.
Foreigner Street Theme Park
Address: Yangren Jie, Danzishi, Nan’an District, Chongqing 重庆市南岸区弹子石
Website: Foreigner Street Theme Park
Opening hours: 24 hrs (daily)
Price: Free
27. Be amazed by the natural beauty of Furong Cave
Known as one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the world, Furong Cave is decorated with multicolored lights. You’ll love being able to see thousands of years of history within the stalagmites and stalactites. There are also unique features such as narrow halls, a sleeping Buddha and a 20-meter (65-foot) stone waterfall.
Furong Cave
Address: Furong Road, Guangkou Town, Wulong County 408500, China
Website: Furong Cave
Opening hours: 8.30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 10.17 USD
28. Soak in the beautiful nature at Simian Mountain
This is listed as a bit of a hidden gem of the area, with fewer tourists than expected to visit. The area is very big so we recommend that if you enjoy exploring you should definitely save a day for the Simian Mountain. There are five main areas to discover, each with their own unique features and environment. It is quite difficult to get to, so make sure that you research your trip well in advance.
Simian Mountain
Address: Simian Mountain, Jiangjin, China
Website: Simian Mountain
29. Take a day tour of Classic Chongqing (from USD 70.4)
This long, 10-hour tour takes place in Chongqing, otherwise known as “mountain city” and the “city of rivers”. It is the fourth largest city in China and is partially surrounded by mountains. The tour will last for four hours in total and it includes a traditional hot pot dinner. It is the local dish in this area.
One-Day Tour: Classic Chongqing
Duration: 10 hour
A unique place to visit
Chongqing is such a unique place where you can revel in the culture and surrounding nature. This means that your days will be jam-packed full of fun and excitement. Remember to let us share in your happiness by tagging us in your photos.
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