1 Welcome to Chongqing - The Mountain City

Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City" and the "Foggy City," is a sprawling metropolis in southwestern China with a unique charm. Nestled among mountains and along the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, it features dramatic landscapes, ancient alleys, and a vibrant modern cityscape.

As one of China's four direct-controlled municipalities, Chongqing boasts a rich history, world-famous spicy cuisine, and warm-hearted locals. Its complex terrain creates a city of hills, stairs, and bridges that offers stunning views at every turn, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both cultural immersion and urban adventure.

2 Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions in Chongqing

2.1 Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)

Hongya Cave is an iconic landmark of Chongqing, famous for its stilted buildings inspired by traditional Bayu architecture. This 11-story complex along the Jialing River comes alive at night, with thousands of lights illuminating the intricate facades, creating a scene reminiscent of a cyberpunk wonderland.

Inside, you'll find shops selling local handicrafts, restaurants serving authentic Chongqing cuisine, and bars offering stunning river views. The complex is built into the cliffside, with multiple levels connected by staircases and elevators, each offering different perspectives of the river and city.

Ticket Price: Free Duration: 2-3 hours

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2.2 Three Gorges Museum (重庆中国三峡博物馆)

The Three Gorges Museum is a treasure trove of history and culture, showcasing the region's heritage related to the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges area. With a vast collection of artifacts, historical documents, and artworks, the museum provides a comprehensive overview of Chongqing's development over the centuries.

It also features exhibits on the ecological and social impact of the Three Gorges Dam project, including detailed models and multimedia presentations. The museum's architecture itself is impressive, with a design that incorporates traditional Chinese elements in a modern context.

Ticket Price: Free (reservation needed) Duration: 2-3 hours

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2.3 Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)

Ciqikou Ancient Town, with a history of over 1,800 years, offers a glimpse into old Chongqing. The cobblestone streets are lined with traditional shops selling local specialties like spicy hot pot ingredients, hand-made peanut candy, and traditional Chinese handicrafts.

You can also explore ancient temples, teahouses where you can watch traditional tea ceremonies, and venues hosting folk art performances. The town's name translates to "Porcelain Port," reflecting its historical importance as a porcelain production and distribution center.

Ticket Price: Free Duration: 2-3 hours

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2.4 Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道)

The Yangtze River Cableway is a unique way to experience Chongqing's stunning river views. Riding across the Yangtze River in the cable car, you'll enjoy panoramic vistas of the city's skyline, bridges, and the flowing river below.

Originally built as public transportation for locals crossing the river, it has become a popular tourist attraction. The approximately 5-minute ride offers breathtaking perspectives of Chongqing's mountainous terrain and dense urban development, especially spectacular at sunset or night when the city lights up.

Ticket Price: ¥20 one way / ¥30 return Duration: 0.5-1 hour

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2.5 Jiefangbei Commercial District (解放碑商业步行街)

Jiefangbei, the heart of Chongqing's business and shopping, is a bustling area centered around the Liberation Monument, a symbol of the city's history. Here, you'll find high-end shopping malls, international brands, and local department stores.

The district also comes alive at night with numerous restaurants, bars, and street food stalls offering local delicacies. As Chongqing's central business district, it represents the city's rapid modernization while maintaining connections to its historical roots through the preserved monument at its center.

Ticket Price: Free Duration: 2-3 hours

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3 Accommodation Options in Chongqing

Chongqing offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:

WakaChina can help you secure the best deals and exclusive packages for your stay in Chongqing.

4 Taste the Flavors of Chongqing Cuisine

Chongqing is renowned worldwide for its spicy and bold-flavored cuisine, especially Chongqing Hot Pot. Must-try dishes include:

• Chongqing Hot Pot: Fiery broth filled with chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns, offering a unique and unforgettable dining experience
• Spicy Chicken (La Zi Ji): Crispy chicken pieces stir-fried with dried chilies and Sichuan peppercorns
• Chongqing Noodles (Xiao Mian): Simple yet flavorful noodles in a spicy broth, a local breakfast favorite
• Mao Xuewang: A spicy hot pot dish featuring duck blood, tripe, and other offal in a numbing-spicy broth
• Street Snacks: Various skewers, pancakes, and local specialties available throughout the city

Experience authentic local flavors at traditional hot pot restaurants and street food stalls throughout the city.

5 Popular Activities in Chongqing

6 WakaChina Services in Chongqing

7 Plan Your Chongqing Adventure

Chongqing, with its unique blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and world-famous cuisine, is a destination that offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. From ancient towns and modern landmarks to spicy hot pot and river adventures, there's something to captivate every interest.

With WakaChina's professional services, you can explore Chongqing with peace of mind and create memories that will last a lifetime.