In the southwest of China, there lies an 8D magical city where tracks pass through buildings, buses “dock” on the second floor, and you may find yourself thinking you’re on the 25th floor when you’re actually on the first. Welcome to Chongqing, a city of bizarre experiences!
Someone once slightly exaggeratedly described this city: if you miss a turn here, congratulations, you’ve successfully embarked on a city tour! To get back to where you were, you usually need to take a long detour.
Therefore, when touring this city, if you’re not a local, don’t easily self-drive, as the cost of trial and error is too high! When taking a taxi, don’t casually chat with the driver or question the local experienced drivers; just sit quietly and get off at your destination. Because navigation systems, in many cases, are not as reliable as the old drivers!
The mountain is a city, and the city is a mountain. This perfectly describes Chongqing, the 8D magical city.
Chongqing is a world-class mountain city, with mountainous and hilly areas accounting for 91% of its total area, while plain and tableland areas only make up 9%. In China and even the world, you won’t find another big city like Chongqing that has risen in parallel valleys and ridges.
It is precisely because of this unique terrain that the bizarre experiences mentioned earlier have become a daily occurrence in Chongqing. Moreover, it has given birth to the unique and irreplicable charm of Chongqing as a mountain city.
Exploring Chongqing
There are numerous attractions to visit in Chongqing, and even within the city center, there are many hidden gems.
Liberation Monument (Jiefangbei)
One of the landmark buildings in Chongqing, located in the city center. The Liberation Monument was completed in August 1947 and is a national monument commemorating the victory of the Chinese people in the Anti-Japanese War.
Hongya Cave
Originally named Hongya Gate, it was one of the ancient city gates of Chongqing and is the epitome of Chongqing’s night scenery. The stilted buildings of Hongya Cave are built along the mountain and the river, forming a unique “three-dimensional aerial pedestrian street” that has been praised by Chinese and foreign media as a “city in the sky.”
Danzishi Old Street
The first scenic spot in China with a focus on opening port culture, it is an old street where modernity and classical elements blend together. At night, the street is illuminated, and you can enjoy the stunning night view of Chongqing on both sides of the river without spending a penny. It’s super photogenic!
Longmenao Old Street
Composed of more than 200 buildings from different periods, it is the best-preserved and largest historical and cultural old street in Chongqing’s main urban area. The ancient Sibyl of Chongqing’s Twelve Sceneries, “Longmen Hao Moon,” which has been praised by countless literati and poets, is located within the old street.
Mountain City Trails
The mountain city trails, with many uphill and downhill steps, are one of Chongqing’s unique experiences.
Chongqing has numerous trails, but the Third Step Road is a top choice. This 1,748-meter-long trail connects historical sites such as the Kangjian Hall, Bodhi Vajra Pagoda, First Water Plant Tower, ancient city wall, Ren’ai Hall, Houlu stone gate, and Shancheng Alley.
One section of the trail features a suspended walkway built on a cliff face, offering a panoramic view of the Yangtze River.
Eighteen Ladders
The Eighteen Ladders is a passage connecting the upper and lower parts of Chongqing. The steep steps and unique architectural style have made it one of the representatives of Chongqing’s local culture.
Its history can be traced back to the Ming Dynasty. It is said that there was a well at the time, which was exactly eighteen stone steps away from the residential area, hence the name “Eighteen Ladders.”
Traveling in Chongqing
Chongqing has many unique transportation and sightseeing methods that other cities don’t have, making them the city’s exclusive signatures.
Two Rivers Ferry
A highly cost-effective river cruise for crossing the river, taking photos on the deck is very picturesque. The ferry operates between the Hongya Cave Passenger Terminal and Danzishi Ferry Terminal, with a journey of about 10 minutes. It is only open during the day, not at night.
Chongqing Two Rivers Cruise
If you haven’t seen the night view, you haven’t truly been to Chongqing. The most relaxing and comprehensive way to enjoy Chongqing’s night view is the Chongqing Two Rivers Cruise. Departing from Chaotianmen Pier to the Huanghuayuan Bridge, turning around at the confluence of the two rivers, and then returning to Chaotianmen Pier after passing the Sheraton Hotel. The entire journey is about 20 kilometers and takes 1 hour.
Two Rivers Cableway
The Two Rivers Cableway is Chongqing’s unique aerial bus for crossing the river. The cableway shuttles through the city’s buildings and the vast river, adding a special flavor to the wonderful experience of Chongqing’s beautiful mountains and waters.
Rail Transit Line 2
The experience of the light rail passing through a building at Liziba Station, which has gone viral online, can be found on Rail Transit Line 2. In the first carriage of Line 2, you can experience the feeling of the light rail passing through a building from the front row.
Eating in Chongqing
Just like the fiery personality of Chongqing people, the biggest feature of Chongqing cuisine is its spiciness and numbness. This unique flavor instantly hits your head and leaves an unforgettable aftertaste.
Chongqing Hot Pot
The boiling red oil and spicy taste can make your mouth water just by looking at the bubbling pot base.
Chongqing Noodles
A traditional Chongqing snack with a spicy and rich soup base and chewy noodles, it is the most common breakfast in Chongqing.
Douhua Rice
The smooth and tender douhua, when dipped in a special sauce and eaten with rice, is truly delicious.
Sour and Spicy Sweet Potato Noodles
The soup is spicy and numbing, and the sweet potato noodles are chewy and appetizing, leaving an unforgettable aftertaste.
Chongqing, the birthplace of the Bayu culture and a city that makes people feel incredibly excited, is a must-visit destination! Go there to experience the unique mountain city culture and taste the delicious Bayu cuisine, which is more than enough.
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