Chongqing, situated in the southwestern part of China along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, holds a rich history as a wartime capital and attained the status of one of China’s four direct-controlled municipalities in 1997. Surrounded by mountains and nestled at the convergence of two rivers in a basin, Chongqing is often shrouded in perpetual mist, earning it the monikers of “Mountain City” and “Fog Capital.”
Chongqing boasts three distinct attractions – delectable cuisine, enchanting nightscapes, and beautiful women. The city is a paradise for food enthusiasts, particularly celebrated for its globally acclaimed hotpot, characterized by its spicy and flavorful nature. The captivating night scenery of Chongqing, whether viewed from the heights of Nanshan or aboard the Yangtze River Cableway, reveals a glittering spectacle that encompasses the confluence of the two rivers. Additionally, Chongqing is known for its abundance of attractive women, with popular districts like Jiefangbei and Guanyinqiao being prime spots for admiring their beauty.
Beyond the city center, Chongqing’s surrounding areas, such as the Wulong Tiankeng (Natural Three Bridges) and Dazu Rock Carvings, have gained popularity in recent years. Located just 2-3 hours away, these attractions offer day-trip opportunities for visitors to marvel at the extraordinary creations of nature in Wulong and appreciate the exquisite ancient cliff carvings in Dazu.
Most Popular Chongqing Attractions
Tourist Attractions with Different Themes
Tourist Attractions in Chongqing Regions
Detailed Chongqing Itineraries
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Chongqing are during the months of March to May and September to October. These periods, encompassing the spring and autumn seasons, offer the most comfortable temperatures in the subtropical monsoon climate of Chongqing, with neither extreme cold nor heat.
From November to February, Chongqing enters winter, accompanied by chilly and wet weather. Despite the damp conditions, it’s an ideal time for indulging in hotpot and enjoying hot springs. This period marks the city’s off-peak season, with many attractions offering discounted tickets. During Christmas and New Year’s Eve, locals gather at Liberation Square, where the iconic clock strikes midnight, and festive activities, such as balloon releases, take place.
June to August experiences scorching summer temperatures, reaching up to 40°C. Despite the heat, locals relish hotpot during this season, and the relatively clearer skies make it an excellent time for admiring the city’s night views. Popular nearby destinations like Wulong and Jinfoshan may experience a 10% increase in accommodation prices due to the influx of summer vacationers, making it advisable to book in advance.
Chongqing Weather
Chongqing Food
In Chongqing, with temperatures soaring to 40 degrees Celsius, my clothes were drenched in sweat multiple times a day. I regretted not bringing enough clothes, so I ended up buying two more sets while I was there. Changing five times a day didn’t even feel excessive!
The weather in Chongqing has been quite unpredictable in recent days. Sometimes it is sunny in the morning, but by the afternoon, there are strong winds, thunder, and heavy rain. The water level by the river has also risen, making the riverbank opposite Hongya Cave (洪崖洞) inaccessible. Additionally, shops in the Ciqikou (磁器口) area are in the process of evacuation. For those planning to visit, it might be a good idea to adjust your itinerary and wait for a day… Read more »
Hongyadong (洪崖洞) Lighting Time: 19:30-23:00
Qiansimen Bridge (千厮门大桥) Lighting Time: 20:00-22:30
Two Rivers Night Cruise (两江夜景游) Boarding Time: 19:30-22:00
Raffles City (来福士) Lighting Time: 20:00-22:30
Chongqing Direct Itinerary
1. Eling Two Factory (鹅岭二厂) → Eling Park (鹅岭公园) → Ciqikou (磁器口) → Baolun Temple (宝轮寺) → Luo Zhongli Art Museum (罗中立美术馆) → Shapingba (沙坪坝)
2. Shancheng Alley (山城步道) → Eighteen Steps (十八梯) → Liberation Monument (解放碑) → Dajia Alley (戴家巷) → Hongyadong (洪崖洞) → Qian Si Men Bridge (千厮门大桥)
3. Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道) → Longmenhao Old Street (龙门浩老街) → Xiahaoli Old Street (下浩里老街) → Return journey
When deciding where to stay in Chongqing, there are several options to consider: 1. Liberation Monument (解放碑): This area has many popular attractions nearby, convenient transportation, and dining options, making it a good value choice overall. 2. Nanbin Road (南滨路): Known for riverside accommodations with a pleasant environment, albeit at slightly higher prices. 3. Guanyinqiao (观音桥): If you enjoy vibrant nightlife and a variety of dining and entertainment options, this area is perfect. However, it can be noisy due to… Read more »
✅ Recommended places to go in Chongqing: Hongyadong (洪崖洞) No need to make a reservation, visit after 19:30 when the lights are on. Chongqing Two Rivers Cruise (两江小渡) Tickets can be purchased on site, a 15-minute ride from Hongyadong to Danzishi, enjoy the scenery on both sides when the weather is good. People’s Assembly Hall (人民大礼堂) The Chongqing version of the Temple of Heaven, no need to enter if you don’t want to, just go to Ma’anshan Hall for photos.… Read more »
Chongqing Itinerary Arrangement DAY1: Jiefangbei→Bayi Delicious Food Street→Bai Xiangju→Hongyadong→Qiansimen Bridge→Grand Theater Riverside Park DAY2: Mountain City Trail→Shibati→Huguang Guildhall→Yangtze River Cableway→Longmenhao Laojie Street→Nanbin Road DAY3: Eling Second Factory→ Liziba→ Guanyin Bridge→ Beicang Cultural and Creative Park→ Jiujie→ Hong’en Temple DAY4: Luo Zhongli Art Museum→ Ciqikou→ Zhazi Cave→ Baigong Mansion→ Graffiti Street→ Jiaotong Tea House – Friendly Reminder: Popular attractions in Chongqing tend to be crowded, remember to prepare in advance and choose a suitable time to avoid the crowds! Pay attention!… Read more »
Chongqing is a place with many beautiful spots for photography. Hongyadong: The night view is super dreamy, but it’s always crowded. It’s great for landscape shots, and professional portraits turn out well, while my own photos are just average. Raffles City: A place where it’s easier to capture stunning shots, always cool. Eling Second Factory and Mafangwan Rainbow Lane: Ideal for artistic photography, portraits turn out well, but it’s better on good weather days. Mountain City Trail: Both sunny and… Read more »
✅3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary DAY1⃣ Jiefangbei A well-known attraction in Chongqing, convenient to stay nearby Daijia Lane Built on the mountainside in the city, a good spot for taking photos of Hongyadong Liangjiang Xiaodu Sitting on a boat, enjoying the Jialing River scenery, perfect for photos with the Raffles and Grand Theatre in the background Longmenhao Old Street Several embassies are located here, a great place to sip tea, enjoy the view, and listen to history Yangtze River Cableway… Read more »
There isn’t an off-season for traveling in Chongqing. When visiting Chongqing, make sure to make reservations in advance for some attractions, especially the popular ones. Not only can this save time, but it also enhances the overall experience – ⚠️Note on popular attractions requiring reservations: ‼️Hongya Cave: Normally not required (during holidays, there may be crowds and crowd control measures; now lights are on from 19:30 to 23:00) ‼️Yangtze River Cableway: Tickets can only be reserved on the same day… Read more »