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Written by Zao 2025-05-29 15:47:25
Nestled in southwest China where the Yangtze and Jialing rivers collide, Chongqing is a jaw-dropping metropolis of 30+ million people that defies gravity. As one of China’s four direct-controlled municipalities, this cyberpunk-esque "Mountain City" offers vertigo-inducing skyscrapers, world-famous cuisine, and gateway access to the Three Gorges. Here’s your essential travel guide.
Why Chongqing Stands Out
3D Cityscape: Buildings stack atop mountains, highways spiral through rooftops
Spicy Food Capital: Birthplace of Sichuan hotpot and mouth-numbing cuisine
River Adventures: Launch point for Yangtze River cruises to the Three Gorges
UNESCO Sites: Nearby Wulong Karst geological wonders
Top Attractions in Chongqing
1. Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)
This 11-story stilted complex cascades down a cliffside like a glowing layered cake. By day, explore teahouses and artisan shops; by night, witness Blade Runner-inspired neon vistas. Pro Tip: Capture photos from Qianmen Bridge at dusk.
2. Yangtze River Cable Car (长江索道)
Glide 1,160 meters across the river in vintage cabins for panoramic city views. Avoid queues by visiting at 8 AM or booking via WeChat mini-program.
3. Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)
Wander Ming/Qing dynasty streets tasting mala noodles, brewing tea ceremonies, and hunting porcelain souvenirs. Go early to beat crowds.
4. Wulong Karst (武隆喀斯特)
A 2-hour drive reveals UNESCO-listed natural wonders:
Three Natural Bridges: Limestone arches from Transformers films
Furong Cave: Underground rivers and colossal stalactites
5. Liziba Monorail Station
Watch trains slice through apartment blocks – China’s most viral transit spectacle. Best viewpoint: Platform 1 of Liziba Station (Line 2).
Chongqing’s Food Revolution
Must-Try Experiences:
Hotpot: Dive into fiery broth at chains like De Zhuang (德庄) or locals’ favorite Hao Chi Jie (好吃街夜市)
Xiao Mian (重庆小面): Breakfast noodles with chili-laden bone broth
Jianghu Cai (江湖菜): “Riverside” dishes like boiled fish with pickled greens
Street Snacks: Skewered rabbit heads, spicy wontons, and bingfen jelly
Spice Warning: Request wei la (微辣/mild spice) if unaccustomed to Sichuan peppercorns!
Practical Travel Tips
Best Time: March-May or Sept-Oct (avoid summer heat/humidity)
Transport: Use light rail (avoid traffic); taxis are cheap (¥8 base fare)
Navigation: Google Maps often fails – download Baidu Maps or Amap
Day Trips: Book tours to Dazu Rock Carvings (UNESCO Buddhist sculptures)
Language: Learn basic Mandarin phrases; English is limited
