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Top 10 Popular Attractions in Chongqing

1. Hongya Cave (Hongyadong) (洪崖洞)
   The nighttime view is breathtaking, with dazzling lights that resemble a real-life version of Spirited Away. The unique stilted building complex, constructed along the river, is rich in traditional Ba-Yu architectural style. It’s recommended to visit between 7:30 PM and 11:00 PM when the lights come on, creating a magical atmosphere. This spot is not only perfect for photos but also an excellent place to learn about Chongqing’s traditional culture. During holidays, the area tends to be crowded, and the food quality is average. Be cautious and avoid trusting strangers or street vendors within the scenic area. The best photo spot is on the pedestrian bridge across the street, where you can capture the entire view. You can reach the location by taking the metro to Xiao Shizi Station and walking about 15 minutes.
2. Jiefangbei (Liberation Monument) (解放碑)
   Jiefangbei is a landmark building in Chongqing, located in the city center, making it a must-visit attraction for tourists. It offers a wide range of shopping options and numerous food stalls. The area is well-connected with convenient transportation, and many famous attractions are within walking distance. There are various accommodation choices, making it easy for travelers to get around. However, the hotels around Jiefangbei tend to have poor sound insulation, and some of the prices are relatively high. During peak tourist seasons, traffic congestion can be an issue.
3. Liziba (李子坝)
   Liziba is a landmark attraction in Chongqing, famous for the unique spectacle of a light rail passing through a residential building. Visitors can witness firsthand the extraordinary sight of the light rail train weaving through the residential complex, showcasing Chongqing’s urban characteristics and magical style. Liziba is a must-visit spot for tourists, attracting many visitors who come to take photos. Not only does it display Chongqing’s 8D magical ambiance, but it also symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. It is recommended to avoid visiting during noon to avoid intense sun exposure. The area around Liziba has many uphill paths, which may cause fatigue. The Liziba Light Rail Station is easily accessible, and taking Metro Line 2 will get you there. For a better photo opportunity and a more enjoyable experience, it’s best to visit in the morning, avoiding peak crowds.
4. Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道)
   The Yangtze River Cableway is a unique mode of transportation and a landmark attraction in Chongqing, connecting the Yuzhong District and Nan’an District, with a total length of 1,166 meters. Riding the cableway offers a stunning view of the Yangtze River and the surrounding scenery. As one of Chongqing’s iconic landmarks, the cableway not only provides convenient transportation but also offers an excellent route for admiring the city’s mountainous landscape, especially beautiful at night. During summer, the cableway can feel hot and crowded, with long wait times. It is recommended to avoid peak heat hours and purchase tickets online in advance to reduce wait times. The cableway operates from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with one-way tickets priced at 20 RMB and round-trip tickets at 30 RMB. The cableway is easily accessible via Metro Line 1 or Line 6.
5. Mountain City Trail (山城步道)
   The Mountain City Walkway in Chongqing is a trail built along the mountainside and cliffs, offering stunning views of the city’s historical landmarks and the river. It’s a great spot for leisurely strolls, where you can enjoy the scenery and visit small shops along the way. The trail mostly descends, so it’s best to start from the Qixinggang No. 1 exit. It’s recommended to spend 1-2 hours here, as there are multiple photo spots and quaint shops along the path. Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers for the walk.
6. Guanyinqiao (观音桥)
   Wukang Road is lined with buildings mostly constructed in the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing a variety of architectural styles that reflect Shanghai’s unique “Shanghainese” culture. It’s a perfect spot for photography and checking out the picturesque streets. The avenue, dotted with sycamore trees, has a distinctive charm, and there are many cafés, art shops, and old buildings nearby, making it ideal for leisurely walks and city exploration. During the summer, the area can be quite crowded, which may affect the overall experience. The road is easily accessible by taking Metro Line 10 to the Jiaotong University Station and walking to the destination. Notable attractions along Wukang Road include the Wukang Mansion and the former residence of Song Qingling.
7. Shibati (Eighteen Ladder Steps) (十八梯)
   Shibati (Eighteen Stairs) preserves a large number of historical buildings and stone steps, showcasing the unique mountainous cityscape of Chongqing. The area features both traditional Chinese architecture and modern Western-style buildings, reflecting the old Chongqing lifestyle. Though it has a strong commercial atmosphere, it’s a good spot for photography and sightseeing. At night, the area feels like a fairy tale, with many landmarks and shops providing great photo opportunities. However, its commercialization is heavy, and the architecture can seem somewhat homogeneous, which reduces its distinctiveness. The overall experience is average and may not be as attractive as other landmarks. As an important connection between the upper and lower parts of the city, it witnesses the historical transformation of Chongqing. It is easily accessible by light rail and bus, making it suitable for a short visit.
8. Raffles City (来福士)
   This attraction is known for its cyberpunk style, featuring futuristic architecture with a strong technological vibe. The exterior is perfect for photography, and it houses a large shopping mall. The site also includes a high-altitude amusement park where visitors can experience a suspended swing, offering both excitement and romance. However, some believe that the architecture disrupts the historical context of the area, and certain services and facilities may provide a mediocre experience. The location is easily accessible by both metro and bus, and the architectural design is inspired by the historical culture of the mountain city.
9. Chongqing Zoo (重庆动物园)
   This attraction is perfect for family visits, especially the Giant Panda Exhibit, where you can watch the pandas eating around 8 AM, which is a fun and interesting sight. The ticket price is affordable: 25 RMB for adults and 12.5 RMB for students. The zoo is home to more than 20 giant pandas, making it the zoo with the most pandas in China. The ticket prices are family-friendly, making it an excellent spot for children. However, the zoo’s layout could be improved, as some areas like the amusement park and fishing area take up a lot of space, which impacts the overall experience. Some staff members could also improve their customer service attitude. It’s recommended to take Metro Line 2 directly to the zoo station. The pandas are most active between 8 AM and 10 AM, so it’s best to visit in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
10. E’ling Second Factory (Eling Erchang) (鹅岭二场)
    Eling Erchang is a famous cultural and creative spot in Chongqing, known for its artistic atmosphere, with many creative shops and graffiti walls, making it an ideal place for photos and social media posts. The graffiti walls and vintage-style streets attract many young artists and photography enthusiasts. The movie “You Are So Beautiful” was also filmed here. However, some of the items for sale can be quite expensive, and certain areas, such as the “Love Terrace,” require an additional fee. The popularity of the location means it can get crowded, which may affect the experience. It is recommended to take Metro Line 1 to Eling Station, then either walk or take a bus to the site. Other nearby attractions worth visiting include Liziba.

Additional Information

* For certain attractions, foreign passport holders can buy tickets directly on-site without the requirement for advance reservations.

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