Wondering what to do in Chongqing? You’re in the right place. Nestled between the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, this booming southwestern megacity is one of China’s most exciting urban destinations. Known for its dizzying skyline, spicy hotpot, historic river culture, and futuristic transportation system, Chongqing offers a thrilling mix of tradition and modernity.
Whether you’re here for a few days or exploring deeper with a tailor-made itinerary, here are the must-see attractions and unique experiences you shouldn’t miss.
1. Ride the Yangtze River Cableway
One of the most iconic ways to see Chongqing is from above. The Yangtze River Cableway stretches over 1,100 meters across the water, connecting the Yuzhong and Nan’an districts. Originally built as a practical mode of transport, it has become a beloved tourist attraction offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, especially at sunset.
👉 Tip: Go early or late to avoid long queues, and bring your camera!
2. Visit Hongya Cave (Hongyadong)
Built into the cliffs above the Jialing River, Hongya Cave Chongqing is a nine-story architectural wonder that blends traditional stilt-house design with a lively shopping and dining district. At night, the cave is illuminated in golden light, making it look like a real-life version of a Ghibli film.
🛍️ Explore handicraft shops, try street snacks like grilled squid and spicy tofu, or grab a meal with a riverside view.
3. See Giant Pandas at Chongqing Zoo
Yes, you can meet China’s most beloved animal right in Chongqing. The Chongqing Zoo has a large panda enclosure that allows visitors to see these gentle giants up close. The zoo also hosts red pandas, golden monkeys, and other rare species native to southwest China.
🐾 Arrive in the morning for a better chance to see the pandas active and feeding.
4. Feast on Authentic Chongqing Hotpot
No visit is complete without indulging in the city’s most famous culinary experience: Chongqing hotpot. Known for its numbing, spicy broth full of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil, it’s a social and sensory experience like no other.
✅ Many restaurants offer half-and-half pots (spicy + non-spicy) to cater to different palates. Look out for local favorite spots such as Peijie Hotpot or Xiaolongkan.
5. Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town
Step back in time at Ciqikou, a historic trading town dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Located just 14 kilometers from downtown, its narrow alleys are packed with tea houses, antique stores, and traditional snacks like mahua (fried dough twists).
🎭 You may also catch Sichuan opera performances or local artisans demonstrating traditional crafts.
6. Experience the Monorail Through Buildings
Chongqing’s geography is famously hilly, and its transportation system is a marvel of urban engineering. The Line 2 Monorail, especially at Liziba Station, goes directly through a residential building – a phenomenon that has become an Instagram sensation.
📸 Stand at the observation deck for the perfect photo as the train zooms through the apartments.
7. Take a Night River Cruise
At night, the city lights up like a futuristic dream. A Yangtze River night cruise offers an unforgettable view of Chongqing’s neon-lit skyline, high-rises, bridges, and cable cars. Cruises typically last about 60–90 minutes and offer both indoor seating and open-air decks.
🌉 Highlights include views of Chaotianmen Bridge and the merging point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.
8. Visit Wulong Karst National Geology Park
About 3 hours from Chongqing lies Wulong Karst, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning limestone landscapes, natural bridges, caves, and gorges. It’s the filming location of Transformers 4, and a day trip here makes for a dramatic change of scenery.
🚌 Next Level China offers guided day trips to Wulong with comfortable transport and expert insight.
How to Travel to Chongqing
Chongqing is well connected by air, rail, and river:
- Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport has flights from major domestic cities and select international hubs.
- High-speed rail links Chongqing with Chengdu, Xi’an, and other major cities in a few hours.
- Cruises along the Yangtze River often begin or end in Chongqing—great for those exploring the Three Gorges.
For a stress-free and immersive experience, Next Level China can help design your Chongqing trip, including local transportation, expert guides, accommodation, and personalized activities.
Ready to Experience Chongqing With Ease?
Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or a city explorer, Chongqing offers something truly unique. Let Next Level China help you explore it all with a custom itinerary tailored to your interests.
📩 Contact us now for a no-obligation travel proposal via this contact form or email us directly at [email protected].
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