Welcome to Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis in southwestern China that’s unlike anywhere else you’ll visit.
As one of China’s four direct-administered municipalities, Chongqing Municipality offers a dynamic mix of steep cityscapes, spicy street food, rich history, and mind-bending architecture.
In this guide, you’ll explore the best cultural landmarks like the Dazu Rock Carvings and Ciqikou Ancient Town, take in panoramic views from spots like E’ling Park and the Yangtze River Cableway, and dive into bold, modern experiences such as the 3D light shows at Hongya Cave and the surreal Liziba Station train.
We’ll also cover practical tips like what to pack, the best times to visit, and why setting up a China eSIM before your trip can make everything easier.
Whether you're here for the skyline or the hotpot, this city will leave you wide-eyed and full.
Travel Essentials to Bring with You
China eSIM
When you're traveling through Chongqing—riding the Yangtze River Cableway, exploring Ciqikou Ancient Town, or navigating the layers of Hongya Cave—you’ll quickly realize how much you rely on your phone.
Whether it’s pulling up translation apps, scanning QR codes to pay, or checking metro directions, uninterrupted mobile data isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s vital.
That’s why a China-compatible eSIM, like the one from Airalo, makes perfect sense. It eliminates the usual pain points of getting connected abroad—no fiddling with SIM trays, no language barriers at airport kiosks, and no roaming shock when you return home.
Plus, it activates instantly via app.
Here’s why you should use Airalo’s China eSIM for your trip:
- Budget-friendly, at just $3.50 per day for unlimited data
- Instant activation before or upon arrival
- No physical SIM card needed, so your phone number stays intact
- Access to local networks like China Unicom for strong citywide coverage
- Seamless use of navigation, translation, and messaging apps
- Avoids public Wi-Fi, which is often slow, restricted, or requires registration
- Keeps your travel experience smooth, especially helpful for calling a ride or accessing attraction tickets
- Works with dual SIM devices, letting you stay connected to your home number if needed
Payment Apps Already Connected To Your Credit Card Before Your Trip
Cash may have been king once, but not in Chongqing today. From hotpot restaurants to train stations and even small snack vendors, mobile payments are the standard. You’ll rarely see locals pulling out cash or even cards—it's all QR codes.
To travel smart, download Alipay or WeChat Pay before you go. Here’s how to get them working with a foreign card:
- Download and set your language to English. Both apps support English menus, making setup manageable.
- Register with your passport and email. You don’t need a Chinese number anymore.
- Link your international credit card (Visa or Mastercard). This lets you pay like a local without a Chinese bank account.
- Verify identity and allow location access. These steps are often required to unlock full features like scanning merchant QR codes.
- Test it in your home country. Try topping up a small amount to ensure it works before you land in China.
Appropriate Clothing and Comfortable Walking Shoes
Chongqing’s urban terrain is famously vertical. Locals call it the “mountain city” for a reason—you’ll be climbing stairs, crossing high footbridges, and navigating steep streets on the regular. Pair that with shifting weather conditions, and what you wear can make or break your day.
- Supportive shoes for uphill climbs and cobbled alleys
- Breathable fabrics for hot, humid summers
- Light layers that you can peel off or pile on
- A compact umbrella for pop-up rainstorms
- Sun protection like hats and sunglasses, especially near rivers
Power Adapter & Portable Charger
Between navigating on your phone, capturing endless cityscapes, and scanning QR codes for everything from metro rides to museum entry, your devices will be working overtime. Staying charged in Chongqing isn’t optional—it’s essential.
- Universal power adapter that covers Types A, I, and C
- Portable charger with at least 10,000 mAh capacity
- Charging cable backups in case of loss or wear
- Slim power strip if you have multiple devices
- Fast-charging capability to get juiced quickly between activities
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May)
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens make this season ideal for exploring Chongqing’s parks and scenic areas.
For travelers who enjoy mild days and fresh air, spring offers a gentle and colorful welcome to Chongqing.
The city starts to warm up after winter, but it’s not yet weighed down by summer’s humidity.
Parks like E’ling and Nanshan Botanical Garden burst into bloom, making this a prime time for slow strolls and picnics under cherry blossoms.
You’ll also find the Yangtze and Jialing rivers at their most photogenic, reflecting the vibrant city skyline in crystal-clear conditions.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Chongqing has a crispness that feels refreshing after the intense summer. The skies clear up, temperatures cool down, and the city glows with warm tones.
It’s the perfect time to visit natural wonders like Wulong Karst and the Dazu Rock Carvings, where outdoor exploration becomes a pleasure rather than a sweat session.
Attractions are still lively but noticeably less crowded, giving you room to enjoy without jostling through throngs of tourists.
You’ll also catch local markets buzzing with seasonal produce and traditional snacks unique to the harvest months.
Avoiding Peak Summer & Holidays
Planning around Chongqing’s peak seasons can save you time, sweat, and stress.
July and August are hot, sticky, and heavy with rainfall. The heat is relentless, especially when you're climbing staircases at Hongya Cave or wandering through the open-air alleys of Ciqikou. It’s not ideal unless you're ready to embrace sauna conditions.
Even more critical is steering clear of China’s Golden Week in early October.
Crowds surge, prices spike, and attractions overflow. If flexibility is on your side, consider traveling just before or after these busy periods.
Not only will you avoid the rush, but you’ll also experience Chongqing at a slower, more local pace.
Cultural and Historical Sites
Dazu Rock Carvings (大足石刻)
The Dazu Rock Carvings are one of China’s most impressive yet underrated cultural treasures.
Carved between the 9th and 13th centuries, these detailed stone sculptures cover themes from religion to daily life, featuring scenes that blend Buddhist compassion, Taoist harmony, and Confucian ethics.
What makes this site unforgettable is the sheer emotional depth expressed in stone—delicate figures, expressive gestures, and thoughtful inscriptions that draw you into the mindset of ancient artisans.
Unlike some relics that feel distant, Dazu feels personal and reflective. It's a peaceful, awe-inspiring stop for travelers interested in deeper meaning, not just visuals.
- Address: Baoding Mountain, Dazu District, Chongqing (重庆市大足区宝顶山)
- How to get there: From downtown Chongqing, take a high-speed train or bus to Dazu (大足), then use a local taxi or rideshare to reach the site.
- Price: Approximately 135 RMB per adult (ticket includes access to major carving sites)
- Best time to go: March to May or September to November, when the weather is dry, the air is fresh, and the cliff-side paths are easier to walk on.
Ciqikou Ancient Town (磁器口古镇)
Step into Ciqikou Ancient Town, and you’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled into a living folk tale.
Once a hub for porcelain production during the Ming and Qing dynasties, today it’s a thriving cultural quarter where traditional charm meets modern energy.
Winding alleys reveal vintage teahouses, temples, and quirky souvenir shops. The smell of roasted peanuts, spicy stinky tofu, and grilled skewers leads you from one food stall to another.
Musicians, calligraphy artists, and snack vendors bring the cobbled streets to life. For a first-time visitor, Ciqikou offers a perfect balance of cultural depth and entertainment.
- Address: Ciqikou, Shapingba District, Chongqing (重庆市沙坪坝区磁器口)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station (磁器口站); it’s a five-minute walk from Exit 1
- Price: Free entry; optional fees for temple visits and performances
- Best time to go: Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more leisurely stroll through the alleys
Three Gorges Museum (三峡博物馆)
Located at the foot of the iconic People's Square, the Three Gorges Museum is one of Chongqing’s best windows into its turbulent and fascinating past.
Inside, you’ll find artifacts that span thousands of years, from prehistoric pottery to wartime relics.
But it’s not just about what's behind glass—the museum tells the story of how the Yangtze River has shaped Chongqing's identity, including the monumental engineering behind the Three Gorges Dam.
Exhibits are bilingual and well-curated, so you’ll leave with more than trivia—you’ll get a sense of the resilience and ambition that define the region.
- Address: 236 Renmin Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区人民路236号)
- How to get there: Ride Metro Line 2 to Zengjiayan Station (曾家岩站), then walk 10 minutes west
- Price: Free (passport or ID required for entry)
- Best time to go: Late morning or mid-afternoon on weekdays to avoid tour group rushes and enjoy quieter galleries
Red Rock Village Museum (红岩村革命纪念馆)
The Red Rock Village Museum offers a compelling glimpse into Chongqing's pivotal role during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
Housed in a historic villa complex, this museum once served as the headquarters for key figures in China’s resistance movement, including members of the Communist Party who operated from the then-temporary wartime capital.
As you walk through its tree-lined courtyards and period-furnished rooms, you'll see artifacts, photos, and letters that capture the struggles and strategies of those turbulent years.
What’s striking is how immersive the space feels—you’re not just reading about history; you’re standing inside it. For those interested in modern Chinese history, it’s a fascinating and emotionally resonant stop.
- Address: No. 13, Hongyan Village, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区红岩村13号)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Daping Station (大坪站), then transfer to a local bus or taxi for a short ride to the museum entrance
- Price: Free entry; bring a valid ID or passport to register at the gate
- Best time to go: Late morning on weekdays for a peaceful walk through the exhibits and to avoid tour group crowds
Stilwell Museum (史迪威将军博物馆)
The Stilwell Museum is one of Chongqing’s most underrated yet deeply interesting historical attractions.
Tucked away in a modest hilltop residence, this museum honors General Joseph W. Stilwell, a U.S. military commander who worked closely with Chinese forces during World War II.
The home is preserved much as it was in the 1940s, with original maps, uniforms, handwritten notes, and even Stilwell’s personal belongings still on display.
The exhibits go beyond military operations—they also show the challenges of cross-cultural cooperation during wartime. If you enjoy exploring stories that connect global history with local context, this museum quietly delivers.
- Address: No. 63 Jialing New Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区嘉陵新路63号)
- How to get there: Ride Metro Line 1 to Eling Station (鹅岭站), then walk 15 minutes or take a short cab ride up the hill
- Price: Around 15 RMB per person
- Best time to go: Early afternoon to pair your visit with nearby attractions like Eling Park and enjoy views of the river
Nature and Scenic Views
Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道)
The Yangtze River Cableway is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a sky-high sightseeing experience that lets you glide across China’s longest river with the city unfolding around you.
Locals still use it to commute, but for visitors, it’s an unbeatable way to take in Chongqing’s vertical cityscape, stacked high above the water and buzzing with life.
The short ride connects the Yuzhong and Nan’an districts, floating between skyscrapers and bridges while delivering postcard-perfect views of the river, the skyline, and the occasional passing ship.
If you're visiting for the first time, this is one of those "must-do" moments that gives you an instant sense of Chongqing’s bold energy.
- Address: 151 Xinhua Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区新华路151号)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站), then walk about 5 minutes to the lower cableway station
- Price: Around 20 RMB per ride; round-trip tickets available
- Best time to go: Sunset or early evening for dramatic views with city lights just starting to sparkle
Wulong Karst National Geology Park (武隆喀斯特旅游区)
Nature doesn’t get much more cinematic than Wulong Karst, a UNESCO-listed geopark that looks like something out of a fantasy movie—and in fact, it is.
The area’s soaring stone arches, vertical sinkholes, and labyrinth-like caves were featured in Transformers: Age of Extinction. But even without the Hollywood connection, Wulong delivers.
Hike through the Three Natural Bridges, peer into the depths of the Houping Tiankeng sinkhole, or wander the Furong Cave with its surreal stalactite formations.
The landscapes are so epic, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world, especially when mist rolls in and turns the cliffs into floating islands.
- Address: Wulong District, Chongqing (重庆市武隆区)
- How to get there: From Chongqing, take a high-speed train to Wulong (武隆站), then transfer to a local shuttle or taxi into the scenic area
- Price: Varies by attraction, generally 90–135 RMB per site or combo ticket options available
- Best time to go: Spring and autumn when the trails are lush, weather is pleasant, and visibility is at its best for photography
Nanshan Botanical Garden (南山植物园)
Just across the river from central Chongqing, Nanshan Botanical Garden is where you go to trade concrete for canopy.
Perched on the slopes of Nanshan Mountain, the garden spreads across peaceful walking paths lined with seasonal blooms, sculpted topiary, and local flora.
But it’s not just the plants that pull people in—the elevated location gives you one of the clearest panoramic views of Chongqing’s iconic skyline, with both the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers winding below.
Whether you’re escaping the city buzz for a breath of fresh air or snapping skyline shots in peace, this garden blends natural calm with dramatic scenery.
- Address: Nanshan Mountain, Nan’an District, Chongqing (重庆市南岸区南山)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 3 to Tongyuanju Station (铜元局站), then take a short taxi ride or local bus up to the garden
- Price: Entry typically around 20 RMB per person
- Best time to go: Late March to May for spring blooms, or October to November for autumn leaves and clear visibility
E’ling Park (鹅岭公园)
Tucked into one of Chongqing’s highest urban ridges, E’ling Park offers an unbeatable combination of peaceful green space and dramatic skyline views.
Once a private garden during the Qing Dynasty, the park is now a favorite retreat for locals who come to sip tea, do tai chi, or simply watch the city hum from above. If you're someone who likes a quiet walk with scenic payoffs, this is a solid choice.
From the Liangjiang Pavilion, you can gaze out over the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, with layers of buildings stacked into the hills like a living topographic map.
The park also features bonsai gardens, shaded trails, and a slow, nostalgic pace that feels far removed from downtown’s intensity—even though you're just minutes away from the metro.
- Address: No. 176 Eling Main Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区鹅岭正街176号)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 to Eling Station (鹅岭站), then walk about 5 minutes uphill to the entrance
- Price: Free entry
- Best time to go: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler air and fewer visitors, especially if you're hoping to catch the city in golden hour light
Modern Experiences
Raffles City Chongqing & “The Crystal” Sky Bridge (重庆来福士广场)
Raffles City Chongqing, nicknamed “The Sail of the City,” is a futuristic complex that redefines riverfront architecture.
The highlight? "The Crystal" sky bridge, a glass-enclosed structure that stretches horizontally across the rooftops of four high-rise towers.
From up there, you get a rare perspective—one where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers intersect beneath your feet, and the city’s iconic skyline spreads out in every direction. It's part retail mall, part observation deck, part indoor jungle.
Whether you’re grabbing coffee, snapping photos, or marveling at how seamlessly commerce and design collide, this is modern Chongqing at its boldest.
- Address: No. 6 Chaotianmen Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区朝天门街6号)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站), then walk 10 minutes toward Chaotianmen
- Price: Observation deck (The Exploration Deck) access costs around 150 RMB
- Best time to go: Late afternoon into early evening for the golden hour glow followed by city lights sparkling after dark
Chongqing Light Rail Line 2, Liziba Station (李子坝站)
Liziba Station is where Chongqing’s urban legend meets reality. You may have seen the viral videos—yes, this is the light rail line that travels through a residential building.
Watching it in person is oddly mesmerizing and entirely unique. The train glides through the sixth to eighth floors of the complex as though it's part of the building’s blueprint.
There’s even a viewing platform now, designed for photo-hungry visitors who want to catch the train zipping past within arm’s reach.
For a quick, quirky taste of how this vertical city solves space constraints with imagination, Liziba nails it.
- Address: Liziba Station, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区李子坝站)
- How to get there: Ride Line 2 of the Chongqing Rail Transit straight to Liziba Station
- Price: Standard metro fare (typically 2–6 RMB depending on distance)
- Best time to go: Late morning to early afternoon when lighting is best for photos and the area is less congested
Jiefangbei (解放碑) CBD & Food Street
Jiefangbei is the pulsing commercial heart of Chongqing, where skyscrapers, high-end malls, and buzzing night markets all orbit the Liberation Monument.
If you’re craving modern energy with local flavor, this is your zone. Here, international brands sit alongside spicy hotpot restaurants and open-air food stalls slinging grilled squid, skewered meats, and Sichuan noodles.
Street performers add to the sensory overload, while neon signs light up every corner of the pedestrian square. Day or night, it’s lively, loud, and absolutely alive—a great place to shop, snack, and soak up the city's personality.
- Address: Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区解放碑步行街)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or 2 to Jiaochangkou Station (较场口站) and follow the signs to the Jiefangbei Exit
- Price: Free to enter; food and shopping prices vary
- Best time to go: Evenings when the lights come on and the streets fill with both locals and tourists on the move
3D Light Shows at Hongya Cave (洪崖洞)
By night, Hongya Cave transforms into a glowing cityscape of color, rhythm, and digital spectacle.
Towering over the Jialing River, this 11-story cliffside complex becomes a vibrant blend of tradition and tech with its 3D light shows that dance across the façade.
Think neon dragons slithering across wooden architecture, synchronized music, and entire walls that come alive with movement. It’s dramatic, playful, and totally Chongqing.
As you explore the maze of shops, food stalls, and bars, the lights create the perfect backdrop for both candid moments and postcard-worthy photos.
- Address: No. 88 Jiabin Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区嘉滨路88号)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站), then walk 5 minutes along the riverfront
- Price: Free to enter; costs apply for shopping and dining inside
- Best time to go: After sunset when the lights turn on and the area comes alive with both locals and tourists
Other Notable Attractions
Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城)
Fengdu Ghost City is one of Chongqing’s most unusual and fascinating attractions, rooted in ancient Daoist beliefs about the afterlife.
Perched on the hills along the Yangtze River, this eerie complex of temples, statues, and underworld-themed architecture paints a vivid picture of Chinese spiritual traditions.
Visitors can pass through Hell Gate, face the Bridge of Troubled Water, and gaze at massive demon statues meant to judge the souls of the dead.
It’s spooky but cultural, strange yet symbolic—a worthwhile day trip for curious travelers with a love for legends and mythology.
- Address: Ming Mountain, Fengdu County, Chongqing (重庆市丰都县名山镇)
- How to get there: Take a long-distance bus or join a Yangtze River cruise with a stop at Fengdu; local taxis from the pier can take you to the base
- Price: Around 100 RMB for entrance, with additional fees for the cable car
- Best time to go: Spring or autumn for cooler weather and clear views from the hilltop temples
Liberation Monument (Jiefangbei, 解放碑)
At the heart of Chongqing’s central business district stands the Liberation Monument, a towering landmark that once commemorated China’s victory in World War II and now anchors the city’s most dynamic pedestrian zone.
Surrounded by luxury retailers, bright billboards, and buzzing cafés, the monument stands tall as both a symbol of history and a meeting point for modern life.
While it only takes a few minutes to walk around the monument itself, the energy of the surrounding square pulls you in with its blend of old and new. It’s especially striking at night when the whole area glows.
- Address: Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区解放碑步行街)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or 2 to Jiaochangkou Station (较场口站) and follow signs to Jiefangbei
- Price: Free
- Best time to go: Evening, when the city lights up and the square becomes a popular hangout spot
Yangtze River Cruise Departure
If you’re planning to cruise the legendary Yangtze River, Chongqing is where your journey begins.
This city serves as the main departure point for multi-day cruises heading toward the Three Gorges region. Whether you’re hopping aboard a luxury vessel or a more modest cruiser, the experience offers a front-row seat to China's natural and historical wonders.
You’ll pass through dramatic cliffs, misty gorges, and even engineering feats like the Three Gorges Dam.
Most departures begin in the evening, giving you a chance to see Chongqing’s riverside skyline sparkle as you set sail into the heart of China.
- Address: Chaotianmen Dock, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区朝天门码头)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站), then follow signs to the docks near Chaotianmen Square
- Price: Varies by cruise operator and duration; prices generally start around 1,000 RMB for a standard cabin
- Best time to go: April to October for optimal weather and visibility along the river route
Time Tunnel (时光隧道) Light Installations
Tucked into several of Chongqing’s metro stations and pedestrian underpasses, the Time Tunnel light installations offer an unexpected slice of sci-fi right under your feet.
These installations turn otherwise ordinary passageways into vibrant visual experiences. With shifting LED patterns, immersive colors, and mirrored walls, the tunnels make it feel like you’re walking through space.
Popular with selfie seekers and content creators, these tunnels have become a low-key Instagram favorite. While quick to visit, they leave a lasting impression, showcasing how the city weaves creativity into its transit design.
- Address: Locations vary, with notable installations in Hongqihegou Station (红旗河沟站) and sections of the Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street (观音桥步行街)
- How to get there: Take Metro Line 3 or Line 6 to Hongqihegou Station or Line 3 to Guanyinqiao Station, then explore the connected underground areas
- Price: Free
- Best time to go: Late evening for dramatic lighting or during off-peak hours if you want clearer shots without foot traffic
Unlock Chongqing’s Magic From the Moment You Land
Chongqing is the kind of place that grips your senses and doesn’t let go.
From the cliffside glow of Hongya Cave to the tranquil echoes of ancient carvings in Dazu, every experience here is a story waiting to unfold.
You’ve now got the lowdown on the city’s best attractions, scenic escapes, historical treasures, and modern marvels that make this southwestern Chinese metropolis so memorable.
To make your journey smoother and more immersive, having a China eSIM already set up through a provider like Airalo is a game-changer:
- Navigate metro lines instantly upon arrival
- Find the nearest hotpot spot with ease
- Upload skyline photos in real time
- Stay in touch with loved ones effortlessly
With reliable mobile data at your fingertips, every moment from cultural deep dives to spontaneous detours, you feel more connected and authentic.
