Chongqing, an 8D magical metropolis, offers an experience that feels like ascending to the heavens or descending into the earth. A historic city with 3,000 years of Ba and Yu culture, some say Chongqing’s stories are too rich for anything but film, others say you must immerse yourself deeply to truly experience it, and some say it’s a place where once you arrive, you never want to leave!
By day, Chongqing is bustling with people weaving through its staircases and narrow alleys, where street-side shops tell tales of the mountain city’s history and the life of its old neighborhoods. When night falls, the city, bathed in lights and car streams, exudes a grandeur and prosperity that rivals even Shanghai.
Hongya Cave 
Its true beauty is only fully revealed when night falls, and the moment the brilliant lights come on, it’s destined to capture countless eyes, becoming the focus of attention. Here, known as the real-life “Spirited Away,” the atmosphere is thick with the essence of human life.
Liberation Monument
As one of the oldest commercial districts, the Liberation Monument has witnessed the victory of the War of Resistance and the liberation of Chongqing, serving as one of its landmarks. Here, you’ll find a mature shopping street filled with a plethora of delicious foods and local specialties.
Yangtze River Cableway
The Yangtze River Cableway is not just a means of transportation between the riverbanks but also embodies the sentiment of old Chongqing residents. Known as the “first aerial corridor” on the Yangtze River and the “urban airbus,” riding the cableway allows you to become a true mountain city dweller, crossing the river at a leisurely pace, taking in the scenic beauty on both sides.
Liziba
With the light rail passing through a building, Liziba has become one of the most iconic attractions alongside Hongya Cave. The light rail rushes overhead, disappearing into the building as if entering another world. This unique visual impact has its own charm, serving not only as a transportation hub but also as a witness to the city’s development.
Erchang on Eling
Not far from Liziba lies the former Chongqing Printing Factory No. 2, which once printed 500 billion yuan over four years. Now transformed into a creative park, it became a viral sensation thanks to the movie “Passing Through Your World.” Originally the Central Bank of China’s printing plant during the Republic of China era, it has been renovated to preserve the old factory’s appearance while incorporating contemporary art, making it a favorite among the young and trendy.
Ciqikou
Blending history with modern charm, the ancient alleyways exude allure. As you move deeper into the alley from the main street, the hustle and bustle fades, revealing leisurely chatting elders, children at play, buildings with a history, and cats and dogs stretching lazily… To outsiders, this place breathes the thick air of old Chongqing, while locals find here the ancient memories of their city.
Sky Mirror
Visit the “Sky Mirror” in front of the Agricultural Bank of China at Jiangbei Mouth to check in. The colorful night view of Yuzhong District across the river is reflected symmetrically, creating an intoxicating sight.
Jialing River
By the Jialing River, the shimmering water reflects the lights of Hongya Cave, like a flowing scroll of ink painting. The ancient stilted houses seem like slumbering beauties, quietly leaning against the riverbank, dancing with the water.
The Most Beautiful Human Fireworks
“The affairs of the four directions are nothing but a bowl of human fireworks.” Speaking of fireworks, one cannot overlook Chongqing’s cuisine. Early in the morning, noodle shops along the streets are already packed. For Chongqing people, a day without a bowl of red oil noodles simply lacks energy. The steam from the noodles has already seeped into every corner of the city.
Chongqing’s food culture is all about the spicy and numbing flavors, and locals eat chili with a certain madness. The authentic Chongqing hotpot, with its rich, oily base, is truly intense. After the fiery taste, it feels as if you’ve been immersed in a vat of chili oil, savoring the spicy, numbing, and fragrant flavors, tasting the myriad flavors of life.
Chongqing people prefer small eateries, affectionately known as “fly restaurants,” which are affordable, delicious, and beloved by the locals.
Chongqing’s cuisine not only satisfies the palate but also reflects the relaxed lifestyle of its people. As evening falls, people often head to teahouses to relax, chat, and enjoy the authentic, down-to-earth life that these teahouses, situated by the mountains or rivers, offer.
This is Chongqing!
