Top 8 Things to Do in Chongqing

If you're curious about Chongqing, here are eight experiences that will challenge your views of the city. These activities reveal the vibrant spirit, street smarts, and optimistic outlook of the people who call Chongqing home.

All the recommendations in this article come from my personal experience as a tour guide. I focus on easy transportation options (like subway connections), cultural highlights (such as immigration history and diverse food), and tips to help you avoid common pitfalls (like how to navigate queues at popular spots).

Are you ready to explore the wonders of Chongqing?

Peter Pan

20+ Years as a Local Guide in Chongqing

Hi, I'm Peter. Originally an English teacher, my passion for travel led me to become a tour guide. Since then, I've traveled far and wide, leading countless tourists to explore the wonders of the world. I started on Yangtze River cruises and have since led tours abroad. Nowadays, I focus on Chongqing, using my expertise and enthusiasm to showcase the unique allure of this magical mountain city—from the bold flavors of spicy hotpot to the dazzling night views of Hongya Cave. On every journey, I hope to make you feel like an old friend, experiencing the most authentic side of Chongqing.

1. Hongya Cave Night View

Hongya Cave night views

As night falls, the lights from the 11-story buildings shimmer like golden satin across the river. The unique mountain city layout of Chongqing makes every view look like a stunning postcard.

Local Insider Tips:

• Hidden Spot 1: At night, climb the walkway beneath Daijia Alley (戴家巷) next to Hongya Cave and find a cozy bar by the window. Order a Chongqing beer with crushed peanuts, and enjoy the river view while you sip. This is the ultimate way to experience Chongqing’s night scene without the crowds.

Daijia Alley walkway

• Hidden Spot 2: The air-raid shelter connecting Daijia Alley and Hongya Cave serves as a “time tunnel.” It not only helps with the crowds (which average 160,000 visitors daily) but also combines art exhibits, coffee shops, and viewing platforms for a unique experience.
• Light Show Timing: 19:00-22:00 (times change with the seasons: 19:30 in summer, 18:30 in winter)
• Low Traffic Period: After 22:30, when the bar area quiets down, is perfect for capturing peaceful night scenes.

See our 8-Day Chengdu, Jiuzhaigou, and Chongqing Tour.

2. Liziba Light Rail Passing Through Buildings

Liziba

Every morning around 9:30, a light rail train zips by at 30 km/h, passing right through residential buildings. This is Chongqing's unique “three-dimensional transportation” system, which includes light rails, subways, cable cars, and mountain paths.

The buildings that accommodate the light rail are a playful aspect of Chongqing. While residents go about their daily lives, tourists below marvel at the unusual sight.

The light rail’s design ensures it’s completely soundproof and vibration-free for those living nearby. This is true “Chongqing ingenuity.”

Local Insider Tips:

• Best Photo Spot: Cross the river to the Liziba Riverside Walk. Position yourself well, exaggerate your poses, and open your mouth wide to capture a fun shot “swallowing the light rail” as the light rail passes through.

Our 11-Day Yunnan and Chongqing Natural Wonders Tour would lead you to explore Liziba and other highlights in Chongqing and Yunnan.

3. Yangtze River Cableway: A Cloud Walk in the River Breeze

Yangtze River Cableway

As the cable car leaves the platform, the entire mountain city unfolds beneath you. Through the panoramic glass, you’ll see the ancient Yangtze River below and the futuristic Raffles City ahead. The cabin’s 25-degree tilt makes every moment feel like a thrilling ride.

“This isn’t just transportation; it’s like a moving IMAX cinema!”

Local Insider Tips:

• Avoid the Crowds: Ride from the South Bank (Shangxin Street Station) to the North Bank (Xinhua Road Station) between 4-6 PM to avoid most tourists and catch the sunset over Qiansimen Bridge.
• Magic Moments: The first train at 7:30 AM offers dreamy views in the morning mist, while after 8 PM you can enjoy the light show.
• Avoiding Pitfalls: Expect an average wait time of 90 minutes on holidays, but you can check in at Longmenhao while waiting.

4. WFC Observation Deck: The Magical Mountain City Above the Clouds

Aerial views of WFC

At 590 meters high, the glass observation deck offers a breathtaking view of Chongqing. The city looks like a giant sandbox, with light rail trains moving like toys among the skyscrapers. The merging of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers creates a stunning sight.

A client once said, “At Marina Bay, I see the sea level; here, I see - wow, how does that building have a parking lot on the roof?!”

Local Insider Tips:

• Golden Hour Photography: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to capture the moment when the city transforms into a sea of lights. Bring a mini tripod for the best shots.
• Best Time: Weekdays from 5 PM to 6 PM, when tour groups leave and the sunset approaches.

5. Train to Spring: Traveling Along the Cliff Path at Fotu Pass

Light rail gliding through cherry blossoms

As the light rail Line 2 departs from Fotu Pass Station, you’ll find yourself surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms. The view is even more magical than Japan’s cherry blossom trains - because you’re riding along the edge of a cliff!

Start from JiaoChangKou Station and sit on the right side for beautiful riverside views of the Jialing River. After reaching Daping Station, you can explore the cliff path.

Local Insider Tips:

• Cherry Blossom Schedule: The best time to see the blossoms is from 7:20 AM to 8:00 AM in mid-March, when the morning mist is still present. Exit from Gate 5 at Daping Station, walk 200 meters along the Fotu Pass Park path to find a hidden viewing platform.
• Reverse Experience: Take Line 2 towards JiaoChangKou and sit on the left side. You’ll enter a “cherry blossom tunnel” with the Jialing River sparkling amid the flowers.
• Best Time: March 10-25 (dates may vary each year). Weekday mornings are best to avoid crowds.

6. Dazu Rock Carvings: A Thousand-Year Buddhist Kingdom on the Cliff

Thousand-Hand Kwan-Yin in Dazu Rock Carvings

When sunlight hits the cliffs of Baoding Mountain, the carvings come to life. You’ll realize that these aren’t just stone sculptures. They are a rich tapestry of history!

A client once remarked, “The craftsmen used the entire mountain as a canvas to carve Buddhist stories. It’s truly an open-air museum.”

Local Insider Tips:

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Route: Skip the busy Baoding Mountain and visit the North Mountain Rock Carvings first. Here, the Wheel of Dharma Cave hides the “Eastern Venus” - a Bodhisattva whose smile predates the Mona Lisa by 400 years.
• Night Tour Secret: The evening light show brings the rock carvings’ stories to life with stunning laser projections.

7. Tian Sheng San Qiao: Filming in a 200-Million-Year Geological Wonder

The stunning sky hole at Tiansheng Three Bridges (Tian Sheng San Qiao)

Tian Sheng San Qiao is a breathtaking natural photography spot. This karst landscape, formed 200 million years ago, is a paradise for photographers.

5 Must-Visit Locations:

• Under Tianlong Bridge: Stand at the bridge’s base and shoot upwards with a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the stone bridge. You can also take a fun photo mimicking the “Wulong thumbs-up” through the bridge’s hole.
• Qinglong Bridge: When the midday sun shines through the canyon, special holes in the rock walls create beautiful light and shadow effects. Find the perfect spot to pose as if holding a “light knife.”
• Heilong Bridge Underground River: This dark, deep bridge resembles a black dragon. Stand underneath and look up to see the bridge hole leading to the earth’s core. Use long exposure for stunning water shots.
• Tianfu Post Station: Capture the post station’s roof framed by the cliff, or stand by the railing for a heroic shot.
• Sightseeing Elevator: Record a video as the elevator descends, showcasing the journey from the ground to the bottom of the sinkhole.

8. Xiahao Li + Kaibu Ruins Park (开埠遗址公园): Chongqing's Most Artistic Time Tunnel

One Experience, Two Sides of Chongqing. One moment you feel like a “colonial gentleman” at Kaibu Ruins Park, and the next, you’re an “indigenous mountain dweller” at Xiahao Li.

This magical time travel experience can only be found in Chongqing. Visitors often say, “This place has more layers than Clarke Quay. Every step reveals a new surprise.”

Kaibu Ruins Park is usually called a mini 'Asian Civilization Museum'. Here you can enjoy chili craft beer.

Local Insider Tips:

• Best Time: Weekdays from 3 PM to 7 PM to avoid weekend crowds.
• Avoiding Pitfalls: Some stairs in Xiahao Li are steep, so wear non-slip shoes.

Discover Magical Chongqing with China Highlights

From its stunning night views and unique light rail to the rich cultural experiences and mouthwatering cuisine, Chongqing offers a blend of tradition and modernity that captivates every traveler.

Let us guide you through the city's hidden gems and must-see attractions, ensuring you make the most of your adventure. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, contact us now to create memories that will last a lifetime.