Every time you travel to a new destination, it’s an opportunity to learn about different cultures, traditions, food, and ways of living. I’m a travel content writer and I love discovering places that offer more than your typical tourist attractions. I especially enjoy visiting destinations that have a unique character all their own, making them truly memorable. One city that caught my eye is Chongqing, a fascinating destination in southwestern China that boasts a dramatic landscape, modern skyline, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant food culture.

Due to its construction across hills and levels, Chongqing is often called a mountain city. Visitors exploring the city can find steep streets, long stairways, elevated roads, and buildings that create an unusual urban landscape. Chongqing’s mix of old and new architecture also gives it a unique feel that is hard to find elsewhere.

There are many things to discover here, from colorful nite views and riverside scenery to historic streets, impressive landmarks and famous local dishes. Based on my research and travel perspective, I’ll share some of the places and activities that travelers can consider when planning a trip to Chongqing in this guide.

Experience Hongya Cave Lighting

One of the first things I’d put on a Chongqing itinerary is Hongya Cave. The traditional style buildings are especially striking when the area lights up at nite. The lit-up buildings, the river and the bridges in the vicinity make a memorable nighttime scene.

It is also a great place for the travelers who are interested in photography to take pictures of the aura of Chongqing. The juxtaposition of old buildings with the modern city skyline demonstrates how different parts of the city coexist.

Discover Chongqing’s Vertical City

What makes Chongqing different from most other big cities is its bizarre geography. The city is built on hills and at different heights, so the streets, stairs, buildings and transportation can look as if they are at completely different levels.

A good example of this unique urban design is Kuixing Square. A place that seems to be street level may open into another building level much higher than you might expect. As someone who writes about travel, I find this kind of city layout particularly interesting because it is almost like exploring a three-dimensional city.

See the City from Raffles City

Another way to experience panoramic views of Chongqing is to take the Raffles City Skywalk. From the raised walkway you get views over the surrounding buildings and cityscape.

It also offers visitors another glimpse of Chongqing’s impressive architecture. Access arrangements can change so travelers should check current ticket and safety requirements before visiting.

Take an Evening River Cruise

Another experience to add to a trip to Chongqing is an evening cruise on the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. The water offers a different perspective for travelers to enjoy the city’s lit-up skyline.

The cruise may also offer views of large landmarks, bridges and riverside buildings. As a travel writer, these kind of experiences are especially interesting to me because they show how a destination can look so different at different times of day and from different perspectives.

Watch the Train Pass Through a Building

Chongqing is famous for its special transportation and architecture. Liziba Station is a good example. One of the most iconic urban sights in Chongqing is the city’s metro train passing through a building.

There is a viewing area outside the building where visitors can watch the train. It’s an easy stop to add to an itinerary but one that is a memorable experience and great photo opportunity.

Explore Old Streets and Historic Areas

In addition to the modern skyline, Chongqing has several historic neighborhoods worth exploring. Longmenhao Old Street has hillside views, traditional architecture and restaurants and cafes.

Another interesting area is Xiahaoli Old Street where visitors can experience the historic-style buildings and mountain-city architecture. Travelers who explore these neighborhoods will begin to understand the character of the city beyond its modern skyscrapers.

Try Authentic Chongqing Food

A trip to Chongqing is incomplete without sampling its renowned local food. Chongqing is particularly known for its spicy food, such as Chongqing noodles, mala skewers and hotpot.

Food lovers who love sampling local food would find wandering around food areas such as Bayilu Road to be a fun way to experience the everyday dining culture of the city. Visitors not used to spicy food, however, might want to order smaller portions and ask about the spiciness.

Visit Luohan Temple and Shibati

Chongqing also has quieter cultural spots. Luohan Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in the midst of the modern city, a striking juxtaposition of traditional religious architecture and skyscrapers.

Another aspect that characterizes the city’s historic hillside is Shibati, or Eighteen Stairs. Its stairways, alleys and older neighborhoods offer a different experience than Chongqing’s modern commercial districts.

Enjoy Chongqing’s Night Views

The city skyline is especially beautiful after dark. Visitors can look for viewpoints such as the Cloud Eye Observatory, or stroll along riverside areas to see Chongqing lit up at nite.

Special occasions also see the city hold drone shows, but these are subject to weather and current arrangements. It’s a good idea to check local information when planning a show.

Take a Day Trip to Wulong

If you are in Chongqing for a few days, you might consider a day trip to Wulong. The area is characterized by a dramatic transition from the karst landscapes, natural bridges, cliffs and valleys to the dense urban environment.

There are several ways to reach Wulong, by train or by road. For visitors exploring the area, comfortable shoes are recommended as the trip and attractions require a lot of walking and stairs.

Final Thoughts

As a travel content writer, I look at Chongqing not just as a destination for traditional city sightseeing. With its mix of modern skyscrapers, historic streets, mountain views, unusual transportation, river views and unique food, it’s an interesting destination for travelers looking for something different.

You can see most of the city’s sights in a few days, but if you really want to see places like Wulong, it’s worth staying longer. For anyone looking to go to China, Chongqing is a place to look at and add to a wider travel itinerary.