Welcome to Chongqing, a bustling megacity located in southwestern China. This city, situated at the confluence of the Jialing and Yangtze rivers, is a hub for commerce, transportation, and culture. With its rich heritage, diverse cuisine, and stunning natural beauty, Chongqing is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring China. In this post, we’ll explore the best attractions and things to do in Chongqing, from exploring ancient temples and shopping at vibrant markets to taking a scenic cruise along the river. So grab a cup of tea or coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into the best of Chongqing!

The 2 Best Stuff To Do In Chongqing

1. Private Chongqing Day Tour to Ciqikou and Three Gorges Museum Plus Shopping District
2. Private Tour Best of Chongqing Including Chongqing Museum

The 2 Best Stuff To Do In Chongqing

1. Private Chongqing Day Tour to Ciqikou and Three Gorges Museum Plus Shopping District

Experience the history and culture of Chongqing on a private guided tour that takes you to some of the city’s top attractions. Start the day with a pick-up from your centrally located Chongqing hotel and head to the Three Gorges Museum to explore relics dating back to the stone age. Learn about China’s role in World War II and its fight against fascism with a visit to historic Ciqikou. Take a cable car ride across the Yangtze River and enjoy a complimentary lunch. Throughout the day, your local guide will provide insight and information about the area. At the end of the tour, enjoy a convenient drop-off back at your hotel.

2. Private Tour Best of Chongqing Including Chongqing Museum

Discover the best of Chongqing with a private tour including top attractions and an expert guide. Choose from a full-day or half-day morning or afternoon tour and explore the buzzing metropolis at your own pace. Take in views of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers from Eling Mountain’s Eling Park and browse interesting cultural and artistic artifacts at the Chongqing Museum. Visit the General Joseph W Stilwell Museum to learn about the important works of this American general and see pandas at the Chongqing Zoo. For those who opt for the full-day tour, there is also a chance to tour the ancient Buddhist temple and monastery at Arhat Temple. Make the most of your time in Chongqing with this customizable private tour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chongqing, China

If you are planning to visit Chongqing, which is one of the biggest and most populous cities in China, you might have a lot of questions. In this blog post, we will try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists about Chongqing to help you better understand the city and prepare for your trip.

1. Where is Chongqing located?

Chongqing is located in southwestern China, at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. It is a municipality with a population of over 30 million people and covers an area of 82,403 square kilometers.

2. What is the best time to visit Chongqing?

The best time to visit Chongqing is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. The summer (June to August) can be very hot and humid, and the winter (December to February) can be chilly and windy.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Chongqing?

Chongqing has many attractions to offer, but some of the must-see ones are:

• The Three Gorges Dam: One of the biggest hydroelectric dams in the world,
• Ciqikou Ancient Town: An old town that dates back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644),
• Hongya Cave: A complex of buildings built on a hillside,
• Yangtze River Cableway: A cable car ride that offers amazing views of the city and river,
• Chongqing Zoo: A zoo that has many rare animals including giant pandas.

4. What is the food like in Chongqing?

Chongqing is famous for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes are:

• Hotpot: A Chinese stew served in a large pot with a variety of meats and vegetables,
• Xiaomian: A spicy noodle dish
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• Liangfen: A cold dish made from jelly noodles,
• Jiaozi: Chinese dumplings,
• Zhongzi: Sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves.

5. What is the transportation like in Chongqing?

Chongqing has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, metros, taxis, and trains. The metro is the most efficient and convenient way to travel around the city, while taxis are also widely available. Buses are cheaper but can be crowded and slow during rush hours.

6. Is Chongqing a safe city for tourists?

Chongqing is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any other big city, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. It’s recommended to avoid walking alone at night in unlit areas and not to carry large amounts of cash or valuable items with you.

7. What is the weather like in Chongqing?

Chongqing has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The summers are hot and humid with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F), while the winters are cool and damp with temperatures ranging between 6°C (43°F) and 11°C (52°F). Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit as they offer mild temperatures and low humidity.

8. What are the local customs and etiquette in Chongqing?

When visiting Chongqing, it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette. Here are a few tips:

• Always greet people with a smile and a nod,
• Be respectful towards the elderly and authority figures,
• Don’t point your finger at people or things,
• Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion,
• Use chopsticks properly and never stick them upright in a bowl of rice,
• Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home or a temple.

9. What are the best shopping areas in Chongqing?

Chongqing is not only famous for its food and scenic spots, but also for its shopping. Some of the best shopping areas in Chongqing are:

• Jiefangbei: A central shopping district that has a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities,
• Guanyinqiao: A commercial area that offers a wide range of products including clothes, electronics, and souvenirs,
• Chaotianmen Market: A large market that sells fresh produce, seafood, and other goods.

10. What are the local specialties of Chongqing?

Chongqing has many local specialties that you should try during your visit. Some of the most popular ones are:

• Chongqing Hotpot: One of the most famous dishes in China, which originated in Chongqing,
• Chongqing Noodles: A spicy noodle dish with a rich and flavorful broth,
• Chongqing Roast Fish: A whole fish that is roasted and seasoned with a variety of spices and chilies,
• Zhongshan Gongshan Mutton: A lamb dish cooked with a variety of herbs and spices.

In summary

Chongqing is a beautiful and fascinating city that has many attractions, delicious food, and a rich culture. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your trip and make the most out of your visit to Chongqing. Don’t forget to try the hotpot and noodles!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chongqing

Chongqing, also known as ‘the mountain city,’ is a mega-city in Southwest China offering an array of experiences for tourists. There is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Regardless of your interests, this city caters to all, whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art-lover, or nature enthusiast. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Chongqing as a tourist. Follow these steps to make the most out of your trip to Chongqing.

1. Visit Ciqikou Old Town

Ciqikou Old Town is a quaint ancient Chinese town with cobbled streets, traditional-style houses, and local street food. Located in the Western suburbs, this is the best place to experience the old Chongqing, which dates back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Don’t forget to try some street food, such as the famous ‘Chongqing Hot Pot.’ You can spend hours strolling through the town’s narrow alleys and browsing through the local shops.

2. Go for a River Cruise

A river cruise is a must-do in Chongqing, as it offers breathtaking views of the city’s high-rise buildings and bridges that are lit up at night. The night-time cruise on the Yangtze River’s Jialing River section offers the best views. You can take either a one-hour or three-hour-long cruise. The three-hour-long cruise will take you further down the river, and you’ll enjoy more of the scenery.

3. Explore the Chongqing Zoo

If you love animals, you must visit the Chongqing Zoo located in the south of the city. The zoo is home to various types of animals, including giant pandas, Siberian tigers, and golden monkeys. You can get up close and personal with the animals and even feed them during designated feeding times. There’s also an aquarium in the zoo where you can see various types of fish and marine animals.

4. Visit Hongyadong Ancient Town

Hongyadong Ancient Town is a great place to spend a few hours wandering around. You can find local shops and restaurants there. The building both inside and out is impressive and is constructed in a traditional Chinese style. You can also catch a great view of the Yangtze River from the top.

5. Eat Local Food

Chongqing is known for its spicy hot pot, a must-try dish when visiting the city. You can find the dish in many restaurants throughout the city. However, Chongqing’s street food is also worth trying. You can find street food markets where you can try local delicacies such as dumplings, steamed buns, and barbecued meat. Don’t forget to try “xiaomian,” a type of Chongqing traditional noodles.

6. Visit The Stilwell Museum

The Stilwell Museum is dedicated to General Joseph W. Stilwell, an American commander who fought during World War II. The museum is located in the former residence of Stilwell and displays his personal belongings, photos, and other artifacts related to his military career.

7. Take a Cable Car Ride

The Chongqing cable car will take you above the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, offering breathtaking views of the city from above. The ride is approximately 30 minutes long each way.

8. Explore the Dazu Rock Carvings

The Dazu Rock Carvings are an intricate artwork that dates back to the Tang Dynasty, and it can take a whole day to explore. Located approximately 100 km from Chongqing, the site features over 50,000 stone carvings and figures, displaying Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist influences. The rock carvings are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

9. Visit the Chongqing Science and Technology Museum

The Chongqing Science and Technology Museum is an interactive museum that’s perfect for families with children. The museum exhibits artifacts related to science, technology, and natural history. You can also find an exciting planetarium and a 4D cinema in the museum.

10. Visit The Wulong Karst National geology Park

The Wulong Karst National Geology Park is located about 150 km from Chongqing. The park features unique karst formations, waterfalls, and natural bridges, making it an excellent place for hiking and nature lovers. It’s also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.In conclusion, Chongqing has so much to offer as a tourist destination. From food to nature to history, this city caters to all types of visitors. By following our guide, you can experience the best that Chongqing has to offer. Don’t forget to pack your camera for capturing the breathtaking views and memories that will last a lifetime.