Planning your first trip to Chongqing? This Chongqing travel guide highlights the best experiences in China's "Mountain City"—from epic river views to spicy hotpot and ancient culture. Whether you're on a quick stopover or a deep dive into southwest China, here are the top 5 things to do in Chongqing that blend natural beauty, local flavor, and unforgettable sights.
1. Ride the Yangtze River Cableway 🚡
Soar above the mighty Yangtze River on Chongqing's most iconic ride. The Yangtze River Cableway connects the city’s riverbanks with a 1,166-meter aerial journey, offering breathtaking views of Chongqing's dramatic skyline and hilly terrain.
Why Go: Stunning views of both rivers, skyscrapers, and mountains—especially at sunset.
Local Tip: Visit around 5–6 PM for golden hour photography.
What to Bring: Wide-angle lens, light jacket, and some patience (it's popular!).
2. Stroll Through Ciqikou Ancient Town 古镇漫步
Ciqikou is a living museum of old Chongqing. This well-preserved Ming-Qing town is full of narrow lanes, traditional teahouses, handmade crafts, and regional snacks.
Don't Miss: Bamboo carvings, sugar paintings, and street performances.
Must-Try Eats: Spicy dried tofu (麻辣豆干), chili oil noodles, mung bean cake.
Insider Vibe: Catch live Sichuan opera in a teahouse as you sip jasmine tea.
3. Explore Hongya Cave at Night 洪峣洞之夜
By day it's a quirky riverside complex; by night, Hongya Cave becomes a glowing maze of lanterns, restaurants, and souvenir stalls built into a cliffside.
Best Time to Visit: After 7 PM when the lights turn on and the riverside sparkles.
Photo Spot: Head to the pedestrian bridge nearby for epic skyline shots.
4. Devour Authentic Chongqing Hotpot 火锅盛宴
No trip to Chongqing is complete without a bubbling, spicy Chongqing hotpot. Known for its rich mala flavor (numbing and spicy), this local culinary experience is both intense and addictive.
Ordering Tips: Try the classic “yuanyang” pot (鸳鸯锅) with half spicy, half mild broth.
Popular Ingredients: Duck blood, lotus root, tofu skin, beef tripe.
Pro Tip: Order a side of suanmeitang (sour plum tea) to cool your tongue afterward.
5. Visit the Three Gorges Museum 三峡博物馆
Discover the legacy of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges region at this sleek museum located near People’s Square. Learn about the Ba people, ancient shipping culture, and the massive Three Gorges Dam project.
Don’t Miss: Interactive exhibits, bronze artifacts, and miniature dam replicas.
Nearby Bonus: Walk to Jiefangbei for shopping and urban exploration.
🌟 Chongqing Travel Quick Tips
Essential Apps: WeChat, Baidu Maps, Dianping (for food)
Best Time to Visit: March–May & September–November (mild weather)
Getting Around: Use light rail (monorail) for scenic and efficient transit.
📍 Plan Your Chongqing Adventure Today
Make the most of your visit with our expertly crafted 4-Day Chongqing Mountain City Tour. Explore the sights, taste the real hotpot, and uncover the stories behind the skyline.
📍 Book Your Chongqing Tour Now
