Hi everyone, Mark here! As a seasoned backpacker with a penchant for Asian adventures, I've explored countless incredible cities, but Chongqing, China, holds a special place in my heart. This sprawling metropolis, the fourth municipality directly under the Central Government, offers a unique blend of modern skyscrapers and ancient history, all nestled amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. Forget the usual tourist traps – I'm here to share my top 10 experiences that will make your Chongqing journey truly unforgettable. Get ready to dive into the heart of this captivating city!
1. Cruise the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers
My adventure started in the heart of Chongqing, right by the Liberation Monument – a landmark that's transitioned from the tallest building to the shortest! From there, I hopped on a Liangjiang Ferry for a short but scenic 5-minute cruise across the rivers. The wait was a little longer than the ride, but the views of the Jialing and Yangtze Rivers merging were absolutely worth it (even if the weather wasn't perfect that day!). This is a must-do for any visitor, offering stunning perspectives of the city skyline and the impressive Raffles City.
2. Explore the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum
Next, I headed to the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum. This four-story museum houses impressive collections spanning various eras. Each floor is dedicated to different themes:
| Floor | Exhibit | Description | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Magnificent Three Gorges | Showcases the grandeur of the Three Gorges area. | Stunning visual displays |
| 2nd | Yuanba Chongqing | Explores ancient Bayu culture. | Provides insights into the region's rich history |
| 3rd | Han Dynasty Art | Features sculptures and artifacts from the Han Dynasty. | Includes the "Wuyang Que," a rare and significant original artifact. |
| 4th | Calligraphy, Paintings & Humanities | Showcases various cultural artifacts and works of art. | A diverse collection that offers a glimpse into Chinese culture. |
3. Wander Down the Picturesque Zhongshan 4th Road
This is where Chongqing's charm truly shines! Zhongshan 4th Road is a beautiful street lined with stunning Republican-style buildings, showcasing a unique blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The grey color scheme and preserved architecture make this a haven for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike. I even found myself snapping pics of the iconic buildings that have become popular spots for social media influencers. The view of the Jialing River Bridge from this location is breathtaking!
4. Step Back in Time at the Zhou Mansion and Tongyuanmen Gate Tower
Visiting the Zhou Mansion, with its statue of Zhou Enlai, was a poignant experience. From there, I explored the Tongyuanmen Gate Tower, a Ming Dynasty structure that led me to the charming Mountain City Trail. This trail is a historical gem, offering a glimpse into Chongqing's past through its well-preserved architecture. I even stumbled upon hidden gems like Council Lane, the French Benevolence Hall, and “Love Alley.”
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5. Witness the Spectacle of the Liziba Light Rail Station
This is arguably one of Chongqing's most iconic spots. The Liziba Light Rail Station is renowned for its light rail line seemingly passing through a residential building. This incredible feat of engineering draws huge crowds – I found myself surrounded by people, all snapping photos of this unique architectural wonder. It definitely lived up to the hype!
6. Explore the Charm of Huangjueya Old Street
Stepping off the beaten path, I discovered Huangjueya Old Street, a 600-meter-long street with over 1000 years of history! Unlike some of the more commercialized areas, Huangjueya Old Street boasts authentic, well-preserved architecture and a slower pace of life. It's the perfect spot to escape the city buzz and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
7. Discover the Humble Beginnings of Sanmao at Her Former Residence
For literature lovers, a visit to the former residence of Sanmao, the renowned Taiwanese writer, is a must. The strong scent of wood at the entrance immediately transported me back in time. The house offers a glimpse into her early life and a quiet reflection on her literary legacy.
8. Seek Blessings at the Baiyun Temple
My spiritual journey led me to the Baiyun Temple, a Taoist temple nestled on a hilltop. The massive ginkgo tree at the entrance was a breathtaking sight, its yellow leaves adding to the temple's serene atmosphere. I explored the Cihang Hall (dedicated to Guanyin Bodhisattva), the Nantianmen Gate, and the Sanqing Palace, each holding a unique significance for different wishes and blessings. I was surprised to find so many young people seeking solace and guidance at the temple.
9. Ride the World's Longest Escalator
The experience of riding the world's longest outdoor escalator is truly unforgettable! This incredible feat of engineering offers panoramic views of the city, making it a unique and exhilarating adventure.
10. Admire the Illuminated Qiansimen Bridge and Hongya Cave
My Chongqing adventure concluded with a stunning nighttime view of the illuminated Qiansimen Bridge and Hongya Cave. Although the weather wasn't ideal, the beauty of the illuminated structures was awe-inspiring. The perspectives from the bridge are simply captivating, particularly the dreamlike view of the stilted buildings of Hongya Cave, although I recommend finding a spot with a lower railing for better photography.
Beyond the Top 10: Chongqing's Culinary Delights
No trip to Chongqing is complete without indulging in its rich culinary scene! I spent a significant amount of time exploring Bayi Road's "delicious street," a haven for food enthusiasts. I highly recommend trying the local brown sugar glutinous rice balls – they're a true taste of Chongqing!
Chongqing is a city that bursts with energy, history, and stunning views. It’s a city that begs to be explored, a city that will surprise and delight you at every turn. If you're planning a trip to Asia, add Chongqing to your list – you won't regret it!
