Things To Do
in Chongqing
Chongqing, China, is a sprawling megacity in the southwest part of the country, known for its mountainous terrain, foggy weather, and the convergence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous historic sites, and spicy Sichuan cuisine, notably its famous hotpot, which draws food lovers from across the globe.
Additionally, Chongqing serves as an important economic, manufacturing, and transportation hub in China, featuring a unique mix of modern urban development and natural beauty.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Ciqikou Ancient Town, known for its traditional architecture and local snacks. Stroll along the cobbled streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Visit the nearby Chongqing Art Museum to appreciate contemporary Chinese art. Afterward, savor a meal at one of the local eateries offering spicy Sichuan dishes.
Experience the night view of the Yangtze River from the Eling Park lookout. Relax with a cup of tea at a riverside café.
Embark on a morning cruise along the Yangtze River, marveling at the stunning scenery. Learn about the river's importance to local culture.
Enjoy lunch on board while cruising past beautiful landscapes. Visit the company's museum to gain insights into the history of the Yangtze.
Return to the city and enjoy dinner at a renowned hot pot restaurant. Experience the bustling evening market atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with diverse ethnic groups.
- Famous for its spicy cuisine, especially hotpot.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers.
- Developing infrastructure and rapid economic growth.
- Strategic location as a transportation hub for inland China.
- High levels of air pollution and traffic congestion.
- Extreme weather with hot summers and rainy seasons.
- Limited access to international amenities compared to larger coastal cities.
- Cultural differences may pose challenges for foreigners.
- Regional disparities in economic development and living standards.
Best Activities in Chongqing
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Yangtze River from the top of Nanshan Mountain.
Wander through the narrow streets, admire traditional architecture, and sample local street food in this historic area.
Take a relaxing boat ride along the Yangtze River and experience the stunning natural landscapes and historical sites along the way.
Tours
Uncover the best of Chongqing with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Chongqing
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers great views of the city skyline and the Yangtze River.
Known for its old-world charm and scenic views of the Jialing River.
Features beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.
Provides stunning natural landscapes and photo opportunities.
Lies at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, offering picturesque river views.
Food in Chongqing
Chongqing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish consisting of various meats, vegetables, and tofu cooked at the table in a spicy and numbing broth. Head to Haidilao Hot Pot for a popular chain option or try Xiao Tian E Hot Pot for an authentic local experience.
Must-Try!
A fiery and flavorful dish featuring crispy chicken pieces stir-fried with dried red chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, and garlic. Sample this dish at Cai Xiang Yuan or Ma La You Huo Restaurant.
Noodles served in a spicy and sour broth, topped with minced pork, peanuts, and pickled mustard greens. Visit Xiao Wei Yang Hotpot for a popular spot serving delicious Chongqing noodles.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Chongqing better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling area filled with street food stalls offering Chongqing specialties such as skewers, grilled fish, and stinky tofu. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant culinary scene at night.
This historic market is a treasure trove of local snacks and street food. Sample items like Chongqing small noodles, spicy tofu pudding, and glutinous rice balls while taking in the charming surroundings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Chongqing, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with proper titles and observing traditional customs, such as serving them food first at the dining table.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, it is respectful to wear conservative attire that covers the shoulders and knees, as a sign of respecting cultural norms and traditions.
It is customary to maintain a level of decorum in public spaces, such as refraining from loud behavior and being mindful of personal space, as a way of showing consideration for others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Chongqing with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Chongqing
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Chongqing, China. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Cash is still widely used for small transactions in Chongqing, but major hotels, restaurants, and stores in tourist areas often accept credit cards. Mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also prevalent and widely accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Chongqing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Chongqing as the weather is mild and the city is adorned with cherry blossoms.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain, but also vibrant nightlife and summer festivals.
Enjoy clear skies, moderate temperatures, and colorful foliage, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect chilly temperatures with occasional fog, but also fewer crowds and the chance to experience traditional Chinese New Year celebrations.
Chongqing at Night
Hiking in Chongqing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering stunning views of the Chongqing skyline and lush surrounding nature.
Known for its breathtaking karst landscapes, this area offers several hiking trails through unique geological formations.
While primarily known for its historical streets, nearby hiking trails provide a chance to explore the scenic areas around the town.
Located on a forested hill, this area provides pleasant hiking paths with opportunities to visit temple sites.
A large area of natural beauty offering extensive hiking trails through forests and fields, ideal for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Chongqing through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Chongqing by plane.
The main international airport serving Chongqing, located approximately 21 kilometers northeast of the city center.
Located about 270 kilometers west of Chongqing, this major airport serves the capital of Sichuan province and offers numerous international flights.
Approximately 700 kilometers north of Chongqing, this airport is a key hub in Central China, connecting to many domestic and international destinations.
Located approximately 800 kilometers northwest of Chongqing, this airport serves the ancient capital of Xi'an and handles a variety of international flights.
Situated around 1,000 kilometers southwest of Chongqing, it is the largest airport in Yunnan province and connects to various international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Chongqing, comprising over 90% of the population.
An ethnic minority group residing mainly in the mountainous regions of Chongqing.
A significant ethnic minority in Chongqing, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
An ethnic group primarily located in the western regions of Chongqing.
An ethnic minority with a presence in Chongqing, known for their distinctive culture.
Includes a variety of smaller groups such as the Bai, Dong, and others, contributing to the cultural diversity of Chongqing.
The Soul of Chongqing
Discover the essence of Chongqing through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Chongqing, with many local teams and facilities available for both amateur and professional players. The sport enjoys a significant following among the youth.
Football has a large fan base in Chongqing, with community leagues and clubs promoting the sport. The city has its own professional football team, contributing to its popularity.
Table tennis is widely played in Chongqing, both recreationally and competitively. It is a common pastime in schools and community centers throughout the city.
Badminton is popular in Chongqing, with many people participating in both informal games and local competitions. The city has many dedicated badminton courts.
Running has gained popularity in Chongqing, particularly with the rise of various marathons and running clubs, encouraging a healthy lifestyle among residents.
Cycling is a favored activity in Chongqing, thanks to its scenic routes and growing infrastructure for cyclists. Many local events promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chongqing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Chongqing cuisine heavily features meat, many restaurants offer vegetable-based hot pot options and stir-fried vegetable dishes. Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants for a wider selection.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy hot pot with a focus on naturally gluten-free ingredients such as meats, seafood, and vegetables. Communicate dietary needs clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Chongqing with these cultural adventures.
