Exploring Chongqing: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Travel Guide to Chongqing, China

1. Introduction to Chongqing

Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City," is a sprawling metropolis located in southwestern China. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Chongqing is a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. With its dramatic hilly terrain, the city offers breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and is famous for its spicy cuisine, particularly the iconic Chongqing hotpot.

2. Top Attractions

Dazu Rock Carvings

• Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dazu Rock Carvings date back to the 7th century and feature thousands of intricate sculptures and inscriptions carved into limestone cliffs.
• Highlights:
  • The largest and most famous carvings are located at the Baoding Shan site, depicting Buddhist themes and figures.
  • Visitors can explore over 75 sites scattered across the Dazu District, each with unique artistry.
• Tips:
  • Plan to spend a full day exploring, as the area is vast and requires some walking.
  • Early morning visits provide a more serene experience before the crowds arrive.

Ciqikou Ancient Town

• Overview: This ancient town, with its charming streets and traditional architecture, offers a glimpse into Chongqing's past.
• Highlights:
  • Stroll through the narrow alleyways lined with tea houses, shops selling local handicrafts, and street food stalls.
  • Visit the ancient temples and historic residences to learn about the local culture.
• Tips:
  • Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a leisurely exploration.
  • Don’t miss trying local snacks like fried dough twists and rice cakes.

Yangtze River Cruise

• Overview: A cruise along the Yangtze River is a must-do when visiting Chongqing, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline.
• Highlights:
  • Choose between short day cruises or longer multi-day trips that head towards the Three Gorges.
  • Enjoy onboard meals and entertainment while soaking in the beautiful scenery.
• Tips:
  • Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
  • Consider taking a sunset cruise for a magical experience.

3. Local Cuisine

• Chongqing Hotpot:

  • A must-try dish, Chongqing hotpot is characterized by its spicy, numbing broth made from chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns. Diners cook various ingredients, such as meats, vegetables, and tofu, in the bubbling pot.

• Spicy Chicken:

  • Known locally as "La Zi Ji," this dish features diced chicken stir-fried with an abundance of dried red chilies, garlic, and ginger, delivering an intense flavor and heat.

• Xiaomian Noodles:

  • A popular street food, these noodles are served in a spicy, aromatic broth and often topped with scallions, peanuts, and pickled vegetables. They are a hearty and satisfying meal.

4. Practical Tips

Booking Trips using Ctrip and Booking.com

• Ctrip: Ideal for booking local tours, hotels, and train tickets. Use the Chinese version of the app for better options.
• Booking.com: Best for finding accommodations, including hotels and hostels, with user reviews to guide your choices.

Making Payments with Alipay

• Alipay is widely accepted in Chongqing for shopping, dining, and transportation.
• Set up an account linked to a Chinese bank account for seamless transactions.

Using Google Translate for Language Assistance

• Download the app for offline use and consider downloading the Chinese language pack.
• The camera feature can help translate signs and menus by pointing your phone.

Using Didi for Taxi Services

• Didi is the Chinese equivalent of Uber and is a convenient way to get around.
• Download the app, register, and add a payment method. English options are available, making it user-friendly.

Internet Access and VPN Considerations

• Free Wi-Fi is available in many hotels and coffee shops, but access may be restricted to certain websites.
• Consider using a VPN to access blocked services like Google, Facebook, or Instagram while in China.

5. Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Chongqing

• Check into your hotel
• Stroll around Ciqikou Ancient Town
• Enjoy your first Chongqing hotpot dinner

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

• Visit Dazu Rock Carvings (full day trip)
• Return to Chongqing for dinner, sampling Spicy Chicken

Day 3: Yangtze River Adventure

• Morning: Take a Yangtze River cruise (half-day or full-day)
• Afternoon: Explore the city center and visit the People's Liberation Monument
• Dinner at

Note: This image is for illustrative purposes only and may not represent the exact location.