China Tripos

Chongqing Attractions

6 Must-See Attractions — From World-Class Landmarks to Local Hidden Gems

Hongyadong
LandmarksReservation Required

Hongyadong Hongyadong

Chongqing’s most photogenic scene. You must visit at night—during the day, it’s just ordinary仿古建筑, but once the lights come on at night, that’s when the magic happens. The best spot for photos is in the middle section of the Qiansimen Bridge.

1–1.5 hours (recommended in the evening)Very crowdedFree (reservation only required on holidays and peak periods)
Liziba Metro Through Building
Landmarks

Liziba Light Rail Passing Through a Building Liziba Metro Through Building

A spectacle unique to Chongqing. Don’t just look at it from below—you have to ride Line 2 through the building yourself.

30 minutesCrowdedFree
Ciqikou Ancient Town
Shopping and Markets

Ciqikou Ancient Town Ciqikou Ancient Town

Experience the culture of Old Chongqing’s wharf. For Chen Changyin Twisted Dough Sticks, be sure to visit the flagship store on the back street (15 yuan per jin, freshly fried); prices on the front street are twice as high.

1.5–2 hoursCrowdedFree
Yangtze River Cableway
LandmarksTicket required

Yangtze River Cable Car Yangtze River Cableway

Cross the Yangtze River via cable car—a unique perspective you can only experience in Chongqing.

30 minutes (including wait time)Very crowded20 yuan one-way / 30 yuan round-trip
Shancheng Trail
Landmarks

Mountain City Trail Shancheng Trail

If you can only visit one place to experience old Chongqing, make it the Mountain City Trail. River views from cliffside walkways and teahouses tucked away in air-raid shelters—this is the most authentic side of Chongqing.

1–2 hoursModerateFree
Two Rivers Ferry
LandmarksTicket required

Liangjiang Ferry Two Rivers Ferry

It’s cheaper than the Yangtze River Cable Car (15 yuan vs. 20 yuan), less crowded, and offers a more complete view—you can take in the confluence of the two rivers, Hongyadong, the bridge, and the sunset all at once. Locals say the Xiaodu Ferry is a better value than the cable car.

30–40 minutes (including waiting for the boat)Moderate15 yuan per person