When I first touched down in Chongqing, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect—maybe a smaller version of Shanghai or a quieter Chengdu. But this mountain city instantly surprised me with its raw, electric energy. Imagine towering skyscrapers clinging to steep hillsides, monorails weaving through buildings, and hotpot joints on every corner sending up clouds of spicy steam. Compared to the orderly pace of life in Malaysia, Chongqing feels wilder, more chaotic—in the best way. The Chongqing weather leans towards the misty and humid side, adding a moody charm that makes even a simple stroll feel cinematic.
Malaysians will love how easy it is to dive into the local lifestyle here—whether you’re food-hopping for numbing-and-spicy delicacies, soaking in steamy spas, or snapping shots of the dazzling night skyline. Plus, with the favorable exchange rate, your ringgit goes a long way—think indulgent meals, stylish places to stay, and unique experiences that won’t break the bank. Ready to explore the city’s hottest sights, tastes, and vibes? Here's what to do in Chongqing.
1. Marvel at Hongya Cave
The moment I saw Hongya Cave lit up at night, I couldn’t believe it was real. Built into the cliffside and stacked like a Jenga tower of wooden balconies and glowing lanterns, it looked straight out of a Studio Ghibli movie. I wandered the maze-like corridors filled with street food, gift shops, and teahouses—steam rising from spicy skewers and locals singing karaoke on balconies above the river. Magical.
📖 About Hongya Cave
A cliffside complex combining traditional stilt-house architecture with shops, eateries, and river views—one of the most photographed spots in Chongqing.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Sunset to night when the lights come on
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, though elevators are limited
| Hongya Cave | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 – 22:00 |
| 📍 Location | 88 Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District |
| 💰 Ticket Price | Free |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, Exit 6 |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Visit the rooftop for the best photo
- ✔️ Try the grilled squid and stinky tofu
- ✔️ Go on a weekday to avoid heavy crowds
2. Ride the Yangtze River Cableway
Gliding above the Yangtze River in a retro red cable car was an unexpected thrill. Locals use it as daily transport, but for me, it was a front-row seat to Chongqing’s dramatic skyline—towering bridges, boats below, and buildings perched on cliffs. It was short but unforgettable.
📖 About Yangtze River Cableway
An iconic 1,166-meter aerial tramway linking both sides of Chongqing, offering panoramic views of the river and city.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Sunset or early evening
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes! Fun for all ages
| Yangtze River Cableway | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 07:30 – 22:30 |
| 📍 Location | Changjiang Ropeway Station, Xinhua Road |
| 💰 Ticket Price | ¥20 one-way |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Stand near the window for photos
- ✔️ Buy round-trip to avoid the queue
- ✔️ Don’t miss the illuminated skyline after dark
Top Things To do In Chongqing
4 ditempah
3. Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town
Stepping into Ciqikou Ancient Town felt like entering a movie set. Cobbled lanes, red lanterns, and the scent of roasted peanuts and spicy noodles filled the air. I wandered past calligraphy shops, sampled sticky rice cakes, and even watched a sugar artist sculpt animals by hand. It’s touristy, sure—but full of charm.
📖 About Ciqikou
A historic riverside town over 1,000 years old, packed with snacks, handicrafts, and preserved architecture from Ming and Qing dynasties.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Morning on weekdays
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, though bumpy paths may be tricky for strollers
| Ciqikou Ancient Town | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 09:00 – 21:00 |
| 📍 Location | Shapingba District |
| 💰 Ticket Price | Free |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Don’t miss the suanlafen (sour-spicy noodles)
- ✔️ Try hand-brewed local teas in a teahouse
- ✔️ Wear comfy shoes—the stone steps are slippery when wet
Recommended Hotels In Chongqing
4. Sweat It Out at a Local Hotpot Restaurant
Nothing says Chongqing like hotpot—and I learned that the hard (but tasty) way. I sat at a bubbling pot of bright red chili oil, dipping in everything from beef slices to lotus root. Locals around me casually devoured tongue-numbing dishes while I reached for cold drinks and tissues. Painful? A bit. Worth it? 100%.
📖 What Makes This Experience Special?
Chongqing is the spiritual home of spicy hotpot—fiery, flavorful, and unapologetically intense. It’s more than a meal, it’s a rite of passage.
📅 Best Time to Do It:
Dinner
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, but ask for a split pot (spicy + clear broth)
| Local Hotpot Restaurant | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | Most open 11:00 – 00:00 |
| 📍 Location | Try Xiaolongkan, Dezhuang, or Su Da Jie Hotpot |
| 💰 Cost | ¥80–¥150 per person |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Branches across the city; many near Jiefangbei |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Order a mild base if you're not a spice pro
- ✔️ Try dipping meats in sesame oil + garlic for balance
- ✔️ Be ready to sweat—it’s part of the fun
5. Walking at Raffles City Chongqing
The Chongqing Cloud Observation Deck, also known as the Chongqing Raffles City Observation Deck, offers stunning panoramic views of Chongqing. The observation deck provides breathtaking views of Chongqing's skyline, the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, and the city’s dramatic topography. Walking at a height of over two hundred meters is a bit thrilling for the heart 🫀 but you can slowly enjoy the view of the mountain city of Chongqing 🏞 Here, you truly experience the 8D magical charm of the 'foggy mountain city'. For those who are not afraid of heights and seek thrills, you must try this‼️ First-person view overlooking the confluence of the two rivers and the mountain city landscape 👀
📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
This megastructure blends luxury shopping, hotel towers, and the world’s highest horizontal skyscraper—“The Crystal”—above the river.
📅 Best Time to Go:
All day
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, with wide walkways and riverfront views
| Raffles City | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 – 22:00 |
| 📍 Location | Chaotianmen, Yuzhong District |
| 💰 Cost | Free to view outside; tickets needed for skybridge |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Best views are from the opposite riverbank
- ✔️ Visit the rooftop bar at Niccolo Hotel for cocktails + skyline
- ✔️ Bring a tripod for night photos
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6. Hike Through the Wulong Karst Landscape
This place blew my mind. Towering limestone cliffs, lush green valleys, and massive sinkholes made me feel like I’d stepped into a fantasy world. The set of Transformers 4 was filmed here—and I totally see why. The air was clean, the paths well maintained, and the scenery unforgettable.
📖 About Wulong Karst
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring giant sinkholes, stone bridges, and mystical gorges. A dream for nature lovers and photographers.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Spring or autumn
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, with cable cars and rest stops
| Wulong Karst Landscape | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 08:30 – 17:00 |
| 📍 Location | Wulong District (2.5–3 hrs from downtown Chongqing) |
| 💰 Ticket Price | ¥90–¥135 |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Long-distance bus or join a day tour |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Bring snacks—few options inside the park
- ✔️ Wear hiking shoes—some paths are steep
- ✔️ Stay overnight nearby if you want to explore at sunrise
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7. Escape to Eling Park
Need a quiet break from the city buzz? I headed to Eling Park, a hilltop garden with pagodas, koi ponds, and sweeping views of Chongqing’s rivers. Locals were dancing, sipping tea, and playing traditional music under shady trees. It felt like a slice of old-school Chongqing.
📖 About Eling Park
A peaceful hilltop garden offering panoramic views of the city’s river convergence, plus historic architecture and floral gardens.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Morning or late afternoon
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
Yes, great for all ages
| Eling Park | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 07:00 – 22:00 |
| 📍 Location | Yuzhong District |
| 💰 Ticket Price | Free |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 1 to Eling Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Bring a drink and enjoy people-watching
- ✔️ Climb the tower inside for the best 360° view
- ✔️ Great spot for sunrise or sunset
8. Take the World’s Longest Escalator at Liziba Station
Yes, an escalator made the list—and for good reason. At Liziba Station, the monorail literally runs through a building, and there’s a vertical escalator that feels more like a slow-motion thrill ride. TikTok-famous and surprisingly fun.
📖 What Makes This Experience Special?
Liziba’s monorail cutting through a residential block is a quirky Chongqing icon. The station’s steep escalator adds a unique twist to your commute.
📅 Best Time to Do It:
Daytime for clear photos
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Yes!
| Liziba Station | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 06:30 – 23:00 |
| 📍 Location | Yuzhong District |
| 💰 Ticket Price | ¥2–¥5 (included in metro fare) |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 2 to Liziba Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Head to the viewing platform nearby for the train-through-building shot
- ✔️ Don’t go during rush hour
- ✔️ Bring your camera—it’s a great IG moment
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9. Experience Nightlife in 9th Street Bar District
After a long day of exploring, I found myself in Jiu Jie (9th Street)—a neon-drenched bar district full of live music, rooftop lounges, and late-night snacks. I grabbed a beer, found a patio seat with a river view, and listened to local bands cover Mandopop hits. The vibes were laid-back, the drinks were cheap, and the night buzzed with energy.
📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
The heart of Chongqing’s nightlife, 9th Street is where locals and expats unwind—perfect for everything from quiet cocktails to all-night dancing.
📅 Best Time to Go:
9 PM onwards
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly:
No, adults only
| 9th Street Bar | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | Most bars open 18:00 – 02:00 |
| 📍 Location | Jiangbei District |
| 💰 Cost | Free to enter; drinks from ¥40–¥80 |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 6 to Hongtudi Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Go bar-hopping—lots of variety in one spot
- ✔️ Avoid weekends if you dislike big crowds
- ✔️ Order local cocktails infused with Sichuan peppercorn
10. Shop and Snack at Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
Jiefangbei is the Times Square of Chongqing. Flashing screens, shopping malls, luxury boutiques, and endless street snacks—it’s got it all. I browsed for skincare deals, sampled spicy rabbit heads (yes, really), and ended with mango shaved ice from a night market stall. It was chaotic in the best way.
📖 What Makes This Spot Special?
Chongqing’s most famous commercial district, Jiefangbei blends shopping, dining, and people-watching in a buzzing, neon-lit plaza.
📅 Best Time to Visit:
Evening when the lights come on
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Yes!
| Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street | |
| ✅ Opening Hours | 10:00 – 22:00 (varies by store) |
| 📍 Location | Yuzhong District |
| 💰 Cost | Free to enter; shopping/snacks vary |
| 🚇 How to Get There | Metro Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station |
💡 Pro Tips:
- ✔️ Try local snacks like spicy rabbit head or sweet glutinous rice cakes
- ✔️ Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds
- ✔️ Great spot to grab souvenirs before you leave
Explore Chongqing Now!
Chongqing has a way of staying with you—its spicy soul, mountain-meets-city vibe, and raw energy make it one of the most unforgettable places I’ve ever explored. Sure, the hills can leave your legs sore, and the summer heat is no joke, but honestly? It’s all part of the charm. The way this city blends chaos and tradition, with cable cars soaring over rivers and hotpot joints tucked into neon-lit alleys, makes every corner feel like a new discovery. If you’re thinking of going, check out the latest travel promotions for Chongqing—you might just find the perfect deal on flights to Chongqing or score great rates on hotels in Chongqing. Now’s a great time to plan your trip. Hope you get to experience all the bold flavors, wild views, and warm moments this city has to offer. Safe travels, my friend!
FAQs About Visiting Chongqing
What’s the best way to get around Chongqing?
Chongqing is a massive, mountainous city with steep roads and an extensive metro system—taking the metro is the best way to get around! The Chongqing Rail Transit (CRT) is fast, affordable, and well-connected to major attractions. Taxis and Didi (China’s Uber) are widely available but can be expensive due to the city's hilly terrain. If you’re up for a unique experience, take the Yangtze River Cableway for stunning views of the skyline!How much should I budget per day in Chongqing?
Chongqing is surprisingly budget-friendly compared to other major Chinese cities. Here's a rough breakdown: Budget travelers: $25–$40/day (hostels, street food, metro rides). Mid-range travelers: $50–$100/day (3-star hotels, nice restaurants, taxis, and some attractions). Luxury travelers: $150+/day (5-star hotels, private tours, fine dining). To save money, eat at local street food stalls, take the metro instead of taxis, and visit free attractions like Hongya Cave.Is Chongqing safe for tourists?
Absolutely! Chongqing is one of China’s safest cities. Petty crime is rare, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas like Ciqikou Ancient Town and Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street. Solo travelers and female travelers will feel safe, but it's always good to stay aware of your surroundings, especially late at night.What’s the best neighborhood to stay in?
First-time visitors & sightseeing: Jiefangbei (Liberation Square) – Central location with major attractions nearby. For nightlife & foodies: Yangjiaping or Yuzhong District – Plenty of bars, street food, and night markets. For nature lovers & relaxation: Nan’an District – Close to hot springs and river views. For a luxury stay: Guanyinqiao – Upscale area with high-end hotels and shopping malls.What’s the best local food to try?
Mala Hotpot (麻辣火锅) – The city's signature dish, a spicy, numbing hotpot experience. Try it at Qi Qi Hotpot or Da Long Yi. Xiao Mian (小面) – Spicy Chongqing-style noodles, perfect for breakfast. Find it at Zhou’s Noodle House. Jianbing (煎饼) – A crispy pancake stuffed with egg, chili, and scallions—perfect street food. Lazi Ji (辣子鸡) – Spicy fried chicken with chili peppers, a must-try Sichuan dish.What’s a common tourist mistake in Chongqing?
Underestimating the hills! Chongqing is nicknamed the "Mountain City" for a reason—expect lots of walking up and down steep roads. Many visitors also arrive too late to see the pandas at Chongqing Zoo—go before 10 AM when they are most active!What’s the best time to visit Chongqing for good weather & fewer crowds?
The best time to visit Chongqing is March–May and September–November, when the weather is mild and comfortable. If you're looking for cheaper travel, winter (December–February) is your best bet, though it can be foggy and damp. Avoid Golden Week (Oct 1–7) if you don’t like crowds!Do I need cash, or can I use a credit card everywhere?
China is mostly cashless, and Chongqing is no exception. WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, but international credit cards aren’t always accepted in smaller shops and restaurants. Bring some cash (500–1000 RMB) for emergencies and use Bank of China ATMs to withdraw if needed.Is tipping expected in Chongqing?
No, tipping is not common in China. Restaurants, taxis, and hotels do not expect tips, but if you get exceptional service, a small tip (10-20 RMB) for tour guides or hotel staff is appreciated.