Chongqing 重庆
A vertical city on two rivers, with trains through buildings, neon lights and the most famous hotpot in China.
What you will see
- Dazu Rock Carvings. A day trip
Our hotels in Chongqing
Green, pleasant. Blue, cold. Red, hot. Grey, many rainy days. 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration.
Extras to add to your trip
Itineraries that include Chongqing
Metro and bus in Chongqing
Use the Alipay code. The Line 2 monorail that runs through a building is part of the metro. Step by step
What to eat in Chongqing
Allergies or vegetarian? You have cards in Chinese to show at restaurants in the My trip kit.
Questions about Chongqing
How many days do I need in Chongqing, and where should I stay?
Two days shows you the best of it, mostly at night. Stay in Yuzhong, near Jiefangbei, walking distance to Hongyadong and the river. The city is all hills and maps hide the stairs, so a hotel near the metro saves a lot of effort.
When is the best time to visit Chongqing?
March to May and October to November. Summer is one of the hottest in China and winter is grey and misty, though the night lights look great either way.
How do I get from the airport or station to the centre?
From the airport, take metro line 10 and change to line 6 for Xiaoshizi, by Jiefangbei, in about 50 to 60 minutes. A DiDi takes 40 to 60 minutes. Note there are several train stations, and trains to Zhangjiajie leave from Chongqing East.
What should I not miss?
The train through a building at Liziba, line 2, and Hongyadong lit up at night, best seen from a river cruise. The train needs no booking, but book the cruise ahead.
Is Chongqing good with kids?
Yes, it feels like a video game to them. Trains between buildings, the cable car over the Yangtze and streets stacked on many levels. Bring a baby carrier rather than a stroller, as there are lots of stairs. The Three Gorges Museum is free and closed on Mondays.
What should I eat in Chongqing? Is there vegetarian food?
Chongqing hotpot, spicier than Chengdu's. Order a yuānyāng pot, half spicy and half mild, which also works for vegetarians if you pick a mushroom broth. Try xiaomian noodles too.
