Chongqing City Travel Guide

Temporary capital of China during WWII, Chongqing City was ground zero for final attempts at unifying the Nationalist and Communist parties. Today it is the site of major investments that aim to establish a new tourist destination.

Worth It?: The mix of old and new-with stilted hillside houses contrasting with massive skyscrapers-makes Chongqing an interesting diversion for tourists en route to the Dazu Rock Carvings.
What to Do: explore the historic quarter, visit old houses of former Communist Party leaders, take a cable car over the river.
Best Time to Go: September, October and November are comfortably warm with less rainfall than the summer months.
How Long?: A day or two is enough in Chongqing.
Trivia: Chongqing was also an important headquarters for Allied forces during WWII.

As expected, Chongqing has all the markings of a capital city, from grand government buildings and memorials to first-rate museums. Most of these museums focus on the ultimate success of the Communist Party, though there are institutions like the Three Gorges Museum that focus more on art and culture.

Other stabs at bolstering tourism have included a restoration project in the city's 1,700-year-old historic quarter. This is a satisfying place for a stroll, taking in the classical Chinese architecture and stopping off in a rustic, family-owned restaurant. Cable cars soar over the Jialing and Yangtze rivers for an outstanding view of the city.

Travel to Chongqing City - Getting There

Chongqing Jianbei International Airport is an important regional hub with service to cities across Asia as well as Berlin. The most popular routes are Beijing (2 hours, 10 minutes), Kunming (1 hour), Shanghai (2 hours) and Hong Kong (2 hours, 15 minutes). There are three train stations in the city with service to cities as far-flung as Beijing (25 hours).

Chongqing City Things to Do

Chongqing City Attractions

Luohan Si Arhat Temple

this millennium-old temple is a historic gem that's well worth the visit.

Ciqkour ancient town

this 1,700-year-old city was a major porcelain producer during the Ming Dynasty and has been restored for tourists.

Three Gorges Museum

this cultural institution looks beyond the Cultural Revolution to explore the art and traditions of the Yangtze River basin.

The People's Liberation Monument

this massive monument is the city's most iconic structure and is best viewed at night when illuminated.

Side trips from Chongqing City

Dazu Rock Carvings: most tourists arrive in Chongqing with their sights set on these 1,000 year-old rock carvings.