Local Hidden Gems: A Guide to Exploring Chongqing

Chongqing is a city full of charm. Here’s a recommended itinerary for exploring this fascinating destination: Tourist Attractions Day 1: Jiefangbei → Shibati → Shancheng Alley → Baixiangju → Yangtze River Cableway → Longmenhao Old Street → Nanshan Yikeshu - **Jiefangbei**: A landmark of Chongqing surrounded by numerous shopping malls and snack streets offering a variety of local delicacies. Take Metro Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station. - **Shibati**: A place filled with Chongqing’s emotional and nostalgic memories, also a filming location for *I Belonged to You*. It’s within walking distance from Jiefangbei. - **Shancheng Alley**: Experience the authentic old Chongqing with ancient houses and weathered walls. Accessible by walking from Shibati. - **Baixiangju**: Known as the best spot to photograph the Yangtze River Cableway. Take Bus 440 from Shancheng Alley to get there. - **Yangtze River Cableway**: A “city icon” of Chongqing, offering a genuine local experience. The night view from the cableway is stunning. Walk from Baixiangju to the cableway’s north station. - **Longmenhao Old Street**: The best-preserved and largest historical cultural street in Chongqing’s main urban area. Walk from the cableway’s south station to reach it. - **Nanshan Yikeshu**: One of the best spots to enjoy Chongqing’s night views, offering a panoramic view of Yuzhong Peninsula and the two rivers. Take Bus 346 to get there. Day 2: Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum → Chongqing People’s Auditorium → Liziba “Monorail Through Building” → Eling Second Factory/Eling Park → Guanyinqiao Food Street → Chongqing Grand Theater → Qiansimen Bridge → Hongyadong - **Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum**: Houses tens of thousands of artifacts showcasing the city’s history. Free admission with prior reservation via the museum’s WeChat account. Take Metro Line 10 to Dazhongli Station. - **Chongqing People’s Auditorium**: A landmark building of Chongqing. The square is free to visit, while the auditorium charges an 8 RMB entrance fee. Located opposite the Three Gorges Museum, within walking distance. - **Liziba Station**: Take Metro Line 2 to Liziba Station to witness the unique monorail passing through a building. - **Eling Second Factory**: Formerly the Central Bank Mint during the Republic of China era, now transformed into a cultural park perfect for photography. Accessible by taxi. - **Guanyinqiao Food Street**: Offers local and national delicacies. Take Metro Line 1 to Lianglukou Station and transfer to Line 3 to Guanyinqiao Station. - **Chongqing Grand Theater**: Located on the Jiangbei side of Qiansimen Bridge, opposite Hongyadong. A great spot for night views. Take Metro Line 3 to Hongqihegou Station and transfer to Line 6 to Grand Theater Station. - **Qiansimen Bridge**: Walk from the Grand Theater to enjoy views of Chongqing’s two rivers and four shores. - **Hongyadong**: Famous for its stilted buildings and ancient-style commercial area. Its night view resembles the bathhouse in the Japanese anime *Spirited Away*, making it a favorite among tourists. Food Recommendations - **Hotpot**: Chongqing hotpot is renowned for its spicy and flavorful taste. Recommended spots include Zhou Shixiong Chongqing Hotpot and Peijie Old Hotpot. - **Xiaomian (Small Noodles)**: A popular breakfast choice among locals. Try Qin Yun Laotaipo Tan Tan Noodles or Huashi Pea and Minced Pork Noodles for chewy noodles and rich toppings. - **Barbecue**: Jiu Village Grilled Brain and Nanshan Barbecue are great options for grilled brain and skewers with amazing flavors. - **Jianghu Cuisine**: Specialty dishes like Gele Mountain Spicy Chicken and Liziba Liangshan Chicken are worth trying for their unique taste and rich flavors. Accommodation Recommendations - **Near Jiefangbei**: Cloud High-Rise River View Homestay offers convenient access to attractions like Hongyadong and stunning views of the river and city nightscape. Transportation Tips - **Metro**: Chongqing’s metro system covers most attractions and is highly recommended for getting around. - **Bus**: Some bus routes reach areas not covered by the metro, though traffic congestion may occur. - **Taxi/Ride-Hailing**: Convenient and efficient, especially for groups or travelers with luggage.