Chongqing, often referred to as the ‘Mountain City’, stands as a dazzling urban jewel on the banks of the Yangtze River. This sprawling metropolis is characterized by its unique topography of hills, rivers, and dense cityscapes. The confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers creates a stunning visual spectacle, with the city’s illuminated skyscrapers reflecting off the water’s surface. Beyond its urban appeal, Chongqing boasts a rich cultural tapestry with attractions like the ancient rock carvings at Dazu and the traditional stilted houses in Ciqikou. As travelers navigate the bustling streets, dine on spicy hotpot, or take a river cruise through the dramatic Three Gorges, they are immersed in the dynamic energy that defines Chongqing as one of the most vibrant destinations in all of China.
Quick facts
– Population: Approximately 30 million (as of 2022, considering the entire Chongqing municipality)
– Area: 82,403 km² (roughly equivalent to the size of Austria or nearly three times the size of Belgium!)
– Language Spoken: Mandarin (Southwestern Mandarin dialect).
Most important spots to visit & how long to stay
– Major touristic sites and activities: Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town, Chongqing Chaotianmen, Wulong Karst Geological Park, Chongqing Zoo, Jiefangbei Square, Chongqing Grand Theatre, Three Gorges Museum.
– Recommended duration for exploration: A minimum of 2 full days is essential to cover the basics.
Where to stay
For luxury travelers, the newly opened InterContinental Raffles City is the best choice, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the horizontal skyscraper, The Crystal, or from the roof-top infinity pool. Other luxury hotels such as The Westin, JW Marriott, Niccolo are also outstanding options.
Unique and exclusive experiences
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Culinary Delights
– Chongqing Hotpot: Spicy broth with a variety of meat and vegetables to be cooked in it.
– Numbing and Spicy Chicken (Ma La Ji): Chicken stir-fried with lots of chili and Sichuan peppercorns.
– Fried Spicy Snails: Snails stir-fried with hot and spicy seasonings.
– Jiangtuan Fish: Often cooked in a spicy broth, a local fish delicacy.
– Spicy Tofu: Soft tofu stir-fried in a fiery, piquant sauce.
Local Tips & Recommendations
– Best modes of transport within the city: Due to the distances between visits, having a car and a driver is almost indispensable in the area.
– Weather: Chongqing has a humid subtropical climate, with short, mild winters experiencing temperatures from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F) and long, hot, humid summers with temperatures between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Spring and autumn are warm and wet, making them popular seasons for visitors seeking to experience the city’s urban scenery and surrounding natural beauty.
A few curiosities most people don’t know about the city
– Known as the “Mountain City,” Chongqing is the only major city in China without a significant bicycling population because of its hilly terrain.
– The city is famous for its hot springs, especially those in the North Hot Spring Park.
– Chongqing was the wartime capital of China during World War II.
– The Dazu Rock Carvings, located near Chongqing, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
– The city is the starting point for the renowned Three Gorges river cruise.
– Chongqing is known as the “Fog City” because it has about 100 foggy days a year.
Final thoughts & conclusion
At the meeting point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Chongqing stands as a monumental testament to China’s inland beauty and urban resilience. Its ‘mountain city’ landscape offers a striking blend of natural ruggedness and metropolitan elegance. Sites like Eling Park provide panoramic city views, while the Dazu Rock Carvings offer historical insight. For travelers, Chongqing isn’t just a bustling megacity; it’s a conclusion to their quest for a place where historic grandeur and natural beauty coalesce in harmonious existence.
