Top 16 Things to Do in Chongqing, China [2025 Guide]

The city of Chongqing in China is seriously something else – this sprawling, hilly city in southwest China isn’t just a stop on a map; it’s a multi-sensory immersion into a landscape where futuristic skyscrapers jostle with ancient alleyways, all draped across a dramatic terrain where two mighty rivers converge. 

Even the famous streamer, IShowSpeed, was blown away when he visited in April this year. For those of you embarking on your maiden voyage to this captivating corner of China, allow me to be your seasoned guide as I share some of the best things to do in Chongqing.

Also read: 10 Destinations in China with Direct Flights from Singapore

1. Witness the cliffside magic of Hongyadong

Hongyadong (or Hongya Cave) is arguably the most famous sight in Chongqing. This isn’t just a building; it’s a breathtaking complex of traditional stilted structures clinging precariously to a cliff face overlooking the Jialing River. 

Its architectural style, known as Diaojiaolou, is a traditional form of stilt house common in the mountainous regions of southwestern China. As you navigate its eleven floors (yes, eleven!), you’ll discover a labyrinth of shops selling local crafts, restaurants serving up mouth-watering cuisine, and teahouses offering tranquil respite. Illuminated at night, it transforms into a golden, multi-tiered spectacle, resembling something straight out of a fantasy film, making it an unforgettable first impression of Chongqing’s unique character.

Fun fact: Hongyadong was inspired by the ancient city gates of Chongqing and was designed to evoke the city’s historical spirit. 

2. Be amazed by the stunning architecture of Liziba Rail Transit Station

I’ll bet everything I have that your mind will be blown when you arrive at the Liziba Rail Transit Station! This isn’t a mere transport hub; it’s a testament to human ingenuity where Line 2 of the Chongqing Rail Transit network performs the seemingly impossible feat of passing directly through a 19-storey residential building above! I’m sure you’ve seen videos on TikTok of this infamous engineering feat! 

Head to the viewing platform for a prime vantage point as the train silently glides through the structure, a surreal spectacle that underscores Chongqing’s innovative spirit, and one of the best things to do in Chongqing. Plus, the sight left IShowSpeed utterly bewildered (you can probably imagine!)

3. Conquer Chongqing’s vertical maze at Kuixing Building

Chongqing’s topography, often playfully dubbed “8D terrain,” is a constant source of amusement and bewilderment. The Kuixing Building Chongqing (also known as Kuixinglou Tower) perfectly exemplifies this vertical labyrinth, both on TikTok and in real life. 

What appears to be ground level on one side can be several storeys up on another due to the city’s dramatic inclines. As IShowSpeed humorously discovered, the entrance at what seems like the first floor actually leads to the 22nd! The tower itself rewards the ascent with panoramic vistas that dramatically showcase the city’s stacked architecture and the intricate network of bridges that connect its various sections. 

It’s an essential stop to truly grasp the sheer scale and utterly unique layout of Chongqing, a city where the concept of a “ground floor” is delightfully fluid. It’s definitely one of the more amusing things to do in Chongqing, that’s for sure! 

4. Glide above the mighty Yangtze on the cableway

For a truly distinctive and slightly nostalgic perspective of the city and its mighty artery, the Yangtze River, a ride on the Chongqing Yangtze River Cableway is an absolute must. 

This aerial tramway, a relic of a bygone era, gracefully traverses the wide expanse of the river, linking the bustling Yuzhong and the developing Nan’an districts. It was originally built in the 1980s and was primarily intended as public transport across the river, offering a faster alternative to ferries. 

As you glide above the bustling waterway, suspended in mid-air, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramas of the urban skyline on either side. If you hop on the cableway at night, you’ll be treated to dazzling illuminations that paint the city after dark, transforming it into a glittering wonderland.

5. Step back in time at the charming Ciqikou Ancient Town

In delightful contrast to Chongqing’s relentless modernity, Ciqikou Ancient Town offers a charming and remarkably well-preserved glimpse into the city’s past. 

Nestled along the banks of the Jialing River, this former bustling riverport boasts narrow, flagstone alleyways echoing with history, traditional wooden houses adorned with intricate carvings, teahouses exuding the fragrant aromas of local brews, and market stalls overflowing with regional crafts and mouth-watering snacks. It’s a sensory immersion into old Chongqing, a place to wander at your own pace, sample local delicacies like Mala Tang (numbing-spicy soup), and soak up a more tranquil rhythm of life.

Fun fact: Ciqikou, meaning “Porcelain Village,” was once a major producer and trading centre for porcelain during the Ming and Qing dynasties. 

6. Feel the buzz at the heart of Jiefangbei

Situated at the very geographical and commercial core of Chongqing’s central business district, Jiefangbei pedestrian street is a pulsating hub of activity. 

Dominating the area is the towering Liberation Monument, a significant landmark originally built to commemorate China’s victory in World War II and its liberation from Japanese occupation. Surrounded by a dazzling array of gleaming skyscrapers housing international brands, department stores, and bustling shopping malls, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, some serious retail therapy, and to feel the energetic, contemporary pulse of Chongqing.

Also read: The Best Scenic Spots for Your Photoshoots in China

7. Treat yourself to a memorable night river cruise on the Jialing River

As twilight gracefully descends upon Chongqing, the city undergoes a spectacular metamorphosis, transforming into a breathtaking canvas of light. Embarking on a night cruise along either the mighty Yangtze or the serene Jialing River provides an unparalleled and truly magical vantage point to witness this dazzling spectacle. 

The reflections of the towering buildings, adorned with intricate light displays, dance on the water, creating a mesmerising and unforgettable scene. IShowSpeed’s experience vividly captured the visual drama of Chongqing after dark, making a river cruise an absolute highlight of any visit.

8. Escape to the tranquil scenery of Eling Park

For a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle, and an exceptional opportunity to capture sweeping panoramic views of the sprawling city and the confluence of the majestic Yangtze and Jialing rivers, a visit to Eling Park is highly recommended. 

This verdant oasis, once the private garden of a wealthy merchant during the Qing Dynasty, offers peaceful pathways for leisurely strolling amidst lush greenery and strategically placed viewpoints that allow you to fully appreciate the intricate tapestry of Chongqing’s unique landscape. 

Fun fact: Eling Park was originally named “Goose Neck Ridge” due to the winding shape of the ridge it occupies.

9. Enjoy the ultimate view of Chongqing at WFC-Huixianlou Observation Deck

For the most expansive and utterly unobstructed panoramic vistas of the Chongqing metropolis, ascend to the WFC-Huixianlou Observation Deck, perched high atop the iconic Chongqing World Financial Centre, one of the tallest skyscrapers in western China. 

Situated hundreds of meters above the city streets, on a clear day, the views stretch seemingly endlessly, offering a profound appreciation for the sheer scale and intricate complexity of this sprawling urban giant. It’s one of the most memorable things to do in Chongqing. 

10. Sail the Yangtze River and uncover the past at the Three Gorges Museum

Chongqing serves as the primary gateway for many travellers embarking on a relaxing and enriching Yangtze River cruise, often a 4-day, 3-night journey. Cruising this legendary waterway, the third-longest in the world, is celebrated as one of the best things to do in Chongqing, offering breathtaking views of the Three Gorges, a region steeped in history and natural beauty. 

Beyond the cruise itself, a visit to the Three Gorges Museum is essential. Its extensive collections and informative exhibits provide a deep and nuanced understanding of the region’s rich history, diverse culture, and the profound impact of the monumental Three Gorges Dam project, one of the world’s largest engineering feats. Whether you choose to cruise or not, the museum offers valuable context to this significant waterway and its surroundings.

11. Brave the fiery flavours of Chongqing cuisine

Chongqing’s culinary scene is globally renowned for its bold, intensely spicy, and often tongue-numbing flavours, with the iconic Chongqing hotpot taking centre stage. While it might present a fiery challenge for the uninitiated, braving a traditional hotpot experience, where you cook your own ingredients in a simmering pot of chilli-laden broth, is a quintessential and unforgettable part of visiting Chongqing. 

Chongqing hotpot is distinguished by the liberal use of Sichuan peppercorns, which create a unique numbing sensation known as mala. Beyond hotpot, the city boasts a diverse array of local dishes, each with its own distinct character and often a significant kick. Even IShowSpeed, despite his initial reservations, bravely ventured into the local gastronomy, resulting in a memorable encounter with spicy ice cream!

12. Dive into the deliciousness of underground food markets

For a truly immersive and often surprisingly affordable culinary adventure, delve into Chongqing’s vibrant underground and less-touristed food markets. These hidden gems offer an authentic taste of local life and a dizzying array of regional snacks. 

For a central, albeit often crowded, option, explore Bayi Road Snack Street in Jiefangbei. For a more local experience, venture into the markets near universities, such as those around Shapingba District, or the bustling markets in older residential areas like Lianglukou. Keep an eye out for must-try dishes like the ubiquitous Chongqing Xiaomian (spicy noodles, each stall with its own secret recipe), the wonderfully chewy and tangy Suanla Fen (sour and spicy glass noodles), the crispy and savoury Guokui (baked flatbreads with various fillings), and an endless variety of skewered and grilled meats and vegetables. Be adventurous, embrace the local lingo (pointing often works!), and prepare for a delicious sensory overload!

13. Journey to the ancient wonders of Dazu Rock Carvings

While requiring a dedicated day trip from the city centre, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dazu Rock Carvings are an absolute must-see in Chongqing for anyone with an appreciation for history, art, and religious expression. 

These incredibly intricate Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian sculptures, painstakingly carved into the cliff faces dating back as far as the 7th century AD, offer a profound and moving insight into ancient religious beliefs, artistic craftsmanship, and the social history of the region.

14. Wander the historic Longmenhao Old Street

Nestled along the Yangtze River, Longmenhao Old Street is a photographer’s dream, offering a captivating blend of history and modernity from various angles and heights. As Chongqing’s best-preserved and largest historical and cultural street, it beautifully embodies port culture, wartime history, and the unique Ba-Yu culture. 

Leaning against the hillside, it boasts over 200 overlapping buildings, including traditional Ba-Yu architecture alongside Western influences like the former Italian and American Embassy sites. Capture stunning photos of these ancient buildings, especially with the grand modern bridges providing a striking backdrop. The street artfully integrates modern art elements with the historic structures, creating a visually engaging experience. 

You can also enjoy fantastic views of Chongqing’s central districts across the Yangtze River from here, feeling a sense of travelling through time and experiencing a fascinating cultural collision.

15. Meet the famous pandas at Chongqing Zoo

For a delightful change of pace and a chance to connect with the animal kingdom, consider a visit to Chongqing Zoo. The zoo has a long history, having been established in the 1950s, and has played a significant role in the conservation of giant pandas. It offers a pleasant escape from the urban environment and is a particularly enjoyable outing for families with children.

While it is indeed home to the beloved giant pandas, a major draw for many visitors, the zoo also houses a diverse collection of other animals, including rare and endangered species. 

16. Explore the natural majesty of Wulong Karst Geology Park

Embark on a worthwhile day trip from Chongqing to discover the breathtaking Wulong Karst Geology Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its awe-inspiring karst landscapes sculpted over millions of years. 

Explore the colossal Three Natural Bridges (Tianlong Bridge, Qinglong Bridge, and Heilong Bridge), towering natural limestone arches that will leave you speechless. Descend into the enchanting Furong Cave, a dazzling underground world filled with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites. And wander through the Tiankeng Three Bridges scenic area, an otherworldly landscape that served as a dramatic filming location for the movie Transformers: Age of Extinction.

Also read: 12 Beautiful Locations in China That Will Blow You Away

Discover Chongqing

Chongqing is a city that truly defies easy definition. It’s a captivating blend of ancient charm and futuristic ambition, where dramatic natural landscapes provide a stunning backdrop to a relentlessly dynamic urban environment. For the first-time traveller, it promises an adventure filled with unique discoveries, unforgettable experiences, and a profound appreciation for the resilience and innovation of this extraordinary metropolis nestled in the heart of China. 

Come prepared to be surprised, delighted, and utterly captivated. Start with these top things to do in Chongqing, and plot your own adventure in China’s futuristic cyberpunk city!