Everything you need to know about visiting the Mountain City
Chongqing, known as the "Mountain City" and "Fog Capital," is one of China's most unique metropolises. Built along the Yangtze River and surrounded by mountains, this sprawling municipality offers visitors a fascinating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern urban development.
With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Chongqing served as China's wartime capital during World War II and has emerged as a vital economic center in Western China. Today, it's famous for its spicy cuisine, dramatic topography, and as the gateway to the spectacular Three Gorges region.
The best time to visit Chongqing is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are mild and rainfall is moderate. Summer (June-August) can be extremely hot and humid, while winter (December-February) is cool and foggy.
Chongqing has an extensive public transportation system including metro lines, buses, and taxis. The metro is the most convenient way to navigate the city center, while taxis are affordable for shorter trips. River ferries offer scenic transportation along the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.
Built into the side of a steep cliff, this 11-story stilt house complex combines traditional Bayu architecture with modern amenities. Featuring restaurants, shops, and stunning night views of the Jialing River, it's one of Chongqing's most iconic landmarks.
Visiting hours: 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM daily
This impressive museum showcases the history, culture, and natural environment of the Three Gorges region. With extensive exhibits on the Three Gorges Dam project and its impact, it provides valuable context for visitors planning to cruise the Yangtze River.
Visiting hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Dating back over 1,700 years, this well-preserved ancient town offers a glimpse into old Chongqing. Wander through narrow alleys lined with traditional wooden buildings, sample local snacks, and visit the Baolun Buddhist Temple.
Visiting hours: Open all day, shops typically open 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 170km from downtown Chongqing, the Wulong Karst features spectacular natural bridges, caves, and gorges. The Three Natural Bridges, Furong Cave, and Houping Tiankeng are must-see attractions in this area.
Visiting hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Chongqing is renowned for its fiery cuisine, particularly its famous hotpot. Here are some must-try dishes during your visit:
The city's signature dish featuring a bubbling pot of spicy broth loaded with Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil. Diners cook various meats, seafood, and vegetables in the broth.
A popular breakfast dish consisting of thin wheat noodles served with spicy sauce, minced meat, and various toppings.
Freshwater fish simmered in a spicy broth with vegetables and Sichuan peppercorns, creating a numbing and spicy flavor.
A refreshing summer dish of cold noodles topped with spicy sauce, sesame paste, cucumber, and peanuts.
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