Chongqing: One of a Kind


Chongqing rarely appears at the top of must-visit lists for China - and that’s a mistake. This vast megacity is one of the most striking and unconventional destinations in the world. Officially, it is a municipality directly administered by the central government, but in scale it feels more like an entire country: its territory is larger than that of many nations, and as of 2025, Chongqing is considered the largest city in the world by area.

Chongqing is a city of contrasts. Skyscrapers rise alongside ancient temples, lush greenery blends with neon lights, and traditional lifestyles coexist with ultra-modern infrastructure. Yet what truly makes the city unique is its architecture.

Built across mountainous terrain, Chongqing seems to exist in multiple dimensions at once. The ground floor of one building may align with the twentieth floor of another, while streets weave into a complex multi-level network. Here, a monorail passes straight through a residential building, and the five-level Huangjuewan interchange stands as one of the most intricate road systems in the world.

What to See

Hongyadong

Hongyadong is one of the most atmospheric spots in Chongqing. This 11-story complex, built прямо into a cliffside, is often referred to as the “Spirit City.” By day, it’s a bustling hub of cafés, shops, and restaurants. But as night falls, it transforms into a glowing maze of lights, drawing visitors into its almost dreamlike setting.

Its design is inspired by traditional architecture from the Ming Dynasty, and once illuminated, it evokes the magical bathhouse scenes from Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away.

For the best view, head to Qiansimen Bridge. Arrive around 6:00 PM to catch the moment the lights switch on - when the entire area seems to shift, and the city reveals a completely different side of itself.

Kuixing Tower

Kuixing Tower is a place that challenges your sense of space. At first glance, it feels like a typical city square: people walking around, cars passing by, cafés open. But once you approach the edge, you realize you’re actually standing about 22 floors above ground, with streets and residential buildings far below.

It’s one of the best spots for photos and a perfect example of Chongqing’s multi-layered urban design.

Liziba Station

Liziba Station has become one of Chongqing’s most iconic landmarks, largely thanks to its viral presence on social media. Here, a monorail train quite literally passes through a residential building - a sight that feels almost surreal the first time you see it.

The station is built into the structure between the 6th and 8th floors, with specially designed technology that keeps noise levels low for the residents.

To experience it yourself, take Metro Line 2 and get off at Liziba Station. Then step outside - that’s where you’ll find the best vantage points to watch the trains glide straight through the building and capture the perfect shot.

Longmenhao

Longmenhao offers a quieter alternative to the busy city center. Once a river port during the Qing Dynasty, it has now been transformed into a charming area with narrow streets, cafés, and artisan shops.

From the hills, you’ll get beautiful views of the Yangtze River and Dongshuimen Bridge, while the relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for a slow walk and a break from the city’s pace.

Jiefangbei

Jiefangbei is the vibrant heart of modern Chongqing. This pedestrian district, surrounded by towering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and countless restaurants, hums with energy from early morning until late at night.

At its center rises the People’s Liberation Monument, built to commemorate China’s victory in the Sino-Japanese War.

As evening falls, Jiefangbei transforms into something almost cinematic. Neon lights flicker to life, glass façades reflect the city’s glow, and the entire area takes on a distinctly cyberpunk atmosphere - a scene that feels futuristic, immersive, and absolutely worth experiencing.

Yangtze River Cableway

The Yangtze River Cableway is far more than just a way to get from one side of the river to the other - it’s an experience in its own right. Suspended above the water, it offers sweeping panoramic views of Chongqing’s dramatic skyline and layered cityscape.

The journey lasts only a few minutes, but the impressions linger far longer. It’s especially magical at sunset, when the city slowly begins to glow, and the first lights reflect across the surface of the river.

Chongqing Zoo

If you’ve never seen pandas in China, this is the place to do it. Chongqing Zoo is one of the best in the country, home to dozens of giant and red pandas.

You’ll also find rare tigers, elephants, monkeys, and many other animals. It’s a great place to slow down and spend time surrounded by nature.

What to Try

Chongqing cuisine is famously among the spiciest in China - so much so that locals are often jokingly said to have “titanium stomachs.” If you’re not ready for that level of heat, it’s best to ask for milder options or request sauces on the side.

The city’s signature dish is hot pot - not just a meal, but a full dining ritual. You choose your broth, pick your ingredients, and cook everything right at the table. It’s as much about the experience as it is about the flavor.

Hot pot restaurants are everywhere in Chongqing, but one popular place to try is Changlong Feiyilao Zihao Hot Pot.

You should also make time for dumplings - delicate parcels filled with everything from pork to shrimp. Dumpling Xi is a great starting point if you want to explore different varieties.

And if you’re unsure where to begin, head to the Park108 shopping center, where a diverse food court brings together cuisines from across the world - perfect for sampling a bit of everything in one place.

Chongqing is a city that resists simple definition. It’s a place where chaos meets order, where the energy of a megacity blends with unexpected moments of calm, and where ancient history coexists with a rapidly evolving future.

Here, every walk turns into an exploration: each turn reveals a new level, a new view, a new perspective. Even the most usual elements of city life feel extraordinary. And that’s exactly why more and more travelers are drawn to Chongqing - for inspiration, for surprise, and for a completely different way of seeing the world.

Mobile data (internet) in Chongqing

When planning a trip to China, it’s important to think about connectivity in advance. Many familiar services are restricted, and public Wi-Fi networks can be unreliable and not always secure. In a dynamic city like Chongqing - where you constantly rely on maps, translators, and navigation through multi-level streets - having stable internet is essential.

That’s why the easiest solution is to set up an eSIM for China from fedafone before your trip. It activates in minutes, works immediately upon arrival, and eliminates the need to search for a local SIM card. With it, you can navigate the city with ease, book restaurants, and stay connected with no stress.