Chongqing, a sprawling metropolis in southwestern China, is a city of contrasts where ancient traditions meet modern innovation. Known as the “Mountain City” due to its hilly terrain. Chongqing is famous for its hot pot, foggy weather, and stunning landscapes. From bustling urban centers to serene natural wonders, Chongqing offers something for every traveler.
This is a city that captivates with its unique charm, rich culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re exploring ancient towns, savoring spicy cuisine, or marveling at natural wonders, Chongqing promises an unforgettable adventure! Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring this vibrant city.
What you need to travel to Chongqing
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Hotels & Flight Tickets
Recommend Hotels
Fuchen Gaokong Hotel (Chongqing Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street)
Opened: 2020
Renovated: 2025
Number of Rooms: 80
The Fuchen Gaokong Hotel (Chongqing Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street), renovated in 2025, is a great choice for accommodation in Chongqing. Chongqing North Railway Station is just 11km away, so transportation is very convenient. With Chongqing Hongya Cave – Observation Deck, Luohan Si, and Chongqing Changjiang Cableway all within a short distance, there is no shortage of things to do in the area.
Other Hotels in Chongqing:
Trip.com | Expedia
Discounted Air Tickets:
Trip.com | Expedia
Transportation from CKG Airport to Chongqing
Getting from Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) to downtown Chongqing is convenient and offers several transportation options. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best way:
Metro (Recommended)
Take Metro Line 3 (the Airport Line), which connects the airport directly to downtown Chongqing. Key stops include Jiangbei Airport Station, Chongqing North Station, and Lijia Station (near Jiefangbei, the city center). Chongqing’s metro system is efficient and covers most major attractions. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also widely available.
How to Access: Follow signs to the metro station inside the airport terminal. Purchase tickets at the automated machines or use a transportation card.
Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes to reach downtown.
Operating Hours: 6:30 – 22:30
Cost: Around RMB $6-10
Airport Shuttle Bus
Several shuttle bus routes operate from the airport to major areas in downtown Chongqing, such as Jiefangbei, Chaotianmen, and Chongqing North Railway Station.
How to Access: Shuttle bus counters are located in the arrivals hall. Tickets can be purchased on-site.
Travel Time: 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost: RMB $15-25
Taxi
Taxis are available 24/7 outside the airport terminals.
Travel Time: 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Cost: Approximately RMB $50-80 to downtown.
*Having your destination written in Chinese is better to avoid miscommunication.
Ride-Hailing Apps (Didi Chuxing)
Didi Chuxing (China’s equivalent of Uber) is widely used in Chongqing.
How to Access: Download the Didi app and set up payment (international credit cards may not work, so cash or Alipay/WeChat Pay is recommended).
Travel Time: Similar to taxis, around 30-50 minutes.
Cost: Slightly cheaper than taxis, around RMB $40-70
Public Bus
Public buses are available but are less convenient for tourists due to language barriers and multiple stops.
How to Access: Bus stops are located outside the airport terminals.
Travel Time: 60-90 minutes.
Cost: Around RMB $5-10
Weather
Chongqing is known for its foggy and humid climate, so planning will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip!
Spring (March – May)
Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
What to Wear: Light jackets, long sleeves, and an umbrella for rain.
Mild and pleasant, with occasional rain. Spring is one of the best times to visit Chongqing.
Summer (June – August)
Temperature: 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F)
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat!
Hot, humid, and rainy. Chongqing is one of China’s “Three Furnaces” due to its scorching summer heat. Thunderstorms are common.
Autumn (September – November)
Temperature: 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F)
What to Wear: Light sweaters, long sleeves, and comfortable shoes.
Cool and comfortable, with less rain. Autumn, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures, is another great time to visit.
Winter (December – February)
Temperature: 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F)
What to Wear: Warm layers, a coat, and waterproof shoes. Dress in layers to stay warm, as indoor heating is not always available.
Mild but damp and foggy. Snow is rare, but the humidity can make it feel colder than it is.
Key Weather Features
Fog: Chongqing is famous for its fog, especially in winter and early spring. The fog can sometimes disrupt transportation, so check weather updates if you’re traveling.
Rain: The city receives significant rainfall, particularly in the summer. Always carry an umbrella or raincoat.
Heat: Summers can be extremely hot and humid, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Chongqing are during spring (March- May) and autumn (September- November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. These seasons are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions without the extreme heat or cold.
Hongya Cave 洪崖洞
Hongya Cave is a stunning architectural complex built into a cliffside along the Jialing River. This iconic attraction features traditional Bayu-style stilted buildings, vibrant night lights, and 11 floors of shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits. It’s a perfect blend of history and modernity, offering breathtaking views of the river and the city skyline. At night, the illuminated buildings create a magical atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for photography and evening strolls.
Address: 88 Cangbai Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: 11:00 – 23:00
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station and walk for 10 minutes.
Liziba Station 李子坝站
Liziba Station is one of Chongqing’s most famous metro stations, known for its unique design, where the metro train runs directly through a residential building. This architectural marvel has become a viral sensation and a must-see for visitors. The station is part of Chongqing’s light rail system (Line 2), and the sight of the train passing through the building is a fascinating example of how the city adapts to its mountainous terrain.
Address: Liziba Station, Chongqing Rail Transit Line 2, Yuzhong District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: The metro operates from 06:30 to 22:30. The best time to visit is during daylight hours for clear photos.
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 2 to Liziba Station. Exit the station and walk to the viewing platform on the ground level for the best photo opportunity.
Ciqikou Ancient Town 磁器口古镇
Ciqikou is a well-preserved ancient town with a history of over 1,000 years. Known for its traditional architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant local culture, it’s a great place to explore Chongqing’s history. The town is filled with tea houses, handicraft shops, and street food stalls offering local delicacies like spicy noodles and sesame candy. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals, offering a glimpse into the city’s past.
Address: Ciqikou, Shapingba District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: 09:00 – 20:00
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 to Ciqikou Station and walk for 5 minutes.
Jiefangbei 解放碑广场
Jiefangbei, or Liberation Monument, is the heart of Chongqing’s bustling commercial district. Surrounded by luxury malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues, the monument itself is a historic landmark symbolizing the city’s resilience during World War II. The area is a shopping paradise and a nightlife hub, offering a mix of modern amenities and cultural experiences. It’s also a great place to sample local street food and experience Chongqing’s urban energy.
Address: Minzu Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours (Shops and Malls have individual hours)
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Jiefangbei Station.
Eling Park 鹅岭公园
Eling Park is a historic park located on a hilltop in central Chongqing. It offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline, rivers, and bridges. The park features traditional Chinese pavilions, lush gardens, and a viewing tower, making it a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a popular spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy the scenery. The park’s elevated location also makes it a great place for photography.
Address: Eling Street, Yuzhong District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: 06:00 – 22:00
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 to Eling Station and walk for 15 minutes.
Yangtze River Cableway 长江索道
Known as the “Airbus,” the Yangtze River Cableway is one of Chongqing’s most iconic attractions. This cable car offers stunning views of the Yangtze River and the city’s skyline as it glides between the Yuzhong and Nan’an districts. It’s a unique way to experience Chongqing’s mountainous terrain and urban landscape. The cableway is especially popular at sunset and night when the city lights create a mesmerizing view.
Opening Hours: 7:30 – 22:30
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station and walk for 10 minutes.
Dazu Rock Carving 大足石刻
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dazu Rock Carvings are a collection of intricate Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian sculptures dating back to the 9th century. Located about 2 hours from downtown Chongqing, the carvings are spread across multiple sites, with Baodingshan being the most famous. The detailed artwork and religious themes provide a fascinating insight into ancient Chinese culture and spirituality.
Address: Dazu District, Chongqing (about 2 hours from downtown).
Opening Hours: 08:30 – 18:00
How to Get There: Take a bus from Chongqing’s Longtousi Bus Station to Dazu, then a taxi to the site.
Wulong Karst National Geopark 武隆喀斯特国家地质公园
Known for its dramatic karst landscapes, Wulong Karst National Geopark is a natural wonder featuring the Three Natural Bridges, Furong Cave, and other stunning formations. The park’s unique scenery has been featured in films like Transformers: Age of Extinction. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering hiking, sightseeing, and photography opportunities.
Address: Wulong District, Chongqing (about 3 hours from Chongqing downtown).
Opening Hours: 08:30 – 17:00
How to Get There: Take a bus from Chongqing’s Four Seasons Bus Station to Wulong, then a taxi to the park.
Chaotianmen Square 朝天门广场
Located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Chaotianmen Square is a popular spot for river cruises and offers stunning views of the city and waterways. The square is a gateway to Chongqing’s riverfront and a hub for boat tours, including trips to the Three Gorges. It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant vibes.
Address: Chaotianmen, Yuzhong District, Chongqing.
Opening Hours: Open 24 Hours
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 1 to Xiaoshizi Station and walk for 15 minutes.
Xiahao Lane Old Street 下浩里老街
Xiahao Lane Old Street is a historic neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Chongqing’s traditional life and architecture. Nestled along the Yangtze River, this area features narrow alleys, old stone houses, and a mix of local shops and teahouses. It’s a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and a great place to experience Chongqing’s cultural heritage.
The area has been partially restored, blending old-world charm with modern touches. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the area has uneven paths and stairs. Don’t miss the local teahouses and street food stalls.
Address: Xiahao Lane, Nan’an District, Chongqing (near the Yangtze River).
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours, but visiting during the day (09:00 – 18:00) is best to explore the shops and alleys.
How to Get There: Take Metro Line 6 to Shangxinjie Station, then walk about 15-20 minutes to Xiaohouli Old Street.
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