Don’t cling to those internet famous attractions, but explore the true soul of Chongqing.
Chongqing, an 8D magical city, its charm lies not in any specific scenic spot, but in its unique urban texture, in the sense of being built in a staggered manner along the mountains, and in the fireworks atmosphere of its everyday life.
You may be on the 1st floor one second and on the 10th floor the next while walking on the road. This wonderful experience is difficult to feel in other cities.
So, instead of recommending specific attractions, it’s better to recommend a gameplay.
Instead of checking in at a glance, it’s better to slow down and feel the pulse of this city.
Let’s talk about the most classic attractions first. They are classic for a reason.
Hongya Cave, the night view is truly stunning, with suspended buildings built along the mountain, layered and brightly lit, just like scenes in Hayao Miyazaki’s animation.
But I was greatly disappointed when I went there during the day. It was just an ordinary commercial street, crowded with people and selling similar things.
So, when going to Hongyadong, you must go at night, and it’s best to observe from afar across the river to appreciate its magnificence.
Ciqikou Ancient Town preserves the traditional Ba Yu culture, with bluestone roads and antique buildings that allow visitors to experience the charm of old Chongqing.
But the commercial atmosphere is also quite strong, with a wide variety of snacks and souvenirs, which need to be carefully screened in order to find truly valuable things.
Liziba Light Rail Station, where the light rail passes through buildings, is considered a unique attraction in Chongqing.
You can go and experience the feeling of the light rail whistling overhead.
However, it’s only a matter of a few seconds, there’s no need to stay too long.
These attractions are considered Chongqing’s “business cards”, and it is still necessary to visit here.
But if you want to gain a deeper understanding of Chongqing, you need to go to some more niche places.
For example, the Erling Second Factory, which used to be a money printing factory, has now become a gathering place for literary and artistic youth, with various cafes, studios, and art exhibitions full of petty bourgeois sentiment.
Here, you can feel another vitality of Chongqing, a modern atmosphere that is different from tradition.
For example, the Shancheng Trail winds up the mountain slope, offering a panoramic view of the entire city and a three-dimensional experience of Chongqing.
Walking on the trail, you will find that the charm of Chongqing lies not in the high-rise buildings, but in the old houses hidden in the streets and alleys, in the stone stairs climbing up the hills, and in the small shops full of life atmosphere.
Eighteen Stairs, once one of the oldest neighborhoods in Chongqing, preserved the most authentic Chongqing lifestyle.
Although it has been demolished and renovated now, some traces of old Chongqing can still be felt.
Monument to the people’s Liberation, the central landmark of Chongqing, is surrounded by a prosperous business district.
You can go shopping and experience the modernization of Chongqing.
Besides these, there are many places worth visiting in Chongqing.
For example, Chaotianmen Wharf, where two rivers converge, exudes a majestic atmosphere; For example, the Chongqing Three Gorges Museum can provide insights into the history and culture of Chongqing; For example, Zhazidong and Baigongguan can commemorate revolutionary martyrs.
Chongqing’s cuisine is also a major highlight.
Hotpot, small noodles, sour and spicy noodles are all must try delicacies.
Moreover, Chongqing’s cuisine is not only delicious, but more importantly, the cultural heritage behind it.
For example, hotpot reflects the enthusiastic and generous personality of Chongqing people.
Chongqing is a city that needs to be savored slowly.
Don’t rush to check-in, don’t be fooled by internet famous attractions, slow down and experience their unique charm, only then can you truly appreciate the beauty of Chongqing.
Perhaps on some inconspicuous street corner, you can discover unexpected surprises.
Perhaps it’s a steaming bowl of small noodles in a small shop on the street, perhaps it’s a chance encounter on a mountain trail, or perhaps it’s the warm and friendly smiles of the locals.
These are the true souls of Chongqing.