HomeTravel to Chongqing: Key Travel Insights

Travel to Chongqing: Key Travel Insights

Live the Chongqing Way: A Local’s Ideal Day Revealed

What are the toilets like in China?

Public restrooms in China often feature squat toilets, especially in rural areas and older buildings. Western-style toilets are common in hotels, airports, and upscale restaurants. It's a good idea to carry tissues and hand sanitizer, as some facilities may not provide them.

Is a visa required to travel to China?

Most travelers do need a Chinese tourist visa (L visa) before entering the country. Check with your local Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest visa requirements, as they may vary depending on your nationality.

Is tap water drinkable in China?

No, tap water in China is not safe to drink unless it is boiled. It's recommended to drink bottled water or use a water purifier. Hotels usually provide boiled or bottled water for guests.

Are VPNs required in China?

Yes, if you want to access websites like Google, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or YouTube, you'll need a VPN (Virtual Private Network), as these are blocked in mainland China. Make sure to install a reliable VPN before arriving.

How much cash can I bring into China without declaring it?

Travelers entering China can bring up to CNY 20,000 or the equivalent of USD 5,000 in foreign currency without a customs declaration. Amounts above this limit must be declared upon arrival.

Is Chongqing spicy food really that spicy?

Yes! Chongqing is famous for its bold and spicy cuisine, especially hotpot. Local dishes often use lots of chili and Sichuan peppercorns. If you're not used to spicy food, let your server know—many restaurants can adjust the spice level.

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Chongqing Experiences | Travel Inspirations

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Pre-info about travelling to Chongqing

  • Generally, we recommend around 3-5 days in Chongqing. Around 3 days in the city and surrounding areas, and around 1-2 days to the scenic spots like Wulong and Fairy Mountain.

  • Also, if your tolerance for spice is not the best, make sure to order least spicy, because the spicy levels in Chongqing is no joke.  

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Touring in Chongqing Like a Local: Must-See Spots

Chongqing Yangtze River Cableway
  • A fairy tale-like nights-cape – Hongya Cave(洪崖洞) is a stunning riverside complex with traditional-style buildings illuminated at night, so it is famous for its night view and dazzling lights. This is one of the must-visit attraction that tourists come to snap a picture.
  • Now, a step back in time to Ciqikou Ancient Town( (磁器口古镇), a well-preserved ancient town with Ming and Qing dynasty architecture. This is a place where you can try local snacks and stroll leisurely through tea houses, craft shops and enjoy the riverfront views.
  • The heart of Chongqing –Jiefangbei CBD (解放碑步行街), surrounded by skyscrapers, and definitely a great place to explore luxury shopping, local brands and street food. You also get to visit the Jiefangbei Monument, symbolizing Chongqing’s wartime resistance. Historical yet modern, what a wonderful combo!
  • The best city view would no doubt be the Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道). This iconic cable car ride offering panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline and the mighty Yangtze River. A must-do to see the city’s unique mountainous landscape from above.
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2

A Foodie’s Guide to Chongqing: Taste the Authentic Flavors

chongqing hotpot
  • The signature dish among all signature dish in Chongqing is none other than the legendary Chongqing Hotpot! The city’s signature dish, featuring spicy, numbing broth with fresh meats and vegetables. No other place in China make hotpot like Chongqing!
  • Next, we have Chongqing Spicy Noodles or Chongqing Xiao Mian (重庆小面), it is a simple but flavourful spicy noodle dish served with scallions, chili oil, and Sichuan pepper. Also a must-eat!
  • Fish lovers or not, you need to try the Chongqing Grilled Fish(重庆烤鱼). It is not your typical dry grilled fish, it is fresh fish grilled and soaked in spicy, flavourful sauces. Strongly recommend that you give it a go!
  • For dessert enthusiasts, Chongqing Bingfen (重庆冰粉) is another iconic dessert. It is a a refreshing local dessert, perfect for cooling down after indulging in spicy Chongqing cuisine. It is made with natural jelly starch with brown sugar syrup, crushed peanuts etc. So people with peanut allergies, BEWARE!

3

Chongqing for All Ages: Unforgettable Family Adventures

Yangtze River Cruise
  • For relaxing family or honeymoon trip, the Yangtze River Cruise (长江游轮) is a top option to cruise along the Yangtze River to see the breathtaking natural landscapes like the famous Three Gorges. This makes it a one-of-a-kind experiences.
  • The Chongqing Zoois another great place to see giant pandas, red pandas, and golden monkeys. Why? It is less crowded than Chengdu’s panda base, and yet you still get to see giant pandas!
  • Ride through “The World’s Craziest Intersection” at Liziba Metro Station, where the train passes through a building.This is definitely a wow factor for both children and adults!
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3

Chongqing’s Most Breathtaking Nature Destinations

Wulong Karst National Park
  • A UNESCO Natural Wonder, the Wulong Karst National Park(武隆喀斯特).This paradise for nature lovers features the famous Three Natural Bridges, caves, and sinkholes. The beauty it possess is out of this world, also a must-go when travelling in Chongqing.
  • Next to Wulong, we have the infamous Fairy Mountain(仙女山), known as the “Oriental Switzerland”. It features rolling grasslands, dense forests, and snow-covered landscapes in winter, making it a perfect year-round destination. Why not take a trip down to see “Switzerland”?
  • The Dazu Rock Carvings(大足石刻), another UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing intricate Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian rock carvings from the 9th to 13th centuries. The most famous carvings are at Baoding Mountain and Beishan Hill.
  • Yet again, a UNESCO site, known as the Jinfo Mountain (金佛山), or known as the Golden Buddha Mountain, famous for its karst landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and stunning seasonal scenery. So, you can explore the mystical caves, lush forests, snowy peaks in winter, and vibrant wildflowers in spring, making it a must-visit spot year-round.
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4

Must-Read Info for Travelling to Chongqing

  • As mentioned, generally we recommend around 3-5 days in Chongqing . 

  • However, it is most definitely that you would not just make the trip and come all the way to China just to stay for 3 to 5 days, so, to make the trip count, we recommend that you take a bullet train to neighbouring cities to explore the surrounding areas such as Chengdu or Zhangjiajie to make the most out of your trip.

  • Below, we have a few suggestions for trips that include visits to other iconic cities.

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