Chongqing

Chongqing, a city of over 30 million people in southwest China, sits at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. This mountainous urban center is known for its fiery cuisine, extensive river views, and proximity to the Three Gorges. While in Chongqing, you can examine the ancient Dazu Rock Carvings, take a Yangtze River cruise, savor a steaming hot pot, or gaze out from the horizontal skybridge of Raffles City.

Geography and Climate of Chongqing

Chongqing sprawls across hills and river valleys in southwest China. The city center occupies a peninsula between the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Summers in Chongqing are very warm, with temperatures in August often reaching 38°C (100°F). Winters are mild, with January averaging around 8°C (47°F). The city experiences heavy rainfall and frequent fog, receiving only about 1,000 hours of sunshine annually.

Navigating Chongqing

Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport connects the city to major Chinese and international destinations. Within Chongqing, an extensive metro system helps you navigate the hilly landscape. The city's unique topography has inspired some innovative transport solutions, including a public escalator over 30 stories high that helps residents climb steep streets. For a scenic journey between districts divided by the Yangtze and Jialing, you can take a river ferry.

Chongqing's Local Flavors

Chongqing's cuisine is known for its intense spiciness, with hot pot being the city's signature dish. This communal meal centers around a bubbling pot of spicy broth in which you cook various meats and vegetables. The local version uses beef tallow and contains generous amounts of chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns. Beyond hot pot, try spicy chicken (laziji), dan dan noodles, or Chongqing xiaomian (spicy noodles). You can find these dishes at venues ranging from street stalls to upscale restaurants.

Cruising the Yangtze from Chongqing

Many travelers begin Yangtze River cruises in Chongqing, sailing through the Three Gorges to Yichang. These multi-day journeys pass between cliffs that rise hundreds of meters above the water. You'll see ancient temples, historic towns, and the massive Three Gorges Dam. Cruises typically last 3-4 days and include both onboard activities and shore excursions.

Chongqing's Contemporary Skyline

Chongqing's cityscape has changed rapidly, with numerous skyscrapers now lining the rivers. The Raffles City complex includes eight towers connected by a 300-meter-long "horizontal skyscraper" called the Crystal. This structure contains a public observation deck, restaurants, and a hotel lobby. Another eye-catching building is the Dance of Light tower, which appears to twist as you walk around it. These modern structures stand in contrast to the city's older areas, where apartment buildings densely cover the hillsides.

Exploring Around Chongqing

About 60 km west of central Chongqing, you'll find the Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These carvings, dating from the 7th to 13th centuries, depict Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian themes. At Baodingshan, the most visited site, intricate religious scenes cover a horseshoe-shaped cliff. Closer to the city center, you can visit the Stilwell Museum, located in the former home of American General Joseph Stilwell, who coordinated Allied operations in China during World War II.