Chongqing. An unassuming, trivialised city in the Land of the Dragons and Emperors.
Formerly a part of the Sichuan province, Chongqing is a major city located in the southwest of China. It is well-known for its Mala hot pot and other spicy dishes. Without further ado, let’s check out the 5 destinations worthy of your visit in Chongqing!
1. Hong Ya Dong
Located by the Jialing River, Hong Ya Dong is an 11-storey complex that clings to a hill. As a re-enactment of the old Chongqing, the architecturally impressive structure was designed to mirror the traditional diaojiaolou (hanging attic), which looks like wooden houses stacked together.
Being the landmark of the area, Hong Ya Dong offers a wide range of souvenir shops, local food stalls, restaurants, and bars. The scenery here is especially captivating at night when the buildings are lit up as it is said to resemble a setting in Spirited Away. Besides exploring the complex, tourists can also take a stroll along the Qianximen Bridge, or even a river cruise.
2. Yuan Bo Yuan (Garden Expo Park)
In need of fresh air? Head over to Yuan Bo Yuan, a huge park with man-made gardens with a mixed of local and international themes. If you are a fan of lakes, greeneries, and slow walks, this is the right place for you! There are eateries and rest houses to accommodate visitors, and if you visit during late winter or spring, you’ll get to witness beautiful cherry and plum blossoms.
3. Ciqikou (Porcelain Village)
Once famous for manufacturing porcelain, Ciqikou is an ancient town situated on the banks of the Jialing River. It comprises narrow and steep stone-paved streets lined with traditional Chinese shop houses selling local street snacks, handicrafts, paintings and gifts. Here, you can also find teahouses and folk opera houses. A step into this cultural compound is like a step into the past! With a variety of things to experience, it is no surprise that Ciqikou is always crowded.
4. Jiefangbei Square
Located at the heart of Chongqing, this vibrant commercial district is Chongqing’s version of New York’s Times Square. Clustered with skyscrapers, prominent designer boutiques, food stalls, international retail outlets, restaurants and bars, the square is definitely a haven for those who love shopping. Get mesmerized by the giant advertisement billboards and LED screens at Jiefangbei Square! Nevertheless, the main catch here is Jiefangbei, a monument tower that was built to commemorate China’s victory in the anti-Japanese war and is situated at the centre of the square.
5. Three Gorges Museum
Built just opposite the Chongqing’s People Hall, this museum mainly displays artifacts discovered during the construction of the Three Gorges dam by the Yangtze River, and holds exhibitions on the history of Chongqing, from the prehistoric era of human civilization to the Japanese occupation. Being one of the largest museums in China, it also features special exhibitions on paintings, sculptures, calligraphy and ceramics.
Rich in its history and heritage, Chongqing is definitely the perfect destination for those who yearn for a relaxing getaway with family and friends.
Image Credit by Jean Lee
