Chongqing (重慶)
Explore 67 spots discovered from 12 YouTube travel videos.
Based on 12 videos
Popular Spots
Hongya Dong
Liziba Station
Ciqikou Old Town
ancient walls of Chongqing
Jiefangbei
most famous sky bridge on earth with glass floors
Chongqing Zoo
Kuixing Building
hot pot party
food street
The Mountain City alley
Jiaochaokou Night Market
Practical tips from creators in Chongqing
Helpful advice mentioned across multiple travel videos
Access internet with a VPN
A VPN is necessary to access banned social media platforms and general websites like Google, Instagram, and Facebook. It is absolutely crucial to install and set up your VPN (e.g., AstrillVPN or Surfshark) before entering China, as these services are also banned within the country. If a VPN stops working, change your IP address location.
Affordable city center housing in Chongqing
Renting a two-bedroom apartment in Chongqing's city center can cost as little as 1,500 RMB ($206) per month, and a one-bedroom can be $120, including all utilities. Chongqing is considered one of the most livable and affordable big cities in the world.
Always carry your passport
It is a legal requirement to carry your passport at all times in China, as it's needed for various bookings and transport. Photocopies are not accepted.
Avoid cheap hot pot buffets in Chongqing
Be cautious of very cheap hot pot buffets, as the meat quality might be poor and taste artificial due to being mixed with flour or water. It's recommended to choose slightly more expensive places for an authentic experience.
Be cautious with unfamiliar colorful street "fruits"
Some brightly colored fruits sold by street vendors may be artificial, dyed, and sweetened, and potentially unsafe to eat, despite appearing natural.
Beware of crowds and pushing in Hongya Dong
Be cautious in crowded tourist areas like Hongya Dong, especially when using elevators or moving through narrow spaces, as people may push aggressively without waiting their turn.
Bikes not suitable for Chongqing's hilly terrain
Unlike other cities in China, bicycle sharing is not common in Chongqing due to the city's extremely hilly landscape, making it challenging and potentially dangerous to bike uphill.
Book train tickets in advance in China
Train tickets in China, especially for popular routes and during holidays, sell out quickly and can be cancelled. It's crucial to book well in advance (at least 2-3 days before travel) and have alternative plans in case of cancellation.
Book travel with Trip.com
Trip.com is the optimal platform for booking attractions, tickets, trains, flights, and hotels in China. As a Chinese-based company, it offers English support and direct access to Chinese services, eliminating the need to navigate Chinese-only websites. While it might be slightly more expensive, it's the most convenient option for English speakers. Be aware that popular attractions like the Forbidden City often require advance booking.
Candied oranges and other fruits
Chongqing is famous for its oranges, which are candied with honey. The creator tried a candied peach on a stick and found it very nice, sweet but not too sweet.
China is safe
China is an incredibly safe country, probably safer than many Western cities. There are many cameras everywhere, but this contributes to a generally safe environment as long as you adhere to local laws.
Choose best travel times
Avoid traveling during Chinese bank holidays and summer holidays (July-August) due to extremely crowded conditions. The ideal 'shoulder months' to visit China are May-June and September-October, which offer better weather and fewer tourists.
Creamy yogurt drink in Hongyadong
The popular creamy yogurt drink at Hongyadong is served in an aesthetically pleasing bottle. It's described as thick, slightly sour, sweet, and very creamy, making it a highly recommended local treat.
Experience Chongqing's Spicy Hotpot
Chongqing is known for its extremely spicy hotpot, which is said to have been invented here. Sesame oil is commonly used to combat the spiciness.
Experience authentic Chongqing hot pot
Enjoy hot pot with various meats and vegetables, cooked in a simmering pot with two different broth flavors: a very spicy pepper-filled broth and a milder tomato broth. Be prepared for the intense spiciness that can make your mouth numb.
Experiencing Chongqing Hot Pot
Chongqing hot pot features a very spicy broth, often with red chilies floating on top, and a milder clear vegetable broth. Be cautious with the spicy broth, as it can be extremely hot.
Explore street food in Ciqikou Old Town
Try local street foods like Mahua (fried dough twist, similar to a graham cracker), spicy pork brain stew (pork intestine stew was initially expected), crispy bacon on a stick, and fried tofu with various fillings.
Get travel insurance
Always secure travel insurance before going to China or any country. SafetyWing is recommended for its comprehensive coverage including medical expenses, emergency evacuation, lost luggage, flights home for family emergencies, and continued coverage for visits back home.
Google Maps won't work
Google Maps does not function well in China. Use alternative navigation apps like Apple Maps or Maps.me. Chinese apps such as Baidu Maps are available but are entirely in Chinese.
Handwashing delicates in hotels
In Chongqing, it is a cultural practice for hotels to not wash intimate clothing like underwear to maintain laundry sanitation, thus guests are expected to handwash these items in their sinks.