Beyond the Bling: Authentic Chongqing outside of Jiefangbei

Beyond the Bling: Authentic Chongqing outside of Jiefangbei

As a native of Chongqing, I've seen my hometown transform into a bustling metropolis that captivates visitors with its unique cityscape. Many first-timers flock to Jiefangbei, the heart of our city, with its glittering skyscrapers and vibrant shopping streets. And while Jiefangbei is a sight to behold, I can tell you a secret: to truly experience the soul of Chongqing, you need to venture beyond the central district.

The real Chongqing isn't just about the neon lights; it's about the hills you climb, the rivers that converge, and the unique character of each neighborhood. If you have time to explore, let me share some of my favorite local spots with you, organized by district.

Yuzhong District (The Peninsula)

Yuzhong is the historical heart of Chongqing, and it's where you'll find a blend of the old and the new.

• The famous Liziba Monorail, which passes directly through a residential building—a true marvel of urban engineering that always makes me proud.

• Ci qi kou. For a taste of old Chongqing, wander through the bustling ancient streets of Ci Qi Kou, where you can find traditional snacks and crafts.

• Chaotianmen Square. For an incredible view of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers meeting, head to Chaotianmen Square. If you want to experience the night cruise, here is also where your cruise departs.

Jiangbei District (North of the River)

Across the Jialing River, Jiangbei is the city's modern and trendy hub. This is where I grow up, go to catch up with friends.

• The commercial center of Guanyinqiao is a great place for shopping and dining, but for a more artistic vibe, you should explore the trendy cafes and unique street art in the Tapin area, which is nearby.

• The best location to see the Drone show in my opinion is close to the Opera House in Jiangbei District. If you want more specific location, feel free to DM me.

• River North road is also a great place to view the Hongya cave from the other side of the river. Less crowded, and with the short distance, you can see the whole structure of it.

  

Nanan District (South of the River)

To get a different perspective of the city, take a cable car ride across the Yangtze River—it’s an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views.

• In Nanan, you can visit Laoshancheng, a collection of preserved old buildings on a hill, offering a quiet escape and a glimpse into how our city used to look.

• The mountain of the city is Nanshan, you can find the best city skyline viewing point here. If you are interested in Taosim religion, LaoJundong is a local famous Taosim temple. With some hiking, you can pray to the god of wealth for more success in career or business lol

  

Yubei District (North Chongqing)

Yubei is a sprawling, modern district, but it holds some serene surprises. The Chongqing Garden Expo Park is a massive park where you can wander through beautiful gardens representing different regions. For a trip back in time, I recommend visiting Longxing Ancient Town, a peaceful and well-preserved town with traditional architecture. This district is a bit far from the city center, if you are into nature or have enough time in Chongqing, feel free to check it out.

Jiulongpo District (Nine Dragons Slope)

If you're an art lover, you can't miss Jiulongpo. The Huangjueping Graffiti Street is a testament to the city's creative spirit. The entire street is a vibrant canvas filled with murals and street art, created by students from the nearby Sichuan Fine Arts Institute. It's a fantastic spot for photos and an authentic look at our city's artistic side.

Shapingba District (Sand Slope Dam)

Shapingba is the academic and cultural heart of Chongqing. For a dose of history and nature, visit Gele Mountain—a serene mountain park with historical significance. For a quiet afternoon, locals like me enjoy a peaceful stroll through the scenic Zhaomushan Forest Park.

So, while Jiefangbei will give you a taste of Chongqing's modern energy, these other districts are where you'll find the heart and soul of the mountain city. I hope you'll love exploring them as much as I do.

If you are interested in a authentic Chongqing guided tour, please check out our website: https://www.explorechongqingwithli.com/

Thank you for reading. Hope you all have a wonderful time exploring in China!