Top 4 City Walks in Chongqing: A Local's Guide

Chongqing is a city where amazing things happen every day. You can see trains going through buildings, cable cars crossing rivers, little noodle shops in cozy alleys, etc.

Walking around is the best way to find surprises in this city. Many visitors find this "walk and look" way more interesting than just visiting traditional tourist spots. It helps them really feel the spirit of Chongqing.

Here are some of my favorite walking routes that show off the charm of this hilly, riverside city, which is also a great place for Instagram photos!

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• 1. From Liziba to Eling Park
• 2. From Tongyuanmen to Shibati
• 3. From Jiefangbei to Hongya Cave
• 4. From Yangtze River Cable Car to Tushan Mountain

1. From Liziba to Eling Park: Feel the Magic of Chongqing's 'Vertical City'

• Itinerary: Liziba - Three-Layer Road - Eling Factory - Eling Park

This walk mixes beautiful views, history, modern art, and nature, giving you a full taste of the "Mountain City."

The Liziba Light Rail is special because it goes right through buildings! You have to see it yourself to believe how cool it is. People often say, "Chongqing is a city full of imagination," and they love taking pictures of the amazing views.

Light rail passing through building

Cross the pedestrian bridge at Liziba, and you'll find the famous Three-Layer Road, which shows off Chongqing's hilly landscape. Along the way, you'll see old buildings from the Republic of China and modern shops, showing a mix of history and daily life.

Next, you'll reach Eling Factory, a creative space made from an old factory. It's a place for young artists, with cool designs and shops. You can explore the old buildings, check out handmade crafts, or relax in a nice café. If time allows, enjoy the beautiful night view of the Mountain City from here.

Eling Factory

Walk down Eling Main Street, and you'll soon arrive at Eling Park. This is one of the oldest private gardens in Chongqing, offering a great view of the city. You can climb the viewing tower to see the beautiful meeting point of the Jialing River and the Yangtze River.

The meeting point of the Jialing River and the Yangtze River

Many people take panoramic photos here, capturing the unique scenery of Chongqing. You can also stroll through the park and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and rivers. If you have time, relax in a tea house in the park.

2. From Tongyuanmen to Shibati: Experience Local Life and Heritage

• Itinerary: Tongyuanmen - Shancheng Alley - Shibati

Tongyuanmen is part of Chongqing's old city wall built during the Ming Dynasty. It's one of the few ancient gates left, telling the story of Chongqing's past. Visiting here lets you learn about the city's history. Walking through the nearby streets, you can feel the local life.

Following the Tongyuanmen city wall will lead you to Shancheng Alley, a charming old neighborhood built on a hillside. As you walk through Shancheng Alley, you'll see unique stilt houses and cobblestone paths.

You can visit old tea houses and craft shops to experience traditional Chongqing life. From higher spots, you can enjoy views of the Yangtze River and the mountains.

Shancheng Alley

After going down the stone steps of Shancheng Alley and crossing a pedestrian underpass, you'll arrive at Shibati. This historic neighborhood used to connect the upper and lower parts of Chongqing.

Now, it has been renovated but still keeps its old charm. Walking in Shibati, you can see old buildings and stone roads. There are tea houses and craft shops to explore, and from high points, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Yangtze River.

Shibati

3. From Jiefangbei to Hongya Cave: A Blend of Urban Energy and Enchanting Night Views

• Itinerary: Jiefangbei - Kuixing Tower - Daijia Alley - Hongya Cave

This walking route shows off Chongqing's modern life, history, and natural beauty. From the busy area of Jiefangbei to the magical Kuixing Tower, the charming Daijia Alley, and the beautiful night views of Hongya Cave, this journey is full of surprises.

Jiefangbei is a well-known landmark in Chongqing, showing the city's growth and history. It's not just a shopping area but also a great starting point to feel the city's energy.

Standing under Jiefangbei, surrounded by tall buildings and busy streets, you'll feel the excitement of the city.

Jiefangbei

Kuixing Tower is about a 15-minute walk from Jiefangbei. Upon arriving at Kuixing Tower, you can easily experience the magical scene where "you think you're on the first floor, but actually you're on the 22nd floor".

You'll be amazed by the view from the sky corridor, where you can see people and cars below like tiny ants - it's a magical sight!

Kuixing Tower

Next, head to Daijia Alley, one of Chongqing's old neighborhoods filled with traditional buildings. The narrow paths and old tea houses create a cozy vibe.

Take your time to enjoy the slower pace of life here, and don't forget to try the famous "Beibu Garden Hot Pot" (北部园老火锅) hidden in the old buildings.

As you walk from Daijia Alley toward the Jialing River, you will find Hongya Cave right beneath your feet. During the day, Hongya Cave is full of local snacks and shops, but at night, it becomes a magical place with stunning views from the river.

The lights turn on at 7 PM and off at 11 PM in summer, and in winter, they turn on at 6 PM and off at 11 PM.

Night view of Hongya Cave

From the right side of Hongya Cave, take the stairs up to Cangbai Road and walk to Qiansimen Bridge. Standing on the bridge with the river breeze, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Jialing River. Qiansimen Bridge is also one of the best spots to see the night view of Hongya Cave.

Qiansimen Bridge

Continue across Qiansimen Bridge to the Jialing River. This is a lovely place for an evening stroll, especially when the river sparkles under the lights. Standing by the water, you can watch the gentle flow of the river, with the reflections of Qiansimen Bridge and Hongya Cave creating a beautiful scene.

Jialing River

4. From Yangtze River Cable Car to Tushan Mountain: Discover Charming Old Neighborhoods

• Itinerary: Yangtze River Cable Car - Longmenhao - Xiahao Lane - Wild Tea Stall in Tushan Mountain

The Yangtze River Cable Car is a famous ride in Chongqing, often called the "sky bus." Starting at Xinhua Road Station, the cabin glides over the river, with rushing water below and the city skyline in the distance. The ride is slow, letting you enjoy the beautiful views.

Yangtze River Cable Car

After about 5-10 minutes, you'll reach the other side. Walk to Longmenhao Old Street, a hillside area with many old buildings. The cobblestone roads and historic houses create a charming atmosphere, with lots of artistic shops, cafes, and restaurants to explore.

Walking here feels like stepping back in time, with lovely views of the Yangtze River.

Longmenhao Old Street

Just a short walk away is Xiahao Lane, another well-preserved old neighborhood that feels very traditional. As you wander through the narrow alleys, you might see locals chatting, playing games, or small stalls selling cold noodles and spicy dishes - this area hasn't been commercialized much.

Xiahao Lane

Finally, make your way back to Dongshuimen Bridge (you can take an elevator to get there) and start climbing the nearby Tushan. The popular Wild Tea Stall is located halfway up Tushan, and from its high spot, you can see the entire Yuzhong Peninsula and Dongshuimen Bridge.

Especially at night, when the city lights come on, the view of the Yangtze River is breathtaking, even more so than the night scene of Hongya Cave. The night view from Wild Tea Stall is the best part of this walk - a true visual treat!

Night view from Tushan

Discover Chongqing with China Highlights

From the stunning views of the Yangtze River to the unique architecture of this "Vertical City," every moment will be unforgettable. Our expertly crafted itineraries ensure you experience the best of local life and heritage, making your trip both enriching and enjoyable.

Book your Chongqing journey with us today and create memories that will last a lifetime!