A Glimpse of Chongqing’s Scenic Wonders

Three Gorges Scenic Area
The Yangtze Three Gorges, a natural masterpiece stretching over 193 kilometers, is one of Chongqing’s most iconic attractions. Comprising Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, this section of the Yangtze River features steep cliffs, lush greenery, and roiling waters. Cruising along the river, visitors can marvel at breathtaking views like the Kuimen Gate – a narrow passage where sheer cliffs rise abruptly from the water, creating a spectacular natural gateway. The area is also dotted with historical sites, including ancient plank roads carved into the cliff faces and temples built for river gods.
Fairy Mountain National Forest Park
Tucked away in Wulong District, Fairy Mountain is a summer retreat and winter wonderland. With an average altitude of 1,900 meters, the park boasts vast grasslands, dense forests, and rolling hills. In summer, the cool climate makes it an ideal escape from the heat, while winter transforms the mountain into a snowy paradise with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. The park’s pastoral scenery, dotted with grazing horses and sheep, feels like a slice of the Swiss Alps in southwest China.
Unique Urban Attractions
Ciqikou Ancient Town
A well-preserved ancient town with over 1,000 years of history, Ciqikou lies on the banks of the Jialing River. Its cobblestone streets, wooden stilt houses, and traditional courtyard residences retain the authentic charm of old Chongqing. Wander through the narrow alleys, and you’ll find local snack shops selling spicy tofu pudding, crispy fried twist doughnuts, and fermented bean curd. The town is also famous for its handcrafted porcelain, a tradition that dates back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Hongyadong Scenic Area
Hongyadong is the epitome of Chongqing’s “city built on mountains” feature. This complex of stilt houses follows the mountain’s contour, rising 11 stories high. Inspired by the traditional architecture of the Ba and Yu cultures, it houses restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. The real magic happens at night: when the lights turn on, the entire building glows like a fairy-tale castle, with its reflection shimmering in the Jialing River below. It’s one of the most popular spots for capturing Chongqing’s dreamy skyline.
Two Rivers Night Tour
To fully appreciate Chongqing’s night view, a cruise along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers is a must. As the boat sails through the city, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks like the Chaotianmen Square – where the two rivers converge, creating a striking contrast between the muddy Yangtze water and the clear Jialing water – and the towering Chongqing Grand Theater. The skyline, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, paints a vivid picture of the city’s modern vitality.
Wulong Karst Tourist Area
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wulong Karst is a geological marvel featuring towering limestone pillars, deep sinkholes, and underground rivers. The Three Natural Bridges are the highlight here: three massive natural stone bridges standing majestically in a valley, formed by millions of years of water erosion. The area gained global fame after serving as a filming location for the movie Transformers: Age of Extinction, drawing fans from all over the world.