You’ll love the so-called “cyberpunk city” of Chongqing if you’re into futuristic skylines, neon streets, and an overall feel of 2090. Boosting a mix of mountain views, old planet glamour, bullet trains, and stunning skyscrapers, this city has everything you need.
There’s always something to do in there. You’ll love the neon-lit backstreets, festivals in the fall season, or perhaps the local cuisine and natural wonders. The cyberpunk nickname comes from its amazing transformation over the past few decades, making Chongqing look like a city from the future.
Most of these views become reality at night once the cityscape lights up. But then, there are plenty of picturesque things to enjoy during the day, too. Let’s explore some of the best things to give you a cyberpunk feel while in there.
Hongya Cave
This is probably one of the most picturesque attractions in Chongqing. Also known as Hongya Dong, this place is often featured on vacation posters and gives you that unique Spirited Away feel as soon as you get in there. The 11-story complex is located in the heart of the commercial district and gives you plenty to do.
There’s a stunning mix of new and old. During the day, it’s one of the busiest marketplaces in China. At night, it’s neon-lit and transports you to the future. There are all kinds of shops and even hotels to enjoy there.
For example, you’ll appreciate the food market on the fourth floor, where you can have the city’s famous mala spices. If you go all the way to the top, you’ll love the viewing platform, providing the perfect place to take some pictures of the surrounding areas.
Kuixinglou Square
If you’ve done your homework about Chongqing while looking online, you must’ve heard of the Kuixinglou Square. It’s a world on top of another world, simple as that. Basically, this place is famous for a tower with the same name. Once on the 21st floor, you’ll find a different world, starting with the ground floor again.
It sounds hard to describe in words, but yes, there’s another ground floor up there.
The views are likely to give you vertigo if you look down. It’s like a platform between two different worlds. It’s hard to tell that you’re on top of the building, as there’s a whole market to explore. But if you look around you, you’ll mainly see the top floors of other buildings, and that’s what makes it weird. This visually appealing place is a must-visit destination in your itinerary.
Liziba Station
Finding Kuixinglou Square could be a bit tricky, but everyone knows it, so you should be all right. Once you’re there, you might as well explore the Liziba station. In fact, you could use it to get there, so you can take it off your checklist.
Opened in 2005, the station is famous for its location. It’s basically on two floors in the middle of a residential building with 19 stories. The train goes straight through that building. You’re wrong if you think no one lives there. After all, who would like a train to pass by just feet away from the bed?
However, the station uses sophisticated noise reduction equipment to ensure residents living above and below the tracks are fine with it. This thoughtful integration of technology will make your experience even more impressive.
Ciqikou Ancient Town
The Ciqikou ancient town is probably the best way to explore the old Chongqing. Originally known as Longyin Town, this is a must-see attraction in Chongqing, and for some good reasons. You could probably spend half a day there or even more if you stop in every shop.
There are hundreds of small shops and stalls, as well as street food and small restaurants. At times, it feels like going back in time. Then, there are a series of historic sites too, so the place is ideal for photography enthusiasts.
You don’t need to pay for any tickets to get in. Just walk in and start wandering around for hours. Stop for a meal, then do it again. If you like antiques, you’ll find plenty of local shops selling an array of crafts and souvenirs there.
Flying Kiss
The Flying Kiss is a bit of a ride from Chongqing, but it’s reachable by public transportation. It’s one of the most impressive attractions in the world and not just in China. Some people love it, others say it’s ugly. One thing is for sure though, you’ll see some of the best views in China.
The structure consists of two statues of a man and a woman about 170 feet tall. It draws inspiration from a mythical Chinese love story. Each statue holds a deck at the top. Both of them rotate, able to provide a 360 degree view of the area. You’re on one of the tallest mountains in the area, on top of one of the tallest structures around there. Can you imagine how far away you’ll see?
Jiefangbei CBD
Boosting plenty of attractions, lots of luxury shops, a vibrant atmosphere, and China’s unique street life, Jiefangbei CBD is basically the central business district of the city. Look around you, and you’ll see nothing but towering skyscrapers. You will find the iconic People’s Liberation Monument at its center.
Once you’re done with your old town vibe and antique exploration, this place will give you a cyberpunk feel, especially at night, when all the neon lights come to life. Explore the shops during the afternoon, then have something to drink and walk around at night.
Three Gorges Museum
No matter where you go on holiday, there’s always something driving you to find out more about the local lifestyle and its history. Sure, some attractions should never be missed from your checklist, but there’s always something interesting behind the local traditions and culture.
Since you’re in Chongqing, the Three Gorges Museum makes an excellent educational tool. Find out a bit more about the Yangtze River and its culture, not to mention the massive dam in the area. You’ll only need an hour to explore this museum, and if you’ve got kids over, they’ll love the history lesson.
Wulong Karst National Geology Park
You’re wrong if you think the cyberpunk feel is all about futuristic neon lights. Greenery and magic are just as popular. And since you’re in China’s cyberpunk city, you might as well take a break from the asphalt and enjoy a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The park provides access to major attractions, apart from the stunning natural landscapes:
- Three Natural Bridges
- Fairy Mountain
- Furong Cave
- Longshuixia Gap
The Three Natural Bridges have been featured in a Transformers movie.
Now, visiting the whole complex can take days. But if you’re up for the main attractions only, you should be done within a single day.
Chongqing Zoo
How often do you get to see panda bears being clumsy in real life? Exactly! That’s all you can see about them on social media. Well, Chongqing has its own zoo as well and it’s always worth visiting. Even if you don’t have kids, you’ll love to see animals you can normally see on the Internet only.
The zoo covers over 100 acres, so it’s massive. It exhibits some rare animals and it’s part of a conservation and research project.
Some of the rarest animals you can admire include giant pandas, red pandas, South China tigers, and white tigers, not to mention the African elephant. It also features a Dinosaur Valley, which is a hit among kids and adults alike.
Despite being a few miles away from the city center, it’s easy to reach by train.
Ciqikou (Porcelain Port)
Ciqikou is also referred to as the Porcelain Port, mainly because its history dates back to the production of porcelain throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Located close to Chongqing, Ciqikou is also referred to as the Little Chongqing. It’s not just the location but also the vibe.
You may not see it once you get in, but if you climb on top of one of the surrounding hills, you’ll see a dystopian town from 2050 or so. It looks busy, crowded, and covered in fog. Once you get back down, you’ll discover countless shops, tea houses, and unique marketplaces.
Narrow and steep pedestrian alleys are picturesque and excellent for walks. And on top of all these, if you feel tired after a day in Ciqikou and you need some tranquility, head over to the 1,500-year-old Buddhist temple on top of the mountain in the old town.
To Conclude
In conclusion, whether you’re exploring its scenic landscapes or discovering the vibrant city life, Chongqing promises an unforgettable adventure. Just to let you know the images you see here are for illustration purposes only. Thank you for reading.
