What to see, do and eat in China’s mountain megacity

One of the world’s newest megacities is just a short drive from awe-inspiring natural landscapes and ancient historical sites.

Who goes there

Century Cruises, Changjiang Cruises, American-run Victoria Cruises and Yangtze Gold Cruises are the main players. However, you’re probably better off booking through a tour company that combines a cruise with a land tour, such as Abercrombie & Kent, APT, Inspiring Vacations, Trafalgar, or Wendy Wu Tours. Cruises usually take place between Chongqing and Yichang, where the highlight is a huge series of very deep passages dotted with small pavilions and temples.

sail away

You’re only sailing to the northern part of Chongqing, but given its “mountain city” nickname, you can expect a congested urban landscape lined with green mountains. The moving river is spanned by several strong bridges. Near the waterfront, Raffles City Chongqing consists of a group of skyscrapers, four of which are connected by the world’s second-tallest sky bridge, reminiscent of Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands.

docking ceremonies

The ships dock at Chaotianmen Wharf in Yuzhong District, at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Note that in this megacity where traffic is sometimes appalling, the pier is an hour from the airport and at least 40 minutes from the train stations. The dozen docks are also far apart, so make sure you know where your ship is docked or book a transfer. Since there are no facilities, Raffles City Chongqing is the best option for shopping and dining.

Disembark

You can’t call Chongqing a beautiful city, but it has a vibrant and gorgeous environment, so you’re constantly torn between looking at the sights and street life. It is a magnificent showcase of China’s ever-changing development, symbolized by extraordinary buildings such as the riverside performing arts venue Chongqing Grand Theatre. The ancient Luohan Temple contrasts greatly with the surrounding modernity. Although both are touristy, you can enjoy the Ciqikou neighborhood with its Ming Dynasty buildings and Hongya Cave (essentially a giant traditional-style building). Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street is the shopping destination.

Don’t miss

No other place and Chongqing Zoo can win awards, but if you’ve never seen giant pandas – or cute red pandas, for that matter – then here’s your chance. There are more than 20 giant pandas at the zoo, so some of these sleepy creatures will definitely be doing something fun thanks to their enduring silliness. Mornings are best, especially mid-morning feeding time.

Be active

No, don’t. Chongqing’s very steep environment will give you a decently hilly workout, and its immense humidity and trapped pollution won’t allow you to put in more physical exertion. However, there are about 30 kilometers of trails along the Yangtze and Jialing rivers that will give you some flatness and, if you’re lucky, a river breeze.

best bites

If you’ve got an asbestos tongue and a strong stomach, you couldn’t be in a better place for Sichuan cuisine, famous for fiery chillies and numbing peppers. Must-try dishes include dumplings dipped in sweet chili oil, mapo tofu, and dandan noodles. Gongbao chicken is garnished with peanuts and dried chili pieces. The seriously challenged person can tackle a hotspot until their mouth explodes. For a less spicy experience, relax in a tea house: This area is famous for its tea house culture.

further away

Shore excursions won’t take you further afield, as most cruises start and end in Chongqing, but cruises as part of larger tours may. One destination is Heshan, or Black Valley, where boardwalks lead you into a narrow gorge filled with greenery and dotted with waterfalls. Further afield is the World Heritage site of Dazu, where 50,000 well-preserved ancient and brightly painted Buddhist carvings, centered on a giant sleeping Buddha, adorn caves and cliff ledges.