Chongqing 6-Day Travel Itinerary for Foreigners: Local’s Complete Guide

Everyone’s talking about Chongqing’s 8D magic—trains through buildings, stairs that go to the 10th floor, skyscrapers stacked like Legos. But as a local who’s lived here 30 years (and helped over 150 foreign friends plan trips), I can tell you: the best parts of Chongqing aren’t just the viral spots. It’s the hidden alleys with the best hot pot, the quiet river views at sunset, and the way pandas munch bamboo at the zoo like they own the place.​

Most foreign visitors try to cram too much into 2-3 days and end up exhausted. That’s why I made this 6-day (144h) itinerary—it’s paced so you can actually enjoy each spot, with local restaurant picks (no tourist traps!) and my secret tips to skip crowds. This isn’t just a list of places—it’s how I show my foreign friends around my hometown.

Raffles City Chongqing

1. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 1 – Arrival & Riverside Vibes (Chongqing Travel Itinerary for Foreigners)​

Start time: 2:00 PM (after checking into your hotel—stay near Nanbin Road for easy access to today’s spots).

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Nanbin Road Bell Tower Square (Nanbin Lu Zhonglou Guangchang)​

• Opening hours: 24/7 (free!).​

• Must-see highlight: The red bell tower lights up at dusk, but the real joy is walking along the river. Stand near the railings to get photos of the Yangtze River and Chongqing’s skyline—no crowds here in the afternoon. I brought my friend from Italy here last month, and we stayed an hour just watching ferries go by.​

• Avoid this: Don’t rent electric scooters—they cost ¥30/hour, and the walk is only 20 minutes. Save the money for snacks!​

• Hidden trick: Look for the small stone benches near the fountain—they’re perfect for resting and people-watching.

Afternoon (4:15 PM – 5:45 PM): Hugui Stone Flower Steps Park (Hugui Shi Huajie Gongyuan)​

• Start time: 4:15 PM (5-minute walk from the bell tower).​

• Opening hours: 6 AM – 10 PM (free!).​

• Must-see highlight: The park has stone steps covered in flower beds—pink and purple blooms look amazing in photos. Climb to the top for a better view of the river—last spring, I took my Australian friend here, and we got the best sunset photos.​

• Avoid this: Don’t wear flip-flops—some steps are uneven, and you might slip.​

• Pro tip: Bring a water bottle—it gets hot in the afternoon, and there are no shops inside the park.

Evening (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM): Chongqing Planning Exhibition Hall (Chongqing Guihua Zhanlan Hall)​

• Start time: 6:00 PM (10-minute walk from the park).​

• Opening hours: 9 AM – 7 PM (last entry 6:30 PM); closed Mondays; free entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The 3rd floor has a huge model of Chongqing’s city layout—it’s the best way to understand the 8D streets! There’s also a VR zone where you can “walk” on the Yangtze River Bridge—my 10-year-old nephew loves this, and so do most foreign friends.​

• Avoid this: Don’t skip the 2nd floor exhibit about Chongqing’s history—it’s short but fascinating, with old photos of Nanbin Road.

Dinner (7:45 PM – 9:15 PM): Pipayuan Hot Pot (Pipayuan Huoguo) – “World’s Largest Hot Pot Restaurant”​

• Location: 5-minute taxi from the exhibition hall (¥10).​

• Opening hours: 5 PM – 12 AM.​

• What to order: Mild spicy broth (ask for “qing la” if you can’t handle heat), beef slices, lotus root, and potato starch noodles. The outdoor seats have river views—ask for table 12, it’s my go-to spot.​

• Price: ¥100–120 per person.​

• Personal touch: I ate here with my French friend last year, and she said the hot pot was “the most fun meal she’d ever had”—you cook your own food, and the staff is super friendly if you need help.​

Transition: Day 1 eases you into Chongqing’s vibe with riverside views and hot pot—but Day 2 is when we hit the iconic spots, like Hongyadong and Jiefangbei, with my secret hacks to skip crowds.

Jiefangbei Pedestrian Square

2. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 2 – Iconic Spots & Hidden Alleys​

Start time: 8:30 AM (early to beat tour groups at Jiefangbei).

Morning (8:30 AM – 10:00 AM): Liberation Monument (Jiefangbei)​

• Opening hours: 24/7 (free!); shops open 10 AM.​

• Must-see highlight: Stand on the corner of Minquan Road and Bayi Road—this spot frames the monument with the skyline behind it, no random people in your photo. Grab ¥5 osmanthus tea from the old lady’s stall near the monument—I’ve been buying from her since I was 15.​

• Avoid this: Skip the big chain coffee shops—tea is more local, and cheaper.​

• Hidden trick: Walk 2 minutes to Lane 8 of Minquan Road—there’s a tiny bookstore with English books about Chongqing (¥30 each), perfect souvenirs.

Morning (10:15 AM – 11:15 AM): Luohan Temple (Luohan Si)​

• Start time: 10:15 AM (8-minute walk from Jiefangbei).​

• Opening hours: 8 AM – 6 PM; tickets ¥20.​

• Must-see highlight: It’s a quiet Buddhist temple in the middle of the city—watch monks light incense at 10:30 AM. The main hall has 500 Arhat statues, each with a different face—try to find the one that looks like you!​

• Avoid this: Don’t wear shorts—cover your knees out of respect. The staff will ask you to put on a skirt if you forget (they have free ones at the entrance).

Lunch (11:30 AM – 12:30 PM): Xiao Yang’s Hot Pot (Jiefangbei Branch)​

• Location: 3-minute walk from Luohan Temple.​

• Opening hours: 11 AM – 11 PM.​

• What to order: Spicy beef balls, spinach, and tofu skin. The dipping sauce is sesame oil + garlic + cilantro—mix it well, it’s the key to good hot pot.​

• Price: ¥60–80 per person.​

• Personal touch: I’ve eaten here 50+ times—last month, my friend from Canada spilled broth on her shirt, and the staff gave her a free apron and a wet towel. They’re super helpful with foreigners.

Afternoon (12:45 PM – 5:30 PM): Key Spots (Cathay Art Center → Dongjian Shancheng → Hongyadong → Ferry → Xiahaoli-Longmenhao → Huangge Ancient Road → Laojun Cave → Yangtze Cableway → Shibati → Jiangtan Park)​

Cathay Art Center (Guotai Yishu Zhongxin)​

• Start time: 12:45 PM (10-minute walk from the restaurant).​

• Opening hours: 9 AM – 6 PM; free entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The red, puzzle-like building is Instagram gold—stand across the street for the best photo. I took my friend from Brazil here, and she posted 5 photos in a row!​

• Avoid this: Don’t go inside unless you like modern art—it’s small, and most exhibits are in Chinese.​

Dongjian Shancheng (Dongjian Shancheng)​

• Start time: 1:30 PM (5-minute walk from the art center).​

• Opening hours: 24/7; free entry.​

• Must-see highlight: This hidden alley is pure 8D magic—climb the narrow stairs to the roof for skyline views with no crowds. Locals use this as a shortcut, so you’ll feel like a local too.​

• Avoid this: Don’t bring big bags—the stairs are narrow, and you’ll bump into people.​

Hongyadong (Hongyadong)​

• Start time: 2:15 PM (15-minute walk from Dongjian Shancheng).​

• Opening hours: 10 AM – 11 PM; free for main area (¥30 for observation deck).​

• Must-see highlight: Take the elevator to the 11th floor first, then walk down—you’ll skip the up-stair crowds. Stop at the 8th-floor alley for ¥10 laoyoufen (rice noodles)—it’s way better than the main street food.​

• Avoid this: Skip the observation deck—you get better views from the 11th-floor street.​

Ferry to Danzishi (Danzishi Du)​

• Start time: 3:00 PM (5-minute walk from Hongyadong’s pier).​

• Opening hours: Ferries run every 30 minutes (1:00 PM – 8:00 PM); ¥15 one-way.​

• Must-see highlight: The 30-minute ride gives you close-up views of the Yangtze River Bridge—way cheaper than the cableway. Sit on the upper deck for wind in your hair!​

• Avoid this: Don’t buy snacks on the ferry—they’re overpriced (¥10 for a bottle of water).​

Xiahaoli-Longmenhao (Xiahaoli-Longmenhao)​

• Start time: 3:45 PM (5-minute walk from Danzishi pier).​

• Opening hours: 24/7; free entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The old stone streets feel like a time capsule—try the ¥8 stinky tofu from the stall near the entrance (Chongqing’s version is milder, I promise!).​

• Avoid this: Don’t go into the “ancient costume photo” shops—they charge ¥100 for 5 photos, total scam.​

Huangge Ancient Road (Huangge Gudao) & Laojun Cave (Laojun Dong)​

• Start time: 4:15 PM (10-minute walk from Xiahaoli-Longmenhao).​

• Opening hours: Road is 24/7 (free); Cave is 8 AM – 6 PM (¥25).​

• Must-see highlight: Hike the 20-minute road to Laojun Cave—stop halfway for ¥5 jasmine tea at the small stall. The cave’s top viewpoint has sunset views—I brought my UK friend here, and we stayed until 6 PM watching the sky turn pink.​

• Avoid this: Don’t rush the hike—take your time, it’s not that steep.​

Yangtze Cableway (Yangtze Suodao)​

• Start time: 6:15 PM (10-minute walk from Laojun Cave to Danzishi station).​

• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM; ¥30 one-way.​

• Must-see highlight: Go at 6:15 PM to avoid long lines—you’ll get sunset views from the cable car. My friend from Japan said it felt “like flying over the river.”​

• Avoid this: Don’t buy a round-trip ticket—you don’t need to go back the same way.​

Shibati (Shibati) & Jiangtan Park (Jiangtan Gongyuan)​

• Start time: 7:00 PM (10-minute walk from cableway’s Chaotianmen station).​

• Opening hours: Both 24/7; free.​

• Must-see highlight: Shibati’s lit-up stairs are beautiful at night—grab ¥5 sweet potato soup from the stall, then walk to Jiangtan Park to sit on the grass and watch the river.​

• Avoid this: Don’t stay in Shibati too long—it’s busy with tourists; the park is quieter.​

Dinner (7:45 PM – 8:45 PM): Grandma Wang’s Noodles (Shibati Branch)​

• Location: 3-minute walk from Jiangtan Park.​

• Opening hours: 11 AM – 9 PM.​

• What to order: Hand-pulled beef noodles with chili oil (¥18) + a small bowl of dan dan noodles (¥8). Grandma Wang makes the noodles fresh every morning—they’re chewy, not mushy.​

• Price: ¥20–30 per person.​

• Personal touch: I used to go here after school—Grandma Wang still asks about my foreign visitors, and she’ll give you an extra egg if you tell her I sent you.​

Transition: Day 2 hits all the “must-see” spots but skips the tourist chaos—but Day 3 is when we explore the “3D magic” of Chongqing, like Liziba and the Crown Escalator.

Liziba Subway Station

3. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 3 – 3D City & Local Neighborhoods​

Start time: 8:30 AM (early for Liziba’s viewing platform).

Morning (8:30 AM – 9:30 AM): Kuixing Building (Kuixing Lou)​

• Opening hours: 8 AM – 10 PM; free entry to the sky bridge.​

• Must-see highlight: Walk across the 11th-floor sky bridge—it’s 60 meters high, and you can see streets twist below like a maze. My friend from Japan called it “like a video game come to life.”​

• Avoid this: Don’t go after 10 AM—tour groups show up, and it’s hard to take photos without strangers in the frame.​

• Hidden trick: Go to the 8th-floor lobby—there’s a small café with ¥15 latte and sky bridge views; perfect for a quick break.​

Morning (9:45 AM – 10:45 AM): Liziba Subway Station (Liziba Ditiezhan)​

• Start time: 9:45 AM (take Line 2 to Liziba Station—15 minutes from Kuixing Building).​

• Opening hours: Viewing platform 8 AM – 10 PM (free!); subway runs 6:30 AM – 11 PM.​

• Must-see highlight: Watch the subway pop out of the residential building—stand on the left side of the platform for the best photo. Last summer, I brought my Korean friend here, and she filmed 10 trains in a row because she couldn’t believe it.​

• Avoid this: Don’t take photos from inside the subway—windows are dirty, and you’ll block other passengers trying to get off.​

Lunch (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Street Food at Liziba Snack Alley​

• Location: 2-minute walk from the viewing platform (turn left at the station exit).​

• Opening hours: 10 AM – 8 PM.​

• What to try: Grilled squid (¥10 per stick—ask for extra garlic), spicy tofu skin (¥5), and candied hawthorns (¥8). Wash it down with ¥3 soy milk—it’s cold and refreshing.​

• Price: ¥20–30 per person.​

• Pro tip: Ask the vendors for “less spicy” if you need it—they’re used to foreign visitors and will tone it down.

Afternoon (12:15 PM – 5:30 PM): Key Spots (People’s Auditorium → Three Gorges Museum → Crown Escalator → Caiyuanba Station → Mountain City Trail → Hong’en Temple → Baicang Tapin Community)

Chongqing People’s Auditorium (Chongqing Renmin Dahuixuan)​

• Start time: 12:15 PM (20-minute subway ride—Line 2 to Auditorium Station).​

• Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM; ¥10 entry.​

• Must-see highlight: Don’t just take photos outside—pay ¥10 to go inside! The blue-tiled roof and grand hall are stunning, and there’s a small exhibit about the building’s history (with English signs).​

• Avoid this: Don’t go during events (check the website first)—the hall will be closed to tourists.​

Three Gorges Museum (Sanxia Bowuguan) (Continued)​

• Must-see highlight (continued): here because he’s obsessed with how people used to travel the Yangtze. There’s also a section on the Three Gorges Dam—with English videos that explain how it changed the river.​

• Avoid this: Don’t touch the exhibits—some are over 100 years old and fragile. The staff will politely but firmly stop you if you get too close.​

• Hidden trick: Ask the info desk for the “historical spot map” (free)—it marks all the WWII and Liberation sites in Chongqing, if you want to dive deeper later.​

Two-Corner Crown Escalator (Liangjiao Huangguan Dajieti)​

• Start time: 2:30 PM (15-minute subway ride—Line 1 to Lianglukou Station).​

• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM; ¥2 one-way.​

• Must-see highlight: It’s the longest escalator in Asia (112 meters!)—stand on the right side (locals walk on the left) and watch the world go by. My friend from Canada said it felt “like a slow roller coaster.”​

• Avoid this: Don’t run or jump on the escalator—it’s steep, and security will yell at you. Take your time, it’s only 3 minutes long.​

Caiyuanba Railway Station Overpass (Caiyuanba Huochezhan Gaodao)​

• Start time: 3:00 PM (10-minute walk from the escalator).​

• Opening hours: 24/7; free.​

• Must-see highlight: Look down—you’ll see a highway, a railway track, and the Yangtze River all stacked like a puzzle. Wait 5–10 minutes, and a train will pass under the overpass—it’s wild to watch how everything fits together.​

• Avoid this: Don’t lean too far over the railing—there’s no barrier, and it’s a long drop. Stay back at least 1 foot.​

Mountain City Trail (Shancheng Bulu)​

• Start time: 3:45 PM (15-minute taxi ride—¥15 from the overpass).​

• Opening hours: 24/7; free.​

• Must-see highlight: This stone stairway is a local shortcut—climb halfway up, and you’ll find “Auntie Li’s Tea Stall” (¥5 jasmine tea). Sit on her small bench and watch locals carry groceries up the stairs—this is real Chongqing life.​

• Avoid this: Don’t wear heels! The stairs are uneven and slippery when wet. I saw a tourist twist her ankle here last month—sneakers only.

Hong’en Temple (Hong’en Si)​

• Start time: 4:45 PM (10-minute walk from the tea stall to the temple entrance).​

• Opening hours: 8 AM – 9 PM; ¥15 entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The temple’s roof is covered in golden tiles—they glow pink at sunset. Walk to the back viewpoint for panoramic views of Chongqing’s west side. I brought my friend from Brazil here, and we stayed until 6 PM just taking photos.​

• Avoid this: Skip the “fortune-telling” stalls outside the temple—they charge ¥50 and just say generic things. Save your money for tea.

Baicang Tapin Community (Baicang Tapin Shequ)​

• Start time: 6:15 PM (10-minute taxi ride—¥12 from the temple).​

• Opening hours: 24/7; free.​

• Must-see highlight: This 1980s-style residential area has narrow lanes with laundry hanging from balconies. Walk to the small square in the center—locals play mahjong and dance to old Chinese songs here. It’s fun to just stand and watch for 10 minutes.​

• Avoid this: Don’t take photos of people’s homes without asking—locals are friendly, but it’s rude to snap pics of their living spaces.

Dinner (7:00 PM – 8:30 PM): Old Town Braised Pork Restaurant (Baicang Tapin Branch)​

• Location: 2-minute walk from the community square.​

• Opening hours: 5 PM – 10 PM.​

• What to order: Braised pork with dried bamboo shoots (¥38) + stir-fried greens (¥12). The pork is so tender it falls off the fork, and the sauce is perfect with rice.​

• Price: ¥50–60 per person.​

• Personal touch: I live 5 minutes from here, so I eat here at least twice a month. The owner, Mr. Zhang, knows my order, and he’ll give you a free bowl of pickled vegetables if you mention my name (Xiao Mei).

Transition: Day 3 shows you the “3D magic” that makes Chongqing famous—but Day 4 is when we leave the city for Fengjie, to see the Three Gorges and Baidi City, two spots you can’t miss if you love nature and history.

Fengjie Three Gorges Summit

4. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 4 – Fengjie (Baidi City & Three Gorges Peak)​

Start time: 7:00 AM (early for the high-speed train—don’t skip breakfast!).

Morning (7:00 AM – 9:30 AM): High-Speed Train to Fengjie (Fengjie Gaotie)​

• From: Chongqing North Station (take Line 4 to the station—40 minutes from downtown; taxi ¥30 if you’re in a hurry).​

• Opening hours: Trains run every hour from 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM; 1.5-hour ride.​

• Tickets: ¥80 one-way (book 3 days in advance via the 12306 app—ask your hotel front desk to help if you can’t read Chinese).​

• Must-see highlight: The train passes through mountains and tunnels—look out the window for views of the Yangtze River. I always sit on the left side (facing forward) for the best photos.​

• Avoid this: Don’t arrive later than 6:30 AM—security lines can be long, and you don’t want to miss your train. I once arrived at 6:50 AM and had to run to the platform!​

• Pro tip: Bring a snack (like a sandwich or fruit)—the train’s food is overpriced (¥25 for a small meal).

Morning (9:45 AM – 12:30 PM): Baidi City (Baidicheng)​

• Location: 15-minute taxi from Fengjie High-Speed Rail Station (¥15; or take bus No. 6—¥2, 25 minutes).​

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; ¥80 entry.​

• Must-see highlight: Baidi City is an ancient town on a hill—walk to the “White Emperor Palace” at the top. It’s where Liu Bei (a famous Chinese general) once lived. The views of the Yangtze River and Qutang Gorge are stunning—my friend from the UK said it was “like a postcard come to life.”​

• Avoid this: Skip the expensive boat tours at the entrance (¥150 for 1 hour)—we’ll take a better, cheaper boat tomorrow in Wushan.​

• Hidden trick: Go to the small museum inside the city—there’s an English exhibit about the Three Kingdoms period (when Baidi City was built). It’s short but helps you understand why the town is important.

Lunch (12:45 PM – 1:45 PM): Fengjie Noodle Shop (Near Baidi City Entrance)​

• Location: 2-minute walk from Baidi City’s main gate.​

• Opening hours: 10 AM – 9 PM.​

• What to order: Fengjie spicy noodles (ask for “mild” if you can’t handle heat—¥15) + boiled eggs (¥2 each). The noodles are handmade, and the sauce has a hint of sesame—way better than downtown noodles.​

• Price: ¥17–20 per person.​

• Personal touch: I ate here last year with my cousin—she’s from Fengjie, and she says this shop has been around for 20 years. The owner will give you a free cup of green tea if you smile and say “hello” in Chinese.

Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:30 PM): Three Gorges Peak (Sanxia Zhidian)​

• Location: 30-minute taxi from Baidi City (¥30; or take bus No. 9—¥5, 40 minutes).​

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; ¥120 entry (includes cable car up the mountain).​

• Must-see highlight: Take the cable car to the top (10 minutes)—the views of Qutang Gorge are incredible. Hike the 1-hour trail to the “Peak Viewpoint”—you’ll see the Yangtze River twist through the mountains. I went here last autumn, and the leaves were red and gold—so beautiful.​

• Avoid this: Don’t hike the trail alone—some parts are steep, and there are no staff nearby. Go with a small group or wait for other tourists to join you.​

• Pro tip: Bring a jacket—even if it’s hot in Chongqing, the mountain top is 5–10 degrees cooler. I forgot mine once and had to buy a cheap sweater (¥40) from a stall.

Dinner (6:00 PM – 7:30 PM): Fengjie River View Restaurant​

• Location: 20-minute taxi from Three Gorges Peak (¥25; near Fengjie’s downtown area).​

• Opening hours: 5 PM – 10 PM.​

• What to order: Steamed fish from the Yangtze River (¥68) + stir-fried bamboo shoots (¥18). The fish is fresh—caught that morning—and cooked with ginger and scallions. It’s light and delicious after a day of hiking.​

• Price: ¥86–100 per person.​

• Personal touch: The restaurant has outdoor seats with river views—ask for a table near the railing. I ate here at sunset last year, and the sky turned orange over the river—it’s a memory I still talk about.

Evening: Stay in Fengjie​

• Where to stay: Fengjie Central Hotel (¥150 per night; 5-minute walk from the restaurant). It’s clean, has English-speaking staff, and the 7th-floor rooms have river views.​

• Pro tip: Don’t go out too late—Fengjie is a small city, and most shops close by 9 PM. Grab a ¥3 ice cream from a convenience store before bed.

Transition: Day 4’s mountain views and ancient town were amazing—but Day 5 is even better: we’ll take the “Little Red Boat” through the Three Gorges, including the famous Wushan Small Three Gorges. Trust me, this is the highlight of the trip for most of my foreign friends.

Wushan Mini Three Gorges

5. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 5 – Wushan (Little Red Boat & Three Gorges)​

Start time: 8:00 AM (breakfast at the hotel—try the local “soy milk and fried dough sticks” for ¥5).

Morning (8:00 AM – 9:30 AM): Bus to Wushan Port (Wushan Gang)​

• From: Fengjie Bus Station (10-minute taxi from the hotel—¥10; or walk 20 minutes).​

• Opening hours: Buses run every 30 minutes from 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM; 1-hour ride.​

• Tickets: ¥20 one-way.​

• Must-see highlight: The bus drives along the Yangtze River—sit on the right side for views of the water. You’ll pass small villages and fishing boats—this is the China most tourists never see.​

• Avoid this: Don’t sit next to the window if you get car sick—the road is curvy. Sit in the middle of the bus for a smoother ride.

Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Little Red Boat (Xiaohongchuan) Cruise – Three Gorges & Wushan Small Three Gorges​

• Location: Wushan Port (5-minute walk from the bus stop).​

• Opening hours: Cruises leave at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM; 3-hour tour.​

• Tickets: ¥150 per person (includes lunch on the boat—simple but filling: rice, chicken, and veggies).​

• What is the Little Red Boat?: It’s a small, traditional Chinese boat (painted red!) that holds 20–30 people—way better than the big cruise ships (which hold 200+). You get closer to the mountains and can talk to the captain.​

• Must-see highlight: The cruise goes through Qutang Gorge and Wushan Small Three Gorges. Look up at the cliffs—some have ancient stone carvings. The captain will stop the boat for 10 minutes at the “Green Gorge” so you can take photos. I brought my friend from Italy here, and she cried because the views were so beautiful.​

• Avoid this: Don’t stand on the front of the boat while it’s moving—there’s no railing, and you could fall. Stay on the middle deck.​

• Pro tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen—the boat has no shade, and the sun is strong on the water.

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:00 PM): On the Little Red Boat​

• What to eat: The included lunch is simple but tasty—ask for extra rice if you’re hungry (it’s free!). The boat staff also sells cold drinks (¥5 for a bottle of water or soda).​

• Personal touch: The captain’s wife makes homemade pickles—ask for a small plate (¥3). They’re spicy but delicious, and they go great with the chicken.

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 5:30 PM): Wushan Small Three Gorges & Lesser Three Gorges (Xiaoxia & Xiaoxiaoxia)​

• Start time: 2:30 PM (the Little Red Boat docks at Wushan Small Three Gorges Port—no extra taxi needed).​

• Opening hours: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM; ¥120 entry (includes a small boat ride through the Lesser Three Gorges).​

• Must-see highlight: Take the small bamboo boat (holds 8 people) through the Lesser Three Gorges. The water is clear, and you can see fish swimming. The guide will point out monkeys in the trees—if you’re lucky, you’ll see a family!​

• Avoid this: Don’t feed the monkeys—they can be aggressive, and it’s against the rules. The guide will give you a warning if you try.​

• Hidden trick: Bring a small notebook—there’s a “Three Gorges Stamp” at the exit. Get it stamped as a souvenir—my friend from Canada has a whole collection of these stamps from his China trips.

Evening (6:00 PM – 8:30 PM): High-Speed Train Back to Chongqing​

• From: Wushan High-Speed Rail Station (30-minute taxi from the port—¥25; or take bus No. 3—¥3, 40 minutes).​

• Opening hours: Trains leave at 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM; 2-hour ride.​

• Tickets: ¥90 one-way (book in advance—these trains sell out fast!).​

• Must-see highlight: The train ride back is beautiful at sunset—look out the window for pink skies over the mountains. I always take a nap on the way back—I’m usually tired from walking!​

• Avoid this: Don’t buy snacks at the Wushan station—they’re overpriced (¥10 for a small bag of chips). Bring snacks from the boat or a convenience store.

Dinner (8:30 PM – 9:30 PM): Late Dinner at Downtown Chongqing Noodle Shop​

• Location: Near your hotel (I recommend the one on Minquan Road—5-minute taxi from Chongqing North Station).​

• Opening hours: 24 hours (perfect for late trains!).​

• What to order: Braised beef noodles (¥18) + a bottle of cold beer (¥8, if you’re old enough). It’s simple but satisfying after a long day.​

• Price: ¥26–30 per person.​

Transition: Day 5’s boat rides and mountain views were unforgettable—but Day 6 is your last day in Chongqing, and we’re ending with pandas, museums, and a trendy neighborhood (Ziwei Road) so you can take home some cool photos.

Chongqing Zoo

6. Chongqing 6-Day Itinerary: Day 6 – Pandas, Museums & Trendy Vibes​

Start time: 8:30 AM (last day—take your time, but don’t sleep in too late!).

Morning (8:30 AM – 11:30 AM): Chongqing Zoo (Chongqing Dongwuyuan) – See Pandas!​

• Location: Take Line 2 to Chongqing Zoo Station (30 minutes from downtown); 5-minute walk from the station exit.​

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM; ¥25 entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The panda enclosure is the star—go to Area A at 9:30 AM, when the pandas are most active (they love eating bamboo in the morning!). My friend from Australia spent 45 minutes just watching a baby panda roll around—it was the cutest thing she’d ever seen.​

• Avoid this: Don’t go after 11 AM—pandas take afternoon naps, so you’ll just see them sleeping. Also, skip the “panda photo booth” (¥30)—the photos are blurry, and you can take better ones with your phone.​

• Hidden trick: Walk to the back of the zoo—there’s a small red panda enclosure (free with entry). Red pandas are way less crowded than giant pandas, and they’re just as cute!

Lunch (11:45 AM – 1:15 PM): Grandma Chen’s Spicy Chicken Restaurant (Near the Zoo)​

• Location: 3-minute walk from the zoo’s main exit.​

• Opening hours: 11 AM – 9 PM.​

• What to order: Spicy chicken with potatoes (ask for “mild” if you can’t handle heat—¥48) + cold cucumber salad (¥12). The chicken is crispy, and the sauce is sweet and spicy—locals call this “home-style flavor.”​

• Price: ¥60–70 per person.​

• Personal touch: I’ve been coming here since I was a kid—Grandma Chen still remembers me, and she’ll add extra potatoes to your plate if you tell her you’re here for the pandas.

Afternoon (1:30 PM – 5:30 PM): Key Spots (Yangtze Lighthouse → Longfeng Temple → Jianchuan Maritime Museum → Jianchuan Museum Cluster → Guanghuan Shopping Park → Ziwei Road)

Jiulong Peninsula Yangtze Lighthouse (Jiulong Bandao Yangtze Dengta)​

• Start time: 1:30 PM (20-minute taxi from the restaurant—¥18).​

• Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; free entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The white lighthouse has a spiral staircase—climb to the top (3 minutes) for 360° views of the Yangtze River. Stand on the west side for photos with Chongqing’s skyline in the background.​

• Avoid this: Don’t wear a hat—there’s a strong wind at the top, and it’ll fly off. I lost my favorite hat here last year!​

Longfeng Temple (Longfeng Si)​

• Start time: 2:30 PM (10-minute taxi from the lighthouse—¥10).​

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM; ¥10 entry.​

• Must-see highlight: The temple’s main hall has a huge golden Buddha statue—light a stick of incense (¥5) for good luck. Walk to the backyard garden—there are lotus ponds that look beautiful in photos.​

• Avoid this: Don’t talk loudly inside the temple—it’s a place of worship, and locals will give you a look if you’re noisy.

Jianchuan Maritime Museum (Jianchuan Haijiang Bowuguan) & Jianchuan Museum Cluster (Jianchuan Bowuguan Jituan)​

• Start time: 3:15 PM (15-minute taxi from the temple—¥20).​

• Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM); ¥60 for both museums.​

• Must-see highlight: The Maritime Museum has a real decommissioned warship—you can walk on the deck and go inside the cabins. The Museum Cluster has exhibits about WWII and Chinese modern history—my friend from the US loved the “old Chongqing street” exhibit, which recreates 1940s shops.​

• Avoid this: Don’t try to see both museums in 30 minutes—give yourself at least 1 hour. Rushing will make you miss the best parts.​

Guanghuan Shopping Park (Guanghuan Gouwu Gongyuan)​

• Start time: 4:30 PM (20-minute taxi from the museum—¥25).​

• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM; free entry (shops and public areas).​

• Must-see highlight: The indoor “sky garden” on the 5th floor—there are trees, flowers, and a glass ceiling that lets in natural light. It’s a great place to take photos if it’s raining outside.​

• Avoid this: Skip the luxury brand shops—they’re the same as in every city. Instead, go to the underground mall for cheap, cute souvenirs (like ¥15 panda keychains).​

Ziwei Road (Ziwei Lu)​

• Start time: 5:30 PM (15-minute taxi from the shopping park—¥15).​

• Opening hours: Shops and cafés open 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM; free to walk around.​

• Must-see highlight: This trendy street has small cafés, vintage shops, and street art. Stop at “Cafe Cloud” (¥25 latte) for a drink—their rooftop has views of the surrounding buildings. I brought my friend from Brazil here, and she bought a vintage Chinese poster as a souvenir.​

• Avoid this: Don’t park your phone—there are lots of photo spots, so keep it charged. I always bring a portable charger when I come here.​

Dinner (6:30 PM – 8:00 PM): Ziwei Road Street Food​

• Location: Near the café area of Ziwei Road.​

• What to try: Grilled corn with cheese (¥8), spicy cold noodles (¥10), and mango sticky rice (¥12). All stalls are run by locals, so the food is fresh and tasty.​

• Price: ¥30–40 per person.​

• Personal touch: My favorite stall is “Auntie Wang’s Grilled Corn”—she adds a secret spice mix that makes it extra delicious. Tell her I sent you, and she’ll give you a little extra cheese.​

Transition: Day 6 wraps up your Chongqing trip with pandas, history, and trendy vibes—you’ll leave with a suitcase full of photos and memories. But if you want to make sure you don’t miss any hidden spots or get stuck booking trains, I have a little help for you.

Final Recommendation: My Go-To Guide for Your Chongqing Trip​

I spent 2 months helping put together DolphinUnion’s Chongqing guide—even I use it when my foreign friends visit, because it has all the little details I can’t fit in this blog. The guide has hidden photo spots (like the quiet lotus pond in Longfeng Temple I told you about earlier) and a step-by-step high-speed train booking tutorial (with photos, so you won’t get stuck at Chongqing North Station—trust me, I’ve seen friends panic when they can’t read the ticket machines).

Last week, a reader from Canada messaged me saying our guide’s zoo tip saved him—he went at 9:30 AM and saw the pandas playing, instead of napping like his friend who went at noon. He said it was the “best part of his China trip.”

If you don’t want to scribble down notes from this blog, or worry about missing those hidden spots, grab our DolphinUnion guide—it’s like having a local friend with you the whole time, sharing all the hacks and stories that make Chongqing special. You’ll save time, skip the stress, and actually enjoy your trip—isn’t that what traveling should be about?