Original source
CHONGQING China Travel Guide | Americans in China
Chongqing City Tour: A Spicy China Adventure
This week we are in Chongqing, China. It is like the spicy, steamy fever dream of a city—and we mean that in the best way possible. Built on hills, wrapped in fog, and fueled by hot pot so fiery it should come with a waiver, this mega-city doesn’t just wake you up—it slaps you awake with chili oil....
This week we are in Chongqing, China. It is like the spicy, steamy fever dream of a city—and we mean that in the best way possible. Built on hills, wrapped in fog, and fueled by hot pot so fiery it should come with a waiver, this mega-city doesn’t just wake you up—it slaps you awake with chili oil. Elevators double as transportation systems, skyscrapers perch on cliffs, and entire highways weave through buildings like it’s totally normal. Add in neon-lit nights, noodle stalls on every corner, and locals who handle spice like superheroes, and you've got a city that’s as bold as it is unforgettable. We show you the best things to do in Chongqing. It doesn’t whisper—it roars.
We are in week 4 of our most epic adventure yet—a 10-video travelogue series through China that spans 3,350 miles, 9 cities, and approximately a million dumplings (give or take). We started this unforgettable journey in the vibrant streets of Hong Kong and zipped across the country on some of the fastest, smoothest, and downright fanciest trains we’ve ever experienced. From futuristic skylines to ancient temples, panda sightings to people-watching, this series is packed with unforgettable moments and plenty of surprises.
Retirement Travelers take you on a spicy adventure through Chongqing, China, a mega-city built on hills and fueled by fiery hot pot. They explore its unique transportation systems, skyscrapers perched on cliffs, and neon-lit nights. This is part of their 10-video series showcasing a 3,350-mile journey through China, starting in Hong Kong and covering 9 cities. Get ready for unforgettable moments, from futuristic skylines to ancient temples, and delicious dumplings!
This week we are in Chongqing, China. It is like the spicy, steamy fever dream of a city—and we mean that in the best way possible. Built on hills, wrapped in fog, and fueled by hot pot so fiery it should come with a waiver, this mega-city doesn’t just wake you up—it slaps you awake with chili oil. Elevators double as transportation systems, skyscrapers perch on cliffs, and entire highways weave through buildings like it’s totally normal. Add in neon-lit nights, noodle stalls on every corner, and locals who handle spice like superheroes, and you've got a city that’s as bold as it is unforgettable. We show you the best things to do in Chongqing. It doesn’t whisper—it roars.
We are in week 4 of our most epic adventure yet—a 10-video travelogue series through China that spans 3,350 miles, 9 cities, and approximately a million dumplings (give or take). We started this unforgettable journey in the vibrant streets of Hong Kong and zipped across the country on some of the fastest, smoothest, and downright fanciest trains we’ve ever experienced. From futuristic skylines to ancient temples, panda sightings to people-watching, this series is packed with unforgettable moments and plenty of surprises.
Retirement Travelers, John and Bev, embarked on a thrilling adventure in Chongqing, China, a mega-city exceeding their expectations. Unlike its peaceful-sounding nickname, "Mountain City," Chongqing is a vibrant, spicy metropolis nestled along the Yangtze River cliffs.
Their journey began with a ride on Didi, China's version of Uber, to the luxurious Lixiy Hyatt hotel. The hotel's stunning location on the 59th floor of the World Financial Center offered breathtaking views of Jaong Bay Pedestrian Street and the Chongqing Art Gallery, a futuristic architectural marvel.
Chongqing's culinary scene stole the show. Retirement Travelers indulged in the city's famous hot pot, a fiery and flavorful experience that left their taste buds singing. They also explored Bayou Road, a food street teeming with noodle stalls and local delicacies, discovering a unique banana pastry that became an instant favorite.
Transportation in Chongqing is an adventure in itself. The city's unique geography necessitated creative solutions, resulting in a network of overpasses, bridges, and hidden escalators that weave through the city's levels. Retirement Travelers experienced the city's innovative transportation system firsthand, taking rides on the metro and the Yangtze River cable car, offering stunning nighttime views of the city's illuminated skyline.
Beyond the culinary and transportation experiences, Retirement Travelers explored Chongqing's cultural and historical sites. They visited Luon Temple, a thousand-year-old oasis of tranquility amidst the modern chaos, and Hongyadong, an 11-story stilt building complex offering stunning photo opportunities. They also spent time in Aling Park, enjoying its peaceful atmosphere and panoramic city views. A visit to the Three Gorges Museum provided a fascinating history lesson on the Sichuan region.
Throughout their journey, Retirement Travelers interacted with locals, creating memorable moments and gaining unique insights into Chongqing's culture and lifestyle. Their trip concluded with a high-speed train journey to Shanghai, leaving them with a deep appreciation for Chongqing's unique charm and a desire to explore more of China.
Retirement Travelers' Chongqing adventure was a whirlwind of spicy delights and breathtaking sights. From the fiery hot pot that set their taste buds ablaze to the futuristic architecture and neon-lit nights, Chongqing proved to be a city of unexpected wonders. Their exploration included a ride on the Yangtze River cable car, a stroll through the charming Shabati old town, and a visit to the serene Luon Temple, offering a captivating blend of ancient and modern. This unforgettable journey showcases the unique energy of Chongqing, leaving Retirement Travelers eager to return.
Retirement Travelers explored Chongqing's spicy food scene, futuristic skyline, and ancient temples, leaving with unforgettable memories of this vibrant Chinese city.
Chongqing Travel Guide: Spicy Food, Futuristic City & Ancient Temples
2:26 Consider staying at the Lixiy Hyatt for stunning views and luxury accommodations. Its location offers easy access to key attractions and provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.
3:36 Don't miss experiencing Chongqing's famous hot pot. It's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Numerous restaurants offer various hot pot options to suit different preferences.
4:32 Embrace Chongqing's unique transportation system. Utilize the metro, hidden escalators, and cable cars to navigate the city's unique geography and enjoy unexpected sightseeing opportunities along the way.
5:48 Take a ride on the Yangtze River cable car, especially during the evening light show. It offers spectacular views of the city's illuminated skyline and is a truly unforgettable experience.
6:24 Explore Bayou Road, a vibrant food street brimming with local delicacies and unique culinary experiences. This is a great place to sample various Sichuan dishes and discover hidden culinary gems.
7:15 Visit Shabati (18 Steps), a revitalized old town that seamlessly blends traditional architecture with modern amenities. It's a perfect place to browse local shops and soak up the festive atmosphere.
7:54 Find some peace and quiet at Luon Temple, a historic temple that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Its serene atmosphere and intricate details provide a fascinating glimpse into Chongqing's cultural heritage.
10:14 Visit the Three Gorges Museum for a comprehensive history lesson on the Sichuan region. It's an excellent place to learn about the region's rich culture and heritage, from ancient tools to calligraphy.
2:26 Consider staying at the Lixiy Hyatt for stunning views and luxury accommodations. Its location offers easy access to key attractions and provides a comfortable base for exploring the city.
3:36 Don't miss experiencing Chongqing's famous hot pot. It's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Numerous restaurants offer various hot pot options to suit different preferences.
4:32 Embrace Chongqing's unique transportation system. Utilize the metro, hidden escalators, and cable cars to navigate the city's unique geography and enjoy unexpected sightseeing opportunities along the way.
5:48 Take a ride on the Yangtze River cable car, especially during the evening light show. It offers spectacular views of the city's illuminated skyline and is a truly unforgettable experience.
6:24 Explore Bayou Road, a vibrant food street brimming with local delicacies and unique culinary experiences. This is a great place to sample various Sichuan dishes and discover hidden culinary gems.
7:15 Visit Shabati (18 Steps), a revitalized old town that seamlessly blends traditional architecture with modern amenities. It's a perfect place to browse local shops and soak up the festive atmosphere.
7:54 Find some peace and quiet at Luon Temple, a historic temple that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Its serene atmosphere and intricate details provide a fascinating glimpse into Chongqing's cultural heritage.
10:14 Visit the Three Gorges Museum for a comprehensive history lesson on the Sichuan region. It's an excellent place to learn about the region's rich culture and heritage, from ancient tools to calligraphy.
0:00 Chongqing introduction
1:14 Retirement Travelers intro
2:26 Hotel and city views
3:36 Famous hot pot
4:32 Unique transportation
5:48 Yangtze River cableway
6:24 Bayou Road food street
7:15 Shabati old town
7:54 Luon Temple visit
10:14 Three Gorges Museum
0:00 Chongqing introduction
1:14 Retirement Travelers intro
2:26 Hotel and city views
3:36 Famous hot pot
4:32 Unique transportation
5:48 Yangtze River cableway
6:24 Bayou Road food street
7:15 Shabati old town
7:54 Luon Temple visit
10:14 Three Gorges Museum
What's the best way to get around Chongqing?
The metro is super efficient, but don't miss the hidden escalators and cable cars – they're part of the adventure!
What's the food scene like?
Oh my goodness, the hot pot is incredible! And Bayou Road is a noodle lover's paradise. So much delicious, spicy food!
What was your favorite part of Chongqing?
That's tough! The cable car ride at night was amazing, but the whole city is just so unique and surprising.
What's the most surprising thing you found?
Probably how massive the city is! And the fact that it's built into the mountains – it's like something out of a movie!
