Tipped to be one of China’s most intriguing corners the tourist hub of Chongqing is unlike any other city in the country. Dubbed the Mountain City for its serene landscapes and rolling hills this breathtaking holiday destination is a true treasure trove for culture buffs in search of curios points of interest that are off the beaten track. Although it is impossible to gauge the wealth of attractions on offer on a single day trip there are some points of interest that a trip to Chongqing would be incomplete without.
One activity that is a staple of any tour of the city is of course the Yangtze River Cruise. Setting off from Chaotianmen Port in Chongqing this relaxing and invigorating cruise explores the best the city has to offer from a riverside vantage point. Passing by such popular highlights as the Fengdu Ghost City, the Three Gorges as well as scenic Shennong Stream guests can select the duration of the cruises that can last from three to 8 days.
Another must-see hotspot is the ancient Porcelain Village of Ci Qi Kou which occupies the shores of the Jialing River. Declared a protected cultural hub by the State Council as early as 1998 this ancient hamlet littered with paved stone pathways, craft shops, tea shops and other curios offers visitors a trip back in time. Sampling roasted seeds and nuts is another preferred activity at the venue which also welcomes multitudes of local visitors annually.
Those with a flair for ancient artwork and carvings will enjoy the Dazu rock carvings decorating the Gold Buddhist Mountain. Dating back to the Tang dynastic era these elaborate carvings are now some of the most famous examples of ancient carving in china along with the Grottoes of Longmen and Yungang.
Chongqing’s noteworthy museum space is of course the General Joseph W. Stilwell Museum where the life and times of the US army general is celebrated along with his connection to china and later work as a linguist in the Chinese language. The China Three Gorges Museum is also worth a visit along with the Chongqing Zoo which is home to its own Panda House, Kangaroo Park, Bear Hill, and Bird Paradise among other wonderful animal enclosures.
The Northern and Southern Hot Spring Parks are equally popular among seasoned visitors as is the Wulong Karst where the Lotus Cave, Houping Giant Doline and three naturally formed bridges are found.
Travellers in search of quality serviced Chongqing accommodation should look no further than Somerset JieFangBei Chongqing. Offering guests a Chongqing serviced apartment that is furnished to perfection this elegant aparthotel is suitable for both business travellers as well as holidaymakers.
