Chongqing is both a river city, sitting at the junction of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, and a mountain city, lying as it does on a steep peninsula wedged between the two waterways. Chaotian Gate provides the most spectacular view of the junction of the Yangtze and the Jialing Rivers.

Among the modern historical attractions in the town is Jiefangbei (the Liberation Monument), which is also an important central landmark. It stands on the original site of a memorial to Sun Yat-Sen (Sun Zhongshan), but was re-dedicated in 1945 to honor the endurance of the people of Chongqing during the war against the Japanese. Another landmark building is the People's Great Hall in the center of the city. To get a sense of old China in Chongqing, head for the pretty district of Ciqikou. Once an important center for porcelain production, Ciqikou today offers attractive traditional architecture, colorful local shops, a restored pier, tea houses, and local Sichuan street performances.

Chongqing is home to three museums of interest. The Chongqing Natural History Museum takes visitors back to the age of the dinosaurs, and forward as far as the Stone Age. There are fascinating insights into China's recorded history at the Three Gorges Museum of China, which features artifacts from the Three Gorges area, including many which have been discovered and preserved during the construction of the Three Gorges Dam. Chongqing Hongyan Revolution Memorial Museum recalls Chongqing's part in the revolution that created the modern Chinese state.

In the environs of the city are a number of scenic and historical attractions. The Dazu Rock Carvings are a World Heritage site featuring hillside religious rock art dating back as far as the Tang dynasty. Plan a full day to see them: Dazu is 165km west of Chongqing city, and the best of the carvings are in two different sites outside the little township. A little closer to Chongqing city is Northern Hot Springs Park, which offers a wealth of historic monuments, as well as a chance to enjoy the geothermal waters. Quieter, and still closer, is the Southern Hot Springs Park, with delightful landscapes and pleasant hotels and restaurants. The BaYu Folk Culture and Custom Village is popular with visitors on the lookout for local handicrafts and folkways.

 

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