More than just Xiao Zhan’s hometown, ChongQing is a city of mountains, rivers, bridges, and unforgettable views. From the dazzling lights of HongYaDong and the bustling streets of JieFangBei to the breathtaking night scenery from Nanshan and the iconic QianSiMen Bridge, every corner of ChongQing tells a different story. This guide brings together some of the city’s most popular attractions and sightseeing spots for Xiao Zhan fans and curious travelers alike. Whether you’re planning your first trip or simply exploring through photos and stories, we hope you’ll discover the warmth, flavours, and unique charm of the mountain city that Xiao Zhan calls home.
Check back often, as I’ll continue expanding this list whenever I come across more of Xiao Zhan’s recommendations! 🏙️
Sights of ChongQing
南山一棵树观景台
NanShan One Tree Observation Deck
NanShan One Tree Observation Deck (南山一棵树观景台) offers one of the most iconic panoramic views of ChongQing. Perched on NanShan Mountain across the YangTze River from the city centre, it overlooks the YuZhong Peninsula, the confluence of the YangTze and JiaLing Rivers, and the city’s dazzling skyline. It’s especially popular at sunset and after dark, when millions of lights transform ChongQing into the spectacular “Mountain City” that Xiao Zhan grew up calling home.
解放碑
JieFangBei Liberation Monument
JieFangBei (解放碑) is the historic and commercial heart of ChongQing. Named after the People’s Liberation Monument at its centre, the bustling pedestrian district is surrounded by shopping, restaurants, cafés, and local food. It’s an ideal place to soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere and serves as a convenient starting point for exploring nearby attractions such as HongYaDong and the YangTze River Cableway. As Xiao Zhan mentioned, it’s one of ChongQing’s classic must-visit landmarks for first-time visitors.
洪崖洞
HongYaDong
HongYaDong (洪崖洞) is one of ChongQing’s most beloved landmarks and a stunning showcase of the city’s mountain-side character. Built into the cliffs overlooking the JiaLing River, its traditional stilt-house architecture and glowing nighttime illuminations have made it an iconic symbol of ChongQing. Whether you’re wandering through its bustling walkways, sampling local snacks, or admiring the view from across the river, HongYaDong offers visitors a glimpse of both old and modern ChongQing. As Xiao Zhan recommended, it’s one of the city’s classic must-visit attractions and an unforgettable stop for anyone exploring his hometown.
千厮门大桥
QianSiMen Bridge
QianSiMen Bridge (千厮门大桥) is one of ChongQing’s most iconic landmarks and offers one of the city’s most spectacular nighttime views. Spanning the JiaLing River between YuZhong and JiangBei districts, the two-level bridge carries both road traffic and ChongQing Metro trains across the Mountain City. Together with nearby HongYaDong, it creates the glowing riverside skyline that has become synonymous with ChongQing. As Xiao Zhan recommended, a visit to HongYaDong isn’t complete without taking in the unforgettable view from QianSiMen Bridge—especially when the city lights come alive after sunset.