While sightseeing big cities might not be something I advice anywhere else in the world, China is different.
Chinese cities are safe and clean and connected by extensive, convenient public transport network. At the same time, they are buzzing, have amazing food options and there is always something to wonder at.
Chongqing, China, is no different - with excellent food scene, bewildering architecture, and plenty of wonders in and around the city, it is a great destination for curious little minds!
Join me to explore things to do and practicalities of getting around the city.
Getting there
Chongqing city is situated in central China at the banks of Yangtze River, the most important river in China.
You can get there by plane or by high-speed rail - I highly recommend using the train, as it is the most convenient and relaxing way of traveling around China and the trains are simply amazing.
The journey duration:
- Beijing – 7h by high-speed
- Shanghai - 12h by high-speed (alternatively 17 by night train)
- Chengdu - 1.5h by high-speed
- Kunming - 5h by high-speed
- Xi’an - 5h by high-speed
Check out further connection times on Trip.com!
Where to stay
I highly recommend staying in the Jiafangbei area - situated in the most central location, it is a convenient place to get around. Bayi Food Street, a prime destination for food lovers, is also nearby, offering a variety of local snacks like Dan Dan spicy noodle and Hot and Sour Rice Noodles.
I highly recommend staying in Acott Hotel in the famous Raffles building. They have wonderful (and reasonably priced) family-friendly rooms - with toys inside and a separate bedroom. The hotel also has a swimming pool and a small indoor playground.
All rooms are on high floors so you can admire the unique Chongqing panorama and the spectacle of lights at night!
Getting around with kids
The most important point that I cannot stress enough is that Chongqing is not at all stroller-friendly city! The best option by far is to have a backpack-style carrier, as you will be going up and down lots of stairs!
Getting around the Mountain City is almost like hiking!
It is a big city, so distances are big, but you can conveniently get around using the city’s extensive metro system - just take it into account planning your day, and group the activities by location.
Things to do in Chongqing with kids
Chongqing crazy architecture
Because of its unique geographical location at the river banks surrounded by rocky hills, the architects had to get very creative!
Architecture of Chongqing is an attraction in its own rights.
Even small kids will bewildered by a monorail train going through a building or building rooftops that double down as plazas!
Admire Chongqing panorama from Raffles observation deck
The Raffles building is not only interesting to look at from the outside, but also from the top: the building has an observation deck where you can come to look at the city panorama and, for the brave, a giant swing that you can swing over the edge of the building (only for adults and teenagers). From the observation deck, you can also enjoy scenic views of the Three Gorges, adding to the breathtaking experience.
Graffitti Street
Huangjueping Graffiti Street is a fun place to visit for young and old. Bewilder at 1.25km of colourful street art and become an artist yourself with a 10 Yuan worth of paint and a paint brush!
Visit Pandas in Chongqing Zoo
If you decide to go to the Graffiti Street, you might as well take a trip to the Chongqing Zoo, which is not that far.
Unless you also have Chengdu on your itinerary, Chongqing Zoo is an excellent place to catch a glimpse of China’s favourite animal: the giant panda.
Ciqikou Ancient Town
Another cultural attraction in Chongqing is Ciqikou Ancient Town, known for its antique architecture, narrow alleys, and cultural offerings like tea houses and local snacks.
While in there, look for a Sichuan Opera performance - our children particularly enjoy the Bian Lina performance ("face changing") where the trained actor swaps masks quickly (apparently a skill passed on from one person to another that remains a secret for all the rest of us).
Sample famous Chongqing Hot Pot
You might be wondering if you will be able to sample the famous spicy hot pot in Chongqing when traveling with kids.
You can, and you should!
Hot Pot restaurants have plenty to offer, and as long as you order hot pot that have the mild broth in the middle, there will be plenty to cook for the little ones.
Just take the necessary precautions not to let your kids get a burn from the hot broth!
NeoBio indoor playground
The playground is located in Chongqing Guanghuan Shopping Park, which is in itself quite a cool place to stroll around admiring modern architecture and people-watch China’s afluent middle class. Consider including the playground in your Chongqing tours to plan a visit to this exciting destination.
The playground is huge so you can easily spend a whole day in it moving around various role playing stations: from a grocery store through a fire station to car mechanic - this playground has it all!
There is also plenty to do for crawling and barely walking toddlers.
The whole playground has a very mild, pleasant estetic, and it is definitely targeted at more affluent parents.
That being said, it is still a fun place to go to, especially if you come from Europe, you have never been to a place like this one, guaranteed!
Best indoor Playgrounds in Chinese Cities
Hot Springs
Need to take a break from the big city? Why not spend a day at one of the hot springs near the city? You can also visit Fengdu Ghost City, another nearby attraction.
Children of all ages are welcome in the hot springs, so it is a great option for kids to have a splash and you relax a bit and feel you are on holiday!
Final thoughts
Chongqing is a truly inspiring up-and-coming city, offering a variety of activities for those wondering what to do in Chongqing. If you want to be ahead of the curve and enjoy a place that is far less touristy than Beijing or Shanghai, that’s your chance!
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