Chongqing Jiefangbei Travel Guide: Top Things to Do
Chongqing Jiefangbei Highlights
Chongqing Jiefangbei stands out as one of the city’s most iconic destinations, a must-visit for tourists worldwide. Renowned for its vibrant pedestrian streets and the historic People’s Liberation Monument, it beautifully blends modernity with tradition. Explore our guide to uncover Jiefangbei’s unique attractions.
Jiefangbei Top Attractions Map
Kuixinglou
Kuixinglou has gone viral on social media for its mind-bending view of buildings stacked atop one another.
This architectural marvel leaves visitors disoriented, unsure of which floor they’re on. You might think you’re at ground level, only to realize you’re on the 34th floor!
Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, Chongqing’s oldest shopping district, blends modern luxury with local charm.
Explore high-end malls like Chongqing Times Square, Universal Shopping Centre, Metropolis Oriental Plaza, and the World Financial Center (WFC), or dive into more affordable options such as New Century Department Store, Golden Eagle Treasure Centre, IMIX Park, and Ruifu Shopping Centre.
Jiefangbei is a shopper’s paradise, offering something for every budget.
People’s Liberation Monument
No visit to Chongqing is complete without a photo in front of the People’s Liberation Monument, the city’s most iconic landmark.
Originally built on March 12, 1940, to commemorate Sun Yat-sen’s passing and completed by late 1941, it’s considered a spiritual stronghold of the Chinese nation.
Standing 27.5 meters tall with a 2.55-meter square base, the monument has eight levels, including an underground section, with a spiral staircase leading to the top.
Four clocks adorn the tower, originally Rolex but replaced with Tissot after a decade of wear.
Guotai Artistic Center
The Guotai Artistic Center is a modern complex. Comprising the historic Guotai Theater and the Chongqing Art Gallery, this striking red-hued complex stands out with its bold design—one side resembling a ship ready to sail, the other evoking a blazing bonfire.
Inside, visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse collection of Chinese paintings, oil paintings, prints, and more, alongside vibrant song and dance performances.
Bayi Food Street
Once a beloved haunt for Chongqing locals, Bayi Food Street has transformed into a tourist hotspot where visitors flock to photograph vibrant food stalls.
While the food is similar to what you’d find elsewhere in China, the street’s lively atmosphere captures the Chinese passion for delicious cuisine.
Though it’s less authentic and pricier than it once was, a stroll here is still a feast for the senses.
Deyi World
Deyi World is renowned for its vibrant cyberpunk atmosphere, illuminated by dazzling LED-neon signs. Visitors flock here to capture stunning photographs.
Shibati (Eighteen Steps)
Shibati, a historic and cultural block near Jiefangbei, is also known as the “Eighteen Steps.”
During the Ming and Qing dynasties, it served as a vital gateway from the Yangtze River to Sichuan Province, bustling with merchants, travelers, and goods.
The steep hill separating Chongqing’s upper and lower areas was eased by the construction of these iconic steps.
Often called the birthplace of Chongqing’s dock culture, Shibati has been modernized into a scenic area featuring traditional diaojiaolou (stilt houses), shopping, dining, and photo opportunities.
Shancheng Alley Trail
Shancheng Alley Trail, alongside the Mid-Mountain Cliff Trail, is one of my favorite hiking routes in Chongqing, where I’ve trekked at least ten times.
This trail offers stunning views of the Yangtze River and Nan’an District, passing historical sites like the Republican-era Water Plant Tower, the former French Ren’ai Hospital, air-raid shelters, and traditional local buildings.
Check my complete guide on Shancheng Alley Trail here: Mountain City Sightseeing Trail.
Baixiangju Residential Area
Baixiangju exemplifies Chongqing’s unique urban planning, adapting to the city’s hilly terrain.
This residential complex features interconnected 24-story buildings without elevators, creating a maze-like experience where it’s easy to lose your way.
Fortunately, parts of Baixiangju have been transformed into a tourist attraction with clear signage and navigation, ensuring visitors can explore its grandeur without getting lost.
Huguang Guild Hall
Huguang Guild Hall, established in 1759 during the Qing Dynasty, was a regional hub for business, entertainment, religious, and social activities in Chongqing. For a detailed review, see my separate post on Huguang Guild Hall.
See Hu Guang Guid Hall for more details.
Luohan (Arhat) Temple
Nestled in the heart of Jiefangbei’s Central Business District, Luohan Temple, built during the Northern Song Dynasty, is a spiritual haven where visitors pray for good luck and witness Chongqing’s blend of old and new. It’s a serene contrast to the bustling city around it.
More details are available from Luohan Temple: Ancient Serenity Amid Chongqing’s Skyscrapers.
Raffles City Chongqing
Raffles City Chongqing, a landmark business and shopping center at Chaotianmen, where the Jialing and Yangtze rivers converge, draws inspiration from the city’s millennia of waterway transport.
Its design evokes a powerful ship sailing from the past into the future. The highlight is a sky bridge spanning four 250-meter skyscrapers, housing an observation deck, a clubhouse, and a variety of restaurants.
Chaotianmen Gate
Chaotianmen Gate, one of Chongqing’s 17 ancient city gates, was the largest entrance to the old city. A key hub for Yangtze River trade, it fostered Chongqing’s dock culture and spicy hotpot tradition. Its historical significance makes it a must-see.
Hongya Cave (Hongyadong)
Entry is free, with escalators at the main entrance—beware of paid guides, as they’re often scams.
Hongya Cave, or Hongyadong, is an 11-story stilt-building complex perched on the Jialing River’s hillside.
Originally a fortress during the ancient Ba state, it mirrored the defensive role of Diaoyu Fortress in Hechuan, leveraging its natural protection from mountains and rivers.
To capture its full splendor, take the metro across the river and walk back via Qiansimen Bridge for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Inside, you’ll find restaurants, shops, and bars.
Chongqing Jiefangbei Dining Options
As a local, I no longer dine at Bayi Food Street due to its touristy vibe.
Instead, here are my top recommendations for authentic and diverse dining experiences near Jiefangbei.
Chongqing Bandeng (Stool) Noodle
Bandeng Noodle, a beloved Sichuan-Chongqing specialty, gets its name from its unique dining setup: customers sit on low stools and use high stools as tables. This quirky tradition, born from cramped street-side eateries, is now a symbol of Chongqing’s vibrant food culture.
My favorite spot is Jiang Er Liang Wanza Noodle. Conveniently located near the Qianshuimen Bridge, which connects to Nan'An District, Xiahaoli, and Longmenhao Old Street, it’s perfect for a quick meal.
Try the local wandou zajiang ganbanmian 豌杂干拌面 (pea and minced pork dry-tossed noodles) and choose your spice level. It’s an authentic Chongqing dish you won’t forget!
CSC (Country Style Cooking)
CSC, or Xiangcunji, is a local fast-food chain serving authentic Chongqing dishes.
This self-service spot lets you grab a plate, pick your favorite dishes from a colorful spread, and pay based on weight (calculated at the counter). Expect to spend 20–30 RMB, payable by cash, WeChat, or Alipay.
Since I was six, CSC has been my go-to for quick, delicious meals.
Tujia Minority Chinese-Style Pizza
I love mixing and matching small bites for a meal, and Tujia Minority Chinese-Style Pizza is one of my favorites.
Don’t expect a classic Western pizza—this savory treat resembles a pepperoni pizza but features minced pork and a fragrant herbal sauce.
The flavor leans salty, though it varies by chef. Order by the slice to try it out and see if it’s your thing!
A Chuan Rotating Hotpot
A Chuan Rotating Hotpot has surged in popularity as diners shift from upscale hotpot restaurants to faster, more affordable options.
At these spots, a conveyor belt parades an array of hotpot ingredients right in front of you—simply grab what catches your eye.
Pricing is based on the number and type of skewers you pick, with different sticks carrying different costs. It’s fun, interactive, and budget-friendly.
Kaojiang Grilled Fish
I get it—fish with bones can be daunting for international visitors (and even for me sometimes). Still, I highly recommend trying Kaojiang Grilled Fish. It boasts crispy skin, tender meat, and bold, aromatic flavors.
Pair it with tofu for an even better experience. The combination is a Chongqing classic that’s worth the effort.
Dining at Raffles City
For a more upscale experience, head to Raffles City, a dining hub offering everything from Japanese sushi and Korean BBQ to hotpot, Vietnamese pho, Western cuisine, and pizza. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it here in a sophisticated setting.
Shopping at Chongqing Jiefangbei
Jiefangbei consists of many shopping malls, from high-end to day-to-day. Each shopping mall hosts brand-name shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Chongqing Times Plaza
Nestled in the heart of Jiefangbei, Chongqing Times Plaza is a glitzy destination known for its upscale vibe and festive exterior, often adorned with eye-catching displays like Louis Vuitton’s Christmas-inspired lighting.
It’s a haven for luxury shoppers, featuring high-end brands and a sprawling electronics mart, Sundan, on its upper floors. With Western-style cafes and modern amenities, it’s a great spot for a comfortable shopping experience.
Guotai Plaza
Home to the Chongqing Art Gallery, Guotai Plaza combines retail with cultural flair. Its unique architecture blends traditional and modern styles, making it a visual treat.
World Financial Centre
A towering icon in Jiefangbei’s skyline, the World Financial Centre offers a premium shopping experience with a focus on luxury brands and high-end boutiques. Its sleek design and central location make it a go-to for fashionistas seeking international labels and a sophisticated atmosphere amidst Chongqing’s bustling CBD.
Metropolitan Oriental Plaza
Renowned as one of the city’s first major shopping malls, the Metropolitan Oriental Plaza is a 230,000-square-meter complex that integrates retail, dining, entertainment, and a Hyatt Regency hotel.
International Commodity Wholesale Center
For those seeking unique finds, the International Commodity Wholesale Centre is a treasure trove of affordable goods, from trinkets to everyday essentials. It’s a bustling spot for bargain hunters and travelers looking to snag distinctive souvenirs in the heart of Jiefangbei.
Xinhua Bookstore
A haven for book lovers, Xinhua Bookstore in Jiefangbei offers an extensive collection of Chinese and international titles. Its cozy ambiance and proximity to the vibrant pedestrian streets make it a perfect stop for a quiet break amidst the shopping frenzy.
New Century Department Store
A staple in Chongqing’s retail scene, New Century Department Store is a one-stop shop for fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and household goods. Located near Jiefangbei’s core, it offers a modern shopping environment with dining and entertainment options for all ages.
Bayi Square
Bayi Square is synonymous with Chongqing’s famous Bayi Road food street, but it’s also a shopping destination with a mix of stores and entertainment.
Raffles City Shopping Center
A striking architectural marvel, Raffles City Shopping Center is a Jiefangbei gem with its futuristic design and premium offerings. Shoppers can enjoy a mix of global brands, gourmet dining, and unique entertainment.
CBest Mall
CBest Mall, part of the Chongqing Department Store Co., Ltd., is a lively retail hub in Jiefangbei’s pedestrian zone. Known for its diverse range of stores and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a favorite for locals and tourists seeking everything from fashion to local snacks.
Sun Moon & Light Central Plaza
The Sun Moon & Light Central Plaza is an expansive mall in Jiefangbei that combines luxury and accessibility, featuring a wide range of brands, from high-end to high-street. With its vibrant dining scene and entertainment options, it’s a great place to soak in Chongqing’s urban energy.
Discover Chongqing with Haonan!
From mountains to grasslands, Chongqing has something to offer for everyone.
Start planning, find an inspiration, or search for a place.
Or follow us on social media.
