CHONGQING HOTELS

ABOUT CHONGQING

Chongqing is a sprawling municipality in southwestern China. It is known for its stunning landscape, rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene. The city is nestled between the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers. Due to this, Chongqing serves as not only a gateway to the picturesque Three Gorges but also as a hub for business and commerce.

Chongqing was a small settlement during the ancient Ba State around 300 BC. It later became a military outpost during the Han dynasty era. The strategic importance of Chongqing grew during the tumultuous periods of the Three Kingdoms (220-280 AD) and the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The city’s elevated mountainous terrine made it easier to defend against  invasions. In these periods it served as a key city for trade, governance and a military stronghold.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked turning points for Chongqing. During the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937-1945) the city became the wartime capital of China under the Kuomintang government fighting the invading Imperial Japanese army. After World War 2 ended the city was again engulf in the revolutionary civil war.

Today, Chongqing is recognized as one of the four direct-controlled municipalities of China alongside Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin. Chongqing covers an area of approximately 82,403 square kilometers and boasts a population of around 32 million people. The population is made up of various ethnic groups like the Tujia, Miao and Qiang.

ATTRACTIONS IN CHONGQING

• The Yangtze River cruise showcases the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and city skyline. At night the river comes alive with illuminated skyscrapers.
• Fengdu Ghost City (located on the banks of the river) is famous for mythological themes of the afterlife in Chinese folklore and beliefs.
• The Ciqikou Ancient Town dates back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties.
• The Three Gorges Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, textiles, and photographs that narrate the story of the Yangtze River’s community civilization.
• The Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Chongqing. It has over 50,000 carvings carved into cliffs between the 9th and 13th centuries. The carvings depict Buddhist themes as well as Confucian and Taoist influences with astonishing levels of detail and artistry.
• Party goers can enjoy the vibrant Chongqing nightlife at the Jiefangbei CBD area filled with towering shopping malls, lively bars and night markets. Here one may also taste the city’s famed Cantonese style hotpot.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT CHONGQING

• Spring (March to May) temperatures are between 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). This period heralds the city’s bustling markets, outdoor performances and vibrant night markets.
• Summer time (June to August) weather is extremely hot and humid. The average temperatures can soar to 28°C–38°C (82°F–100°F). This period is also peak tourist season.
• Autumn (September to November) temperature begins to drop to a comfortable range of 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It is the most picturesque times to visit Chongqing as she transforms to golden hues from foliage changing color. Cultural events and traditional festivals take place during this period. The city’s famous hot springs become particularly popular during the cooler months in Chongqing.

CHONGQING TRAVEL TIPS

• VPN: Download a VPN app before your trip to bypass internet restrictions and access blocked websites.
• Mobile Payments: Familiarize yourself with Alipay and WeChat Pay for convenient transactions.
• Learn Basic Mandarin: Even a few phrases like “Hello” and “Thank you” in Chinese can be helpful.
• Pack Smartly: Bring comfortable walking shoes, adapters and consider weather conditions based on your travel dates.
• Book Accommodation in Advance: Especially if visiting during peak seasons or holidays. Secure your hotel reservations early.
• Be Mindful of Crowds: Weekends and public holidays can be very crowded for popular attractions.

CHONGQING DO’S AND DON’TS

• Don’t give anyone white flowers. They are for funerals.
• Don’t give clocks as gifts (especially to the elderly) as it is equivalent of telling someone that their days are numbered.
• Don’t stick your chopsticks upright into your food or bowl of rice. This resembles offerings to the deceased.
• Don’t point your finger at someone. It is considered hostile and extremely rude.
• Don’t use first names unless they tell you to. Always address them formally as “Mrs.” or “Mr.”
• Don’t whistle. In China it is considered a nuisance especially at nighttime. It is said to attract spirits.
• Don’t: Give sharp objects (like knifes) or use number # 4 as they symbolize death or severed relationships.
• Do: Wrap gifts in festive colors like red. Do not use all white or all black wrapping paper as it represents offerings to the dead souls.
• Don’t: Finish all the food on your plate (have some left overs). An empty plate implies you are still hungry and want more food.
• Do: Avoid sensitive topics like politics or criticism of the government.
• Do respect local customs: Avoid loud conversations in public spaces and be mindful of cultural sensitivities.
• Tipping is generally not expected: It’s not a common practice to tip in China.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas and scam tactics.