Chongqing China is most particularly known as the embarkation or disembarkation point for Yangtze River cruises that navigate the Three Gorges. The city's size and its weather are two other things that help to characterize this popular tourist destination. In terms of size, the Chongqing metropolitan area is the largest such area in the world. This distinction formerly went to Tokyo. As for the city’s weather, the summers are so hot that it has been dubbed as one of China’s "Three Furnaces." Thankfully, summer visitors can find places to cool off. The teahouses are especially ideal for this, and there are plenty of air-conditioned shopping malls to duck into.

Only four cities have achieved the status of a municipality in the People’s Republic of China. One of these cities is Chongqing. The others include Shanghai, Beijing, and Tianjin. Also worth highlighting is the fact that nearly 30 million people call the Chongqing metropolitan area home, and its skyline is comprised of many modern skyscrapers. As for other Chongqing China points of interest, this rather hilly city is intersected by both the Yangtze River and Jialing River. The location and the city’s size make it the largest inland river port in western China.

Cikiqou Old Town

While many travelers primarily treat Chongqing as a stopping point for Three Gorges cruises, there is plenty to do within the city itself. Among the options is visiting the Cikiqou Old Town. Set atop a hill and overlooking the Jialing River in western Chongqing, this historic district is especially known for its shopping and dining opportunities. The two main streets and the numerous narrow lanes are lined with eateries and shops, and the pedestrian-only designation definitely adds to the allure.

Shopping in Chongqing

Shopping enthusiasts certainly won’t want to miss the Cikiqou Old Town while visiting Chongqing China. Among other things, the shops that are found in this historic district are known for their porcelain. So much so that the district is commonly referred to as "Porcelain Town." Cikiqou isn't the only place to go if you want to do some shopping in Chongqing, however. The city is home to numerous shopping centers, the likes of which include Metropolitan Plaza. This multi-story mall boasts an impressive array of stores and restaurants, and you can find it next to Harbour Plaza on Wuyi Lu street.

Paradise Walk Chongqing

When you’re not checking out such attractions as the Dazu Rock Carvings during your time in the Chongqing area, you might head over to Paradise Walk. This super mall is one of the largest shopping centers in all of Asia, but it’s not only a place to go shopping. Other entertainment options are available, and if nothing else, the restaurants are worth keeping in mind when trying to find a good place to dine. The Paradise Walk Chongqing area is also home to a number of enticing hotels, and this helps to make it a popular place to both play and stay for tourists. You can find Paradise Walk in the Jiangbei District, which is a district that has undergone much development in recent years.

Chongqing Hotels

Chongqing is a very large city, and there definitely isn’t a lack of places to stay should you be dropping into town. Hundreds of hotels call Chongqing home, and they include several upscale gems. Among the best China luxury hotels that are found in Chongqing are the Hilton Chongqing, the Sofitel Forebase Chongqing, and the JW Marriott Chongqing. Worry not if your budget doesn’t allow for a luxurious Chongqing travel base, however. The city is home to a healthy number of cheaper hotels, with the Continental Grand Hotel figuring among the very best budget options. In the mid-price category, it is hard to top the Holiday Inn North Chongqing.