Laojundong→Huangjueya Old Street→Lunch→Huangge Ancient Road→Ma'anshan Community Park→Shangxin Street→Kaibu Relics Park→Longmenhao→Xiahuli→Lianhuashan Viewing Platform (Huang Yuming Barbecue and other tea stalls)→Dinner
There are limited breakfast options near the first stop, Laojun Cave, so it is recommended to have breakfast at your hotel. Be careful, we still have a recommendation for you to have breakfast in Laojun Cave. You can go and eat it as you wish. Climbing the mountain can be quite physically demanding. Inside Laojun Cave, Our recommendation is a unique vegetarian hall where you can replenish your energy. According to the plan, you should reach there around 10:30 AM, making it a good spot to have a light meal.
We can reach Laojun Cave either by bus or taxi. Taking the bus can be quite complicated, while taking a taxi is much simpler. We will enter through the East Gate for our visit and exit through the West Gate.
💰Ticket price: Free ⏰Opening Hours: Year-round, 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM 📷Recommended visit duration: 1.5-2 hours Laojun Cave is a Taoist temple dedicated to Laozi, the founder of Taoism. Originally built during the Tang Dynasty, it was renovated and expanded in the 16th year of the Chenghua reign (1480) of the Ming Dynasty and renamed Tai Chi Palace. The temple honors the three supreme deities of Taoism: Yuqing, Shangqing, and Taiqing. It later became known as Laojun Cave. Covering an area of 223 acres, the temple is built into the mountainside, presenting a grand and majestic appearance. The main buildings are arranged in the shape of the Chinese character "玄" (Xuan), symbolizing the Taoist core concept of "profound and mysterious." Laojun Cave is one of the most important Taoist temples in China, often referred to as the "First Taoist Temple in Eastern Sichuan." The temple is not crowded with tourists and features stone carvings from the Ming Dynasty. From the Jade Emperor Tower, visitors can enjoy distant views and appreciate sculptures from the last century. During the Chinese Lunar New Year to the Lantern Festival, there is an admission fee, but it is free at other times. To the left of the East Gate is a large relief depicting Laozi teaching his philosophy. Who is Laozi? Laozi, like Jesus, is a historical figure with detailed records of his life. Jesus left behind the Bible, while Laozi authored the Tao Te Ching. Laozi is the founder of the Taoist school of thought and is considered one of the most important deities in Taoism. Similarly, Jesus is the savior in Christianity. Both have had a profound impact on culture, ethics, and social development. Laozi advocated for following the natural order and promoted the concept of "wu wei" (non-action), emphasizing the importance of morality. He believed that people should act according to moral principles. Jesus taught people to love God and their neighbors, advocating for compassion, tolerance, and honesty. Both focused on improving human moral behavior and spiritual elevation, guiding people towards goodness and justice. As a real person, Laozi was a philosopher believed to have lived during the Spring and Autumn period, around 571-471 BCE. His work, the Tao Te Ching, is a philosophical text of about 5,000 characters, divided into two parts: the Tao and the Te. It provides wisdom and methods for self-cultivation, governance, military strategy, and health. The Tao Te Ching is considered one of the greatest classics in Chinese history and has been translated into many languages, second only to the Bible. It has had a profound impact on philosophy, science, politics, and religion, making it a valuable spiritual treasure for all humanity. To help you understand, we interpret "Tao" as "truth" here, and present the opening passage of this great work for you to experience. However, "Tao" encompasses more than just truth; it includes lifestyle, moral principles, and a worldview. Tao Te Ching, Chapter 1: The Tao that can be told is not the eternal Tao; the name that can be named is not the eternal name. The nameless is the origin of Heaven and Earth; the named is the mother of all things. Therefore, free from desire, you see the mystery; filled with desire, you see the manifestations. Due to space limitations, we won't delve into academic discussions. If you are interested, there are many translated versions of the Tao Te Ching available for you to read. In the Taoist system, Laozi is considered the chief disciple of Hongjun Laozu, a deity who existed before the universe's creation and is the creator and ruler of all things. Laozi, known as "Tai Shang Laojun" and "Tao De Tian Zun," represents the core Taoist thought of "Tao begets one, one begets two, two begets three, three begets all things." He is the embodiment of the universe's laws. Tai Shang Laojun is more of a spiritual leader and philosophical guide in Taoism, influencing the entire Taoist system through his teachings rather than directly intervening in heavenly affairs. He is also known for his alchemy, with his elixirs believed to grant immortality and invulnerability. Additionally, he taught Taoist methods to help his disciples in their cultivation and advancement. Tour Route: East Gate (Mountain Gate) → Lishan Laomu Cave → Lü Zu Cave → Caishendian→ Cihangdian → Nantianmen → Jade Emperor Tower → Ancestral Master Hall → The Mingdai Shikedian→ Sanqingdian → West Exit 1. No smoking or eating meat in the scenic area. 2. Bring a camera to capture your wonderful moments. 3. Enter and exit the main hall from the sides; the middle is for the gods, the sides for people. 4. Do not take photos of the statues; it is considered disrespectful. 5. Do not step on the threshold; it is disrespectful. 6. Do not block incense; it is disrespectful if someone is offering incense. 7. Do not disrespect the gods, do not criticize, do not speak recklessly. You may not believe, but do not disrespect. 8. Do not bring your own incense into the temple; purchase it at the incense sales points on either side of the main hall. Prices range from 18 to 48 yuan, including incense, candles, and yellow paper. Free incense is also available, but in limited quantities. 9. If you wish to pray, follow these steps: Clean your hands: to show respect and sincerity. Hold the incense: right hand over left, thumbs touching, index and middle fingers holding the incense, with the base of the incense against the thumbs. This gesture symbolizes the combination of wisdom and compassion. Light the incense: light a candle and use it to light the incense. If the incense has a visible flame, do not blow it out with your mouth; gently shake or fan it with your hand. Worship: face the statue, hold the incense with both hands at forehead level, and silently make your wish. Place the incense: insert the incense into the incense burner, keeping a certain distance between each stick (usually 3-5 cm), and ensure the incense is straight and level to show respect. Burn paper: this is the final step. Burn the paper in groups of three until all is burned. After making your wish, wait quietly for a while to show sincerity and respect. Finally, bow to end the incense offering and thank the gods. Additionally, the Taoist gesture for worship is different from the Buddhist gesture of joining hands. As below： In Taoism, you can stand with your feet in a V-shape, hold your hands in the gesture at forehead level, silently make your wish, then kneel on the cushion, place your hands palms up, bow, then rise and repeat three times.
Follow the picture above to help you reach Huangjueya Old Street as fast as possible.
📷Recommended visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour Huangjueya Old Street is one of the oldest historical streets in Chongqing's main urban area, dating back to the Tang and Song dynasties over a thousand years ago. It was once a bustling stop for merchants and travelers on the ancient Yu-Qian Road, serving as a resting place for porters and mule caravans. The street stretches approximately 600 meters and features 175 unique Bayu-style residences and historical buildings. Since 2016, the government has invested 350 million RMB to restore the street, preserving the original stone and brick-wood structures while only demolishing dangerous D-grade buildings, aiming to restore the authentic Bayu residential style as much as possible. Unlike the bustling Ciqikou and Hongyadong, Huangjueya Old Street retains a closer resemblance to its appearance from a century ago. It has now developed into a vibrant marketplace, with its ancient streets exuding both the weathered charm of the Tang and Song era post roads and the restored Bayu style. It is often referred to as Chongqing's "living history museum." If Laojun Cave represents a celestial realm, then Huangjueya Old Street is the earthly world filled with the essence of daily life. The two are connected by winding mountain roads, seemingly forming a hidden allegory. Here, we recommend several spots for sightseeing and resting. Whether you want to drink tea, relax, have coffee, enjoy the view, or simply daydream, there are options for you.
When you gaze down at the "mortal world" from the South Gate of Laojun Cave, you might not expect that today's lunch will be so "down-to-earth." We've selected three student-favorite restaurants near Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications for you to fully immerse yourself in the local life of Chongqing and savor the rich and spicy flavors of the city.
Keep your pace with our guide above:
📷Recommended visit duration: 0.5 hour This stone-paved path, worn smooth by countless footsteps over the centuries, is shaded by lush greenery, including several hundred-year-old Huangge trees that lend the path a sense of antiquity and tranquility. The history of Huangge Ancient Road dates back to the Tang Dynasty, making it nearly a thousand years old. It once served as a crucial trade route connecting Chongqing with Guizhou and Yunnan, often referred to as the "Silk Road of Chongqing." Up until the mid-1970s, it remained an important transportation route. However, with the development of modern transportation in the late 1980s, its role as a major thoroughfare diminished. In recent years, its picturesque scenery has made it a favorite spot for fitness enthusiasts and hikers. Huangge Ancient Road is not only a historic trade route but also a cultural symbol of Chongqing, attracting numerous visitors who come to explore its history and enjoy its serene beauty. As you walk downhill, you can conserve your energy.
Look at the picture and you'll know how to reach Dunhoupo Old Street.
📷Recommended Visit Duration: 30 minutes. On your way, you will pass through Dunhoupo Old Street, a historic street where local natives have lived for generations. This street exudes a sense of nostalgia and is particularly photogenic due to the concentration of over 20 flower hairpin experience shops. This area, centered around the national intangible cultural heritage "Xunpu Flower Hairpin," is also known as "Flower Hairpin Street." What is a Flower Hairpin? A flower hairpin is a traditional Chinese aesthetic that involves adorning the hair, hat, or lapel with fresh flowers or artificial flowers made from silk, velvet, and other materials. This practice originated around 2000 years ago during the Han Dynasty, when women considered it beautiful to decorate their hair with flowers. (Unearthed Eastern Han Dynasty terracotta figurines) By the Song Dynasty, about 1000 years ago, the practice had become widespread, to the extent that even prisoners would wear flower hairpins upon release to ward off bad luck. At court banquets, officials would distinguish their ranks with red, yellow, and purple flowers. The craft of making flower hairpins was lost during the wars at the end of the Yuan Dynasty and the beginning of the Ming Dynasty. The Ming and Qing governments did not systematically record or support the flower hairpin craft, and only in places like Xunpu and Quanzhou in Fujian did the tradition persist among the local people. Today, this sophisticated aesthetic philosophy is experiencing a revival and has become a novel experience that young people are eager to try. From the private adornments of the Han Dynasty to the contemporary symbol of intangible cultural heritage, flower hairpins embody the Chinese people's eternal pursuit of nature, beauty, and life. If you want to try it, the flower hairpin shops here typically charge between 60-80 RMB.
When navigating, search for "Rugu Secret Garden · Sunset BBQ (Nanbin Road Branch)" to avoid being directed to the wrong place. Following our directions, you will be led to an inconspicuous storefront—don't hesitate, just walk through it! After passing through this store, you will see a Totoro trash can and red lanterns. Head upwards from here, and you will reach Ma'anshan Community Park.
📷Recommended Visit Duration: 30 minutes. Ma'anshan Community Park is a hidden gem in Chongqing with a hard-to-find entrance. The stone-paved path winds upwards, flanked by old Chongqing stilt houses and walls adorned with faded graffiti. Moss-covered old trees and weathered wooden doors recreate the street life of the 1980s. Many visitors say it feels more authentic than the famous Hongya Cave. At the entrance, a Totoro sculpture, faded whitewashed walls, abandoned tables and chairs, and old fans create a nostalgic photo spot. It is recommended to visit in the early morning or on rainy days to avoid crowds. This park combines the "texture of old Chongqing" with "cutting-edge artistic elements," creating a unique charm that appeals to travelers who prefer off-the-beaten-path destinations and "ruin aesthetics." Avoiding peak times will allow you to better appreciate its tranquil and magical atmosphere, where the old and new blend seamlessly. Take a brief stroll around Ma'anshan Community Park to soak in the atmosphere, then return the way you came. Head left and continue downhill to reach Shangxin Street.
📷Recommended Visit Duration: 1 hour If the previous old streets were a glimpse into the past, Shangxin Street is a magical blend of old and new, creating a unique and surreal experience. Shangxin Street was once the heart of Chongqing. Established in the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China, it was an important commercial thoroughfare. Today, it still retains many traditional residences and stone-paved roads, exuding a rich historical atmosphere. In modern times, Shangxin Street has become a perfect fusion of history and contemporary art. The area is infused with modern artistic elements—colorful alleys, cartoon characters, artistic shops, rainbow stairs, rabbit walls, and graffiti walls. The combination of the old city and cartoon elements makes every step a visual feast. This street feels like a charming cartoon world, vibrant and colorful under the sunlight. There are also many delightful small shops here, perfect for taking photos.
This is the location of the "Cableway Hotpot Restaurant," named so because the Yangtze River Cableway passes directly overhead. From here, turn west and follow the road to reach the "Kaibu Heritage Park."
⏰Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM 📷Recommended visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour Centered around the old foreign firm buildings constructed by British merchant Archibald John Little in 1896, Kaibu Heritage Park is a significant historical site from Chongqing's opening-up period (marked by the establishment of the customs office in 1891). It is known as "the earliest foreign firm in Southwest China." This area is built along the mountains and the river, with an elevation difference of up to 70 meters. It connects museums, parks, and commercial streets through walkways, bamboo tunnels, and viewing platforms, blending the mountainous terrain with historical textures. The stairs leading down from Nanbin Road are quite distinctive and worth experiencing. If you prefer not to exert yourself, there is an elevator on the right-hand side facing the Yangtze River that connects the various platforms at different heights. What is Chongqing's Opening-Up? What Impact Did It Have? In the mid to late 19th century, Western powers gradually opened China's coastal and river ports through unequal treaties (such as the Treaty of Tientsin and the Treaty of Peking). Cities along the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, like Hankou and Jiujiang, successively opened up. Chongqing, as an important port in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, located in the heart of the Sichuan Basin with abundant resources (such as silk, tung oil, and pig bristles), became a coveted inland trade hub for foreign powers. In 1890, the Sino-British Treaty of Yantai was signed, officially designating Chongqing as a trading port. From then on, Chongqing transformed from a regional agricultural product distribution center into the largest transshipment center in Southwest China, connecting the Yangtze River Basin with the markets of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Tibet. The Tea Horse Road we saw earlier is also a product of Chongqing's opening-up. Chongqing's opening-up history is a blend of passive openness and proactive change. The impact of foreign cultures, the resistance of national capital, and the integration of immigrant communities collectively fostered a local consciousness that is both inclusive and self-preserving. This consciousness is not an exclusive identity but a dynamic construction based on the mountainous geography, connected by dock culture, and driven by resistance and integration. Today's Chongqing, from its three-dimensional landscape as an "internet-famous city" to its positioning as an "inland open highland," continues to carry the cultural genes of its opening-up history—embracing the world while maintaining a strong sense of "I am a Chongqing person."
Nanbin Road is a beautiful riverside street and a must-pass route to "Longmenhao." Let's enjoy the river breeze and scenic views as we leisurely walk this 500-meter stretch.
We recommend four ways for you.
📷Recommended visit duration: 15-30 minutes In the first year of the Northern Song Dynasty (1056), Su Shi (one of the most famous literary figures in Chinese history) passed through Chongqing. He saw a huge stone beam on the south bank of the Yangtze River (now Guanyin Beam) naturally split, resembling a dragon gate which is longmen(龙门) in Chinese, and named it "Longmenhao," inscribing it on the high bank of the ferry, making it one of Chongqing's earliest cultural landmarks. In 1891, when Chongqing opened up, Longmenhao Wharf became the first inland trading port. British merchant Archibald John Little landed here, and foreign firms (such as Little's firm and Butterfield & Swire) and customs villas were established, pioneering foreign trade in Western China. From 1937 to 1946, Chongqing served as the wartime capital. Due to its concealed vegetation and convenient transportation, Longmenhao gathered over 30 embassies from countries like the United States, Italy, and Belgium. Buildings such as the U.S. Embassy Military Attaché Villas and the old Italian Embassy still remain, serving as historical witnesses to the World Anti-Fascist Alliance. The old street currently has 2 city-level, 18 district-level protected buildings, and 15 excellent historical buildings. The restoration used 1.6 million old blue bricks, 400,000 old tiles, and 30,000 tons of sandstone strips to restore the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China style to the greatest extent. The first open area (Zaiziwan area) has a vertical height difference of 40 meters, with 27 buildings distributed along the mountain, forming a terraced viewing layout. You can walk along the bluestone road through the old U.S. Embassy Bar (now a theater), the old Xinhua Bank (art space), and experience the immersive feeling of "a step into history." Make a brief stop here, as our important destination is the next stop—Xiahaoli Old Street.
From Longmenhao Old Street, walk straight along Nanbin Road for about 300 meters to reach Entrance No. 4 of Xiahaoli. Although the tour is from bottom to top, most of the route is equipped with escalators or elevators, so it won't be tiring.
📷Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours, preferably after sunset Xiahaoli's layout is winding and undulating, with peaks and valleys that restore the beauty of the mountain city to its fullest. It lacks the commercial hustle and bustle, offering instead a serene simplicity that belongs to the old town. Xiahaoli dates back to the Qianlong period. During its restoration, 1.6 million old blue bricks and 30,000 tons of stone strips were used, adhering to the principle of "rebuilding on the original site." This not only preserved the 3-5 meter wide bluestone roads but also retained the old Chongqing lifestyle. Compared to typical commercial streets, the shops here have more design sense and local characteristics, with the addition of new tea houses and cafes, making it more charming and memorable. As you explore step by step along the stairs, you will always find a treasure shop that suits you. Around sunset, it is recommended to reach the waterfall area, where the viewing platform is beautifully illuminated. Route 1: From the riverside entrance, go straight and take the stairs on the right front. Take Elevators 1-2 to the 3rd floor, directly reaching Longmen Street. Turn right after exiting the elevator to reach Fumen. From the diagonal alley at Elevators 1-2, take Elevator 5 to the 2nd floor. Walk up the stairs, and you will reach the City Frame on the right. Continue up the stairs to reach Fuwall, and further up to Haoyue Plaza. Exit through the alley to see the Shangxin Street Light Rail Station. Route 2: From the riverside entrance, go straight and take the stairs on the right front. Take Elevators 1-2 to the 3rd floor, directly reaching Longmen Street. Turn left after exiting the elevator to reach Longmen Haoyue. Continue straight along the stairs to Elevator 4. Next to Elevator 4 is the Flower Corridor. Take Elevator 4 to Wangjiang Alley. Pass through the alley to reach Elevator 6. On the 2nd floor, the left side leads to the Best Subway Photo Spot, and the right side to the River Viewing Platform. Next to the River Viewing Platform is the Moon Viewing Platform. Continue up the stairs to reach Haoyue Plaza.
After an afternoon of exploring, you must be ready to replenish your energy.
As you gaze at the dazzling lights of downtown Chongqing from the twilight of Xiahaoli, you'll discover this vertically growing, magical mountain city. It has long simmered the nostalgia and faith of its immigrants into a pot of red broth—spicy flavors that transcend dialects and numbing sensations that dissolve barriers. The red ribbons of wishes hanging under the Huangge trees resonate with the lively shouts of "huoquan" (a traditional drinking game) in hotpot restaurants, mirroring the dual heartbeat of the Bayu land: one half is the compassion steeped in the thousand-year incense of Laojundong Temple, and the other half is the fiery dance of chili and Sichuan pepper on ancient paths. Chongqing people never mind where they come from; they care more about whether their current life is comfortable and if their future development will be smooth. In an era where grand narratives of diversity are tearing apart communal consensus, perhaps Chongqing's allegorical development journey offers more inspiration—so long as the stove fire keeps burning, different civilizations will ultimately harmonize in the enjoyment of spicy and numbing flavors and the relentless personal struggle. This will create a grand symphony of cultural, customary, and faith-based resonance from the grassroots level of each individual. Just like the Yangtze River, which has flowed for millions of years, formed by countless tributaries, yet at some point, it acquired a single name and direction. Now, it flows quietly by your side, heading towards the distance. After a long and tiring day, please rest early so as not to affect tomorrow's itinerary. Good night. If you enjoyed today's journey, please consider leaving us a positive review. It will greatly help other travelers considering a trip to China. Of course, if there was anything unsatisfactory, please let us know promptly. This will help us continuously improve our services. Thank you very much. Good night.
1. Laojundong is quite large, the route is complicated, and it's easy to take a wrong turn; do not blindly follow the crowd.
2. Water is expensive on the mountain, it is recommended to carry at least two bottles of drinking water.
3. Take measures against mosquitoes, as the vegetation on the mountain is dense and there are many mosquitoes; you can also buy mosquito repellent at the supermarket.
4. Travel light and wear comfortable shoes.
5. Remember to bring your passport.
6. Try to carry a power bank to ensure your phone is charged.
Sign in to the EasyGo China app with the email you used at checkout. Your purchase appears in My Trips.
Your route stays available in the app for 2 days after purchase.
Admission and reservations may be separate. Check the official attraction information before travel.
★ 5.0 / 5 · 7 reviews from app travelers
From Laojun Cave you see all the city’s hearth-smoke below; the Huangge Ancient Road is a thousand-year-old trade route with real atmosphere; the Port Opening Site Park tells Chongqing’s modern century clearly — this route is quiet and deep, a different temperament from the internet-famous Chongqing.
Древняя дорога Хуангу — остаток торгового пути между Сычуанью и Гуйчжоу, храм Лаоцзюньдун открывает вид на весь город, парк истории порта рассказывает о ста годах современного Чунцина — эта линия объясняет историю миграции и торговли города куда лучше, чем просто фотографирование у популярных точек.
After the futuristic chaos of the city centre, this tour was a welcome change of pace. It showed a completely different, more tranquil side of Chongqing. We visited the Laojun Cave Taoist temple, which was so peaceful and atmospheric, with incense smoke curling up into the trees. It felt like a hidden sanctuary. Walking along the Huangjueya Old Street and the ancient flagstone path was like stepping back in time. I loved exploring the little shops and cafes tucked away there. It was fascinating to see the old architecture and imagine what life was like here centuries ago. The private kitchen meal was a real treat, offering refined, home-style dishes that were a lovely contrast to the fiery hotpot. This experience provided a wonderful cultural depth to my visit.
This second Chongqing day felt more intimate and local. Laojun Cave gave me a calmer, spiritual side of the city, and walking around old streets like Huangjueya made the whole trip feel textured—less “checklist,” more atmosphere. I appreciated how the tour leaned into small cafés/tea stops and private-style dishes rather than only the big-ticket hotpot experience. The food was comforting but still punchy—classic Chongqing energy, just more personal. Also, having someone guide the route through hills, alleys, and viewpoints saved a lot of time and effort. If you want Chongqing beyond the neon postcard, this is the one.
Laojun Dong domina la ciudad, el Camino Antiguo Huangge es una ruta comercial milenaria, y el parque del puerto abierto cuenta un siglo de historia moderna — el Chongqing tranquilo sabe mejor que la versión viral. Las subidas y bajadas de esta ruta ya están resueltas: no hay que pelearse con las cuestas.
Laojun Dong domina el río Yangtsé y la ciudad; el Camino Antiguo Huangge te devuelve cien años atrás; el parque del puerto abierto cuenta la historia de la apertura de Chongqing — esta ruta tiene más poso que los puntos virales, pensada para quien quiere leer la ciudad.
More ideas for a day you’ll remember.
Self-guided tour