Chongqinq is one of the most fascinating cities in China. The hard working porters down by the docks, weaving in and out of the old alleys, contrast against the super modern just around the corner.
Chongqing has the feel of Gotham City in Batman, minus all the crime.
A hard working porter carries goods from the city to the docks.The Chinese government is pumping loads of money into the place, trying to make it the ‘Shanghai of the East’. Therefore many of the old buildings are getting knocked down to make way for the new.
The old and the new.
Chongqing is the starting point of cruises down the Yangtze River, and tourists crowd down the dock areas. But you hardly any of them see the city itself. That’s good because it makes the place feel less of an attraction and more of a local thing.
Shopping in the centre.
Amongst all the construction works tranquility and culture can still be found, such as in the scattered temple here and there.
Arhat Temple area.
The rare glimpse of green can be seen in the small parks here and there, where old men gather too play games and gamble, women come too dance, and the solitary practice tai chi.
Men playing a game.
Women practice dancing.
Practicing tai chi.
Meanwhile back down in an alley heavy goods are transported by what might be some of the toughest porters in China.
And you thought your job was hard!
At night everyone heads to the street stalls and small eateries, where you can sample the famous Chongqing hotpot
Chongqing hotpot is best eaten with friends.
Tasty street food stalls await.
Chongqing is a city often overlooked by travellers, which is a shame as it has it’s own unique charm.
Small side streets are great for exploring.
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Jonny Duncan
Jonny Duncan is a travel blogger and freelance photographer. He specialises in adventure and budget travel with over 20 years of experience. He started blogging in 2013 to give advice for other travellers. He has lived in Japan, Amsterdam, Kiev, and more.
Actually, I never really heard of Chongqing up till now. Really nice pics you shot there, Jonny. The men and women all heading to the parks to play same games, dance or practice a sport is so wonderful to see. A bit of relaxation in their busy lives in a big city as Chongqing.
Yes not many people go too Chongqing. You will see the people relaxing in the parks in all big cities in China 🙂
Chongqing is the biggest city in China right?
beside Xi’an, i really want to visit this city too
Hey! Sorry for late reply, just saw the comment now 😛 No Chongqing is not the biggest city in China, I think it’s Shanghai.
Jonny,
Totally agree Chongqing is overlooked by travelers…. but that makes it all the more interesting for us off the beaten path travelers!
Great post, also enjoyed your post on hotpot in Chongqing…. reminds me of our experience:
http://lucidpractice.com/backpacking-chongqing-china/
Pretty cool how every hotpot restaurant we went to, the patrons at the surrounding tables instantly befriended us & we ended up eating together. Looks like you had a similar experience.
Chongqing is one of my favorite Chinese travel destinations….. Yangshuo is still my number one!
Cheers,
Paz
Yeah Chongqing was a great time 🙂
Yup… I live here for now. So surprised to see a blog post about it. It sure is one hell of a place. Great in that never-gonna-forget never-going-back kinda way, LOL.
Got to blog about something 😉 I enjoyed my week there, especially for the food and busy atmosphere. Enjoy your time!