Flights from Bandar Seri Begawan (BWN) to Chongqing (CKG)

About Chongqing

Chongqing, where rivers and mountains meet

Chongqing is a vast, energetic city set among steep hills where the Yangtze and Jialing rivers meet. Its skyline rises above a maze of stairways, elevated roads, and bridges, creating dramatic views at almost every turn. As you move between neighbourhoods, you feel the city constantly revealing new layers of life along its riverbanks and hilltops.

You will find historic lanes, lively markets, and contemporary architecture side by side. Chongqing is known for its thriving hotpot culture, cool, misty weather, and bustling night-time atmosphere along the water. Whether you stay on the peninsula at Jiefangbei or explore further upriver, the city offers a distinctive urban experience shaped by its unique geography.

Beyond its dense core, Chongqing is also the gateway to scenic river journeys and mountain landscapes. Day trips quickly take you from high-rise districts to quiet old towns, cableways over the river, and viewpoints that showcase just how large and varied this municipality is.

Top sights in Chongqing

Jiefangbei Central Business District

Stroll around Chongqing's main commercial heart, with its landmark pedestrian streets, shopping malls, and illuminated skyline after dark.

Hongya Cave

Explore this multi-level complex built along the cliffside, known for its traditional-style architecture, river views, and vibrant night lights.

Yangtze River Cableway

Glide across the Yangtze River by cable car and enjoy panoramic views of Chongqing's dense skyline and surrounding hills.

Ciqikou Ancient Town

Wander cobbled streets lined with old-style buildings, teahouses, and snack stalls in this historic riverside quarter.

Raffles City Chongqing

Visit this striking modern complex on the river peninsula, featuring shopping, dining, and a dramatic sky corridor with sweeping city vistas.

Experience Chongqing's urban energy

Chongqing invites you to experience the city on foot, by river, and from above. Walk along riverside promenades to see ships, ferries, and river cruises weaving between bridges, while tall buildings rise almost directly from the water's edge. Climb stairways between districts to feel the steep terrain, or ride the monorail as it curves dramatically through the cityscape.

To immerse yourself in local life, spend time in bustling food streets, relaxed teahouses, and neighbourhood markets. You can join an evening river cruise to watch the city lights from the Yangtze and Jialing rivers, or take a guided tour that combines must-see viewpoints with lesser-known alleys and old neighbourhoods.

If you want to see more of the surrounding region, you can use Chongqing as a base for boat trips along the Yangtze, cableway rides across the river, or excursions to mountain viewpoints and nearby old towns. Each activity offers a different angle on how this vast city has grown around its dramatic natural setting.

A taste of Chongqing

Chongqing is renowned for its bold, spicy flavours, and dining here is an experience in itself. Chongqing hotpot is the city’s signature meal, where you cook meats, vegetables, and noodles in a bubbling, aromatic broth at the centre of the table. You can choose from different levels of heat, and non-spicy options are also widely available.

Beyond hotpot, you will find a wide variety of noodle dishes, skewers, and street snacks in busy food alleys and night markets. Many small eateries specialise in just one or two dishes, refined over generations, while larger restaurants offer extensive menus and river views.

For a more contemporary experience, head to modern malls, riverfront promenades, and high-rise dining venues that blend local specialities with wider Chinese and international cuisines. Whether you are trying a simple bowl of noodles or a multi-course feast overlooking the water, Chongqing’s food scene is lively and generous.

Retail therapy in a riverside metropolis

Chongqing offers a mix of modern malls and traditional streets, giving you plenty of options for shopping. Around Jiefangbei, you can explore large shopping centres, international brands, and department stores, all set amid busy pedestrian streets and neon-lit facades.

If you prefer a more local atmosphere, visit markets and older commercial streets where small shops sell snacks, tea, handicrafts, and regional products. Areas such as Ciqikou Ancient Town give you the chance to look for souvenirs in historic surroundings, with narrow lanes and old architecture adding to the experience.

Across the city, new developments combine retail, dining, and entertainment in one place, making it easy to spend an afternoon browsing shops before stopping for a meal or a river view. From everyday items to memorable keepsakes, you will find a wide range of choices in this fast-growing urban centre.

Best time to visit Chongqing

Spring in Chongqing (March to May) brings mild temperatures of around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F) and frequent light mist, creating an atmospheric skyline along the rivers. This shoulder season is ideal for city walks, river viewpoints, and exploring outdoor markets in comfortable weather.

Summer (June to September) is warm and humid, with average temperatures typically between 26°C and 33°C (79°F to 91°F). The city feels very lively, with long evenings perfect for river cruises and night-time visits to illuminated landmarks. This is considered the peak season, especially for those who enjoy energetic urban atmospheres.

Autumn (October to November) offers pleasant conditions, with temperatures around 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) and generally clearer days. This shoulder season is well suited for sightseeing across different districts, from historic streets to modern developments, with comfortable conditions for both daytime exploration and evening outings.

Winter (December to February) is cool and often misty, with temperatures usually between 6°C and 12°C (43°F to 54°F). While this is the low season, the softer light and cooler air give the rivers and hills a distinctive mood, and indoor hotpot meals feel especially welcoming after time spent outdoors.

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