Chongqing - The city that knows how to have fun.

We went to Chongqing in Winter 22/23 and it was our first stop on a multi legged trip around China. Chongqing is often called mountain city and it shows 'cos there is hardly a large patch of flatland anywhere in the center. Famed for its hotpot, it actually has a whole lot more to offer than just spicy food. The city gives out a strong party vibe, with plenty of bars, restaurants and live houses all around the city. We stayed in the area around Liberation square because it super convenient and there is a plethora of hotels ranging from budget to luxury. While it is a city you could just simply enjoy just by walking around randomly (and drinking and eating while doing so), without any particular sightseeing in mind, it does have some spots worth checking out: - Hongyadong commercial spot (pic 1&3) as the name says is rather commercial, but still it fairy-tale Miyazaki style look made it a must for us. The place actually is of historical relevance (site of a military fortress and a Ming Dynasty pier), but today it is a shop&restaurant 11storey high building with a straight out of 'Spirited Away' look that makes it so popular. - Liziba station (pic 2) is a subway station carved into a multipurpose building which in turn is carved into a cliff. Looks cool and there is a small gift shop at the bottom with all things related to subway. Nearby area is also interesting and hiking up the steep roads might get you to some nice places and vantage points. - The liberation square area(pic 7) is the tourist core of the city. Malls, night markets, shops, restaurants, you name it. Best place to stay. Also you might want to consider a night boat ride (starting from below Hongyadong). It does offer some great views, but the kitschy boat, sale show and the throng of Chinese tourists might put you out of it. Cable-way was unfortunately closed for maintenance while we were there, but it was high on our list. As for Ciqikou ancient town we found it rather underwhelming maybe because we have been in China for long now and most of these recreated ancient (built 10-20 years ago) towns look very similar and are quite often just dull tourist traps. If you do like those kind of places ShiBaTi in the city center (pic 6) is a much better option. Newly built, old looking, but actually has a good vibe and it is central unlike Ciqikou. One (kind of) hidden gem is the Crown escalator near Lianglukou station, a super long escalator that feels like it is going on forever. Definitely a cool experience which also provides a great insight in the topography of this fun city. #urbanexplorer#wintergetaway