historicalChongqing
Hongyadong
Hongyadong is a historical site in Chongqing, renowned for its unique riverside stilted buildings, dazzling night views, and close connection to the ancient Bayu culture. The complex is built around the historic Hongyamen, one of Chongqing's ancient city gates. Rather than a museum-like exhibition, Hongyadong is more about its atmosphere: layered alleyways, local snacks, river views, and architecture inspired by Chongqing's cliffside city history.
Opening Hours
Open all day (lights on from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM)
Ticket Price
Free
Location
No. 88, Binjiang Road, Jialingjiang, Yuzhong District, Chongqing
About This Attraction
Hongyadong is a cluster of traditional Bayu stilted buildings located on the banks of the Jialing River in Chongqing. Reaching 11 stories, it is famous for its nighttime illumination, which resembles a scene from the animated film *Spirited Away*. A visit of 2-3 hours is recommended, with the best time to visit being between 7:30 PM and 11:00 PM when the buildings are illuminated. The "Blue Hour" from 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM offers the best photo opportunities. It is suggested to start from the city balcony on the 11th floor and walk down each floor, saving energy and allowing for a comprehensive experience of the building's interior and exterior structures.
Getting There
The most convenient way is by subway. You can take Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station (exit from Exit 6 or 9), or Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station. After exiting the station, walk about 500-1000 meters to reach the entrance to the top floor (11th floor) of the scenic area. By bus: Take bus routes 111, 151, or 181 to Hongyadong Station. Recommended Itinerary: We recommend first going to the riverside area near the Grand Theatre Station in Jiangbei District to take photos of the distant view of Hongyadong and the Qianximen Bridge. Then walk across the Qianximen Bridge to enjoy the panoramic view from afar. After crossing the bridge, you will arrive directly at the entrance to the 11th floor of Hongyadong. From there, explore the area floor by floor down to the riverside promenade on the 1st floor.
What to Expect
Hongyadong is entirely built into the mountainside, with internal passages and external connections relying primarily on numerous staircases and elevators. However, elevator queues can be long during holidays, so it's advisable to be prepared to walk. Restrooms are available throughout the scenic area, mainly located on some floors (such as near the food street on the 4th floor). Gift shops and restaurants are scattered across all floors, especially the "Bayu Style Street" on floors 1-3, which sells various folk souvenirs, while floors 9-10 offer exotic handicrafts. Furthermore, both the ground floor (1st floor) and the top floor (11th floor) lead directly to roads, perfectly showcasing Chongqing's "magical" mountainous terrain.
Visitor Tips
- 1Go after 18:30 for the illuminated facade, but arrive before 17:30 if you want photos with shorter queues and less crowding.
- 2General entry is free as of 2026; bring your passport and check for real-name registration notices on official signage during peak holidays.
- 3Use Metro Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, then follow signs carefully — Chongqing's multi-level streets can make the walk look shorter on maps than it feels.
- 4For the classic skyline shot, cross toward the Qiansimen Bridge or nearby riverfront viewpoints rather than shooting only from inside the complex.
- 5Avoid national holidays if possible: evening crowd control is common, and entry/exit routes may be one-way during busy periods.
Share This Attraction
Found this helpful? Share it with fellow travelers!
More in Chongqing
Explore Chongqing
Discover more attractions, food, and travel tips for Chongqing.
View destination
More Attractions to Explore
Beijing·historical
Badaling Great Wall
Badaling, the most famous and best-preserved section of the Great Wall, is located about 80 kilometers northwest of Beijing. As an important military fortress during the Ming Dynasty, it holds immense historical significance, having protected the capital from northern invasions. Today, visitors can stroll along the expansive walls, climb the beacon towers, and enjoy panoramic views of the rolling mountains, truly experiencing the grandeur of this ancient wonder.
Lijiang·historical
Baisha Old Town
Baisha Old Town is the earliest settlement of the Naxi Kingdom and serves as a tranquil alternative to the bustling Lijiang Old Town. Located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this historic village offers a glimpse into authentic local life with its traditional cobblestone streets and well-preserved mud-brick houses. Visitors can explore the famous Baisha Murals, which depict a unique fusion of Taoist, Buddhist, and Tibetan art, and wander through quiet courtyards away from the commercial crowds. The town retains a slow-paced, rural atmosphere, making it perfect for those seeking cultural immersion and relaxation. It is an ideal spot for photography and enjoying a cup of local tea while watching the world go by.
Guangzhou·historical
Canton Tower
The Canton Tower, standing at 600 meters tall, is China's tallest tower and, when it opened in 2010, the world's tallest freestanding structure. Its unique twisted, lattice-like design, narrowing at the waist, resembles a slender woman. Highlights include the world's highest outdoor observation deck, a skydiving attraction, and a bubble cable car that encircles the top. The tower's LED lighting creates a breathtaking light show at night.