CHINA’S CYBERPUNK CITY, CHONGQING12 min read

MONGOL SERIES, DAY 12 – 14

WUHAN – CHONGQING – HOME

China’s cyberpunk city, Chongqing. Regrettably I was leaving Wuhan after just 2 nights, never did I think I would want to stay longer.

NO WONDER THEY CALL THIS THE 8D CITY

But there is too much to see in China to stay in the same place any longer than you need to.

WHERE IS CHONGQING?

Chongqing

Before exploring Chongqing, we first had to get there, which meant another blissful ride on China’s impeccable business class trains. These seats weren’t as luxurious as the ones to Wuhan, but they still offered plenty of space and incredible views. I never expected Chinese train rides to be a highlight of the trip.

CHONGQING

I arrived at yet another monstrosity of a train station and headed to the hotel, Dekin, for a bargain of $50/night! This hotel was right in the middle of the city and just off walking street. No doubt it would cost at least $100 in any major European city.

I spent the rest of the day walking around, amazed by the size of this place, and sampling as much food and snacks as possible. I’m definitely going to miss this country!

DAY 13

Today I met Grace, an old friend who showed me around Chengdu a few months back. She was tons of fun and always up for a laugh, so I had to visit her in her hometown of Chongqing.

After a fiery breakfast (Grace knows my tastes), we headed down to Raffles City for a quick look before riding the cable car across the river. The cable car crosses the Yangtze River, which is a stunning sight, and on the other side, we arrived at a tiny, quaint district called xxx. Although we didn’t visit any, there was a nice selection of cafes and restaurants.

From here, we crossed the bridge back to the local park. Everywhere I’ve been in China, I’ve met so many friendly people. I’m sure I’d meet even more if the language barrier weren’t such a problem.

LIZIBA STATION

After another walk around the city, we headed to one of its most popular tourist attractions, and you won’t believe what it is—a train station. But this isn’t just any train station; it’s located inside a block of apartments.

Apparently, city planners approved two applications at the same time: one for the railway and one for the apartment block. In the end, they compromised and decided to build both, with the station inside the apartment block.

It’s strange watching thousands of tourists stand outside, waiting for trains to pass, just to glimpse this phenomenon.

NIGHT CRUISE

After more noodles (Chinese noodles are king), we headed for the night cruise around the city. Chongqing is almost an island between two rivers and is perfect for a cruise, especially when the city lights up at night.

Most cities in China are unique, but Chongqing stands out and has earned the nickname “Cyberpunk Capital of the World.” Its futuristic, dystopian urban landscape and neon-lit cityscape dazzle at night. You won’t know where to look aboard one of the many night cruises. But be warned—the lights turn off by 10 p.m., so it’s best to take the earlier boat after sunset.

DAY 14

As with any day in China (and with Grace), we started the day with food at a hole-in-the-wall restaurant by the riverside. The more I travel, the more I realize the best food spots are often tiny restaurants you’d likely avoid back home.

CIQIKOU OLD STREET

Ciqikou Old Street is a famous ancient town and cultural site just outside the main city. The area features well-preserved traditional architecture, a lively atmosphere, and historical roots from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It has become a huge tourist attraction with cafes, bars, ear cleaning shops, and even archery!

China’s cyberpunk city Chongqing

VIEWPOINT

Chongqing is not only known as the cyberpunk capital but also nicknamed “The 8D City.” This comes from its complex, multi-dimensional urban layout, which creates a layered experience. The city’s unique topography, with its mountains, rivers, and steep terrain, adds to this effect.

You can see this when driving around, visiting viewpoints, or checking out Kuixing Plaza, the city’s iconic landmark. Located in the CBD, the plaza is two storeys off road level on one side and 22 storeys on the other. Even being here, I’m still left wondering how it all works.

China’s cyberpunk city Chongqing

HOTPOT

These things are wild, and since we’re back in the birthplace of spiciness (Sichuan), it would be rude not to dive in again. Fortunately, we skipped the pig brain and chicken feet we tried in Chengdu and chose more normal ingredients like meatballs and chicken instead. It’s still just as spicy, but it definitely clears you out!

HONGYADONG

Yes, you read that right. Our final part of the trip is at Hongyadong, a traditional Chinese stilt house that looks old but was built in 2006. The developers designed it to recreate the historic charm of old Chongqing. Now, it serves as a cultural landmark, tourist destination, and entertainment hub, with restaurants, shops, and performances, blending modern amenities with historical aesthetics.

If you visit, wander inside and prepare to get lost in the labyrinth of paths and alleyways—typical of Chongqing.

China’s cyberpunk city Chongqing

FINAL THOUGHTS

That’s another trip done and although booked last minute I wouldn’t have changed much. I didn’t expect to be coming out of 2024 with China as one of my new favourite countries!

NEXT UP

Off to country 172… Pakistan!!! Coming up.

SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
171/229

This post is part of the Mongol Series, for the entire series click here or for episode 1, click here.

To watch the video of my trip, head to my highlights on my Instagram.