Hongyadong, boasting over 2,300 years of history, served as a military fortress from the ancient Ba Kingdom (1046-256 BC) to the Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1911). It also boasts the remains of one of the earliest and most developed docks in ancient China. Today, Hongyadong boasts a cluster of large stilt houses nestled against the cliffs of the Jialing River. Today, Hongyadong has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience Bayu culture (the culture of China’s ethnic minorities), enjoy the river views, and savor delicious cuisine. The breathtaking night view is a must-see.
Hongya Cave is an 11-story, 75-meter (245-foot) tall building on stilts, nestled against a sheer cliff. It’s a popular tourist attraction for its resemblance to the structure featured in the Japanese manga “Spirited Away,” by renowned manga artist Hayao Miyazaki. Incredibly, the first and eleventh floors are accessible via two separate routes. Elevators reach each floor, where a variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants are located. From the second floor, visitors can also see the iconic Hongya Dripping Water, a small waterfall cascading down the cliff face. It’s considered one of the Twelve Scenic Spots of Bayu.
1、Four Cultural Streets
♥Second Floor: Zhiyanhe Bar Street, home to many renowned bars, including Feiyu Music Bar, one of Chongqing’s most soulful bars, near Hongyadong. The street boasts a traditional exterior yet incorporates modern elements, allowing visitors to enjoy al fresco drinks while admiring the night views of the river.
♥Fourth Floor: Tianchengxiang Bayu Cultural Street, home to traditional houses with red eaves and gray tiles, offering traditional Chongqing delicacies such as Chongqing hot pot, pork dumplings, walnut pastries, and hot and sour noodles.
♥Ninth and Tenth Floors: Banquet Food Street, offering international cuisine such as pasta, Japanese cuisine, and Korean snacks. The Lonely Planet-acclaimed tender green tea dessert is especially recommended.
♥Eleventh Floor: Exotic Balcony Street, where you can buy exotic decorative items and handicrafts, as well as enjoy coffee and burgers. There’s also a pirate-themed bar shaped like a ship, half of which hangs from the ceiling. Visitors can overlook the stilt houses and the Jialing River from the balcony.
2. Night View from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Hongyadong’s nightscape is a major highlight and a unique feature of Chongqing. As dusk falls, the stilt houses are illuminated by warm lights. Their reflections on the water complement each other, creating a dazzling complex that appears like a dreamlike pavilion, floating among the surrounding towering skyscrapers. Visitors can enjoy this breathtaking night view from a variety of angles.
3. Best Night View Spots
♥Qiansimen Bridge
Walk along Qiansimen Bridge, next to the stilt houses, for a direct view of the illuminated Hongya Cave.
♥From the exotic balcony on the 11th floor, the roofs of the stilt houses resemble dazzling stairways, and from the highest point, you can gaze down upon the Jialing River.
♥Cruise tours of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers depart from Chaotianmen Wharf and pass by Hongya Cave, offering another way to enjoy the night view.
♥Jiabin Road, located at the foot of Hongya Cave, offers a close-up view of the captivating nightscape. Using time-lapse photography, you can capture the stilt houses floating amidst the long, shimmering “galaxy” of traffic lights.
How to Get to Hongyadong
By Bus:
♥Take Bus No. 111, 151, 181, 262, 466, 881, or 866 to Linjiangmen Station.
♥Take City Sightseeing Bus No. T480 to Hongyadong Station on Jiabin Road.
Subway:
♥Take Subway Line 2 to Linjiangmen Station, exit from Exit A, and walk east along Linjiang Road for approximately 700 meters to Hongyadong.
♥Take Subway Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, exit from Exit 6, and walk north along Cangbai Road for approximately 700 meters to the Diaojiaolou.
For more information on Hongyadong tours, please consult 365 China Travel.>>>apply now
As a visitor, I found the information on this site really helpful! First off, the historical and cultural background of Hongyadong is explained clearly, and it’s fascinating to learn how it evolved from an ancient military stronghold to the cultural landmark it is today. The transportation options are also super convenient—there are multiple bus and subway routes that get you there easily. I especially liked how they provided clear directions for different stations, so getting there is stress-free. You can even take the sightseeing bus, which is a nice touch.
As a visitor, I found the information on this site really helpful! First off, the historical and cultural background of Hongyadong is explained clearly, and it’s fascinating to learn how it evolved from an ancient military stronghold to the cultural landmark it is today. The transportation options are also super convenient—there are multiple bus and subway routes that get you there easily. I especially liked how they provided clear directions for different stations, so getting there is stress-free. You can even take the sightseeing bus, which is a nice touch.
Thank you for your affirmation and praise. Welcome to travel to China.