Hongyadong Chongqing: Complete Guide to the Famous Hongya Cave

Hongyadong (洪崖洞), also known as Hongya Cave, is one of Chongqing’s most popular and iconic landmarks. Made up of 11 floors of stilted houses along the jagged banks of the Jialing River, Hongyadong offers a peek into the local culture, architecture, cuisine, and nightlife.

Hongyadong is a must-visit if you want to experience authentic Chongqing food, culture, and nightlife in Chongqing. Not to mention the night view from Hongyadong is one of the most beautiful in China. Read on to discover the history, things to do, food to eat, and travel tips to make the most of your visit to Hongyadong, Chongqing.

🌟 Hotels Near Hongyadong (洪崖洞) 🌟

Glenview ITC Plaza Chongqing – Modern, upscale hotel about 10 minutes from Hongyadong.
JW Marriott Chongqing – Premium stay with great city views and quick access to Jiefangbei & Hongyadong.
Ascott Raffles City Chongqing – Comfortable option within walking distance to Hongyadong.

Standing at 11 level high, Hongya Cave is the witness of the history, culture and the symbol of city life in Chongqing.

The History of Hongyadong

Hongyadong has a history of over 2,300 years. The area on the riverside was originally a fortress used to protect Chongqing, a city often described as “the key to western defense” because of its strategic location and military heritage. Hongyadong was also known as a river port, a lively neighborhood by the water.

The Chongqing today was once made up of this “stilt-house” or Diaojiaolou (挑楼) architecture that lined the riverbanks. The current Hongyadong building complex was rebuilt in the early 2000s, a more modern take on the traditional Bayu (巴渝) style of stilt-house architecture that was once common in Chongqing. The wooden buildings slope against the mountainside and overhang the Jialing River. It symbolizes the tenacity of the people who have been living in this “mountain city” for centuries.

Hongyadong is one of the top free things to do in Chongqing that brings this history to life.

Why Hongyadong is So Popular

Hongyadong’s rise in popularity can be attributed to Studio Ghibli’s movie Spirited Away, where it reminded Japanese people of the floating spirit world featured in the film.

Photos of the Hongyadong Chongqing complex at night went viral on social media as the intricate maze of lanterns, neon signs, and glowing river reflections reminded people of the Studio Ghibli film.

Hongyadong became an instant hit with international tourists who all wanted to take Instagrammable photos of the “Chongqing version of Spirited Away.”

For Chongqing’s residents, the riverside wonder is equally popular as a sightseeing destination and place to shop, eat, drink, and enjoy the local scenery.

Here are the main things Hongyadong is known for:

• History and architecture buffs enjoy the ancient fortress ruins and traditional wood structures that line the Jialing River.
• Foodies sample traditional Chongqing street food and mouth-numbing hotpot dishes.
• Nightlife seekers can find bars and pubs to enjoy a nightcap by the river.
• Photographers can capture the most scenic spots of Qiansimen Bridge and the cityscape illuminated by the lights from Chongqing.

Must Do Activities in Hongyadong

Eat Chongqing Street Food in Hongyadong

The Sichuan city of Chongqing is world-famous for its spicy mala (麻辣) flavors, including in the street snacks you can find in Hongyadong Chongqing.

Top Chongqing foods you can try in Hongyadong include:

• Mala Chuan (麻辣串): Numbing chili oil broth with skewered meat and seafood.
• Hechuan Peach Slice (桃片): Chewy sweet rice balls, walnuts, and sugar “roses”.
• Ciba (糍粑): Sticky rice cake dusted in soybean flour.
• Chongqing Yogurt (酸奶): Sweet yogurt to pair with spicy food.

You’ll also find Sichuan dumplings and Chongqing noodles at small food stalls and restaurants on the lower floors of Hongyadong.

Explore the Stilted Houses in Hongyadong

Hongyadong Chongqing is known for its stilt-house architecture built into the mountainside. Explore the twisty and turny wooden passageways and floors, where each level has its own highlights from shops and street snacks to street views.

On each floor of Hongyadong, there’s something different to experience, whether that’s shopping, eating street snacks, or soaking in the scenic views.

There’s no set path through Hongyadong so wander around and enjoy the moment.

A showcase of architecture that shows how buildings are constructed leaning on the mountain as support. I think this somewhere in Level 1.

Relax at a Café/Restaurant in Hongyadong

Spend some time relaxing at a café in Hongyadong by the Jialing River. See below for random pub/cafe with great ambience discovered as we explored the place. Youngsters will love these.

There are also some street singers who dedicate songs to the crowd making the whole environment lively. Music records companies can consider signing this guy up, he’s good. 🙂

My favorite is Honey Café in Hongyadong where you can grab some waffles, snacks, and drinks to enjoy while taking in the view of the river and the city of Chongqing.

It is on the pricier side, but for such a nice riverside café with a view, you won’t regret it. The price is a bit steep with an average minimum order of 58RMB per person, but the cafe is strategically well-located for you to enjoy the best views. We order some drinks with waffles & snacks to go along.

On the third floor of Hongyadong Chongqing, Quan Ju De is another famous Beijing roast duck restaurant.

You can order a duck dinner and the servers will carve it for you at your table. As for the duck meat, you can eat it with the skin crispy (the first several slices), or ask for it to be stir-fried or souped after the best parts of the duck are gone. It is a more upscale dining option at Hongyadong Chongqing.

We had our dinner at QuanJuDe restaurant. I love Bejing Roast Duck and how can I miss out eating Beijing roast duck at QuanJuDe when there is one in Hongya Cave! The roast duck takes around 45 minutes to prepare and you can choose to stir fried the remaining duck meat or make it into soup.

PS: The waitress recommending stir-fried as it tastes better in her opinion.

Enjoy the Night Lights at Hongyadong

The night view of Hongya Cave is something that is worth experiencing. When night falls, Hongya Cave begins to glow with yellowish orange lights. The main reason why Hongyadong is so popular is for the night view when the entire complex is illuminated by colorful lanterns and neon lights that reflect on the water.

The view at night is so stunning and magical, it’s a must to see Hongyadong after dark at night.

Take the elevators up to the 11th floor and enjoy views of the riverside at night.

The Hongyadong complex is also known for the modern Qiansimen Bridge (前升桥), so snap photos of this while you’re here.

The red lanterns blend in great with the glowing buildings. I feel as if I am instantly teleported back to ancient china.

Take a Boat Ride on the Jialing River

Hongyadong is a prime spot for enjoying views of the Jialing River at night. In fact, many tourists take the river cruise on the Jialing River to see Hongyadong lit up from the water.

Travelers often do this after they’ve explored the street snacks, shopping, and restaurants at Hongyadong.

How to Capture The Best Photo for Hongyadong

You can go to the viewing platform at level 11 and walk over to Qian Si Men Da Qiao to take a full view photo of Hongya Cave from the top. I think this is the best spot to capture the full view.

As you walk further down the bridge, you will be able to see more magnificent landmarks. Chongqing has no doubt invested in making their city night view awesome.

Hongyadong Floor Plan Guide

The following is a floor guide for each level of Hongyadong in Chongqing.

• 11th Floor: Viewing platform and buses to Jiefangbei.
• 10th & 9th Floors: Pubs, cafés, and river view.
• 4th Floor: Street snacks and authentic local food stalls.
• 3rd Floor: Waterfall and ancient roads and scenic spots.

PRO TIP: Elevators are available but they are usually jam-packed. If you’re looking to save time, take the escalators or stairways.

When to Visit Hongyadong?

I recommend visiting Hongyadong in the afternoon and evening to enjoy a mix of daytime exploration and nighttime views.

Try to arrive at around 5 p.m. to wander around in the daylight. Grab some snacks or a dinner at Hongyadong Chongqing before it gets too crowded.

Stay to watch the sun go down and the entire complex light up at night.

The streets of Hongyadong come to life as the sunset. Spend 3–5 hours here to see and do it all!

Things to do in Hongyadong

• Shop for souvenirs and try the delicious street snacks like Ma Hua, CiBa, Mala Chuan etc
• Enjoy the night view and night activities when night falls.
• Cafe/pub hopping while enjoying the magnificent river view.
• Eat in Quan Ju De, popular Beijing roasted duck restaurant chain.

Attractions to See with Hongyadong

Hongyadong is centrally located in Chongqing, and many of the major tourist attractions are just a short walk or taxi ride away.

You can see Hongyadong Chongqing along with other nearby places like:

• Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street
• Chongqing Grand Theatre
• Qiansimen Bridge
• Yangtze River Cableway

Others Things You Should Know

• Recommended visiting time is around 3 to 5 hours.
• The lifts are slow and always almost crowded. Take escalators or stairs if you don’t feel like waiting long and being squeezed in the lifts.
• Arrive early for dinner: Restaurants get busy later in the evening, so plan to arrive early if you want a seat.
• Use cash or mobile payment: Most restaurants and food stalls accept WeChat Pay and Alipay.
• Wear comfortable shoes: The buildings in Hongyadong are old and uneven, so wear shoes that are easy to walk in.
• Photography tip: The best photo of Hongyadong is from the other side of the Jialing River at night.
• Weekends get crowded: Hongyadong is one of the most popular Chongqing attractions for weekend getaways. For less crowds, visit on weekdays.

Travel Tips for Hongyadong

Here are my tips and answers to the most frequently asked questions about Hongyadong.

• Best time to visit Hongyadong: The best time to see Hongyadong is in the evening when the complex is illuminated by thousands of lanterns and neon lights.
• When to get there: I recommend arriving in the late afternoon to see Hongyadong Chongqing during the day. Then stay for sunset, dinner, and night view.
• Eat: Be sure to try street food in Hongyadong, Chongqing including mala Chuan, Chongqing Hot Pot, Hechuan Peach Slice, and ciba (rice cake).
• Get There: Hongyadong is accessible via taxi and bus, and a short walk from Jiefangbei.
• Ticket: There’s no entrance fee to Hongyadong Chongqing, but you’ll pay for food, drinks, snacks, and purchases.

FAQs about Hongyadong

What is Hongyadong in Chongqing?

Hongyadong is a riverside complex in Chongqing city with 11 floors of Diaojiaolou (挑楼) stilted buildings on the Jialing River. It is a popular attraction for shopping, street food, culture, and nightlife.

How to get to Hongyadong Chongqing?

Hongyadong is in the city center of Chongqing so it’s very easy to get there from all over the city. Taxis, buses, and a short walk from Jiefangbei are some of the best ways to get there.

Is there an entrance fee?

No, there is no entrance fee to Hongyadong. You only pay for things like food, drinks, snacks, and items you want to purchase.

What are the famous foods in Hongyadong Chongqing?

Chongqing snacks you shouldn’t miss at Hongyadong include Chongqing Hot Pot, Mala skewers, Dumplings, Chongqing noodles, and Hechuan Peach Slice.

Is Hongyadong Chongqing good for families?

Hongyadong is family-friendly in Chongqing, with plenty of snacks, souvenirs, and cultural attractions for children and adults to enjoy.

When is the best time to visit Hongyadong?

Hongyadong is beautiful both day and night. However, the evening is the most popular time to see the complex as all the buildings light up at night.

Can you take photos at Hongyadong?

Yes, you can take photos at Hongyadong in Chongqing. The streets, riverside view, and street snacks make for great photos.

What other places can I visit near Hongyadong?

If you’re looking for more things to do near Hongyadong Chongqing, consider Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, Chongqing Grand Theatre, Qiansimen Bridge, and the Yangtze River Cableway.

Final Thoughts on Hongyadong

Hongyadong is one of the most fascinating places in Chongqing because it is so iconic and rich in history, culture, food, and nightlife.

It’s the gateway to authentic Chongqing culture and an ideal place to experience a taste of Chongqing and find the best Chongqing street food.

If you only have one day in Chongqing, Hongyadong should be a priority on your to-do list because it has a little bit of everything to offer for first-time visitors.

Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family on vacation in Chongqing, this is a place where everyone can find something they love to do.