Zhong Qing

A family trip to Chongqing sounds like a fantastic adventure! With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and mouth-watering cuisine, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary that balances famous attractions, local food, and comfortable accommodations. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Chongqing

Morning:

• Flight from Kota Kinabalu to Chongqing: Arrive in Chongqing and head to your hotel. I recommend staying at the JW Marriott Hotel Chongqing or Hilton Chongqing. Both are clean, comfortable, and conveniently located near public transport.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try some local hot pot at Haidilao Hot Pot. It’s famous for its delicious broth and fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to try their signature spicy broth!

• Explore Jiefangbei Square: After lunch, take a stroll around this bustling shopping area. You can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe pick up some souvenirs.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to Chongqing Noodles (小面) for a quick and tasty meal. These spicy noodles are a local favorite!

• Night Cruise on the Yangtze River: End your day with a scenic cruise. The city lights reflecting on the water are simply magical!

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Visit the Three Gorges Museum: Dive into the history and culture of the Yangtze River and the Three Gorges area. It’s a great way to learn about the region.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Try Sichuan-style dumplings at Dumpling House nearby.

• Explore Ciqikou Ancient Town: This charming old town is filled with traditional architecture, shops, and street food. Don’t miss trying Chongqing’s famous spicy skewers (串串).

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a meal at Chongqing Hot Pot (火锅) at Shancheng Hot Pot. It’s a must-try experience!

Day 3: Nature and Scenic Views

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Visit the Dazu Rock Carvings: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these ancient carvings are a bit of a drive from the city, but they’re absolutely worth it!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab something from a local vendor near the carvings.

• Return to Chongqing and visit the Eling Park: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Yangtze River. It’s a lovely spot to relax and take photos.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Grilled Fish at Chongqing Grilled Fish Restaurant. The fish is marinated and grilled to perfection!

Day 4: Adventure and Local Life

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Visit the Chongqing Zoo: Home to the adorable giant pandas! The zoo is a great place for families and offers a chance to see various animals.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy some Sichuan-style fried rice at a local eatery.

• Explore the Hongya Cave: This riverside complex is filled with shops, restaurants, and stunning views. It’s a great place to soak in the local culture.

Evening:

• Dinner: Try Spicy Chicken (辣子鸡) at Chongqing Spicy Chicken Restaurant. It’s a local favorite!

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel.
• Visit the Great Hall of the People: This impressive building is a symbol of Chongqing and offers a glimpse into the city’s political history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a final meal of Sichuan-style Mapo Tofu at a nearby restaurant.

• Last-minute shopping: Head back to Jiefangbei Square for any last-minute shopping or souvenirs.

Evening:

• Departure: Head to the airport for your flight back to Kota Kinabalu, filled with wonderful memories and delicious flavors!

Tips:

• Public Transport: Chongqing has a great metro system, so make sure to get a transport card for easy travel.
• Weather: Check the weather before you go, as Chongqing can be quite humid and rainy.
• Language: While many signs are in English, having a translation app can be handy for communicating with locals.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable family trip to Chongqing! Enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant city! Safe travels! 🌏✈️🍜