Why Chongqing Should Be Your Next Winter Travel Destination – Seeking a cold-season escape with eye-catching cities, snow-covered peaks, deep traditions, and delicious meals? Try Chongqing, known as China’s “City Among Hills.” Located at the junction of the Yangtze and Jialing waterways, this place climbs rugged slopes, giving sharp views and warm winter moments, along with energetic street life. While stepping back from daily duties—like figuring out how to withdraw money from Tongits Go—the river-crossing trams, old lanes, frosty ridges, and natural thermal pools help shift focus away, pulling you into seasonal discovery.
A City of Contrasts: Mountains, Rivers, and Skyscrapers
Chongqing looks nothing like other Chinese cities. Rising from rugged slopes, it connects neighbourhoods by footbridges, narrow roads, or aerial trams crossing waterways. When darkness falls, electric glows shimmer on the Yangtze and Jialing, while towering hillside structures such as Hongyadong add a dreamlike scene. Roaming uphill paths, travellers sometimes discover quiet coffee spots, stalls, or old shrines slipped between buildings—each turn brings something unexpected.
Photography lovers will find wide-angle scenes at the Yangtze River Cableway—gleaming towers meet water and hills across the skyline. In contrast, Jiefangbei highlights busy downtown energy through crowded streets and bright signs. Meanwhile, Nanbin Park delivers calm by the riverbank, ideal for catching vivid sunsets behind tree lines.
Cultural Heritage and Historic Streets
Chongqing holds deep cultural roots along with historical value. In Ciqikou Ancient Town, narrow lanes paved with stones lead past old-style teahouses while small stores sell handmade goods. Visitors step into the past through these areas filled with heritage charm. Snacks are available from roadside vendors as craftspeople shape items by hand nearby. A quiet moment with tea awaits within buildings that have stood for generations.
Museums such as the Three Gorges Museum explain how Chongqing shaped China’s past, particularly through changes brought by the dam project. Meanwhile, scattered temples give calm breaks from urban energy, inviting visitors to reflect on local tradition. Historical spots add depth beyond modern life, helping travellers connect with older layers of culture.
Winter Adventures in and Around Chongqing
During winter, Chongli offers excellent conditions for visiting. Although the urban area features cool yet gentle temperatures, the surrounding hills become covered in snow, transforming into lively recreation zones.
- Jinfo Mountain: offers winter hikes along with scenic cable car trips or snowy adventures. Following exploration, nearby hot springs provide warmth through relaxation instead of just rest.
- Wulong Fairy Mountain: features striking limestone formations; during winter, its woodlands wear a blanket of snow. This natural scenery offers quiet moments far from city chaos.
- Hongchiba National Forest Park: offers peaceful surroundings featuring woodland paths along with wintery views.
These spots suit visitors looking for urban discovery along with snowy landscapes. While some enjoy walking through towns, others prefer quiet forest trails nearby. Each place balances both experiences without feeling rushed or crowded.
A Food Lover’s Paradise
Chongqing draws food lovers—particularly when temperatures drop. Known for bold Sichuan tastes, its dishes bring deep warmth; each bite feels like a cozy hug during cold months.
- Hotpot (火锅): A must-try experience, with bubbling broth, fresh meats, vegetables, and bold spices.
- Xiao Mian (小面): Simple yet flavorful spicy noodles, ideal for breakfast or a quick meal.
- Street Foods: They pack a tasty punch. Dumplings pop up everywhere, offering quick bites. Glutinous rice sweets bring sticky satisfaction along the way.
- Tea houses: quiet places where you can unwind and drink tea while observing daily routines nearby.
Chongqing’s food culture feels energetic and brings people together—ideal for cold-season travel.
Filming Locations from The First Frost
Fans of the Chinese drama The First Frost might feel a spark visiting Chongqing—several key scenes were shot there. Tourists can reach these locations easily, thanks to public transport links.
- C97 Cultural & Creative Park: bar setups inspired by scenes from the series.
- Central Park: a quiet spot where love stories meet soft rainfall.
- Yangtze River Cableway: appears during the closing scenes of the show.
- Jiangjin Government Building Rooftop: Rooftop dance scene.
- Xiaozuo Courtyard Coffee Shop: A warm spot with a quiet charm.
- Nanbin Park together with Egongyan Bridge: spots seen often in the series. Both locations show up repeatedly during key scenes.
Checking out these places brings a cultural flair to your urban winter escape.
Getting Around Chongqing
Chongqing’s transit network is efficient—subway lines reach nearly every district; meanwhile, commuters can also use buses or cabs. When exploring nearby mountains during daylight hours, renting a vehicle works well—or joining an organized excursion. Though urban pathways wind through steep terrain, pedestrians manage fine with proper footwear.
Visitors coming via plane may take Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport, linked to key urban centers across China while providing smooth access into the city center through reliable transit options.
Where to Stay
- Downtown (Jiefangbei/Yuzhong District): Near key sights and evening spots; also where movies are shot.
- Nan’an District: offers riverside scenery—yet feels calmer, more laid-back.
- Near the mountains like Jinfo or Wulong: you’ll find resorts or lodges suitable for overnight winter stays. These spots work well when snow covers the peaks and travel slows down a bit.
Tips for Visiting Chongqing
- Clothing: Winter in the city stays fairly warm; however, higher elevations feel chillier—bring insulated clothing.
- Footwear: Go for durable shoes—comfort matters on slopes.
- Language: basic Mandarin can help—yet many rely on translation tools instead. While some learn phrases, others depend on apps entirely.
- Culture: Show respect when visiting temples or heritage locations.
- Photography: shows best results at dawn—light stays gentle, rivers look hazy. Cities glow quietly when the sun drops behind buildings through thin fog.
Conclusion
Chongqing gives a winter trip unlike any other place. Through foggy waterways or snowy peaks—this city draws curiosity. Old lanes connect with glowing urban scenes, inviting movement and discovery. Alongside its famous hot food and trendy film spots, it stands out. A stay here becomes one of those rare Chinese escapes you don’t forget.
Poppy Watt