Chongqing: Skywalk, Air-Raid Shelter, Hidden Alley& Teahouse

Exploring Chongqing through this guided city walk promises a fascinating glimpse into one of China’s most dynamic urban landscapes. From soaring viewpoints to underground hideouts, this tour balances stunning visuals with meaningful local history and authentic experiences.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Chongqing’s mountainous silhouette from the sky, the rarity of a cliffside viewpoint of the Liziba train, and the charm of a traditional teahouse tucked away in an alleyway. Plus, the underground air-raid shelter offers a sobering reminder of the city’s resilience during wartime.

A potential challenge? The tour involves considerable walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet and wearing suitable shoes. This adventure is ideal for travelers who appreciate balanced cultural insights along with spectacular views and a touch of local life.

Good To Know

• Elevated perspectives: The Eling Skywalk offers panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline, mountains, and rivers.
• Hidden sights: The cliffside viewpoint of the Liziba train passing through a building provides a rare, striking perspective.
• Historical depth: Exploring underground air-raid shelters unveils the city’s wartime past.
• Authentic local culture: Relaxing in a traditional teahouse with local gàiwn tea adds an authentic flavor.
• Neighborhood charm: Wandering Shancheng Alley showcases daily life and old hillside architecture.
• Knowledgeable guides: The tour is praised for its engaging commentary and local insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chongqing Experience

Starting Point at Eling Park and Skywalk

The tour kicks off at Eling Subway Station Exit 1, making it easy to access from central Chongqing. From there, you’re led to Eling Park, a peaceful green space offering a perfect setting for your first glimpse of the city’s vertical sprawl. The highlight here is the Eling Skywalk, a suspended walkway that threads along the edge of the mountain, providing breathtaking views of Chongqing’s densely packed buildings cascading down the hillsides.

We loved the way the skywalk frames the city — layers of skyscrapers, winding rivers, and mountain peaks all seem to stretch endlessly before you. It’s a chance to appreciate Chongqing’s unique topography, with a vantage point that almost feels like hovering above the city. The views are especially stunning during sunrise or sunset, when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape.

The Cliffside Viewpoint of the Liziba Train

One of the more Instagram-worthy moments is visiting the lesser-known cliffside viewpoint of the Liziba train, where the metro line passes directly through a residential building. Unlike the more crowded street-level spots, this peaceful overlook lets you observe the train threading its way through the building from above, offering an entirely different perspective.

According to reviews, this stop is a real hidden gem. One traveler noted, “It’s a completely different angle that makes you realize how cleverly integrated these transport routes are into the city’s fabric.” It’s a quiet spot, perfect for snapping photos or simply marveling at this engineering marvel.

Exploring the Historic Air-Raid Shelters

Beneath the bustling streets, the tour takes you into stone chambers used as air-raid shelters. These underground tunnels reveal a side of Chongqing rarely seen by outsiders — a city that endured wartime hardship with resilience.

Stepping inside, you can imagine the tense atmosphere during wartime, sheltered from bombs but still very much aware of the danger outside. The guides often share stories about how these hidden spaces helped residents survive during difficult times. For history buffs, this part adds a poignant layer to the experience, giving context to the city’s modern vibrancy.

More Great Tours Nearby

Relaxing at a Traditional Teahouse with Gàiwn Tea

After the history and panoramic views, it’s time for a more laid-back, cultural moment. The tour includes a stop at a local old-style teahouse, tucked away in one of Chongqing’s alleys. Here, you’ll enjoy a cup of traditional gàiwn tea, served in a covered bowl, which is said to bring a calming effect and deepen the local experience.

The teahouse often hosts live crosstalk performances, which add a lively, authentic atmosphere. Visitors have praised this part as a relaxing break, allowing you to soak in local flavors and observe daily life in the neighborhood — a real window into Chongqing’s relaxed, informal side.

Strolling Through Shancheng Alley

The final part of the tour takes you through Shancheng Alley, a hillside neighborhood full of stairs, old houses, and everyday scenes of Chongqing life. This area highlights the city’s mountainous character, with narrow alleys, vibrant street scenes, and glimpses of local residents going about their day.

Walking here gives you a sense of what life in Chongqing’s traditional neighborhoods feels like — lively, close-knit, and layered with history. It’s a perfect spot for photos and for grasping the city’s authentic charm beyond the tourist spots.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour is designed as a private group — perfect if you prefer a more personalized experience. It lasts around 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interests. Meeting at Jiaochangkou Underground Station (Line 1 & 2) makes it accessible, and the meeting point is well-marked.

Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes since the tour involves significant strolling through uneven or steep terrain, especially in Shancheng Alley. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of some areas.

Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Chinese, Russian, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Italian, making it accessible for international travelers. The flexibility to reserve now and pay later offers peace of mind, especially for those with flexible travel plans.

Cost and Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, the tour’s inclusion of panoramic views, underground historical sites, and local culture suggests a solid value for a 3-4 hour private experience. The personal guide’s insights and the curated stops make this a worthwhile way to see Chongqing beyond the typical tourist routes.

Why This Tour Works for Different Travelers

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts interested in the wartime past of Chongqing, view lovers eager to see the city from above, and culture seekers wanting an authentic taste of local life. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy balanced sightseeing with culture in a compact timeframe.

Those who prefer less walking or have mobility constraints should be aware of the terrain. Conversely, avid explorers and photographers will love the variety of perspectives — from the skywalk to underground tunnels to hillside neighborhoods.

Final Thoughts

This guided walk through Chongqing offers a rich, layered view of a city that’s as visually stunning as it is historically compelling. The combination of spectacular vistas, hidden viewpoints, historic sites, and local culture makes for a comprehensive yet manageable outing.

The knowledgeable guides and authentic stops ensure you’ll leave with not just photos but meaningful stories and a genuine sense of Chongqing’s spirit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour promises a rewarding look at one of China’s most fascinating mountain cities.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While it’s designed for most travelers, the walking involved might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best for those able to comfortably walk and navigate uneven terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interest.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at Jiaochangkou Underground Station, on Lines 1 and 2, with clear signage for easy access.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Chinese, English, Russian, French, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, and Italian.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Consider weather-appropriate clothing, especially if rain is forecast, since parts of the tour are outdoors.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the price worth it?
Given the inclusiveness of panoramic views, underground historical sites, and local cultural stops, most travelers find this tour offers good value for a well-rounded introduction to Chongqing.

To sum it up, this tour balances the thrill of stunning vistas with meaningful historical insights and local life. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see Chongqing from all angles — above, below, and at street level. If you’re eager for a personalized, authentic experience packed with memorable sights and stories, this walk could be just the ticket.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby