Chongqing: Active Wellness, Monorail, and Hidden Gems Tour

Getting to know Chongqing through this guided tour offers a unique blend of cultural insight, spectacular scenery, and quirky city sights. Designed for travelers who love authentic experiences mixed with a touch of adventure, this tour promises a day packed with surprises. From traditional wellness exercises to jaw-dropping engineering marvels, there’s plenty to marvel at along the way.

What makes this experience stand out for us? First, the chance to participate in Baduanjin Qigong with a national master — a rare opportunity to connect with Chinese wellness traditions. Second, the breathtaking cliffside walkway that provides panoramic views of the cityscape, perfect for photography lovers. And third, witnessing the Liziba Monorail Station, where a train actually passes through a building, a true spectacle of modern engineering.

The only possible caution might be the tour’s walking-heavy itinerary, which may not suit travelers with mobility issues. However, for those who enjoy outdoor exploration and cultural sites, this experience hits the sweet spot. It’s especially ideal for those eager to see Chongqing’s hidden corners, capture stunning photos, and learn about traditional Chinese practices in a lively, engaging setting.

Who would love this tour? If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys outdoor activities, authentic cultural encounters, and spectacular city views, this private guided experience is a fantastic choice. Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and photography buffs will find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Practice Baduanjin Qigong with a master—easy to learn and deeply rooted in Chinese tradition.
• Spectacular Views: The cliffside walkway offers some of the most impressive cityscape vistas in Chongqing.
• Unique City Sights: Witness the famed Liziba Monorail Station where a train passes through a building, a true marvel.
• Hidden Gems: Explore a local Chinese garden and an ancient park, away from the usual crowds.
• Creative Zones: Discover an industrial space turned creative hub with designer boutiques and local tea.
• Flexible and Informative: Conducted in multiple languages and led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring a personalized experience.

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A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: A Good Jumping-Off Spot at Eling Metro Station

The tour begins at Exit 2A of Eling Metro Station (Line 1). It’s a convenient, central starting point that allows easy access for most travelers. From here, you’ll be guided to your first destination — a large Chinese garden.

Exploring Chongqing’s Underrated Garden

This Chinese garden is a true highlight, especially for those who love tranquil, nature-filled spaces. Many corners are designed with deliberate purpose, combining rocks, ponds, and pavilions that evoke classic Chinese garden aesthetics. Your guide will explain how these design elements aim to create harmony and balance, offering an insight into traditional Chinese landscape art.

This garden isn’t just scenic—it’s educational. The guide discusses differences between eastern and western gardens, providing context that makes the experience more meaningful. It’s a peaceful start to the day, perfect for photos and quiet reflection.

Reimagined Industrial Space: Art, Design, and Tea

Next, the tour takes you to a creative hilltop zone built on old factory grounds. Here, independent designer boutiques showcase handcrafted jewelry and upcycled fashion, blending old industrial charm with contemporary styles. A quick stop here includes sampling a fresh tea beverage, giving you a taste of local flavors while exploring the bustling arts scene.

This area’s charm lies in its transformation—what was once abandoned machinery and factory halls now buzz with creativity. It’s a compelling reminder of how Chongqing balances its industrial past with modern artistic expression.

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Authentic Local Neighborhoods: Vintage Chongqing

After soaking in the artsy vibe, the tour moves into a local residential area that retains a vintage Chongqing feel. Here, the pace slows, and you can sample regional dishes with milder flavors, quite different from the spicy, intense flavors often associated with Sichuan cuisine. The guide will point out local food stalls and highlight what makes these dishes special.

The Showstopper: Liziba Monorail Station

No visit to Chongqing is complete without witnessing the Liziba Monorail Station. This station is a true city icon—the train passes right through the upper floors of an apartment building, making it appear as if the train is running through the structure itself.

Your best vantage point is from the small square across the street, where you can wait for the train’s regular appearances every 4-6 minutes. It’s a surreal scene, and many visitors find themselves staring in disbelief, snapping shots of this extraordinary engineering feat. A previous visitor, Wiwik, praised the guide Tian, mentioning how well he spoke English and how enjoyable the experience was, especially watching the train glide through the building.

The Cliffside Walkway: Engineering Marvel and Panoramic Views

In the afternoon, prepare for a walk along a mountain cliff walkway that’s built into the landscape, offering awe-inspiring views of Chongqing’s layered cityscape. From here, you see “Lego-like” blocks of buildings stacked on the steep mountains, a scene that truly captures the city’s dramatic geography.

This walkway isn’t just a photo spot; it’s an impressive feat of engineering. The walkway allows you to stand high above the city, feeling connected to both nature and urban life simultaneously. Many visitors find this spot a highlight for its panoramic vistas and the sense of scale it imparts.

Hidden Ancient Park and the “Monorail to Spring”

Next, you’ll explore an ancient park tucked down narrow alleys seldom visited by travelers. With 3D sculptures depicting historical scenes, the park offers a glimpse into old Chongqing’s port city past. The narrow pathways are charming and a bit adventurous to navigate.

Here, you might encounter the “Monorail to Spring”, where a brightly colored train glides through lush seasonal blooms and urban scenery. If you come during spring (March or April), the cherry blossoms add a magical touch, making this a perfect photo opportunity.

Ending at a Taoist Sanctuary and a Wellness Practice

The tour wraps up at a Taoist sanctuary within the city. Under the guidance of a renowned Tai Chi master and ICH Inheritor, you’ll try Baduanjin, an ancient form of wellness exercise with over 800 years of history. These flowing movements are designed to enhance energy flow and mental clarity—yet they’re simple enough for beginners and even suitable for older adults, according to the positive review from Wiwik.

Participants often find this part surprisingly energizing and calming, bringing a satisfying sense of balance to a day full of adventures.

Practical Details and Value

At $143 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded mix of cultural, scenic, and quirky city highlights. It includes a professional multilingual guide, a Baduanjin Qigong session, a cup of tea, and access to several key sites, making it excellent value for those seeking a meaningful, authentic experience.

The tour is private, which allows for a tailored experience and more personalized interaction. It’s designed for those who enjoy walking, outdoor sightseeing, and learning about Chinese heritage, though it does involve some physical activity.

Transportation within the tour, such as local metro and taxis, is not included, so be prepared for some independent travel between sites. The meeting point is convenient, and the activity ends back at the starting location, keeping logistics straightforward.

What to Bring

• Passport (for identification)
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Water and insect repellent
• Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor exploration

Important Considerations

The experience may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or certain health conditions such as epilepsy. The guide conducts the tour in several languages, including English, French, Italian, and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This experience offers a genuine taste of Chongqing beyond the typical tourist spots. You’ll walk away with stunning photos, a deeper understanding of Chinese wellness practices, and a handful of unforgettable city sights. It’s a fantastic choice for outdoor lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those curious about how a city can blend history, modernity, and natural beauty seamlessly.

While the itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven surfaces, the pace is manageable, and guides are attentive to your needs. The combination of scenic vistas, quirky architecture, and cultural insights makes for a memorable day.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves walking and exploring some uneven pathways, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is conducted in English, French, Italian, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Can I join if I want to see the Liziba Monorail Station?
Absolutely. Witnessing the train pass through the building is a highlight, and the best vantage point is from the square across the street where trains appear every few minutes.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, you’ll have opportunities to try local beverages and snacks at certain stops.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable shoes, water, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is it possible to customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can accommodate varying interests, but major changes should be discussed in advance.

How long does the whole tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s designed to be a full-day experience, with plenty of time for exploring and photography.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as children are comfortable with walking and outdoor activities, this tour can be quite family-friendly.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
Spring, especially March and April, offers cherry blossoms and lush blooms, enhancing the park visit and monorail view.

Final Thoughts

This Chongqing tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, scenic beauty, and quirky city sights. It is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to go beyond the typical tourist circuit and connect with the city’s soul. The guides’ knowledge, especially about traditional practices and local hidden spots, adds a layer of depth that makes the experience truly memorable.

You’ll leave with incredible photos, new insights into Chinese wellness, and a better appreciation for Chongqing’s dramatic landscape and innovative spirit. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, outdoor lover, or cultural explorer, this tour provides a meaningful and visually stunning journey into one of China’s most vibrant cities.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for an experience that combines authentic Chinese traditions, jaw-dropping vistas, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, this tour is a stellar pick. It balances adventure with education, offering a genuine glimpse into Chongqing’s layered personality. Perfect for curious explorers seeking a day full of surprises—and plenty of photo opportunities.

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