Welcome to the heart of Chongqing! Jiefangbei (解放碑), officially known as the People’s Liberation Monument, is not only a historic landmark but also the bustling commercial and cultural center of the city. Standing in the middle of this vibrant square, you’re surrounded by towering skyscrapers, luxury malls, and a maze of streets packed with local flavors. But beyond the shopping buzz, Jiefangbei serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring some of Chongqing’s most iconic attractions. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-visit spots around Jiefangbei — from glittering night views to hidden alleys, all within walking distance or a short ride away. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking for new angles, this area will leave you amazed.
1. Jiefangbei Monument: Where History Meets Modernity
Start your journey at the monument itself. Built in 1947 to commemorate China’s victory against Japan, the Jiefangbei Monument is a 27.5-meter-tall obelisk that has become the symbolic center of the city. Today, it’s surrounded by a pedestrianized square filled with locals and tourists alike. Take a moment to read the inscriptions and snap a photo — this is the ultimate “I was here” spot. The area is also the zero-kilometer point for Chongqing’s road system, making it a geographic reference for the entire city.
From here, you can easily orient yourself and start exploring. The square is surrounded by major shopping streets like Minquan Road and Bayi Road, where you can find everything from international brands to local snack stalls.
2. Hongyadong (洪崖洞): The Real-Life Spirited Away
Just a 10-minute walk northwest from Jiefangbei, you’ll encounter one of Chongqing’s most photographed landmarks: Hongyadong. This 11-story stilted house complex clings to the cliffside overlooking the Jialing River, and at night it transforms into a golden wonderland that looks straight out of a Miyazaki film. For the best view, cross the Qiansimen Bridge and look back — you’ll see the entire facade glowing against the dark water.
Inside, Hongyadong is filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. Try to visit both during the day (to appreciate the architecture) and at night (for the magic). For a more detailed experience, including practical tips on avoiding crowds and the best photo spots, check out our dedicated guide: 【内链提示：Hongyadong Chongqing: Ultimate Travel Guide 2026 – Night View & Practical Tips -> Hongyadong Chongqing: Ultimate Travel Guide 2026】
3. Yangtze River Cableway (长江索道): Glide Over the River
A short walk south from Jiefangbei leads you to the Yangtze River Cableway station on the north bank. This 1,166-meter cable car ride connects the Yuzhong District with Nan’an District, offering panoramic views of the Yangtze River, the city skyline, and the mountains beyond. It’s both a daily commuter transport and a tourist attraction — and the experience is exhilarating. Try to go around sunset when the golden light paints the river and skyscrapers. The round trip is affordable (around 20 RMB one way), and it’s one of the best ways to understand Chongqing’s nickname “Mountain City.”
Pro tip: Queue times can be long during peak hours (especially weekends). Go early in the morning or after 8 PM to avoid the rush. Once you’re across, you can explore the old tree-lined streets of Nan’an or grab a coffee with a view.
4. Chaotianmen (朝天门): Where Two Rivers Meet
Head east from Jiefangbei for about 15 minutes on foot (or take a quick taxi), and you’ll reach Chaotianmen, the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. This is the very tip of the Yuzhong Peninsula, and the contrast between the muddy Yangtze and clearer Jialing creates a striking visual line. The newly built Chaotianmen Square and the futuristic Raffles City complex (which looks like a giant sail) now dominate the area. Walk up to the observation deck for a 270-degree view of the river junction and the surrounding bridges.
For a more local experience, take a Yangtze River night cruise from the Chaotianmen dock. The cruise passes under the magnificent Chaotianmen Bridge and offers dazzling views of the illuminated Hongyadong and the city skyline.
5. Shibati (十八梯): Old Chongqing’s Time Capsule
Just a 5-minute walk south of Jiefangbei, tucked between modern high-rises, lies Shibati — a historic area that has been beautifully restored. The name “Shibati” means “eighteen steps,” referencing the original stone staircase that connected the upper and lower parts of the city. Today, the revamped Shibati features traditional Bai-style architecture, narrow alleys, and shops selling Chongqing handicrafts, tea houses, and local snacks. It’s a wonderful place to slow down and experience the old Chongqing atmosphere before the city’s rapid modernization. Don’t miss the small museum inside that explains the area’s history.
Walking through Shibati feels like stepping back in time — the contrast with the towering skyscrapers just a block away is surreal. It’s also a great spot for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts long shadows on the steps.
6. Food Around Jiefangbei: A Feast for the Senses
No trip to Jiefangbei is complete without diving into Chongqing’s famous food scene. The area is packed with eateries offering everything from fiery hotpot to street snacks. Here are some can’t-miss experiences:
- Chongqing Hotpot: Head to a local hotpot chain like Qiaotou or Xiaotiane on Bayi Road. The mala (numbing and spicy) broth is an institution. Be prepared for a communal, loud, and unforgettable meal.
- Street Snacks on Bayi Good Food Street (八一好吃街): This pedestrian street is lined with stalls selling sour and spicy noodles (酸辣粉), chuanchuan (skewers), and fried tofu. Grab a skewer and walk while you explore.
- Chongqing Noodles (小面): For a quick and authentic breakfast, find a small shop serving xiaomian — chewy noodles in a chili oil broth topped with peanuts and scallions. The Jiefangbei area has many hole-in-the-wall places that locals love.
- Night Market Snacks: After dark, look for vendors selling grilled fish, stinky tofu, and sugar-coated hawthorn sticks (bingtanghulu).
Don’t forget to try a local craft beer or the famous Jiangxiaobai (a rice-based spirit) to wash it all down.
7. Nightlife Around Jiefangbei: Neon Lights and Rooftop Bars
As the sun sets, Jiefangbei transforms into a neon-lit playground. The area is famous for its nightlife, and there’s something for every style.
- Rooftop Bars at Raffles City: The Sky Bar on the 73rd floor of Raffles City offers a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the city. Cocktails are pricey but worth it for the photo ops.
- Live Music on Cangbai Road (沧白路): A short walk from Hongyadong, this street is lined with bars hosting local bands playing rock, jazz, and Chinese pop. Great for a relaxed evening.
- Night Walks: Simply strolling along the Jialing River promenade or across the Qiansimen Bridge after dark is magical. The reflections of the lights on the water create a dreamy atmosphere.
- Drone Shows: Occasionally, the city organizes drone performances over the river. Check the latest schedule if you’re lucky — we have a guide for that: Chongqing drone performance video and viewing guide
Practical Tips for Exploring Jiefangbei Area
Before you head out, here are a few insider tips to make your visit smoother:
- Getting There: Jiefangbei is well-served by metro. Take Line 1 or Line 2 to Jiaochangkou Station (出口1 or 2) — it’s a 5-minute walk to the monument. Alternatively, Line 6’s Xiaoshizi Station gets you closer to the river attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: For fewer crowds, visit Jiefangbei on weekdays. The monuments and surrounding streets get very busy on weekends and public holidays. Late afternoons and evenings are ideal for the combination of daylight and night lights.
- Footwear: Chongqing is famously hilly. Even though Jiefangbei is relatively flat, you’ll still need comfortable walking shoes. And be prepared for stairs — lots of them!
- Language: While many signs in Jiefangbei have English, not all do. Download a translation app and carry a portable charger — you’ll be using your phone for maps and translations constantly.
- Money: Most businesses accept Alipay/WeChat Pay. Carry some cash for small vendors and street food.
If you’re considering renting a car, think twice: Chongqing’s crazy road networks, tight tunnels, and steep hills make driving a challenge. Check out our honest take on it: 🚗 Thinking About Renting a Car in Chongqing? Read This First!
Conclusion: Your Jiefangbei Adventure Awaits
Jiefangbei is more than just a shopping district — it’s the beating heart of Chongqing, a place where history, modernity, and everyday life collide in the most fascinating way. From the iconic monument to the dazzling Hongyadong, from the serene river cruises to the fiery hotpot, every corner around Jiefangbei offers a new discovery. Whether you spend a day or a week exploring this area, you’ll leave with vivid memories and a deeper appreciation for Chongqing’s unique charm.
Still planning your itinerary? Our Chongqing map introduction can help you visualize where everything is.
Happy travels, and see you in Chongqing!