Complete Guide to Exploring Hongya Cave in Chongqing

Hi, I’m Michael Zhang, a traveler from China who enjoys history and culture and has extensive international travel experience. Hongya Cave is a modern cliffside landmark inspired by traditional Bayu stilt-house architecture, and its biggest draw is the illuminated Jialing River night view and the unusual vertical route from the upper 11th-floor entrance down to the riverfront. First-time visitors should allow about 2-3 hours. This guide covers the main sights, a practical route, opening and lighting hours, and how to get there.

---

---

Hongya Cave Overview

Hongya Cave, also known as Hongyan Cave, Shensian Cave, or Hongya Gate, is officially called the Hongya Cave Folk Customs Area. It’s a multi-functional tourist spot offering sightseeing, leisure, and cultural experiences. The complex spans 50 meters in length and covers an area of 31,500 square meters across 11 floors. It is listed as one of the “Top 12 Scenic Spots in Bayu” and holds a 4A National Scenic Area rating in China.

Hongya Cave’s history dates back to the Warring States period (316 BC) when it served as a military stronghold. During the Song dynasty, it was home to a stone grotto temple. In the Ming dynasty, Hongya Gate was fortified as part of Chongqing’s defensive wall system. By the Qing dynasty, Hongya Cave had evolved into a bustling commercial and port area. The stilted houses emerged during the 1920s and 1930s, blending traditional architecture with the steep cliffs of the region. In 2006, the Hongya Cave Folk Customs Area was established and officially opened to the public in September of the same year.

• Location: 88 Jialingjiang Binjiang Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Operating Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Night Lighting Hours: 7:30 PM – 11:00 PM (best time to visit)
• Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours
• Admission: Free
• Best Time to Visit: All year round

---

Is Hongya Cave worth visiting?

Generally yes. Hongya Cave is especially worth visiting for first-time visitors to Chongqing, night-view photographers, and travelers interested in the city’s dramatic vertical landscape. The Hongya Cave Folk Customs Area you see today is mainly a modern tourism complex completed in 2006, designed around traditional Bayu stilt-house forms and the steep riverside terrain rather than being a preserved ancient building complex. Evenings can be very busy, so for most travelers it works best as part of a Jiefangbei–Hongya Cave–Qiansimen Bridge night walk.

• Best for: First-time visitors to Chongqing, night-view photographers, and travelers interested in vertical urban architecture.
• Why it’s worth visiting: The layered stilt-house-inspired facade, the 11th-floor-to-riverfront vertical route, and the illuminated views across the Jialing River create an experience that is distinctly Chongqing.
• Best combined with: Jiefangbei, Qiansimen Bridge, and the Grand Theater riverside for one compact evening route.
• You may skip it if: Your time is very limited and you prefer preserved historic sites or quiet attractions over a busy commercial night-view district.

---

How Long Do You Need at Hongya Cave?

Most visitors should allow around 2-3 hours for Hongya Cave. The exact amount of time depends on whether you only want to see the main night view or plan to walk through several floors, take photos, and combine the visit with nearby sights.

• Quick visit (1 hour): See the illuminated exterior, take a few photos, and walk through the main riverside area.
• Recommended visit (2-3 hours): Follow the route from the upper levels toward the riverfront, explore the main floors, and leave enough time for night photos.
• Extended visit (3-4 hours): Explore Hongya Cave at a slower pace and combine it with Jiefangbei, Qiansimen Bridge, or the Grand Theater riverside.

For most first-time visitors, I recommend allowing around 2-3 hours.

---

Highlights of Hongya Cave’s 11 Floors

Each level of Hongya Cave offers unique attractions:

• 11th Floor: City Balcony, with the Xinhai Memorial Monument, the “Memory of the Mountain City” sculpture, and elevated city views.
• 10th Floor: The platform features the “New Twelve Scenes of Bayu” bronze sculpture.
• 9th Floor: Market and commercial street.
• 7th–8th Floors: 78 District Trendy Play World.
• 6th Floor: “Explore Hongya Cave,” a cultural-tourism themed experience space.
• 5th Floor: “Reunion 1980,” an immersive street recreating everyday life in Chongqing in the 1980s.
• 4th Floor: Market and commercial street with food and shopping.
• 1st and 3rd Floors: Enter from Dicui Square on the 1st floor to see Hongya Dicui and Hongya Hanque; the stone stairs beside Hongya Dicui lead into the 3rd-floor interior.

---

Top Things to Do in Hongya Cave

Stilted Building Complex

The stilted buildings of Hongya Cave represent a traditional architectural style unique to Southwest China. This design can be traced back to before the Eastern Han Dynasty. In Chongqing, where mountainous terrain and limited flat land pose challenges, early inhabitants adapted ingeniously by building homes that cling to cliffs and stretch over steep slopes. These wooden and bamboo structures rise above the rugged landscape, blending harmoniously with their surroundings.

The stilted complex in Hongya Cave, standing at 13 stories tall along the cliffs, has earned Chongqing the nickname “China’s Cliff City” among architects. Media outlets also refer to it as “The Castle in the Sky,” reflecting its awe-inspiring design and breathtaking views.

---

Hongya Dripping Green

Located on the first floor of the Hongya Cave scenic area, Hongya Dripping Green is one of the “Top 12 Scenic Spots in Bayu.” Historically, this area was covered with lush greenery and fed by a small stream flowing from the mountains, creating a hanging waterfall. The water cascaded down the cliffside, forming gentle streams below.

During drier seasons, the water would transform into droplets glistening in the sunlight, resembling green jade beads. This picturesque scene inspired poets to name it “Hongya Dripping Green.” Today, visitors can explore a cave behind the waterfall, offering a serene view of moss-covered rocks, rippling pools, the Jialing River, and the iconic Qiansimen Bridge in the distance.

---

Bayu Feast Food Street

On the 4th floor, Bayu Feast Food Street boasts the most extensive food offerings in Hongya Cave. From authentic Chongqing hotpot to international cuisine and private home-style dishes, this street satisfies a variety of culinary cravings. While dining, visitors can immerse themselves in the charm of ancient-style alleys, admire the natural cliff faces, and enjoy panoramic views of the merging Yangtze and Jialing Rivers.

---

Bayu Folk Culture Street

Spanning the 1st to 3rd floors, Bayu Folk Culture Street showcases the traditional lifestyles of old Chongqing. Featuring cobblestone pathways, stone staircases, and classic architectural elements like wooden windows and tiled roofs, the street is brought to life by street performers, a folk culture theater, a Chinese medicine shop, an art studio, and even a fortune-telling house. With its vibrant atmosphere and cultural depth, this area beautifully captures the essence of Chongqing’s heritage.

---

Suggested Walking Route

Grand Theater -> Shamen Road -> Qiansimen Bridge -> 11th Floor of Hongya Cave -> 1st Floor of Hongya Cave

• Grand Theater: Begin your journey by taking the metro to Grand Theater Station. From there, admire the night views of Hongya Cave and Qiansimen Bridge either from the theater’s entrance or the riverside.
• Shamen Road: After enjoying the views, walk to Shamen Road and head towards Qiansimen Bridge.
• Qiansimen Bridge: Once you arrive at Hongya Cave, take the elevator from the top (11th floor) and explore each floor as you make your way down. End your visit on the 1st floor, where you can experience the riverside view of Hongya Cave.
• 1st Floor of Hongya Cave: The ground floor offers panoramic views of the iconic Hongya Cave structure, along with plenty of authentic Chongqing delicacies.

---

Best Photography Spots

Across the Street from Hongya Cave (1st Floor)

This is one of the most popular spots for capturing the iconic facade of Hongya Cave. Arrive early to secure your spot, as it gets crowded quickly. Use nearby streetlights as foreground elements to add depth to your photos.

Grand Theater Riverside Path

Stroll down the riverside path near the Grand Theater for a spectacular view of Hongya Cave, the Jialing River, and the bustling cityscape. Incorporate the water’s reflection into your shots for added atmosphere.

---

Recommended Restaurants in Hongya Cave

Zhou Xiaobo Chongqing Noodles (Daijia Alley Branch)

• Why Visit: Conveniently located with a cozy atmosphere. The signature pork and peas noodles, along with crispy fried pork, are delicious and budget-friendly.
• Location: 28 Daijia Alley, Yuzhong District (410 meters from Exit 1 of Linjiangmen Metro Station) (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 06:00–00:30
• Average Cost: 19 CNY

Tieguoge Rice Noodles (Jiefangbei Flagship)

• Why Visit: Famous for its tomato and pickled pepper rice noodles, which are flavorful and satisfying.
• Location: No. 96, Minzu Road, Yuzhong District (160 meters from Exit 9 of Xiaoshizi Metro Station) (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 09:00–20:30
• Average Cost: 19 CNY

Old Street Sticky Rice Balls (Hongya Cave Branch)

• Why Visit: These sticky rice balls are filled with crispy fried dough and covered in thick soybean powder, creating a delightful texture and flavor with every bite.
• Location: No. 6 Linjiang Road, Yuzhong District (Apple Maps/Amap)
• Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 07:30–22:30
• Average Cost: 18 CNY

---

Recommended Hotels near Hongya Cave

If you want to stay near Hongya Cave, I recommend choosing the Jiefangbei area first. It is right in central Chongqing, with Hongya Cave, Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, and several other popular attractions nearby. There are also plenty of restaurants, shopping malls, and places to visit at night, so after seeing Hongya Cave’s evening lights, you can easily walk back to your hotel. Linjiangmen and Xiaoshizi metro stations are also nearby, making it convenient to reach other major attractions in Chongqing. The hotels below are all located in the Jiefangbei area. If you want to compare other places to stay in the city, see our full Chongqing Hotel Guide.

Lavande Hotel (Chongqing Jiefangbei Center Pedestrian Street)

• Location: 3 minutes walk from Linjiangmen Metro Station, 8 minutes walk from Jiaochangkou Metro Station
• Price per night: 279 CNY
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Agoda Deals
• Rating: Trip 9.4 / Agoda 9.4
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, family rooms

The hotel is in the heart of Jiefangbei, close to Linjiangmen Metro Station, with convenient walking access to Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, Kuixinglou, Baixiangju, and other popular attractions. The surrounding area has plenty of restaurants, drink shops, and shopping options, making it a good choice for travelers who want to explore the Jiefangbei area mainly on foot. The metro also makes it convenient to reach other parts of Chongqing, including Liziba.

Guest rooms are generally clean, tidy, and relatively spacious, with comfortable bedding and pillows, while the bathrooms feature separate wet and dry areas. Soundproofing is good overall, providing a relatively quiet environment at night, and a free laundry room is available. Check-in and check-out at the front desk are efficient, and requests are handled promptly, making the hotel suitable for sightseeing trips and short stays.

S · island High Altitude River View Hotel

• Location: 5 minutes walk from Linjiangmen Metro Station, 5 minutes walk from Jiaochangkou Metro Station
• Price per night: 387 CNY
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
• Rating: Trip 9.6
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, family rooms

The hotel is in a central Jiefangbei location, directly above the Bayi Road area, with Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, Shibati, and other attractions within walking distance. Restaurants, night markets, and shopping are highly concentrated nearby. Both Linjiangmen and Jiaochangkou metro stations are within walking distance, making it convenient for exploring downtown as well as taking the metro to other parts of Chongqing. The high-floor setting also provides expansive city and river views, especially at night.

Guest rooms feature modern decor and whole-room smart controls, with the toilet and shower areas separated and a well-rounded range of facilities. Rooms are clean and tidy with good natural light and views, and the elevated cityscape is one of the hotel’s standout features. Drinks, snacks, and other simple refreshments are available in the common areas, while service requests are handled quickly. It suits travelers who prioritize a central Jiefangbei location, high-floor views, and smart-room features.

ASPERA HIGH-ALTITUDE GARDEN PANORAMIC HOTEL

• Location: 6 minutes walk from Xiaoshizi Metro Station, 12 minutes walk from Linjiangmen Metro Station
• Price per night: 448 CNY
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials
• Rating: Trip 9.7
• Special Amenities: Laundry room, family rooms

The hotel is located in the Jiefangbei commercial district, close to Luohan Temple, with convenient walking access to both Jiefangbei and Hongya Cave. Xiaoshizi Metro Station is also within walking distance. Restaurants, shopping malls, and attractions are concentrated nearby, making the hotel well suited for itineraries covering Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, and the surrounding historic neighborhoods. The hotel itself has a strong design focus, and its public spaces and restaurant are also attractive for photos.

Guest rooms are generally clean and well maintained, with stylish interiors and a higher-end selection of in-room equipment, including Dyson hair dryers and Harman Kardon speakers. Breakfast offers a wide selection, and the restaurant has a distinctive design while also serving afternoon tea. Service at both the front desk and dining areas is responsive, making the hotel a good fit for travelers who value in-room amenities, stylish design, and the overall dining experience.

JW Marriott Hotel Chongqing

• Location: 7 minutes walk from Linjiangmen Metro Station, 9 minutes walk from Jiaochangkou Metro Station
• Price per night: 773 CNY
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Agoda Deals
• Rating: Trip 9.2 / Agoda 9.1
• Special Amenities: Indoor swimming pool, gym

The hotel is in the heart of Jiefangbei, within walking distance of popular attractions such as Jiefangbei, Hongya Cave, and Kuixinglou. The surrounding area also has a wide selection of hot pot restaurants, Chongqing noodle shops, and local eateries. Both Linjiangmen and Jiaochangkou metro stations are within walking distance, making the hotel convenient for sightseeing based around Jiefangbei. High-floor rooms and the executive lounge offer city and river views, including impressive nighttime scenery.

Guest rooms are relatively spacious, with comfortable bedding and bathroom amenities, while the executive lounge is located on a high floor and breakfast offers a broad selection. Service is one of the hotel’s more consistent strengths, with responsive staff across the front desk, housekeeping, and executive lounge, and the hotel is also well suited to families. As the property has been open for many years, some rooms and interior finishes feel dated, and the overall hardware does not feel as new as at more recently opened luxury hotels. It is better suited to travelers who prioritize branded service and a central Jiefangbei location.

The Westin Chongqing Liberation Square

• Location: 8 minutes walk from Xiaoshizi Metro Station, 9 minutes walk from Linjiangmen Metro Station
• Price per night: 1108 CNY
• Check Rates:Trip.com Specials, Agoda Deals
• Rating: Trip 9.4 / Agoda 9.3
• Special Amenities: Indoor swimming pool, gym

The hotel is in the heart of Jiefangbei, with convenient access to popular attractions such as Jiefangbei and the Yangtze River Cableway. Both Xiaoshizi and Linjiangmen metro stations are within walking distance, making it a strong choice for first-time visitors to Chongqing who want to focus on downtown attractions. High-floor rooms provide expansive city and river views, with nighttime views across Chongqing’s two rivers and illuminated skyline. Shopping, dining, and transportation options are concentrated nearby, making sightseeing especially convenient.

Guest rooms are spacious and bright, with good maintenance and cleanliness, expansive views through floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable bedding, and consistently solid soundproofing. The hotel has a fitness center and indoor swimming pool, while breakfast offers a wide variety of choices, including local Chongqing specialties. Service is generally prompt and responsive, making the hotel suitable for families, couples, and business travelers who value elevated views, room comfort, and a full range of upscale hotel facilities.

---

How to Get to Hongya Cave

From Downtown Chongqing

By Metro

Chongqing’s extensive metro system makes traveling to Hongya Cave both convenient and efficient.

• Line 2: Get off at Linjiangmen Station. Exit through Exit 2, then walk about 500 meters northeast to reach Hongya Cave.
• Line 1 or Line 6: Get off at Xiaoshizi Station. Exit through Exit 9, then walk about 400 meters to arrive at Hongya Cave.

By Bus

Several bus routes directly reach Hongya Cave or nearby stops.

• Hongya Cave Stop: Take buses 111, 112 (Outer Loop), 114, or others. Get off at Hongya Cave Stop to enter the scenic area directly.
• Xiaoshizi Stop: Take buses 105, 111, or 112 (Inner Loop). Get off at Xiaoshizi Stop, then walk about 400 meters northwest to reach Hongya Cave.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

For a more convenient and direct option, take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app, especially if you have luggage.

• Drop-off Location: The main entrance of Hongya Cave Scenic Area.
• Cost: Approximately 20-25 CNY.

---

From Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

Travelers arriving at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport can choose from several transportation options to reach Hongya Cave:

By Metro

• Route: From Terminal 3, take Metro Line 10 toward Lanhualu and get off at Hongtudi Station. Transfer to Line 6 toward Chayuan and get off at Xiaoshizi Station, then walk to Hongya Cave.
• Operating Hours: For Line 10 trains from Terminal 3 toward Lanhualu, the first train is around 6:35 AM and the last train is around 11:23 PM.
• Cost: About 6 CNY.

By Airport Shuttle Bus

• Route: Take Airport Shuttle Bus K01 (Jiangbei International Airport to Jiefangbei Guotai Plaza). Get off at the final stop, then walk about 800 meters to reach Hongya Cave.
• Operating Hours:
  • From the Airport: 8:30 AM to 30 minutes after the last flight arrives. Buses run every 30 minutes between 8:30 AM and 10:30 PM, and on a rolling basis after 10:30 PM.
  • From Jiefangbei: 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
• Cost: 15 CNY per person.

By Taxi or Ride-Hailing

• Travel Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
• Cost:
  • Daytime: 50-60 CNY.
  • Nighttime (10:00 PM to 6:00 AM): 70-80 CNY.

---

How to plan your Chongqing trip

Chongqing is famous for its mountain city landscape, riverside night views, cable cars, and unique urban culture. A short stay of 2 days works well for city highlights, while 4–5 days allows you to explore Red Rock history and extend your journey to Wulong’s UNESCO landscapes. Here are our most popular private tour options:

---

FAQ