Absolute Asia/Destinations/South Korea/Chongqing
The Essence of Chongqing
Discover Chongqing, China’s largest city, where tradition meets modernity. Ideal for Yangtze River cruises, it blends vibrant culture, riverside charm, and rich history.
Located in Southwest China, Chongqing is the country’s largest city by both area and population, home to over 30 million people. While most residents are of Han descent, the city is also a cultural mosaic, with more than 40 recognized ethnic minorities including the Tujia and Miao.
Once known as Chungking, Chongqing was opened as a treaty port in 1890 and served as the wartime capital of the Kuomintang during the 1930s and 1940s. Today, it’s a city in transformation — modern skyscrapers rise above older, dustier neighborhoods, reflecting its dynamic rebirth.
Perched at the meeting point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Chongqing possesses a unique, almost cinematic charm. As night falls, the hills surrounding the city come alive with shimmering lights, creating a magical backdrop for travelers embarking on or returning from a Yangtze River cruise — one of the most scenic river journeys in the world.
Our Favorite Journeys
Chongqing, at Its Best Right Now
Classic South Korea Tour
12 Days / 11 Nights
Classic South Korea Tour Seoul, Gyeongju, Busan & Jeju Island The first thing you notice isn’t the palaces. It’s the smell of grilling meat and sesame oil drifting through Seoul’s market streets. A few days later you’ll be standing inside a thousand-year-old temple in Gyeongju, then watching fishing boats return to harbour in Busan. The…
Family South Korea Tour
Family South Korea Tour Korea has a way of keeping children genuinely busy. Theme parks that run until midnight, street food that arrives faster than anyone can order it, a volcanic island where the ground is still warm in places. Nine days, three cities, one island. Enough variety that nobody is waiting for the next…
South Korea Essentials: History, Flavors & Scenery
10 DAYS
South Korea Essentials: History, Flavors & Scenery South Korea Essentials: History, Flavors & Scenery takes you on a perfect ten-day journey from the dynamic streets of Seoul to Busan’s sun-drenched shores and Jeju’s volcanic wonders. Delve into millennia of heritage at palaces and temples, savor mouthwatering street food and fine cuisine, and unwind amid stunning…
A Private Journey Through South Korea
9 DAYS
A Private Journey Through South Korea Ancient Palaces & Coastal Cities – Private South Korea Tour This private South Korea tour connects Seoul, Gyeongju, and Busan over nine days, combining royal palaces, ancient history, and life along Korea’s southern coast. Seoul doesn’t ease you in. A 600-year-old palace sits behind a six-lane highway, and the…
Seoul: A City That Never Stands Still
Seoul: A City That Never Stays the Same for Long Seoul does not have one version of itself. It has several, and they change by the hour. Early in the morning, the stone courtyards of Gyeongbokgung are still quiet enough to hear footsteps. The palace was burned in 1592, left in ruins for nearly three…
DiscoverGuilin
Discover Guilin’s iconic karst peaks, traditional cormorant fishing, and a relaxing cruise to Yangshuo. Enjoy cycling, trekking, and authentic village life along the Li River.
DiscoverFenghuang
Explore Fenghuang’s historic stilt houses, riverside charm, and vibrant minority traditions. Experience the authentic atmosphere of ancient China in this legendary Phoenix City.
DiscoverDatong
Explore Datong’s stunning Yungang Caves, Wooden Pagoda, and Hanging Monastery—hidden cultural treasures on the scenic route from Beijing to sacred Mount Wutai.
DiscoverDali
Nestled Between Mountains and Lake Nestled between the towering Diancang Mountains and the serene waters of Erhai Lake, Dali—once the capital of the Bai minority—is a charming gem on a lush plain. This compact city invites visitors to explore its heritage-rich streets on foot. Historical Charm Amid Modern Tourism Despite the influx of tourist shops…
DiscoverChengyang
Explore the traditional Dong minority village of Chengyang in Guangxi, China. Discover ancient wooden houses, iconic wind and rain bridges, and ornate drum towers nestled along the Lingxi River.
DiscoverChengde
Explore Chengde, a historic town once favored by Qing emperors. Discover Tibetan temples, panoramic views, and relics of China’s imperial past. Focus keyword: Chengde.
DiscoverRecommended Hotels
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Guides & Stories from Chongqing
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Read moreSpeak to a Travel Specialist
Every journey is private, tailor-made, and planned around your pace, interests, and preferred style of travel. Connect with a destination specialist to begin designing your itinerary.
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