Shapingba

Chongqing is hot and humid in summer, so spring and autumn are more comfortable times to visit.

Shapingba is a district of Chongqing with a strong cultural character and a vivid everyday atmosphere. It has the historic lanes of Ciqikou Ancient Town, the revolutionary memories around Geleshan, and a more relaxed, artsy feel around University Town and the Sichuan International Studies University old railway. The following is a travel reference for Shapingba to help you plan your route by area.

• Ciqikou Ancient Town: A historic old-town district where the main highlights are stone-paved lanes, old teahouses, and street snacks. You can try Chen Mahua and maoxuewang, and after dusk you can also enjoy the ancient town’s night views.

• Zhazi Cave and Baigongguan: Important sites for learning about Hongyan history. When visiting, you can take the scenic-area shuttle bus to reduce walking and uphill climbs.

• Luo Zhongli Art Museum: Located on the Huxi Campus of Sichuan Fine Arts Institute, this is a highly recognizable building in the University Town area. Its exterior is covered with broken-porcelain mosaics, creating a striking visual effect. Advance reservation is required, and it is closed on Mondays.

• Sichuan International Studies University old railway: A walking path converted from abandoned railway tracks. French-style steps and old rails set each other off, making it good for an easy stroll and photos.

• Geleshan Forest Park: Known mainly for its mountain and forest setting, it is suitable for hiking and getting some fresh air. From higher points, you can look out over the urban scenery of Shapingba.

• Mafangwan Colorful Lane: Brightly colored residential buildings and graffiti walls are the main sights here, making it a good choice for visitors who enjoy urban lanes and photography.

Classic Two-Day Itinerary

• Day 1 (Revolutionary memories and old-town street life): In the morning, visit Zhazi Cave and Baigongguan to learn about Hongyan history (taking the T198 shuttle bus is recommended). Have lunch near Three Gorges Square. In the afternoon, go to the Sichuan International Studies University old railway and Mafangwan Colorful Lane for photos. In the evening, head to Ciqikou Ancient Town to stroll, eat, and enjoy the night views.
• Day 2 (Art visits and relaxed sightseeing): In the morning, visit Luo Zhongli Art Museum for exhibitions (advance reservation required). At noon, choose an affordable meal on Xi Street. In the afternoon, choose one of two options based on your interests: if you prefer thrilling activities, go to Sunac Cultural Tourism City (Snow World/Water World/Yule Town); if you prefer nature, hike in Geleshan Forest Park. In the evening, return to Three Gorges Square to end the trip.

Must-Try Food in Shapingba

Shapingba has a wide range of dining options, including popular restaurants as well as many affordable old eateries and small lane-side places frequented by locals.

Practical Tips

• Reservations and closing days: Luo Zhongli Art Museum, Zhazi Cave, Baigongguan, and other attractions are closed on Mondays, and most require advance booking through their official WeChat accounts. Be sure to confirm opening information before you set out.
• Transport advice: The straight-line distance from Zhazi Cave to Baigongguan looks short, but in practice it involves about half an hour of walking on mountain roads. It is recommended to take the minibus at the entrance (5 yuan per person). Try not to take motorcycle taxis, as Chongqing’s mountain roads have many bends and can be risky when vehicles travel fast.
• Shopping reminder: It is not recommended to buy the colorful fruit sold from shoulder poles in Ciqikou (jinximei). It is usually soaked in saccharin, and both the taste and price are poor. If buying Chen Mahua, walk further into the ancient town; for the same brand, the farther inside you go, the cheaper it usually is, while prices are highest near the entrance.
• Mosquito prevention and clothing: When going to the Sichuan International Studies University old railway or Geleshan, it is recommended to bring strong mosquito repellent containing DEET. Many attractions in Shapingba involve slopes and steps, so comfortable flat shoes are more suitable.
• Beware of touts: Do not trust street advertisements for “38-yuan one-day tours.” A common situation is that tourists are taken to jade shops to spend money. If you encounter people handing out flyers and soliciting customers by the roadside, it is best to simply walk away.