Hongya Cave

Hongya Cave, despite its name, is not a natural cave but a massive, multi-story complex of traditional-style stilted buildings clinging to a cliff face in Chongqing's Yuzhong District. Built to resemble the ancient Diaojiaolou architecture of the region, the structure is a vibrant hub of restaurants, tea houses, souvenir shops, and bars, all with spectacular views of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers meeting below. At night, the entire complex is illuminated with golden lights, creating a magical reflection on the water. Visitors can wander through narrow alleyways, cross bridges, and ascend escalators to different levels, each offering a different perspective. The top floors provide panoramic views of the city skyline and the river. What makes Hongya Cave distinctive is its integration of modern commercial energy with traditional design, making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. It's particularly famous for its hot pot restaurants, where diners can enjoy spicy Chongqing cuisine while watching the river flow.

Don't miss

• Nighttime illumination, the entire complex glows golden and reflects on the river
• Hot pot dining with river views at one of the many restaurants
• The observation decks on upper levels for panoramic city and river vistas
• Exploring the maze-like interior with bridges, staircases, and escalators
• Shopping for local snacks, crafts, and souvenirs in the boutiques

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Hongya Cave

Cheapest way inPremium Chongqing Private Tours: Highlights, Night View or Cruise5★ · 47 travelers8-9 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →Best full dayChongqing Wulong National Park Private Tour5★ · 107 travelers10-11 hoursFree cancellationFrom$299 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Customized Tour: Chongqing City Highlights in One Day5★ · 12 travelers6-8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$170 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Getting there

Know before you go

• The best views are at night; arrive just before sunset to see the transition.
• Try the local Chongqing hot pot, it's spicy but iconic. Many restaurants have English menus.
• Bring a tripod for night photography; the river reflections are stunning.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs and slopes.

A bit of history

Hongya Cave was originally a natural cliffside area with ancient dwellings. The current structure was built in 2006 as a commercial development inspired by the traditional stilted houses of the Bayu region. It quickly became a symbol of Chongqing's urban renewal.