Chongqing 6 Landmarks: Iconic Designs & Photo Spots

Start with a quick overview

This Chongqing sightseeing tour promises to take you through six of the city’s most eye-catching landmarks, each offering a different slice of China’s architectural and cultural diversity. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll get a balanced mix of history, design stories, and fantastic photo opportunities—ideal for those craving memorable images and authentic insights.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the chance to capture the world-famous “train-through-building” Liziba, the grandeur of People’s Great Hall, and the panoramic views from Hongensi Temple. Plus, the compact 8-hour format fits well into most travel plans.

A potential consideration? The walking segments, though brief, require comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of mobility. Also, as a private tour, it’s tailored but might be pricier for solo travelers.

This experience is best suited for photography enthusiasts, culture buffs, and travelers who appreciate stunning architecture with a touch of local storytelling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Iconic Landmarks: Visit six of Chongqing’s most famous and visually striking sites in one day.
• Photographer’s Dream: Each spot offers unique angles, from traditional temples to futuristic skyscrapers.
• Local Insights: Guided by a knowledgeable local who shares design stories and background details.
• Flexible Experience: Private group allows for personalized attention and better photo stops.
• Time-efficient: An 8-hour tour that covers multiple highlights without feeling rushed.
• Value for Money: For $151, you get a curated, well-organized experience that balances culture and photo opportunities.

An in-depth look at this Chongqing adventure

Starting Point: Convenience and Comfort

The tour begins with hotel pickup, usually arranged with the guide waiting downstairs at your hotel. This makes the entire experience smoother and more relaxed—no need to fuss about directions or transport. From there, it’s a 16-minute walk to the first stop, giving you a gentle warm-up and a chance to see some local street scenes.

Luohan Temple: A Cultural Welcome

Your first stop is Luohan Temple, where traditional Buddhist architecture greets you with vibrant statues and colorful details. We loved how the old-world charm contrasts with the modern cityscape you’ll see later. It’s perfect for cultural shots and getting a sense of spiritual history. Reviewers mention the “retro vibe” and appreciate the authentic feel—an ideal start for those interested in local traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Majesty of People’s Great Hall

Next, you’ll visit the People’s Great Hall, a site that embodies grand Chinese palace-style architecture. Its golden roofs, symmetrical columns, and imposing scale make for majestic photos, especially against a blue sky or sunset. A guide shares stories about its design, enriching your understanding of Chinese political and cultural symbolism. Some guests note that this site “feels like stepping into a film set,” which is exactly the vibe many seek for memorable images.

Yijian Building’s Surreal 8D Structure

Moving on, the Yijian Building provides a more futuristic, almost sci-fi feel. Its trapezoidal shape and quirky angles appeal to architects and photographers alike. The “8D” branding hints at an almost hallucinogenic visual experience, promising some creative shots. Reviewers highlight how this building blends urban grit with surreal design elements, perfect for snapping bold, unconventional photos.

Liziba: The Train-Through-Building Wonder

No visit to Chongqing would be complete without catching the Liziba train station. Known worldwide, it features a train passing through a residential building, creating a dynamic shot that’s both bizarre and beautiful. Many past travelers describe it as “surreal,” and the tour provides the best angles to capture the motion blur of the train amid the urban landscape. It’s a quick stop but offers one of the most talked-about photos of the entire trip.

Raffles City: Modern Elegance and River Views

Raffles City Chongqing stands out with its sleek, curved glass facade that reflects the Yangtze River. It’s a prime example of contemporary design, and you’ll love trying to frame it against the city skyline or river backdrop. Reviewers rave about the “futuristic” look and how it makes for excellent cityscape shots. The guide points out design details that add depth to your photos, making this stop both visually impressive and intellectually interesting.

Hongensi Temple: Panoramic Sunset Views

Your final stop is the Hongensi Temple, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views over Chongqing. This traditional temple combines classic eaves and pagoda-style architecture with panoramic vistas, especially breathtaking at sunset. Past visitors mention that “the view alone is worth the visit,” and it’s the perfect spot to reflect on the day’s sights while capturing stunning landscape photos.

What to Expect: The Flow of the Day

This tour is designed for flexibility and efficiency. After pickup, the walk between some sites keeps the journey intimate, avoiding long bus rides. Each attraction offers a different vibe—ancient, political, futuristic, residential, modern, and panoramic—giving a well-rounded taste of Chongqing’s architectural diversity.

Your guide shares stories and design insights at each stop, making the experience more than just taking photos. The tour concludes back at your hotel around the 8-hour mark, leaving you with a gallery of impressive images and a deeper understanding of Chongqing’s design identity.

Transportation & Group Size

Since this is a private tour, you’ll get personalized attention and the comfort of a dedicated guide. The transportation is mainly walking between sites, minimizing travel time and maximizing photo opportunities. Reviewers note that the guide’s knowledge makes a difference, sharing background stories that add layers of meaning to each landmark.

Duration & Price: Is It Worth It?

At $151 per person, the cost might seem high compared to self-guided options, but the value lies in the curated experience, expert guidance, and convenience of logistics. For photographers or culture enthusiasts, the chance to access prime angles and learn about the design stories from a local makes this a worthwhile investment.

What to Bring & Consider

Ensure your smartphone or camera is fully charged—many stops, especially Liziba and Hongensi, are picture-perfect. Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s some walking involved. Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and your passport for identification. Weather-appropriate clothing is advisable, especially if visiting during the cooler months or rainy season.

Final thoughts: Who will love this tour?

This tour is ideal for photography lovers eager to capture diverse architecture, culture buffs interested in Chinese design and history, and those wanting a comprehensive, engaging overview of Chongqing’s visual identity. The private format and guide’s insights make it especially appealing for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—an experience that feels tailored and insightful.

While it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant travelers, or those with mobility issues, active adults who enjoy walking and learning will find this tour satisfying. It’s also a good fit for those who value convenience, as hotel pickup and a well-organized schedule reduce stress.

This experience offers a rich blend of stunning visuals, local stories, and cultural context—perfect for creating lasting memories and striking photos of Chongqing’s unique cityscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, including pickup, sightseeing, and return to your hotel.

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy hotel pickup, guided sightseeing at six landmarks, and the expertise of a local guide fluent in Chinese and English.

Is there any transportation during the tour?
The itinerary mainly involves walking between sites, with the guide providing a smooth transition and local insights along the way.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, food, drinks, and fully charged smartphones or cameras.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
It’s best suited for older children and adults. It’s not recommended for children under 2 or pregnant women due to walking and sightseeing demands.

Do I need a visa?
Depending on your nationality, you might need a visa to visit China—check your requirements before booking.

How many people will be in my group?
This is a private group, so it’s tailored for your party, ensuring flexibility and personalized attention.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded look at Chongqing’s architectural gems, blending historical, modern, and surreal designs into a manageable 8-hour experience. With expert guides and prime photo spots, it’s a smart choice for travelers who want to go beyond the usual sights and capture the city’s essence in images and stories. Whether you’re a dedicated photographer or curious culture-seeker, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and remember—about this vibrant Chinese city.

You can check availability for your dates here: