Chongqing

The city's unique geographic features make for a unique and picturesque skyline at night. When night comes, the lights from tens of thousands of households take over the whole city. There are three prime spots to get immersed in the night landscape of the city: the One-tree Outlook Platform, the Golden Eagle Statue in South Mountain Park and the Kansheng Tower in Erling Park. A boat tour can be arranged at Chaotian Gate.

Chongqing Art Museum is an artwork in itself. Its unique architectural style was developed to recreate the appearance of a lit bonfire. Exhibitions feature artwork by both local artists and famous classic Chinese painters, making it an essential stop on any art-lover's tour of the city.

The Wulong Karst is the real life equivalent of a Chinese painting. The intricate blend between natural elements and carefully man-made architecture is perfect for a day-long hike away from the city's fast pace.

Beginning at Baidi City, the Three Gorges – comprising the Qutang, Wu, and Xiling gorges – have been described by many poems since ancient times. You can contemplate its natural greatness from two of the most famous scenic spots, the Fengdu Ghost City and the Sibaozhai Pagoda.

The stars of the Chongqing Zoo are definitely the Giant Pandas. This zoo does not only serve as an important base for protection and research of wild animals like Tibetan bears, tigers, hippos, monkeys and birds, but also provides a beautiful and comfortable setting for you to experience the wildlife.

This site once was a military fortress and then became the first and most advanced pier in ancient China. Nowadays, it has been turned into a 75-metre tall building on the margin of the Jialing River packed with many restaurants, cafes, temples and craft stalls. When the sun sets, the building illuminates the surroundings, making them look dream-like.

Hidden between the mountains and the Yangtze River, the Fengdu Ghost City reflects Chinese views on afterlife. As a tribute to the ancestors, you can find Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian sculptures and carvings in any of the more than 27 temples. The view of the Three Gorges from the top of the mountain is also worth a visit.

For those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Jinyun Mountain Natural Reserve is the ideal spot. Situated in the outskirts of this busy city, it is a perfect place to unwind while contemplating the nature and wildlife.

Nanshan Botanical Garden is an oasis in the middle of the always crowded Chongqing where you can have a glance of a wide range of plants, from roses to cactuses. During springtime, the whole park is painted by a sea of peach and cherry blossoms.

One-hour drive along sharp curves from Chongqing lies the Jindao Canyon. Here you can enjoy the scenic view either by by walking through the narrow gorge or taking a boat through its crystal clear river. This canyon remains one of the city's hidden gems, so expect it not to be crowded.