Hongya Cave

Chongqing's Cliffside City of Lights

Hongya Cave (Hongyadong) is the image that put Chongqing on the global travel map: an eleven-story warren of traditional stilted diaojiaolou houses clinging to a cliff above the Jialing River, glowing gold after dark. Inspired by the cave-and-mountain dwellings of old Bashu, the modern complex stacks restaurants, teahouses, souvenir stalls and viewing decks one atop another, linked by a maze of staircases. Travelers often compare its night-time silhouette to the floating bathhouse in Spirited Away.

What to See and Do

The magic is the night illumination, when thousands of warm lights trace every eave and balcony. Because the complex is built into the cliff, you can enter at street level on the top floor (near Cangbai Road) and ride elevators or walk down to the riverside at the bottom — a quirk that surprises first-timers. Inside you'll find Chongqing snacks, hotpot, and local specialties; the riverside terraces give the best view of the Jialing and the bridges beyond.

For the classic postcard shot of the whole glowing facade, cross to the far bank or the Qiansimen Bridge at dusk.

Planning Your Visit

Hongya Cave is in Yuzhong District, a short walk from the Jiefangbei pedestrian area and right by Xiaoshizi metro station. It is busiest at sunset, when crowds gather for the light-up; weekends and holidays can be shoulder-to-shoulder, so arrive 30–45 minutes before dark to claim a viewing spot. Combine it with a Yangtze cable car ride or a river night cruise for a full Chongqing evening.

Getting There

Hongya Cave sits in central Yuzhong District beside Xiaoshizi metro station (Lines 1 and 6), Exit 9, and is an easy walk from the Jiefangbei shopping area. Taxis and ride-hailing drop off on Cangbai Road at the upper entrance. If you are coming mainly for the view rather than the interior, head straight to the Jialing riverside or to Qiansimen Bridge on the opposite bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee? No — admission is free. During major holidays a free timed reservation may be required online to manage crowds.

What are the opening hours and when do the lights come on? The complex is accessible 24 hours and shops generally run 10:00–23:00. The lights typically glow from about 18:30 to 23:00, switching on near 19:00 in summer and around 18:20 in winter, following sunset.

When is the best time to go? Just before dusk, to see the buildings in daylight and then lit up. Weekday evenings are far less crowded than weekends and public holidays.