Chongqing - Chongqing's summer is renowned for its scorching temperatures and high humidity. Typically beginning in June and lasting until September, the mercury often rises above 35°C, occasionally approaching a sweltering 40°C. Chongqing's location in a basin contributes to the high humidity, intensifying the impact of summer heat.
Tourists enjoy a cool time drifting in a stream at Shenlongxia Scenic area in Nanchuan District of Chongqing. (Photo/Hu Bo from Visual Chongqing)
Despite the intense heat, Chongqing boasts a myriad of activities and attractions for cooling off. Visitors can escape to the natural scenic areas surrounding the main urban zones or enjoy the refreshing environments of city parks, swimming pools, or water parks. Moreover, Chongqing's vibrant nightlife and bustling night market culture are highlights during the summer months, with cooler evenings encouraging people to venture out and savor the local cuisine and entertainment.
Nearby summer resorts
Jinfo Mountain, located in Nanchuan District, is celebrated for its unique karst landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and captivating natural scenery. With an average summer temperature of around 20°C, it serves as an ideal summer retreat, perfect for hiking, photography, and leisurely vacations.
Kayak players enjoy the serene waters and lush greenery of Nanchuan Jinfo Mountain Scenic Area in Chongqing, making for a perfect summer escape. (Photo/Nanchuan District)
Fairy Mountain, situated in the Wulong District and part of the Wuling Mountain range, offers higher altitudes and maintains a summer temperature of approximately 20°C. This well-known summer resort features expansive alpine meadows, dense forests, and fresh mountain air, ideal for horseback riding, camping, and picnicking.
Ayi River in Pengshui County is a stunning river renowned for its clear waters and serene gorges. With cooler summer temperatures, it is an excellent location for rafting, swimming, gorge exploration, and hiking.
Wushan Lesser Three Gorges in Wushan County, a tributary of the Yangtze River, is acclaimed for its picturesque scenery. The pleasant summer temperature makes it an attractive spot for boat tours, photography, and gorge exploration.
The rolling alpine meadows of Fairy Mountain in Chongqing offer a serene and picturesque escape into nature's tranquility. (Photo/Wulong District)
Wuling Mountain Grand Canyon in Fuling District is a remarkable geological marvel with deep gorges, cliffs, and lush vegetation. Its cooler summer temperatures make it perfect for hiking, photography, and adventurous activities.
Shizhu Huangshui National Forest Park, in Shizhu Tujia Autonomous County, is a newly designated national-level tourist resort in China. It features dense forests, fresh air, and cool temperatures averaging around 20°C in summer. This park is ideal for forest hiking, camping, picnicking, and boating.
Huangshui National Tourist Resort. (Photo/Xue Nianyang)
Black Mountain Valley in Wansheng District is noted for its pristine forests, waterfalls, and cool streams. The cool summer climate makes it an excellent choice for hiking, stream playing, and forest exploration.
Water activities in the city
Playa Maya Water Park, located in Yubei District, is the water-themed park of Chongqing Happy Valley. The park, themed around Maya civilization, offers numerous exhilarating water rides and family-friendly activities. It is advisable to arrive early, bring sunscreen and a change of clothes, and rent lockers for valuables.
Families and friends are enjoying a sunny day at Chongqing Haichang Caribbean Water Park, a perfect summer escape to beat the heat. (Photo/Yin Shiyu from Visual Chongqing)
Chongqing Haichang Caribbean Water Park, situated on Nanshan Mountain, is a large outdoor water park themed around Caribbean pirates. It features a variety of water attractions suitable for all ages, including thrilling water rides, a lazy river, and a children's play area. Booking tickets online in advance, bringing sunscreen and shade gear, and wearing comfortable swimwear are highly recommended.
Summer nightlife
Chongqing's summer nightlife is vibrant and diverse, offering a plethora of activities and venues for both residents and tourists. Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street, one of Chongqing's most bustling commercial areas, combines shopping, dining, and entertainment seamlessly. The area is brightly illuminated at night, attracting numerous visitors. You can indulge in extensive shopping, with numerous malls and fashion stores catering to every need. Surrounding Jiefangbei are many restaurants and snack bars serving authentic Chongqing cuisine, such as hotpot, noodles, and skewers. The night scene at Chongqing Liberation Monument and Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street is mesmerizing, making it a prime spot for photos.
Chongqing Liberation Monument in Jiefangbei comes alive at night with dazzling lights and bustling crowds, epitomizing the city's vibrant nightlife. (Photo/Liao Ping)
Hongyadong, located on the banks of the Jialing River, is a commercial complex that melds traditional stilt house architecture with modern amenities. At night, Hongyadong is vividly lit, resembling a fairyland. The spectacular night view provides a breathtaking panorama of the Jialing River and city lights. Hongyadong houses numerous restaurants and snack bars offering a variety of local delicacies, along with many handicraft and souvenir shops for unique gifts.
Nanbin Road, along the Yangtze River, is a renowned riverside scenic area in Chongqing, home to many upscale restaurants, bars, and cafes. It is an excellent spot for evening leisure. Opt for a night cruise on the Yangtze River to enjoy the city's skyline on both sides. The diverse bars and restaurants on Nanbin Road offer a variety of food and drinks, perfect for a relaxing evening. Enjoying the cool breeze and scenic night view, a riverside stroll is also highly recommended.
The vibrant Nanbin Road night market in Chongqing is bustling with people enjoying food and shopping and the stunning city skyline by the river. (Photo/Long Fan from Visual Chongqing)
Guanyinqiao Pedestrian Street in Jiangbei District is another significant commercial hub in Chongqing. The pedestrian street is bustling at night, teeming with shopping centers and fashion stores, making it a shopper's paradise. The area is surrounded by numerous restaurants, snack bars, and night market stalls offering a wide array of foods. The street also houses cinemas, karaoke, and other entertainment venues, making it ideal for friends' gatherings and family outings.
Ciqikou Ancient Town is a famous historical and cultural region in Chongqing, preserving many buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. At night, the ancient town is illuminated with lanterns, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Strolling along the stone-paved streets, you can experience the rich cultural heritage. The town features numerous traditional snack bars offering authentic Chongqing snacks. Occasionally, street performers and cultural exhibitions further enhance the town's charm.