Chongqing - A new riverside promenade linking three of Chongqing’s most famous landmarks officially opened on December 4, offering residents and visitors a scenic 2.4-kilometer walking route that connects Hongya Cave, Chaotianmen Square, and Huguang Guild Hall.
The promenade allows visitors to stroll between the landmarks in roughly 20 minutes, a significant improvement over previous routes that required detours through busy streets. Part of the city’s broader effort to improve walkability, the project enhances urban recreation and scenic connectivity along the riverfront.
Visitors enjoy Chaotianmen Square on December 4. (Photo/Luo Bin)
The riverside path features lush landscaping, 15 newly installed seating areas, and elevated Guanjiang Terraces, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Jialing and Yangtze rivers, where the waters meet in striking contrast. The Dongshuimen Bridge and Qiansimen Bridge are clearly visible from these platforms.
Construction is still underway on the reconstruction of the historic Chaotianmen Cable Car, which will restore a distinctive piece of Chongqing’s urban heritage.
Visitors can easily access the promenade via Metro Lines 1 or 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, then walk for 10 minutes, or by car, parking at Raffles City Chongqing, which connects directly to the walkway via Exit 7.
The Ruins of the Song Dynasty City Wall Hidden Beneath Raffles City Chongqing. (Photo: First Eye News)
“For years, walking from Hongya Cave to Huguang Guild Hall was inconvenient,” said Chen, a local resident visiting with his family. “Now it’s easy to move between landmarks. The promenade is safe, family-friendly, and enjoyable.”
Chongqing has now built a total of 871 kilometers of urban trails, forming a multi-functional, interconnected, efficient, and accessible pedestrian network for all ages. The system emphasizes scenic enjoyment, cultural connectivity, and ease of movement throughout the city.
The new promenade is expected to become a popular destination, especially on weekends and holidays when pedestrian traffic typically rises. By linking historic landmarks with riverside scenery, the city offers both residents and tourists a safer, more enjoyable walking experience, while providing a model for future riverfront development.