Chongqing Municipality lies in the southwest of China; and area through which the upper reaches of the Yangtze River passes from west to east. Covering an area of 82.4 thousand square kilometers (about 204 million acres), it is the biggest municipality in China. The area features a geographic nature of mountains and rivers thus is a very popular destination during foreign visitors' China tour. The population is about 31.3 million, and the tens of ethnic people make up 5.7 % of the total. Under the sub-tropical monsoon climate, Chongqing features warm winters and hot summers. The yearly average temperature is 17.0 oC-18.8 oC (62.6oF-65.8oF), and it can be very hot in summer with the average temperature 27oC-29oC (80.6oF-84.2oF).
History and Culture
Chongqing is an ancient city enjoying a history of 3,000 years. The earliest Wushan Man was found living in the area. The ancient Ba Kingdom and the Xia Kingdom once set their capital here, and thus developed the distinct Ba & Shu Culture. The name 'Chongqing' was gained in the South Song Dynasty (1127-1279) when Guang Zong (Emperor Guang) ascended the throne meaning 'double happiness'. During World War II, the Kuomintang Government retreated to Chongqing and made it the center of politics and economy. Those were queasy times. In the year 1997 it was made one of the municipalities, and was in the direct control of the central government in 1953.
Tourism
Chongqing is a popular tourism destination, with rich natural sceneries and historical relics. Qutang Gorge and the Twelve Peaks of Wu Gorge and many scenic spots are well-known for their grandness and cultural significance. Cultural relics including Dazu Rock Carvings, Shibaozhai, Ghost City of Fengdu, Zhangfei Temple and Quyuan Temple are attracting visitors to visit the city each year. Moreover, there are many relics left from the time when Chongqing was once the capital of China. For instance, the mansion of the Chiang Kai-shek and Song Meiling are well preserved, and worth a visit.
Getting to Chongqing:
By Air: visitors can take a flight to Chongqing Jiangbei Airport. International flight from Tokyo, Doha, Bangkok, Phuket Island, Taipei and Hong Kong also reach the airport.
By Train: Trains are the most convenient means of transportation to get to the city. Visitors can take a train to Chongqing Railway Station or the North Railway Station.
By Coach: Traveling to Chongqing by coach is also available. There are 7 coach stations operating buses to many cities and towns in China.
Ferry: A Yangtze Cruise ship can take visitors to most port cities along the river, including Chongqing.