A Cyberpunk Dream in the Mountain City: The Stilt Houses and Night Lights of Hongyadong

The "Spirited Away" of the Real World

1.Located in the core business district of: Jiefangbei, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, Hongyadong (Hongya Cave) stands as a stunning architectural marvel that seemingly defies gravity. Built along the steep cliffs of the Jialing River, this massive complex of Diaojiaolou (traditional stilt houses) stretches 11 stories high. While it retains the antique charm of traditional Bayu architecture by day, nightfall transforms it into a glittering spectacle of golden lights and lanterns. This dramatic contrast has earned it a reputation as the real-life version of the bathhouse from the animated movie Spirited Away. It is not just a building but a three-dimensional "Mountain City" condensed into one site, offering an immersive experience where you can take an elevator from the ground floor on the riverside, go up 11 floors, and step out onto a completely different city street at the top.

A Labyrinth of Culture and Commerce

Hongyadong is a multi-level labyrinth that integrates tourism, commerce, and leisure. The interior is divided into various sections connected by elevators, escalators, and winding staircases. One of the most popular areas is the 4th Floor Snack Street, a bustling corridor filled with the spicy aromas of Chongqing cuisine. Here, visitors can sample local favorites like Hot and Sour Rice Noodles (Suanlafen), skewered meats, and handcrafted pastries, making it a paradise for food lovers. Above the snack street, you will find layers dedicated to traditional crafts, exotic goods, and souvenir shops selling Chongqing's famous chili sauces and handicrafts.

Leisure by the River

For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, Hongyadong features a dedicated Bar Street and numerous specialty coffee shops, mostly situated on the lower levels facing the river. This area is described by locals as "Anyi" (comfortable and leisurely). Visitors can sit on the terraces, enjoying the cool river breeze and the stunning night view of the Jialing River and the illuminated bridges spanning it. Whether you are sipping a cocktail or a cup of tea, the view of the river traffic and the neon-lit cityscape provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation.

From Dangerous Cliffs to Cultural Icon

Historically, the site of Hongyadong was known as Hongya Gate, one of the ancient city gates of Chongqing, and the area was once crowded with precarious "dangerous buildings" clinging to the cliffside. Through extensive government redevelopment, these dilapidated structures were transformed into the magnificent "hanging city" seen today. The reconstruction preserved the spirit of the traditional Diaojiaolou style—wooden structures supported by pillars driven into the hillside—while upgrading them into a safe and modern cultural landmark. Today, it stands as a testament to Chongqing's unique topography and architectural ingenuity, allowing visitors to walk through man-made waterfalls and explore the verticality that defines the "Mountain City".