Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street and Surrounding Malls

Highlights: Jiefangbei is the heart of Chongqing’s commercial district and a must-visit for shopping enthusiasts. The area is home to several high-end malls and department stores.
Key Malls:
- Chongqing Times Square (时代广场): A luxury shopping destination featuring international brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Cartier. It also has fine dining options and art exhibitions.
- The MixC (万象城): A modern mall with a mix of luxury and mid-range brands, a cinema, and a variety of restaurants.
- Metropolitan Plaza (大都会广场): A more affordable option with local and international brands, casual dining, and entertainment options.
Shopping and Entertainment: High-end fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and local specialty stores. Entertainment includes cinemas, arcades, and cultural events.
Transportation: Easily accessible via Chongqing Metro Line 1 or Line 2 to Jiefangbei Station. Taxis and buses are also convenient.
Costs: Luxury brands are priced similarly to other global cities, while mid-range and local brands are more affordable.
Unique Features: The Jiefangbei Monument, a symbol of Chongqing, is located here. The area is lively at night with street performers and light displays.
Tips: Bargaining is not common in malls, but you can try negotiating in smaller shops nearby. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

2. Guanyinqiao Commercial District

Highlights: Located in Jiangbei District, Guanyinqiao is another major shopping hub with a mix of high-end malls and local markets.
Key Malls:
- Starlight Place (星光68广场): A luxury mall with designer brands, gourmet restaurants, and a rooftop garden.
- Beicheng Tianjie (北城天街): A family-friendly mall with a wide range of shops, a large food court, and entertainment options like a skating rink and a cinema.
Shopping and Entertainment: Fashion, electronics, home goods, and local specialty stores. Entertainment includes live performances, children’s play areas, and seasonal events.
Transportation: Take Chongqing Metro Line 3 to Guanyinqiao Station. The area is pedestrian-friendly.
Costs: Mid-range to high-end, with some budget-friendly options in smaller stores.
Unique Features: Beicheng Tianjie has an open-air design with a European-style street, making it a pleasant place to stroll.
Tips: Visit during the evening to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and illuminated streets.

3. Paradise Walk (Longhu Times Paradise Walk - 龙湖时代天街)

Highlights: A chain of large shopping complexes located in various districts of Chongqing, with the most popular being in Yubei and Nan’an.
Shopping and Entertainment: A mix of international and local brands, large supermarkets, cinemas, and themed entertainment areas. The malls often host cultural events and seasonal festivals.
Transportation: Accessible via multiple metro lines depending on the location. For example, the Yubei Paradise Walk is near Chongqing Metro Line 3.
Costs: Affordable to mid-range, with some high-end options.
Unique Features: Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and themed decorations during holidays like Chinese New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival.
Tips: Check the mall’s event schedule for special promotions or performances.

4. Raffles City Chongqing (来福士广场)

Highlights: An architectural marvel located at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers in Yuzhong District. The complex features a shopping mall, luxury residences, offices, and a hotel.
Shopping and Entertainment: High-end brands, boutique stores, a cinema, and a wide range of dining options. The mall also has an observation deck called the Crystal Sky Bridge, offering stunning views of the city.
Transportation: Take Chongqing Metro Line 1 or Line 6 to Xiaoshizi Station, then walk to the mall.
Costs: High-end, with some mid-range options.
Unique Features: The Crystal Sky Bridge is a must-visit for its panoramic views. The mall’s design is inspired by traditional Chinese sailing ships.
Tips: Visit in the evening to see the city lights and enjoy the river views.

5. Chongqing IFS (国金中心)

Highlights: Located in Jiangbei District, this is one of Chongqing’s newest and most luxurious malls.
Shopping and Entertainment: High-end brands like Chanel, Dior, and Prada, as well as fine dining and a rooftop garden.
Transportation: Accessible via Chongqing Metro Line 6 to Hongqihegou Station.
Costs: Luxury pricing.
Unique Features: The rooftop garden offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
Tips: Ideal for luxury shopping and a more relaxed shopping experience.

6. Yangjiaping Pedestrian Street and Wanda Plaza (杨家坪步行街 & 万达广场)

Highlights: Located in Jiulongpo District, this area is popular with locals and offers a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Shopping and Entertainment: Affordable fashion, electronics, and local specialty stores. Wanda Plaza has a cinema, arcade, and a variety of restaurants.
Transportation: Take Chongqing Metro Line 2 to Yangjiaping Station.
Costs: Budget-friendly to mid-range.
Unique Features: A more local shopping experience compared to the high-end malls in Jiefangbei and Jiangbei.
Tips: Great for finding affordable souvenirs and experiencing local life.

Local Customs and Tips for Visiting Chongqing Malls

Payment Methods: Most malls accept major credit cards, but mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most commonly used. Carry some cash for smaller shops.
Language: English is not widely spoken, so it’s helpful to have a translation app or know basic Mandarin phrases.
Dining: Many malls have food courts offering local specialties like Chongqing hotpot, noodles, and snacks. Don’t miss trying these!
Crowds: Malls can get very crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. Visit during weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Sales and Discounts: Major sales happen during Chinese New Year, National Day (October 1st), and Singles’ Day (November 11th). Look out for promotions during these times.
Tax Refunds: International visitors may be eligible for tax refunds on purchases. Check with the mall’s customer service desk for details.

Chongqing’s shopping malls offer a blend of modern luxury and local culture, making them a great way to experience the city’s vibrant lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, local souvenirs, or family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy your time exploring Chongqing!

Chongqing

Shopping Malls