Hongyadong, or Hongya Cave, is a stunning landmark in Chongqing that comes alive at night, drawing massive crowds to its first floor, where visitors jostle for a glimpse of its dazzling lights. If you’re seeking breathtaking views without the overwhelming crowds, there are several alternative photography spots that offer fantastic vantage points of this iconic site. Below, I’ll share some of the best locations to capture the night scenery of Hongyadong, ensuring you enjoy both stunning shots and a more relaxed experience.
Photography Spots for Hongyadong
Photography Spot One: Dai Family Lane Cliff Path (戴家巷悬崖步道)
To find this picturesque location, navigate to the “Yudandan Hot Pot” (渝旦旦火锅) restaurant. If you want to see the front of Hongyadong from the first floor, take the cliffside path down from here. This lesser-known route offers a unique perspective, making it an excellent choice for those looking to avoid the bustling crowds.
Photography Spot Two: Qiansimen Bridge (千厮门大桥)
Another fantastic spot is the Qiansimen Bridge. You can access the bridge from the entrance to the scenic area on the 11th floor of Hongyadong. From here, you’ll be able to capture a panoramic view of Hongyadong. However, note that the railings are quite high, making it less suitable for group photos. If you choose this option, venture further onto the bridge, where the crowds thin out, allowing for better shots.
Photography Spot Three: Grand Theatre Parking Lot and Riverside Park (大剧院停车场江滩公园)
Take the light rail line 6 to the Grand Theatre Station (大剧院站) and exit from Gate 2 (2号口). Once outside, navigate to the Baodingmen (保定门) area to reach this picturesque location. It’s a popular spot among photographers, giving you ample opportunities to find the perfect angle. From here, you can photograph both Qiansimen Bridge and Hongyadong, capturing impressive shots. However, be aware that getting to the riverside requires navigating stairs and rocky terrain, which might not be suitable for young children or the elderly. Instead, consider taking photos from the top area for a safer and easier experience.
Photography Spot Four: Grand Theater (大剧院)
This location offers two distinct spots for great shots:
- From the 4th exit of the light rail line 6 at the Grand Theatre Station (大剧院站), turn left to reach the lower area, which provides a front-facing view of Hongyadong.
- If you walk a bit further, you can capture reflections at the Agricultural Bank’s (农业银行) entrance, creating a stunning “sky city” effect in your photos.
Tips for Visiting
Lighting Schedule: In the summer, the lights at Hongyadong illuminate from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, so there’s no need to arrive too early, especially when it’s hot outside.
Comfortable Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as the riverside paths can be uneven and challenging.
Safety First: Keep an eye on children and the elderly while exploring the area.
Outfit Choices: Wearing fitted clothing or dresses can enhance your photos, giving a more polished appearance.
Suggested Route
To efficiently capture the night views, consider visiting the spots in the following order: start at the Cliff Path of Hongyadong (洪崖洞悬崖步道), then head to Qiansimen Bridge (千厮门大桥), followed by the Agricultural Bank’s (农业银行) entrance, and finish at the Riverside Park (江滩公园). This route allows you to make the most of your photography experience while enjoying the captivating night scenery of Hongyadong (洪崖洞).