In the bustling city of Chongqing, there lies a captivating area steeped in charm and history – Dai Family Alley (戴家巷). This unique destination seamlessly blends the ancient and the modern, creating an enchanting atmosphere where tradition meets contemporary trends. Walking along the cliffside path by the Jialing River, visitors can feel the gentle breeze while admiring the stunning river views and the vibrant urban landscape. The ancient architecture, distinctive shops, and romantic ambiance transport you into a tunnel of time. Dai Family Alley is a sparkling gem in Chongqing, waiting for you to uncover its distinctive beauty.
Basic Information
Admission Fee: Visiting Dai Family Alley is free, making it an accessible destination for everyone.
Opening Hours: The alley is open all day, allowing for flexible visiting hours.
Address: Dai Family Alley is located at Jiangjing Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区嘉陵江临江路).
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore Dai Family Alley is in the afternoon through to the evening. This allows you to experience the area in daylight and enjoy the enchanting nighttime scenery when Hongyadong (洪崖洞) lights up at 8 PM, creating a picturesque backdrop for photographs.
Duration of Visit: Plan to spend approximately 2 to 3 hours exploring this charming area to fully appreciate its sights and ambiance.
Getting There
By Metro:
- Take Line 1 or Line 6 and exit at Xiaoshizi Station (小什字站) through exit 5a. Walk 1.3 kilometers towards the Chongqing Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital (重医附二院), and you will arrive at the cliffside path entrance of Dai Family Alley.
- Alternatively, take Line 2 and exit at Linjiangmen Station (临江门站) from exit A. Walk 440 meters toward the same hospital for the same entrance.
By Bus:
- Ride a bus to Linjiangmen Station, and then walk approximately 300 meters towards Chongqing Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital to reach the entrance.
By Car:
- If driving, park in the Liberation Monument area (解放碑) and walk toward Chongqing Medical University Affiliated Second Hospital to reach the entrance. You can also park in the Hongyadong parking garage, exiting onto Binjiang Road and walking about 50 meters toward the First Bridge (一号桥) to find the entrance.
Highlights of Dai Family Alley
Cliffside Path: The iconic cliffside path is a must-visit landmark of Dai Family Alley. Built into the mountain with a height difference of about 60 meters, it offers breathtaking views of the Jialing River and the city skyline. Along this path, you can marvel at the natural beauty and unique cliffside scenery that characterizes Chongqing as a mountainous city. You’ll also find Feixian Rock (飞仙岩), where you can see remnants of wooden piles from old stilt houses that once dotted the area.
Cat Wall of Instagram Fame: This delightful wall, crafted from an old residential building, is adorned with various cute cat designs, including a giant cat that is sure to melt hearts. This whimsical spot is perfect for taking memorable photos with friends and family.
Witnessing History in “洞见山城” (Seeing the Mountain City): Once a bomb shelter, this area is now adorned with murals that illustrate Chongqing’s historical transformations. The artwork here serves as a vivid reminder of the city’s rich past and resilience.
Rose Wall: A stunning wall featuring roses arranged to form the unique names “Chongqing” and “Dai Family Alley.” The vibrant blooms create a romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for photography.
Cliffside Frame: This unique frame set against the cliffside provides a different perspective for capturing the enchanting night views of Chongqing. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot that perfectly showcases the city’s charm.
Surrounding Shops: Dai Family Alley is home to a plethora of shops, including cultural and creative stores, costume shops, cafes, and tea houses. You can wander through these charming boutiques, sample delicious local snacks, and enjoy the many hot pot restaurants that the area has to offer.
Old British Consulate Building: Opposite Dai Family Alley, this building dates back to 1844 and features classic French architecture. Often compared to the Budapest Grand Hotel, it serves as a beautiful backdrop for photos, even though it is not currently open for tours.