The History of Chongqing: From Ancient Times to Now

The Ancient Roots of Chongqing

Nestled along the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, Chongqing boasts a history that stretches back over 3,000 years. Known as "Yu" in ancient times, the city served as the capital of the Ba Kingdom during the Zhou Dynasty (1046–256 BCE). The Ba people, skilled in fishing and warfare, left behind cliffside coffins and intricate bronze artifacts that still fascinate archaeologists today.

The Ba Kingdom and Its Legacy

The Ba Kingdom’s influence is evident in Chongqing’s cultural DNA. Visitors can explore relics at the Three Gorges Museum, where artifacts like bronze drums and weaponry tell stories of this enigmatic civilization. The Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also reflect the region’s spiritual and artistic evolution, blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian motifs.

Chongqing in Imperial China

During the Qin (221–206 BCE) and Han (206 BCE–220 CE) dynasties, Chongqing became a strategic military and trade hub. The city’s mountainous terrain made it a natural fortress, earning it the nickname "Mountain City." By the Tang Dynasty (618–907), Chongqing had grown into a bustling port, connecting Sichuan’s fertile plains with the Yangtze’s trade routes.

The Song Dynasty and Beyond

Under the Song Dynasty (960–1279), Chongqing’s prosperity soared. The city’s iconic Hongya Cave, now a tourist hotspot, began as a riverside stronghold. Today, its stilted houses and neon lights pay homage to centuries of resilience.

The Wartime Capital: Chongqing in the 20th Century

Chongqing’s most dramatic transformation came during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945). As Japan invaded, the Nationalist government relocated here, declaring Chongqing China’s provisional capital. The city endured relentless bombings, yet its spirit remained unbroken.

WWII Heritage and Tourism

History buffs can visit the Chongqing WWII Museum or the Stilwell Museum, dedicated to the American general who aided China’s war effort. The Liberation Monument, once a rallying point for resistance, now anchors the city’s shopping district—a blend of past and present.

Modern Chongqing: A Metropolis of Contrasts

Post-war, Chongqing evolved into a industrial powerhouse. In 1997, it became China’s fourth direct-controlled municipality, sparking rapid urbanization. The city’s skyline, punctuated by the futuristic Raffles City complex, rivals Shanghai’s. Yet, traditional huoguo (hot pot) joints still thrive in alleyways, offering a taste of old Chongqing.

Must-See Attractions

• Yangtze River Cable Car: Glide above the river for panoramic views.
• Ciqikou Ancient Town: A Ming-era village with teahouses and handicrafts.
• Wulong Karst National Park: Otherworldly limestone formations featured in Transformers 4.

Chongqing’s Culinary Fame

No visit is complete without indulging in Chongqing’s fiery cuisine. The city is the birthplace of Sichuan hot pot, where numbingly spicy broth (mala) reigns supreme. Food tours often stop at Nan’an District’s night markets, where skewers and xiaomian (noodle bowls) tempt every palate.

A Foodie’s Paradise

From mapo tofu to chongqing chicken, the flavors here are as bold as the city’s history. Even Starbucks adapted, offering a Chili Mocha—proof that Chongqing leaves no sense untouched.

The Future: Chongqing as a Global Destination

With mega-projects like the Liangjiang New Area and the Belt and Road Initiative, Chongqing is poised to become a global nexus. Yet, its charm lies in the balance—where misty mountains meet megacity lights, and every alley whispers a millennia-old tale.