
The Liberation Monument is a landmark of Chongqing, located in the heart of the commercial district of Yuzhong District, at the intersection of Minzu Road, Minquan Road, and Zou Rong Road. The monument stands 27.5 meters tall and is reached by a spiral staircase. A clock, directional signs, and a wind vane are located on top. The monument was originally constructed on March 12, 1940, the anniversary of Sun Yat-sen's death. It was completed at the end of 1941 and named the "Spiritual Fortress" to inspire the Chinese people to fight for victory. After the victory of the Anti-Japanese War, it was renamed the "Anti-Japanese War Victory Monument."
Today, the Jiefangbei area has become the most prosperous commercial center in downtown Chongqing. With tall buildings and convenient transportation, it boasts a dense network of department stores, theaters, dance halls, grocery stores, bookstores, hotels, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of Ba-Yu, sample local delicacies, and purchase souvenirs and other items.
Suitable for all seasons
Food Street
You can find almost all Chongqing delicacies at Bayi Road Food Street and Deyi Food Street. There are also the more affordable Chongqing Department Store and Pacific Department Store, making them a great place for shopping.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Jiefangbei is the central business district of Chongqing and is home to the iconic People’s Liberation Monument. It symbolizes the city’s modernization and commercial growth while serving as a historical landmark commemorating China’s victory in World War II.
Located in the Yuzhong District of central Chongqing. Accessible via Chongqing Metro Lines 1 and 2 (Jiefangbei Station), by bus, taxi, or on foot from nearby hotels and attractions.
The area is open daily 24 hours as a public district, but shops and restaurants typically operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Evening visits are ideal for seeing the illuminated skyline and enjoying nightlife.
There is no entrance fee to the Jiefangbei district. Visiting the People’s Liberation Monument may have a small fee (around 10–20 RMB), payable on-site.
For the monument, advance booking is generally not required unless visiting during peak tourist seasons. For popular restaurants or performances, booking a few days in advance is recommended.
2–4 hours is sufficient to walk around, shop, dine, and visit the monument. Longer if including nightlife or more in-depth shopping.
Guided tours are limited; most visitors explore independently. Some private tour operators provide guides in English and other languages upon request.
Start at Jiefangbei Monument, walk along the surrounding pedestrian streets, visit malls and local shops, enjoy street food or cafes, then end with rooftop or night views of the city.
The district is lively at night with illuminated buildings and street lights. Special tours are not common, but nighttime sightseeing and dining experiences are popular.
Jiefangbei is usually crowded, especially evenings and weekends. Visit on weekday mornings or early afternoons for fewer crowds.
Facilities include public restrooms, numerous restaurants, cafes, drinking fountains, rest areas in shopping malls, and retail stores.
Mostly accessible, with ramps and elevators in malls. Pedestrian streets are walkable, but crowded conditions may be challenging for some visitors.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is optional but useful for small vendors.
Vegetarian options are available at many restaurants; vegan and halal options may be limited, so check menus or ask in advance.
Souvenir shops offer postcards, local crafts, Chongqing spices, tea, and miniatures of the city skyline or monuments.