Explore the natural beauty of Kaizhou by visiting the Kaizhou River, hike the surrounding mountains, discover the ancient temples and cultural sites, and enjoy local festivals if you're visiting during the season.

Kaizhou District, under the jurisdiction of Chongqing Municipality, is located in northeastern Chongqing, at the end of the Xiaojiang River tributary backwaters within the Three Gorges Reservoir. It rests on the Bashan Mountains to the north, borders the Yangtze River to the south, and borders Sichuan Province to the west. By the end of 2015, Kaizhou District covered an area of 3,959 square kilometers and had a registered population of 1.6835 million. It administers 26 towns, 7 sub-districts, and 7 townships. In 2011, it was designated a "Minsheng Industrial Pilot Park" by the Chongqing Municipal Government and recognized as an "Excellent Park in Northeast Chongqing." It has received honorary titles such as "2013 China's Small Leisure City" and "National Advanced Unit for Grain Production." It has been awarded the title of "National Model City (County) for Supporting the Support of the People" three times (in 2000, 2003, and 2011), with 2016 marking Kaizhou's fourth such recognition. In June 2016, the State Council officially approved the abolition of Kai County in Chongqing and the establishment of Kaizhou District in Chongqing.
Kaizhou District is rich in cultural history, with ancient temples, relics, and traditional architecture dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It is an important area for learning about local history and cultural heritage in Chongqing.
Kaizhou is located in the western part of Chongqing. You can take a bus or taxi from the city center. Public transport options are available but may require multiple transfers. It’s about 2 hours from Chongqing’s central area by car.
The main attractions in Kaizhou are generally open from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the natural landscapes are at their best.
The entrance fees to the cultural sites range from 30-80 CNY, depending on the attraction. Tickets can be bought either at the entrance or through local travel websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not always necessary, but it's recommended during busy seasons or holidays. Booking 1-2 days ahead is usually sufficient.
It takes about 3-4 hours to explore the main attractions of Kaizhou, including the cultural sites, temples, and scenic views along the Kaizhou River.
The must-see spots include the Kaizhou River, ancient temples, and the surrounding mountain views. The local markets are also a great way to experience the culture and cuisine.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some operators may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available at most cultural sites.
One of the best viewpoints is from the top of the surrounding mountains, offering panoramic views of Kaizhou and the Kaizhou River. The temples and riverbanks are also great for capturing the essence of the area.
Start by visiting the Kaizhou River area, then head to the temples. Afterward, take a short hike in the surrounding hills to get the best views of the district.
Night visits are not common, but some temples might host evening cultural performances. Check local event schedules for any special tours or light shows.
Kaizhou is relatively less crowded compared to other tourist spots in Chongqing. Weekdays, especially in the morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
There are basic facilities including toilets, food vendors, and water stations near the main attractions. Rest areas and souvenir shops are also available at key sites.
Many cultural sites and temples are accessible, but some of the hiking trails and mountainous areas may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Cash may still be needed in smaller shops or remote areas.
Local restaurants serving Chongqing hotpot and Sichuan-style cuisine are available in Kaizhou. There are also cafes offering snacks and drinks near popular tourist sites.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food is limited but can be found in some areas with Muslim communities.
There are several mid-range hotels available in Kaizhou. For more luxury accommodations, you may need to stay in central Chongqing and travel to Kaizhou.
Nearby attractions include the Dazu Rock Carvings and Jinfo Mountain, both of which can be easily combined with a visit to Kaizhou in a day trip.
Souvenir shops sell traditional handicrafts, local snacks, and items such as Chongqing tea sets and embroidered goods.
After visiting Kaizhou, you can take a taxi or bus back to central Chongqing. Renting a private car gives you flexibility to explore other nearby attractions.