A Delightful Surprise at a Three-Star Hotel in the Mountain City

Last month, I visited Chongqing with modest expectations for accommodation due to my limited budget, having booked only a three-star hotel. Surprisingly, it turned out to be an unexpected highlight of my trip.

The hotel is located in Yuzhong District, with remarkably convenient transportation. Just a 10-minute walk from the subway station, around the corner, stands an unassuming yet clean and tidy building. Though not luxurious, the hotel is thoughtfully decorated.

My room was cozy and comfortable, though not spacious. The most delightful surprise was the view from the window—a charming glimpse of the mountainous cityscape, with the tiled roofs of the old neighborhood nearby. Such a view is hard to come by even at many high-priced hotels.

I was awakened by the gentle morning rain, which always seems to arrive in Chongqing without warning. I settled into the sofa by the window, watching the raindrops gently caress the mountain city, as if the entire pace of life had slowed down. The breakfast options near the hotel were simple yet authentic—the spicy and sour noodles and the delicate wontons were enough to give a newcomer like me a true taste of Chongqing’s breakfast culture.

Returning to the hotel after a day of exploration, the ample hot water washed away the fatigue. The bedding was clean and comfortable, not luxurious but perfectly conducive to a good night’s sleep. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready with answers and even recommending some local eateries known only to residents.

This stay made me realize that the meaning of travel lies not in luxury accommodations but in the depth of experiences. This three-star hotel may lack an infinity pool or Michelin-starred restaurants, but it offered me the most authentic snippets of life in Chongqing. Within a limited budget, I gained an infinite taste of the city’s charm.

If you’re planning a trip to Chongqing, perhaps let go of your fixation on star ratings. A hotel like this might just bring you closer to the soul of the city.

Post by _TI***nu | Sep 21, 2025