Chongqing: Dive into a Cyberpunk Dreamscape
The phrase Chongqing's cyberpunk aesthetic is truly top-tier echoed by Jia-Kang-Ge (甲亢哥) recently captivated everyone online. But for us photographers, Chongqing's nights have always been a mesmerizing spectacle. Picture this: a monorail train seamlessly weaving through towering skyscrapers, a dazzling sea of taxis illuminated by neon red and green lights, and the majestic overpasses bathed in dusk's glow.
Mist, vibrant lights, incredible density, and a palpable sense of speed—each photograph feels like stepping directly into a cinematic masterpiece. Over the past two years, I've curated some of my most cherished spots for capturing this unique cyberpunk vibe. You'll discover both celebrated vantage points and hidden treasures, each offering an unparalleled atmosphere.
Top Cyberpunk Photography Hotspots
- Yalan International Tower (29th Floor Rooftop)
Entry fee: ¥30 per person. This is your go-to for late-night shots, offering crystal-clear views without distracting colored light shows.
- Guanyinqiao Classic Spot
Head to North City Mall (Beicheng Tianjie), specifically Gate 8. Employ a 2–5 second long exposure to brilliantly capture those streaking light trails.
- Tangjiayuanzi Monorail Station, Exit 2
- Daxigou Monorail Station
This station evokes the charm of a quaint, small-town Japanese monorail experience.
- Qiānfó Temple & Chaotianmen in One Frame
Navigate your way to Himalaya Banquet Hall for this incredible combined shot.
- Chaodong Road
Capture the iconic Raffles City glowing majestically in the distance.
- Under the Hongyan Village Bridge
Access to this unique perspective is restricted, requiring a bit of creative editing to place yourself within the frame.
- Xiejiawan Interchange & Egongyan Bridge
Direct your navigation to the Longteng Avenue / Xiexiaolu Intersection for this impressive viewpoint.
- Skywalk Outside Jiangbei Airport Arrival Hall
Upon landing, make a direct visit to witness rows of yellow Ferraris lined up perfectly. Chongqing truly sets a forward-thinking tone.
- HaiShilù 75 Café Checkpoint
This spot truly comes alive and appears even more epic as night falls.
- Wangjiang Apartment 8th-Floor Terrace
- Three Spots Around Liziba Station
Make your way to Feihu Riverside Hotpot to discover these photographic gems.
- Shangqingsi Police Station
- Lansheng Pavilion
A taxi to Datianwan Primary School is recommended, allowing you to bypass the stairs.
- Under Chongqing Grand Theatre by the Riverside
- On the Jialing River Bridge at Zengjiayan
- Inside Haitangxi Monorail Station
My recent flight on Air China was exceptionally punctual and comfortable. Arriving just as the city transitioned into its magical "golden hour," the view from the plane window felt like the opening sequence of an unforgettable film. For my stay, I chose the Donghewan Hotel in the city center, a brilliantly convenient location that made chasing these photographic spots effortless thanks to its easy access to both the metro and monorail systems. The hotel's lobby and room designs themselves were incredibly photogenic.
While capturing a stunning photo is relatively straightforward, truly encapsulating Chongqing's profound, layered character might require multiple visits. Yet, each time I explore this dynamic city, I'm consistently awestruck by its intricate layers and vibrant rhythm.
