Introduction to Chongqing Kui Xing Lou

Introduction to Chongqing Kui Xing Lou

1. Historical Background

• Origin: Chongqing Kui Xing Lou was originally built during the Qing Dynasty as a traditional pavilion dedicated to “Kui Xing,” the deity of literary success, symbolizing aspirations for academic achievement. The original structure was destroyed over time, and the current building is a modern reconstruction that blends historical symbolism with urban functionality.
• Cultural Significance: While not an ancient relic, its name preserves the ancient tradition of “reverence for education.” Today, it has become an iconic symbol of Chongqing’s unique terrain and urban landscape.

2. Architectural Features

• A Surreal Mountain City Landmark: Famous for Chongqing’s “8D terrain,” the square of Kui Xing Lou sits 60 meters above the Jiabin Road below, creating the illusion of “stepping onto flat ground from the 22nd floor,” dubbed by netizens as “the vanishing 1st floor.”
• Sky Bridge: A suspended aerial corridor connects Kui Xing Lou to the Xinlong Garden at the 22nd-floor height, offering panoramic views of the Jialing River and Qiansimen Bridge. It was featured in the film Better Days (《少年的你》).
• Modern Functionality: Now a mixed-use commercial complex, it houses offices, hotels, and restaurants, blending historical charm with contemporary energy.

Attractions and Activities Around Kui Xing Lou

1. Must-Visit Spots

• Kui Xing Lou Square
  • Aerial Views: Stand at the edge of the square to experience the vertigo-inducing height difference and capture viral photos showcasing Chongqing’s “cliffside city” illusion.
  • Film Locations: Recreate scenes from Better Days at the sky bridge and slopes where the protagonist’s iconic moments were filmed.
• Under Jiabin Road Bridge
  • Upward Perspectives: Look up from Jiabin Road to marvel at the colossal pillars supporting the sky bridge. The futuristic lighting at night enhances its sci-fi vibe.

2. Nearby Attractions

• Hongyadong
  • Distance: 10-minute walk. A masterpiece of Chongqing’s “magical topography,” famous for its illuminated stilted houses. Best visited at night.
• Liberation Monument (解放碑)
  • Distance: 15-minute walk. Chongqing’s commercial heart, blending modern skyscrapers with historical landmarks like the WWII Victory Monument.
• Dai Jiaxiang Cliffside Trail
  • Highlights: A riverside trail clinging to the cliffs, linking Kui Xing Lou to Hongyadong. Offers views of ancient city walls and the Yangtze River.
• Liziba Light Rail Station
  • Transport: Reachable via Metro Line 2. Witness the “light rail passing through a building” phenomenon, then explore the hip Eling Er Factory cultural park.

Food Recommendations

1. Hot Pot and Local Cuisine

• Guaxixi Hot Pot (Hongyadong Branch)
  • Specialty: Authentic nine-grid hot pot. Must-try dishes: duck blood and tripe. Retro decor perfect for photos.
• Yuwei Xiaoyu Hot Pot (Pipa Mountain Main Store)
  • Distance: 10-minute taxi ride. Featured on A Bite of China, renowned for its fiery broth.
• Yangji Longfu (Liberation Monument Branch)
  • Specialty: Chongqing’s classic “Jianghu” dishes like spicy chicken and blood curd stew. Served in generous portions with a Republic-era ambiance.

2. Snacks and Drinks

• Bayi Road Snack Street
  • Must-Try: Spicy sour glass noodles, Chongqing tangyuan (sweet rice balls), and “Dragon Claw” braised chicken feet.
• Dai Jiaxiang Cafés
  • Recommendation: Quirky riverside cafes like TOTOMATO, ideal for sipping coffee while enjoying river views.

Transportation Guide

• Metro: Lines 1/2 to Linjiangmen Station, Exit D, leads directly to Kui Xing Lou Square.
• Bus: Multiple routes stop at Linjiangmen Station or Hongyadong Station, followed by a 5–10-minute walk.
• Driving: Navigate to “Kui Xing Lou Parking Lot,” but beware of Chongqing’s labyrinthine roads. Public transport is recommended.

Tips

1. Best Photo Times: Sunny afternoons for clear shots; evenings for neon-lit cyberpunk vibes.
2. Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes for steep slopes and stairs.
3. Itinerary Suggestion: Combine Kui Xing Lou, Hongyadong, Dai Jiaxiang, and Liberation Monument into a day trip—all within walking distance.

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