Jiefangbei (解放碑, Jiěfàngbēi), also known as Liberation Monument, is the central business district (CBD) and a major commercial hub in Chongqing. The area is named after the People’s Liberation Monument, a landmark that symbolizes China’s victory in World War II and the end of the Chinese Civil War.
Today, Jiefangbei is Chongqing’s most vibrant urban center, filled with shopping malls, skyscrapers, luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s often compared to Shanghai’s Nanjing Road or Beijing’s Wangfujing Street.
What to see & do at Jiefangbei?
Jiefangbei Monument
Built in 1945 to commemorate China’s victory over Japan in WWII.
Originally a wooden tower, later rebuilt into a 27.5-meter-high (90 ft) clock tower. It was once the tallest building in Chongqing, but now it’s surrounded by skyscrapers.
Shopping & Entertainment
Jiefangbei is Chongqing’s main shopping district, with a mix of luxury stores, department stores, and local markets.
- Times Square– High-end brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.
- Paradise Walk– A popular local shopping mall with mid-range and affordable brands.
- New Century Department Store– Traditional shopping for clothing, cosmetics, and accessories.
- WFC (World Financial Center) – Visit the 73rd floor observation deck for breathtaking city views.
Food & Local Snacks
Jiefangbei is home to some of Chongqing’s best restaurants serving hotpot and local delicacies.
Try Chongqing Hotpot (重庆火锅) at well-known places like Qinma Hotpot (秦妈火锅) or Dezhuang Hotpot (德庄火锅).
Explore Bayi Food Street (八一路美食街) for local snacks:
Chuan Chuan (串串) – Skewered meats and vegetables in spicy broth.
Xiao Mian (重庆小面) – Spicy Chongqing noodles.
Shancheng Tangyuan (山城汤圆) – Sweet glutinous rice balls.
Nightlife & Bars
- Sky Bar at WFC – Enjoy panoramic views of Chongqing’s skyline at night.
- Nuts Live House – A cool spot for live music and cocktails.
- Bar Street – A lively nightlife area near Jiefangbei.
Nearby attractions
- Hongya Cave – A 10-minute walk to the famous traditional stilted houses and scenic night views.
- Chaotianmen Wharf – A short taxi ride to the Yangtze River, where you can take a night cruise.
- Raffles City Chongqing – A modern landmark with a sky bridge, shopping, and restaurants.
How to visit Jiefangbei?
Location: Yuzhong District, Chongqing (重庆市渝中区解放碑商圈)
How to get there?
By Metro: Take Metro Line 1 or Line 2 to Jiefangbei Station (临江门站 or 较场口站), then walk 5 minutes.
By Bus: Many city buses stop at Jiefangbei (解放碑站).
By Taxi: Tell the driver “解放碑” (Jiěfàngbēi).
Best time to visit:
- Daytime for shopping and sightseeing.
- Evening for stunning night views and food adventures.
Entrance Fee: Free (but shopping, food, and attractions cost extra).
Tips for visiting Jiefangbei
!! During the holidays this area in Chongqing can be very crowded!!
- Visit at night to see the monument and skyscrapers lit up.
- Wear comfortable shoes – the area is pedestrian-only, and you’ll walk a lot.
- Be mindful of crowds – it gets very busy, especially on weekends.
- Bring cash or use WeChat Pay/Alipay for small food vendors.
- Plan extra time to explore Hongya Cave and Chaotianmen Wharf nearby.
