Danzishi Old Street: A Century-Spanning Stroll Through the Mountain City’s Past

A Name Born of Legend—The Tale of Yu the Great and the "Stone of Childbirth"

The name "Danzishi" (literally "Bullet Stone" or "Childbirth Stone") is derived from an ancient legend that has been passed down for millennia. According to the tale, during China's mythical antiquity, Yu the Great—the heroic figure renowned for taming the floods—took a wife from the Tu Mountain clan. However, just three days after their wedding, he departed to undertake his monumental flood-control mission, famously passing by his own home three times without ever stepping inside. Day after day, his wife would stand upon a rocky outcrop by the Yangtze River, gazing eagerly into the distance in anticipation of her husband's return; eventually, after countless days of waiting, she transformed into a massive stone. Upon returning from his monumental flood-control campaign, Yu the Great discovered that his wife had turned into stone. Overcome with grief, he cried out to her; suddenly, the massive boulder split open, and from within it sprang forth a male infant—Qi, the future founder of the Xia Dynasty. Consequently, this river stone came to be known as the "Stone of Childbirth" (Danzi Shi). Over the centuries, through phonetic evolution, the name gradually transformed into the "Danzi Shi" we know today.

Another account offers a narrative more true to the rugged character of this "Mountain City": three colossal rocks situated along the banks of the Yangtze River support a large boulder shaped like a danzi—a small projectile or pellet. Locals, observing its distinctive form, simply dubbed it "Danzi Shi"—a name both unpretentious and vivid. Regardless of which version holds true, this place name has been deeply etched into the collective memory of the people of Chongqing.

A Century of Open Ports—From River Wharves to Bustling Commercial Streets

The modern saga of Danzi Shi Old Street is an epic tale of urban revival in this Mountain City, marked by dramatic twists and turns:

The Era of River Wharves (Pre-19th Century): Situated on the southern bank of the Yangtze River, directly facing Chaotianmen across the water, Danzi Shi has historically served as a renowned hub for both river and overland transport in the Southwest region. It was counted among the "Five Ferry Crossings" of the South Bank—alongside Huangge Ferry, Haitang Creek, and others. The Wang clan—one of Chongqing’s most prominent and influential families—established the "Wanmao-zheng Salt Company" here. As merchants and trade converged upon the area, a bustling commercial district began to take shape, centered around the Wang Family Courtyard.

The Open Port Era (Post-1891): In the 17th year of the Guangxu reign (1891), Chongqing was officially opened as a treaty port, and Wangjiatuo—located within the South Bank district—was designated as the official site for the commercial port. Danzi Shi thus became one of Chongqing’s earliest commercial districts; foreign merchants flocked to the area, establishing trading houses, factories, and consular offices. In 1901, Japan secured a leasehold over Wangjiatuo to establish a concession zone, while the barracks for the French Naval Detachment were also completed in the vicinity. Consequently, the area surrounding the Old Street evolved into the most cosmopolitan and internationally flavored district in all of Chongqing. From the bar-lined streets adjacent to the French Naval Barracks to the trading firms and restaurants opened by British merchants, Danzi Shi was, for a time, a landscape dotted with Western-style buildings and teeming with merchants and traders.

Obscurity and Rebirth (From the War of Resistance to the Present Day): During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1937–1945), a massive influx of city residents sought refuge from enemy air raids by erecting makeshift shelters, settling down, and setting up stalls and shops in the area. The Old Street—connected to the Yangtze River by a winding staircase paved with blue flagstones—experienced a resurgence of prosperity during this turbulent period. However, as the focus of urban development shifted, Danzishi gradually faded into obscurity, becoming a cherished memory in the hearts of old Chongqing residents. In 2014, a development team jointly formed by Hongkong Land and China Merchants Shekou embarked on a reconstruction project at the original site, guided by the core philosophy of "Old Streets, New Charm." On June 1, 2018, the Changjiahui Danzishi Old Street officially opened its doors, breathing new life into this century-old thoroughfare. Recognized as a National AAAA-level Tourist Attraction in 2017 and selected as one of the first National-level Tourist Resorts in 2022, it has emerged as a brand-new emblem of Chongqing—the "City of Mountains and Rivers.">>Kunming Old Street

A Symphony of Nature and Architecture—The Wonder of the Nine Terraces

The most awe-inspiring experience at Danzishi Old Street is undoubtedly walking along its nine-tiered slopes, where one can sense the unique spatial rhythm of this "Mountain City."

The Nine Terraces: The Breathing Spine of the Mountain City

Danzishi Old Street is built against the mountainside, facing the water, featuring a vertical elevation difference of approximately 80 meters between its highest and lowest points. Embracing the natural topography, the entire street features buildings arranged in receding tiers along the slope, creating a unique spatial layout across nine natural terraces. As you ascend the steps from the Nanbin Road entrance, every stride takes you higher, and every glance back reveals a river view from a different elevation—this is the quintessential "climbing slopes and scaling steps" lifestyle that Chongqing locals have lived for generations, and it serves as the most intuitive expression of the city's architectural philosophy. The buildings along the old street incorporate traditional Sichuan-Chongqing construction techniques—such as terracing, cantilevering, diaojiao (stilt-supported structures), and suoxiang (interlocking timber frames)—perfectly illustrating how humanity can coexist harmoniously with steep, mountainous terrain.

Facing the River, Backing the City: A Unique Visual Spectacle

Danzishi Old Street offers a viewing experience that is virtually impossible to replicate elsewhere: looking forward, one can gaze out at the magnificent confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, catching sight of iconic landmarks on the Yuzhong Peninsula such as Raffles City, the Chongqing Grand Theatre, and the Jiefangbei Monument. Turning around to look inward, the gaze follows the winding staircase—spanning that 80-meter elevation drop—upward through a landscape where shops and market stalls are scattered like stars across the layered terraces. This unique vantage point—offering views of the river to the front and the city to the rear—allows visitors to experience, within a single space, both the majestic grandeur of the mighty river flowing eastward and the vibrant, down-to-earth atmosphere of the mountain city's streets and alleys.

The Changjiahui Observation Deck is currently the only location in Chongqing where one can simultaneously "view two rivers, see three bridges, and behold three landmarks," offering a panoramic perspective of the entire Yuzhong Peninsula and the dazzling nightscape of the Jiangbei district. As dusk falls and the lingering glow of the sunset paints the river crimson—while the skyscrapers on the opposite bank begin to light up one by one—this spot transforms into one of the most romantic urban observation decks in all of Chongqing.

> Photography Tips:

The best vantage point for panoramic shots is the Changjiahui Observation Deck, which allows you to capture the confluence of the two rivers, Raffles City Chongqing (Chaotianmen), the Chongqing Grand Theatre, and the Qianximen Bridge all in a single frame.

The plaza in front of the French Naval Barracks is ideal for shooting high-quality, European-style vintage photos; its pristine white facade and arched colonnades make for stunning imagery.

The twin stages located within the Wang Family Courtyard offer an excellent spot for photographing traditional Ba-Yu architecture, featuring richly detailed carved beams and painted pillars.

At night, try shooting upward from the lower levels of the old street to capture the layers of warm yellow lights cascading down the hillside—a scene that perfectly encapsulates the magical atmosphere of this mountain city. The scenic area is open to the public free of charge, and visitors are welcome to bring tripods for long-exposure night photography.

Cultural Footprints: An Open-Air Museum of Treaty Port Architecture

If the nine-tiered slopes serve as the skeletal structure of Danzishi Old Street, then the century-old treaty port buildings scattered throughout represent its very soul.

The French Naval Barracks: A White Sanctuary Witnessing the Tumult of the Treaty Port Era

Designated as a National Key Cultural Heritage Site, the French Naval Barracks stands as the most iconic historical structure on Danzishi Old Street. Built in the early 20th century, this pristine white European-style building once served as a military outpost for the French Far East Fleet along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. Today, this structure—steeped in vintage European charm—has been meticulously preserved and reimagined, transforming into a contemporary cultural hub that seamlessly blends design, literature, lifestyle experiences, and gourmet desserts. Step inside, and you are greeted by a tapestry of soaring archways, weathered floor tiles, and soft natural light—a sensation akin to being instantly transported back a century to the French colonial era.

The Wang Family Courtyard: Historical Echoes of a Prominent Clan's Rise and Fall

Reconstructed on its original site, the Wang Family Courtyard stands as the largest courtyard complex within the historic Danzishi Old Street. Once the private residence of the Wang clan—a renowned and influential family in Chongqing—the estate was synonymous with the "Wanmaozheng Salt Firm," a key driving force behind the commercial prosperity that defined Danzishi in its heyday. Unusually for the region, the complex features two performance stages—one situated inside the courtyard and another outside—a rare architectural layout in Eastern Sichuan. Today, the stages host regular, free public performances of Sichuan Opera, traditional storytelling, and other folk arts, vividly recreating the lively atmosphere of yesteryear when "merchants gathered in droves and music filled the air."

The Ten Scattered Sights: Every Mile Tells a Story

The landscape of Danzishi Old Street is structured around a distinctive framework: "One Street, Two Wharves, Four Courtyards, and Ten Sights." These "Ten Sights" are scattered like pearls along the length of the old street. The Customs Stone serves as a historical marker of the district's opening to international trade; the Centenarian Archway (Baishuifang) embodies blessings for longevity; the Qingyun Bridge spans the sloping terrain, symbolizing "rising step by step" toward success; and the Tushan Kiln stands as a microcosm of the thousand-year-old ceramic heritage of the Ba-Yu region. As you stroll through the area, you encounter a new sight roughly every mile—and behind each one lies a captivating tale of the "Mountain City" waiting to be told.

While the Xia Family Courtyard and Sun Family Garden may not rival the Wang Family Courtyard in sheer scale, they nonetheless boast exquisitely carved beams and painted rafters, exuding a profound historical aura that brings their former scenes of prosperity vividly back to life. Meanwhile, Yidetang—a century-old church—weaves Western architectural elements into the very fabric of the old street, standing as a living testament to the vibrant convergence of Eastern and Western cultures at this very spot.

Five Must-Do Activities to Unlock the Complete Old Street Experience

1. Wait for the Sunset and City Lights at the Confluence of the Two Rivers

- Timing: It is recommended to arrive between 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM. Since it is still light out, you can begin with a general stroll around the area; 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM is the prime time for photography, perfectly bridging the transition from sunset to the illumination of the city lights.

- Location: The Changjiahui Viewing Platform (located near the highest point of the Old Street).

- Experience: Standing on the platform, you will witness firsthand the magnificent confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers—where the distinct clear and turbid waters of the two rivers meet and merge. Across the water, the skyline of the Yuzhong Peninsula transforms from the glow of the setting sun into a dazzling display of neon lights. The city lights typically remain illuminated from approximately 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. This particular moment—a night in the "Mountain City"—is sure to become an unforgettable urban memory that will last a lifetime.

2. Capture a Set of "Old Chongqing" Style Photos

- Timing: The soft, diffused light during the hour leading up to sunset is ideal for portrait photography.

- Locations: In front of the white-walled arcades at the French Naval Barracks (for a retro European vibe); at the twin stages within the Wang Family Courtyard (for a traditional Chinese aesthetic); or along the blue-stone stairways (to capture the quintessential "Mountain City" visual of climbing steep slopes).

- Attire: We recommend wearing solid-colored or vintage-style clothing. Please leave your high heels at home—given the 80-meter elevation difference, you will definitely need a pair of comfortable flat shoes to navigate the steep slopes and stairs.

3. Seek Out an Authentic Hotpot Meal at the End of an Old Alleyway

- Must-Order Dishes: Fresh Maodu (ox tripe)—dip it "seven times up, eight times down" for a crisp yet tender texture that melts in the mouth; freshly sliced ​​Diaolong (ribeye cap); braised chicken feet (so tender the meat falls off the bone with a gentle bite); and braised pork intestine ends.

- Insider Tip for Foodies: Don't limit yourself to the chain restaurants found on the main streets. Tucked away in the alleys of the older neighborhoods surrounding Danzishi, you’ll find many "old-school" hotpot joints that locals have frequented for over a decade. Their soup bases feature hand-stir-fried ingredients—rich, spicy, and mellow without being harsh on the throat—and the flavor only deepens the longer it simmers. The area also hides other culinary gems waiting to be discovered, such as a stall serving late-night rice porridge for just 3 yuan a bowl, or "Master Yuan's BBQ," a local institution that has been grilling up delicious skewers for over twenty years.

4. Explore the Century-Old Treaty Port Architectural Complex

- Route: Enter via the Nanbin Road entrance, then visit the sites in this order: the French Naval Barracks (30 mins) → Wang Family Courtyard (20 mins) → Xia Family Courtyard → Yidetang Church → Baisuifang Archway.

- Experience: Each building houses detailed historical exhibits and creative cultural spaces. The new arts and cultural space within the French Naval Barracks is particularly worth a visit—sit down for a cup of coffee and savor a moment of modern leisure amidst these century-old structures.

5. Embark on an Urban "Light Hike" Across the Nine-Tiered Slopes

- Route: Start at the Danzishi Wharf entrance on Nanbin Road, ascend the bluestone stairways, passing through ten scenic spots and traversing four historic courtyards along the way. The full route covers approximately 1 kilometer and takes about 1 hour to walk.

- Experience: This is more than just a sightseeing tour; it is an immersive experience of daily life in this "Mountain City." Along the path, you will see locals playing chess and chatting, crowds queuing outside hot pot restaurants, and children playing on the stone-paved lanes—a genuine slice of local life that hasn't been completely overshadowed by commercialization.

Suggested Itinerary

One-Day "Essential Stroll" Tour (Recommended for most visitors):

Arrive at Danzishi Old Street at 5:00 PM (Take Metro Line 环线/Loop Line to Danzishi Station, Exit 3; walk approx. 800 meters) → Enter via the Nanbin Road entrance and begin by visiting the French Naval Barracks (30 mins) → Ascend the bluestone stairways, passing through ten scenic spots such as the Customs Stone and Qingyun Bridge → Arrive at the Wang Family Courtyard to admire its double stages and traditional Eastern Sichuan courtyard architecture (20 mins) → Continue ascending to the Changjiahui Observation Deck to await the sunset and the illumination of the lights along the two rivers (lights typically turn on around 7:00 PM) → Stroll freely through the nine-tiered slopes and capture photos of the Mountain City's stunning nightscape → Find an authentic hot pot restaurant within the Old Street area or the surrounding residential neighborhoods for dinner → Conclude your tour around 9:00 PM or later.

IntoTravelChina Advantage: We can book the perfect accommodation to suit your needs, seamlessly coordinate all your activities, and provide you with detailed walking route maps and safety guidelines. Expert Guidance: IntoTravelChina offers fully customized itineraries, complete with a dedicated private guide, transportation, and activity arrangements, ensuring a worry-free and immersive travel experience. >>Consult now for customization

How to Get There: A Seamless Connection Guide

Danzishi Old Street is situated in a prime location along Nanbin Road in Chongqing's Nan'an District, boasting excellent accessibility via both subway and public bus.

If traveling from Chongqing's city center, we recommend taking the Rail Transit Loop Line to Danzishi Station. Upon exiting the station (via Exit 3 or 4), a leisurely 800-meter walk (approximately 10 minutes) will bring you to the entrance of the Old Street. Alternatively, you can take public buses 119, 338, 373, or 375 and alight at the "Nanbin Road - ICBC" stop, which is located right at the destination. For taxis or ride-hailing services, set your navigation to "Danzishi Old Street" or "Changjiahui Shopping Park"; the drive takes approximately 20–30 minutes from Jiefangbei. If driving yourself, navigate to the "Changjiahui Shopping Park Parking Lot," as the Old Street is equipped with extensive parking facilities. Additionally, you may opt for a ferry—a unique mode of water transportation characteristic of Chongqing—by boarding a boat at either Chaotianmen Pier or Jiangbeizui Pier bound for Danzishi Pier, allowing you to arrive at the Old Street via the most authentic waterway route.

Travel times from nearby attractions: Jiefangbei / Hongyadong (approx. 20–30 minutes by car), Ciqikou Ancient Town (approx. 40 minutes by car), Nanshan Yikeshu (One Tree) Observation Deck (approx. 15–20 minutes by car), and Jiangbei Airport (approx. 40 minutes by car).

Important Return Trip Note: The last train on the Subway Loop Line typically departs around 11:00 PM (23:00), leaving you ample time to catch the subway back to the city center after enjoying the night views. If you choose to stay at the Old Street until later in the evening, you can easily book a taxi via ride-hailing apps to return to your hotel, as transportation along Nanbin Road remains convenient throughout the night.

Best Time to Visit

Danzishi Old Street is a delightful destination in any season; however, the absolute best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months, specifically from late afternoon into the evening hours. Spring & Autumn: The Golden Seasons (March–May, September–November): The climate is at its most pleasant during these periods. Daytime temperatures are moderate—perfect for a leisurely stroll—while the evening river breeze is cool and refreshing, set against a backdrop of dazzling lights. This is the absolute best time to admire the night views of the "Two Rivers" confluence. In spring, the banyan trees surrounding the Old Street burst forth with fresh green foliage; in autumn, the skies are high and clear, and the distinct contrast between the clear and turbid river waters makes the visual impact of the confluence particularly stunning.

Summer: The Vibrant Season (June–August): While Chongqing temperatures tend to be high during the summer, Tanziishi Old Street is built right along the riverbank; consequently, the evening river breeze provides significant cooling relief. Furthermore, all commercial spaces within the district are fully air-conditioned, ensuring that a nighttime visit remains a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Summer is when the night markets are at their liveliest, and the surrounding food stalls buzz with the greatest popularity. Visitors should come prepared with sun protection and plenty of water.

Winter: The Tranquil Season (December–February): With fewer tourists around, the Old Street takes on a more leisurely and serene atmosphere. Chongqing is known for its winter fog; if you happen to catch a glimpse of the Yuzhong Peninsula—located on the opposite bank—shrouded in a thin veil of mist, you are witnessing the classic, legendary imagery of the "Fog City." While the crowds may thin out slightly on some colder evenings, the lively energy within the hot pot restaurants never fades.

Accommodation Options

Nanbin Road / Tanziishi Area (Top Recommendation: Most Convenient):

1. Boutique Hotels near Changjiahui: Located right next to Tanziishi Old Street, these hotels are within easy walking distance of the scenic area. Many feature river-view rooms that look directly out onto the confluence of the two rivers, allowing you to wake up to the breathtaking skyline of the Yuzhong Peninsula. The surrounding area offers a full range of dining and shopping amenities. This option is ideal for most travelers, particularly those who prioritize convenience and a spectacular river-view experience.

2. Resort Hotels along Nanbin Road: Situated along the "Chongqing Bund"—Nanbin Road—this area boasts superior river views and is just a 5–10 minute drive from the Old Street. Accommodation options are extensive, ranging from international hotel chains to charming boutique guesthouses. This area is ideal for travelers who wish to enjoy scenic river vistas without compromising on comfort.

Jiefangbei / Yuzhong District (The Urban Core Experience): Chongqing’s most bustling city center, where attractions like Hongyadong and the Jiefangbei Monument are within easy walking distance. A taxi ride from Jiefangbei to Danzishi Old Street takes only 20–30 minutes. The range of accommodations is incredibly broad, covering everything from budget-friendly options to international five-star hotels. This area is perfect for visitors planning to explore multiple Yuzhong district attractions and those who enjoy an active nightlife.

Nan'an District Guesthouses (High Value Choice): Offering affordable rates, these guesthouses allow you to experience authentic Chongqing community life, with many "hidden gem" eateries—known only to locals—scattered throughout the neighborhood. While a short daily commute is required to reach the Old Street, this option is well-suited for independent travelers on a budget or those seeking a truly authentic local experience.

IntoTravelChina Accommodation Booking Tips:

We recommend booking your accommodation at least 1–2 weeks in advance, particularly during peak seasons such as Labor Day (May 1st), National Day (Oct 1st), the Spring Festival, and the summer holidays. Booking through us not only provides access to real-time room availability but also allows us to bundle your accommodation, attraction tickets (entry to the Old Street itself is free, but nearby sites like Madame Tussauds and the Marine Exploration Center require tickets), and transportation into a single itinerary. This often results in package discounts and ensures a seamless travel experience. Simply tell us your budget and requirements, and we will match you with the perfect "Mountain City" abode. >>Consult now for customization

Danzishi Old Street is by no means the end of your journey, but rather the perfect starting point for exploring the magical city of Chongqing.

Classic Nanbin Road Citywalk (Half-Day Route): Danzishi Old Street → Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery → Nanbin Road Clock Tower Plaza → Thousand Buddha Temple → Longmenhao Old Street → Treaty Port Heritage Park. This walking loop traces the length of Nanbin Road—known as the "Chongqing Bund"—covering a total distance of approximately 6 kilometers. Along the way, you will encounter a living microcosm of the city's century-old treaty port history, while also enjoying the ultimate vantage point for admiring the spectacular night skyline of the Yuzhong Peninsula. 

Chongqing’s 3-Day "Magic City" Highlights Loop: Day 1: Jiefangbei → Hongyadong (the "Spirited Away"-style nightscape) → Yangtze River Cableway → Eye of the Sky Observation Deck; Day 2: Danzishi Old Street (century-old treaty port charm + night views of the Two Rivers' confluence) → Longmenhao Old Street → Nanshan "One Tree" Observation Deck (overlooking the entire city); Day 3: Liziba Light Rail Station (train passing through the building) → Eling II Factory Cultural & Creative Park → Ciqikou Ancient Town. This is an immersive journey through the "Magic City," ranging from towering skyscrapers to century-old streets, and from a light rail train passing through a building to the majestic confluence of two rivers. 

The story of Danzishi Old Street is one of millennia of erosion by mighty rivers, the dramatic twists and turns of a century-long treaty port era, and the sheer vitality of generations of Chongqing locals building their homes upon steep slopes. IntoTravelChina specializes in crafting immersive, personalized, and hassle-free travel experiences across China. Our travel experts can assist you with:

- Tailored Itineraries: Designing the perfect route—including Danzishi Old Street and surrounding attractions—based on your specific interests and available time.

- One-Stop Service: Handling all arrangements for accommodation, transportation transfers, local guides, and reservations for unique activities.

- Exclusive Experiences: Arranging guided tours during the prime hours for night-viewing, authentic Chongqing hotpot culinary tours, in-depth cultural interpretations of "Old Chongqing," and more.

Let your visit to Danzishi Old Street be more than just sightseeing; let it be an immersive stroll through the century-old history of this "Mountain City."

Start Planning Your Journey Now

We invite you to contact our professional travel consultants; we will provide you with a personalized itinerary proposal and price quote within 24 hours. >>Consult now for customization