Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Travel Guide Blog

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Travel Guide Blog

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Last updated on April 27th, 2025

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street offer a remarkable experience of historical Chongqing, showcasing its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural atmosphere.

During our visit to Chongqing, we had the opportunity to explore the historical sites of Longmenhao Old Street and Xiahao Li Old Street. These attractions, located in the Nan’an District, have gained popularity since their opening to the public in November 2022. Both residents of Chongqing and tourists can appreciate the unique architectural blend of Sichuan-Chongqing dwellings and western-style buildings, while also experiencing the lifestyle of old Chongqing.

Here are some travel guide and tips for visiting Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street that we gathered during our trip.

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street

Chongqing Sign at Longmenhao Old Street

The Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street area is part of an urban renewal pilot project initiated by the local government in Chongqing. This historic area is divided into three sections: Longmenhao Old Street, Xiahaoli, and a portion that is still undergoing renewal and is not open to the public.

Nestled along the banks of the Yangtze River, Longmenhao Old Street (Chinese: 龍門浩老街) is a charming historic district that transports visitors back in time with its traditional architecture and rich cultural atmosphere. It is one of Chongqing’s best-preserved streets, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s past. The area features over 200 ancient buildings, constructed in various styles and periods, all within a 50-meter elevation, showcasing Chongqing’s unique “mountain city” landscape.

Xiahaoli Old Street (Chinese: 下浩里老街) is an important part of the Longmenhao historic block and is home to century-old buildings. Notable structures here include the former site of the French Yongxing Company, Baili Bank, Wen Family’s Courtyard, and the former site of the Bank of China International Department.

Longmenhao Old Street is a scenic area that does not require a ticket for entry. However, some exhibition halls or experience projects may incur separate charges, so it is advisable to check the specific opening conditions in advance.

How To Get to Longmenhao and Xiahaoli

This Very Chongqing Sign and Xiahaoli Stairs

Getting to Longmenhao Old Street and Xiahaoli Old Street is straightforward and convenient. You can use public transport by metro or bus, or use e-hailing services to get there.

How To Get To Longmenhao Old Street and Xiahaoli:

By Metro: Take Chongqing Metro Line 6 or the Loop Line and exit at Shangxinjie Station. Use Exit 2 and walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance of Longmenhao Old Street. If you’re heading to Xiahaoli, use Exit 1.

By Bus: You can take buses #304, #318, #321, or #338, and disembark at either Yitianmen Bus Station or Dong Shuimen Bridge Bus Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the old street.

We recommended visiting Longmenhao first and then ending at Xiahali for a complete loop.

Our Visit Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street

Longmenhao Square

We visited Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street in the morning for a leisurely hike. The area truly showcases the city’s unique charm, blending its steep, mountainous terrain with rich history and modern architecture. The buildings, constructed on the mountainside with blue bricks and tiles, are particularly impressive.

As we walked through the old streets and residential areas, we got a sense of Chongqing’s culture and learned about its history and the local lifestyle. The streets exude a unique charm, making them an excellent place for a relaxing stroll. 

Unique Sign at Longmenhao Old Street

The sights are well-marked, featuring popular spots for Instagram check-ins.

We really enjoyed wandering through the winding pathways and getting lost in the surroundings. There are plenty of places to stop, rest, and take in the stunning views.

Historical Preserved Building at Longmenhao Old Street

There are several ancient buildings include the former site of the French Yongxing Company, Baili Bank, Wen Family Courtyard, and the former location of the Bank of China International Department that highlight Chongqing’s history.

This area offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and modern sights while providing a genuine feel for life in Chongqing.

Relax at Cafe at Longmenhao and Xiahaoli

Along the way, we discovered many interesting handicraft shops, cafe, and tea houses, which are perfect for a short break. Spending some time in one of the cafes allowed us to fully soak in the atmosphere.

There are also small museums and exhibitions that you can visit for a small fee.

Longmenhao Viewing Platform

At the Dongshuimen Bridge Viewing Platform, we encountered crowds of people busy capturing the beautiful views. The panoramic sights of the Yangtze River and the city’s iconic bridges were simply breathtaking.

View on Chongqing city with Dongshuimen Bridge and Yangtze River

Our visit to Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street was manageable. The area features stairs with elevation changes, so be prepared for some steep climbs and descents. It’s essential to bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and pace yourself.

Xiahaoli Old Street

We concluded our visit at Xiahaoli, located near Metro Station Exit 3. We spent about three hours plus exploring Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street leisurely.

From there, you can continue your journey to Nanbin Road.

Overall: A Visit to Historical Chongqing

Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Travel Guide Blog

All in all, Longmenhao and Xiahaoli Old Street is a fantastic way to experience the best of historical Chongqing, and it was an unforgettable experience. We particularly enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere in some of the older neighborhoods, which contrasted with the bustling city center. Highly recommended if you are visiting Chongqing!

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