Danzishi Old Street (Longmenhao)
Step back in time at Danzishi Old Street, a beautifully preserved historic district in Chongqing, famous for its enchanting evening lights and traditi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical ambiance with lights
Danzishi Old Street (Longmenhao)
Best Time
Magical ambiance with lights
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Danzishi Old Street, a beautifully preserved historic district in Chongqing, famous for its enchanting evening lights and traditional architecture.
"The entire old street was lit up beautifully, with warm lanterns and glowing lights that gave the area a magical charm."
✨ Embrace the Evening Glow
Visit after dark for the best experience; the street comes alive with beautiful lights and a magical atmosphere.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The preserved architecture and charming alleys offer numerous great spots for memorable photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lantern-Lit Nightscape
Entire Old Street
Experience a magical transformation as lanterns and lights illuminate the historic street, creating a charming and nostalgic atmosphere.
Preserved Architecture
Cobblestone Alleys
Wander through beautifully conserved wooden diaojiaolou (stilted houses) and cobblestone alleys, stepping back into Chongqing's riverside heritage.
Yangtze River Views
Riverside Promenade
Enjoy picturesque views of the Yangtze River and nearby bridges, especially captivating during sunset and evening hours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Evening Ambiance is Key
Foodie Focus or Scenic Stroll?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✨ Embrace the Evening Glow
Visit after dark for the best experience; the street comes alive with beautiful lights and a magical atmosphere.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The preserved architecture and charming alleys offer numerous great spots for memorable photos.
Recommending a spot for everyone to watch the Chongqing drone light show🎆
Danzishi or Longmenhao?
☕ Relax with Tea
Enjoy afternoon tea in one of the many charming cafes nestled within the historic buildings.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Stroll
It's a perfect place for a relaxed walk, soaking in the atmosphere without the intense bustle of other areas.
Visiting Chongquing
Tips
from all over the internet
✨ Embrace the Evening Glow
Visit after dark for the best experience; the street comes alive with beautiful lights and a magical atmosphere.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
The preserved architecture and charming alleys offer numerous great spots for memorable photos.
☕ Relax with Tea
Enjoy afternoon tea in one of the many charming cafes nestled within the historic buildings.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Stroll
It's a perfect place for a relaxed walk, soaking in the atmosphere without the intense bustle of other areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Danzishi Old Street is highly praised for its magical evening ambiance, illuminated by beautiful lanterns and lights, offering a nostalgic journey through preserved traditional architecture. Visitors enjoy leisurely strolls, picturesque river views, and charming cafes, though some find it less of a food destination compared to other Chongqing spots.
"After our cable car ride across the Yangtze River, we headed over to 龙门浩老街 at night, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable parts of the trip. The entire old street was lit up beautifully, with warm lanterns and glowing lights that gave the area a magical charm.
Walking through the district, we found plenty of great photo spots tucked between the nostalgic buildings and alleys. The preserved architecture carries a strong sense of history, and strolling here really felt like stepping back in time while still enjoying the modern touches of Chongqing nightlife.
It’s a perfect place to slow down, take photos, and just soak in the atmosphere. Definitely worth visiting in the evening for the best experience."
Crumpled Nomad
"Longmenhao Laojie is a decent spot to explore, though it may not stand out compared to other attractions in Chongqing. The main highlight here is the view of the nearby bridge, which can be quite picturesque, especially in the evening. Beyond that, there isn’t much to see or do, so it may not be worth prioritizing if your schedule is tight. The area is quiet and pleasant for a short stroll, making it suitable if you’re already nearby or have some spare time to fill. Overall, it’s a nice detour, but not a must-visit attraction in Chongqing"
LEE
"Beautifully conserved and restored building provides lovely walking trial through it interspersed with nice cafes visitors to unwind. Buildings have nice architecture set against great natural hilly backdrop. A lovely place to visit with friends or family. We really enjoyed ourselves."
Sam Goh SE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Danzishi Old Street (Longmenhao) is accessible via public transport. Many visitors take the Yangtze River Cableway to get close, offering scenic views. Alternatively, metro lines can get you to nearby stations, followed by a short taxi or walk.
Yes, it's a well-known attraction. Look for signs for 'Longmenhao' or 'Danzishi Old Street'. It's situated along the Yangtze River, making its location quite distinct.
Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging in busy areas. Public transport is generally recommended for ease of access and to avoid traffic congestion.
Taking the Yangtze River Cableway offers a fantastic aerial perspective of the old street and the river, especially as you approach.
It's relatively close to the Yangtze River Cableway and can be combined with visits to other riverside attractions. Some suggest pairing it with Ciqikou for a fuller old-world charm experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to Danzishi Old Street itself is free. You only pay for specific attractions within the area or for services like the Yangtze River Cableway.
The street is typically open throughout the day and into the night, with the atmosphere becoming most vibrant in the evening. Specific shop hours may vary.
While walking through the main street is free, some individual tea houses or artisan workshops might have their own entry or minimum spend requirements.
Yes, it's accessible 24/7 for walking around the exterior, but the best experience with lights and open shops is in the evening.
Information on specific events can be limited, but it's always worth checking local listings closer to your travel date for any cultural happenings.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is photogenic, especially the preserved wooden diaojiaolou architecture. The riverside promenade offers great shots of the Yangtze River and bridges. Evenings with the lights are particularly stunning.
Absolutely! The street is beautifully illuminated at night with lanterns and warm lights, creating a magical ambiance perfect for night photography.
A versatile camera with good low-light performance is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the architecture and streetscapes, while a telephoto can focus on details or distant views.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, be mindful of private businesses and avoid intrusive photography of individuals without permission.
Golden hour around sunset provides beautiful warm light for the architecture. Nighttime offers a completely different, enchanting perspective with the artificial lighting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a mix of traditional Chongqing snacks, street food, and cafes. While not a dedicated 'food street,' options like sesame cakes and spicy lazi chicken are mentioned.
It offers a pleasant culinary experience with local snacks and tea houses, but if you're seeking an extensive 'food street' experience, other areas in Chongqing might be more suitable.
Some establishments along the riverside may offer views, particularly those with outdoor seating or upper floors. It's worth exploring the options available.
Look out for local specialties like Ciqikou sesame cakes or spicy lazi chicken, though availability can vary.
Options might be limited, but many cafes offer drinks and light snacks. It's advisable to inquire directly at establishments for specific dietary needs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the street is generally safe for a leisurely stroll. Consider visiting in the early evening before it gets too crowded. Pack some snacks or plan for a relaxed tea break in one of the cafes to keep younger ones happy. The Yangtze River Cableway nearby also provides an exciting ride for the whole family.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best results, bring a camera with good low-light capabilities and consider a wide-angle lens to capture the streetscapes. The golden hour around sunset also offers beautiful warm light for daytime shots. Be prepared for crowds during peak evening hours, but the visual rewards are well worth it.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Explorers
It’s an ideal spot to unwind, take photos, and experience a slice of local life without feeling rushed. The evening ambiance is particularly conducive to a peaceful exploration. Don't expect a high-energy nightlife scene, but rather a charming and tranquil environment.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Longmenhao's Architecture
The architectural style is noted to have some Western influences, possibly due to its history as a residence for foreigners. This blend of styles adds to its distinct character. The buildings are set against a great natural hilly backdrop, enhancing their picturesque quality. It's a place where history and natural landscape merge, providing a visually rich experience for visitors.
While the restoration aims to preserve authenticity, some visitors note that certain areas can feel a bit commercialized. However, the overall effect is a charming and photogenic district perfect for leisurely exploration. The preserved buildings provide lovely walking trails interspersed with nice cafes, making it a relaxing cultural pit stop.
Experiencing Danzishi Old Street at Night
Walking through the lit-up district offers a nostalgic and enchanting experience. The combination of historic architecture and vibrant evening lights creates a unique atmosphere that is perfect for evening strolls and photography. It's a stark contrast to the daytime bustle and offers a more serene yet visually stunning experience.
Many reviewers highlight that visiting in the evening is essential to fully appreciate the street's charm. The modern touches of Chongqing nightlife blend seamlessly with the old-world feel, making it an ideal spot to slow down, take photos, and simply soak in the atmosphere.
Food and Drink Scene
Some specific mentions include CiQikou sesame cakes and spicy lazi chicken, though the availability of these can vary. The street provides a good opportunity to sample local flavors in a relaxed setting. It's a place to enjoy light bites and drinks while taking in the historic surroundings.
For those looking for a more extensive 'food street' experience with a wide array of dining options, other areas in Chongqing might be more suitable. However, Danzishi Old Street is ideal for a leisurely exploration where you can enjoy a cup of tea or a local snack without the pressure of a packed itinerary.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit