Review of Hongyadong, Chongqing: Community-Based Tourism

**Hongyadong (Hongya Cave) Review: Community-Based Tourism Supporting Local People** 🏮🏞️ **Hongyadong**, or "Hongya Cave," is located along the Jialing River in the heart of Chongqing, China. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations, seamlessly blending local culture with urban development. The 11-story building is constructed in a tiered fashion along the hillside in the style of ancient Chinese architecture, often likened to the "Howl's Moving Castle" from Studio Ghibli's famous animation. ✨ ### Highlights of "Community-Based Tourism": * **Boosting the Local Economy**: Most shops are owned by local residents, selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and regional products such as embroidered bags, knitted dolls, and local flower teas. 🧵 * **Authentic Local Cuisine**: There are restaurants and food stalls offering local dishes like Sichuan hotpot, Chongqing dumplings, and unique desserts at affordable prices, ensuring genuine income circulation within the community. 🍲 * **Cultural Learning Hub**: Exhibitions showcase the lifestyle of Chongqing locals, traditional attire, small museums, and workshops for crafts like Chinese fan-making, paper cutting, and calligraphy. ✒️ ### Popular Check-In Spots: * **City River Views**: The top floor of Hongyadong offers stunning panoramic views of the Jialing River and the bridges cutting through Chongqing. 🌉 * **Romantic Night Lights**: At night, the entire building lights up with thousands of bulbs, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere perfect for photography and leisurely evening strolls. 📸 ### Recommendations: * Visit in the evening to enjoy the night lights. * Carry some cash for local shops that may not accept cards. * Politely negotiate prices with street vendors to foster friendly community interactions. **Hongyadong** is not just a beautiful tourist spot but also a prime example of **sustainable and community-supportive tourism**. If you value meaningful travel experiences, this is a destination you shouldn't miss!