Chongqing is a city that rewards travelers with more than just skyscrapers and spicy hotpot. It’s a place where history, natural beauty, and modern adventure come together in ways that make a full-day tour a must-do. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient religious art or discovering filming locations from blockbuster movies, Chongqing offers options that suit different tastes. We particularly like the Dazu Rock Carvings for their breathtaking artistry and the Wulong film location tour for its scenic drama—imagine walking through scenes from Transformers or wuxia epics. These tours give you a chance to see the city’s surroundings from a new perspective, with detailed insights from local guides that bring each site to life.
While Chongqing’s urban charm is undeniable, its nearby attractions like the Dazu Rock Carvings and Wulong’s karst landscapes make for unforgettable full-day excursions. These tours let you absorb history, marvel at natural wonders, and even enjoy some film trivia—perfect for travelers who want meaningful experiences without rushing.
Quick Overview
Our list rounds up three standout full-day tours that showcase Chongqing’s rich landscape and culture. From exploring the centuries-old Dazu Rock Carvings (see tour here) to the epic scenery of the Wulong film locations (check details here), each offers something special. The first combines cultural heritage with personalized service, the second emphasizes historical grotto art, and the third promises a scenic adventure full of blockbuster movie scenery.
1. Dazu Rock Carvings Private Full Day Tour from Chongqing
This private tour hits the mark for those eager to see one of China’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites. Starting with a hotel pickup, your guide will take you to the Dazu Rock Carvings, carved into the Beishan and Baodingshan hills centuries ago. The site boasts thousands of statues depicting religious themes and daily life, beautifully preserved and full of detail. You’ll also visit Baodingshan, where nearly 10,000 cliffside figures from the Song dynasty showcase exquisite sculptural work.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention—your guide shares insights that make the centuries-old carvings feel alive. The tour is flexible, lasting around 6 to 8 hours, and includes admission tickets. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, with reviews noting it as a “great trip with logistics that worked very well.”
This tour is ideal if you’re craving a deep dive into religious art and ancient craftsmanship without the hassle of organizing transportation yourself. The private nature means you set the pace and focus on the sites that interest you most.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking an in-depth, personalized experience of one of China’s top cultural sights, this tour offers excellent value and flexibility.
2. From Chongqing: Full-Day Private Tour Dazu Rock Carvings
At number two, this full-day private trip provides a comprehensive look at the Dazu Rock Carvings, built from 650 AD during the Tang dynasty. It emphasizes the grotto art and religious sculptures carved into 500 meters of cliff faces, with a focus on the Dazu County Dafowan area where 10,000 Buddha statues are carved on a cliff face.
The tour includes a guided 2-hour visit and a meal at a local Dazu County Gymnasium, giving you a taste of regional cuisine. The flexible pickup options and the option to be dropped off either in Chongqing make this tour convenient for different schedules. It’s slightly more expensive at $230, but the inclusion of a local lunch and the ability to customize your pickup adds value.
The standout feature here is the detailed exploration of Tang dynasty carvings, which are historically significant and visually stunning. The guide’s insights on the religious themes deepen your appreciation of this UNESCO site.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history and art lovers who want a well-rounded, guided experience of Dazu’s grotto sculptures and religious carvings, with the convenience of flexible pickup and drop-off.
$230 per person
3. From Chongqing: Wulong Film Locations Full-Day Guided Tour
If you’re keen on scenery and blockbuster movies, this Wulong film locations tour takes you into a landscape that looks like it’s straight out of Hollywood. Over approximately 12 hours, you’ll hike through scenic wilderness, waterfalls, and cliffs, with key stops at the Three Natural Bridges from Transformers 4 and the Longshuixia Gorge.
Wulong is a UNESCO-listed area famous for its spectacular karst formations. The tour includes learning local legends and film trivia from a knowledgeable guide, adding an entertaining layer to your sightseeing. Expect plenty of walking and some physical activity, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.
Priced at $311, this is the most expensive of the bunch, but it compensates with a full day of adventure, awe-inspiring views, and a chance to walk through filming locations that have appeared in major movies. It’s perfect if you want an energetic, nature-filled experience combined with a touch of cinematic history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who love stunning landscapes and film buffs eager to see scenes from blockbuster movies like Transformers set amidst China’s famous karst scenery.
$311 per person
How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Chongqing
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re passionate about ancient art and religious sculptures, the Dazu Rock Carvings tours (see options here, second tour) offer detailed insights and flexible schedules. They are also well-suited for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
If your heart is set on dramatic scenery and movie magic, then the Wulong tour (check it out here) provides a full day of active exploration in a UNESCO-listed landscape, perfect for adventure lovers and film enthusiasts alike.
For budget-conscious travelers who want a deep cultural experience, the second tour is a bit more affordable and includes regional cuisine, making it a good value. Meanwhile, those with a limited schedule might prefer the shorter, private Dazu Rock Carvings trip, which packs in the highlights without rushing.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons in spring and autumn. Consider your physical stamina and interests to match your ideal experience.
Final Thoughts
Chongqing offers a variety of full-day tours that cater to different interests—whether it’s enjoying ancient rock carvings, exploring film-worthy landscapes, or enjoying a mix of both. The Dazu Rock Carvings tours provide profound cultural insights, while the Wulong trip is perfect for those seeking adventure and scenery.
If you’re after a deep dive into China’s religious art, the first two tours will satisfy your curiosity. For active travelers craving spectacular views and movie locations, the Wulong adventure won’t disappoint. Don’t forget to book early, as these popular trips fill up quickly, especially during busy seasons.
No matter which you choose, each offers a memorable window into the diverse wonders surrounding Chongqing. Enjoy your trip, and make sure to pick the tour that best matches your style and interests for a truly enriching experience.