Running along sections of the paths along the Yangtze River and Jialing River is a must-do experience for any running in Chongking. It’s also the best opportunity for a longer off-road run in this huge, dense city. The Yangtze flows from west to east in Chongking, while the Jialing flows into the Yangtze in Chongking. There are some 30 km of riverfront paths, the centerpiece being at the Confluence point, where the two rivers meet (near Chongqing Chaotianmen Square).

Below are some of the best sections of the river routes. It’s a mix of dedicated paths/promenades and wide sidewalks on the roads. There’s continual development/change! The heart of the riverfront running is between the Qiansimen Bridge (Jialing), Chaotianmen Bridge (Yangtze, north of confluence), and Dongshuimen Bridge (Yangtze, south of confluence). These three bridges are also best for pedestrian crossings. 

Two Rivers, Three Bridges Loop

This 12-13 km loop is a popular, signature running experience in Chongking. The loop centers around the Confluence, with paths along both rivers between the incorporates the Qiansimen, Chaotianmen, and Dongshuimen bridges. There are great views of the water, Chongking skyline, and three dramatic bridge crossings, with wide pathways for most of the route. Our mapped route starts just north of the Chaotianmen Bridge, heading south along the west bank of the Yangtze, then crossing the Jialing River on the Dongshuimen Bridge, then around the Confluence to the Qiansimen Bridge, then competing the loop north along Nanbin Rd. 

Specific River Sections

Beibin Road (Jiangbei District). This is a nice section for running along the north bank of the Jialing River, with separate running & cycling tracks. Start just north of the Confluence, near the dramatic Chongqing Grand Theatre. Continue around, headed west, for ~4 km to just short of the Jianglingjiang Bridge. The path ends there, but you can continue briefly on the road, and then pick up a path again near the Liziba Viewing Platform, where it’s possible to follow Beibin Rd. for several more km. MAP

ChangJiangBinJiang Rd./Coral Park (Yuzhong District). About 4 km of nice running along the north side of the Yangtze River on dedicated pedestrian & cycle paths. The path goes from the Dongshuimen Bridge to Coral Park. At the park, there are some additional paths that jut out to a small island. MAP

Nanbin Rd., Chongking
Nanbin Rd. Google Street View

Nanbin Rd. Nearly 8 km of paths along the east/south bank of the Yangtze River, paralleling Nanbin Rd. Dedicated path for a good part. Run from just south of the Chaotianmen Bridge, following Nanbin Rd., south to near the Caiyuanba Bridge. MAP