Yangtze River International Youth Hostel

Stayed at this hostel for 4 nights and felt like it was the real China - not the glitzy high end shopping mall city. It's down on the Yangtze River waterfront surrounded by local street markets and an almost constant movement of warehouse imports/ exports on the street by porters ferrying the goods up and down steep steps. Firstly. I would not recommend if you don't like steps because this area has lots although you can avoid some by using the bus. Second. The directions to the hostel are indeed confusing and need to be updated as you can now exit the station by Exit 8 and avoid the street for part of the way. Basically however you are heading for the big orange bridge on the riverfront. The staff are friendly ( thanks Daniel and Jasmine for including me in the local hotpot restaurant excursion) and there are lots of tips on where to go in Chongqing. I did the Dazu day trip - the caves were amazing - the rest of the tour was a bit average but met some interesting Chinese tourists which was fun, and also went to Hechuan on my own to see the old fort ( well worth it). Stayed in a 4 bed dorm for 3 nights - noisy with the street outside but clean and airy and then one night in the 6 bed - quieter but more stuffy. I found Chongqing has lots to offer if you let it - and this location is the real deal - despite the air quality.