In a traditional residential area, there is a dumpling shop directly facing a crossroads. You can enjoy dumplings alongside the locals, freely choosing two types of fillings from a variety of options, with seven pieces of each. As you savor your meal, watch the bustling intersection of this lively residential neighborhood and experience an authentic Chongqing meal.

In busy commercial centers and nearby residential buildings, various kinds of local delicacies are scattered around—foods that residents love, have grown up eating, and take pride in. Since these areas are not tourist hubs, these dishes are still relatively unknown to international travelers, but they absolutely represent the city's culinary character: numbing and spicy, refreshing, springy and chewy, and deliciously fresh. Here, we will wander through the streets and alleys, eating jelly made from local grass seeds, enjoying a variety of freshly baked savory pastries, and sipping on locally branded coffee or tea—spending an afternoon leisurely strolling and snacking just like the people of Chongqing do.

After a leisurely afternoon of snacking and strolling, we will arrive at the ancient town of Ciqikou. There, we'll find a traditional teahouse to rest our feet and enjoy some authentic jasmine tea (or other local tea of your choice) to aid digestion and prepare for dinner. Near the teahouse lies the old streets, where you can freely wander and explore the ancient town.

For dinner, we will enjoy an authentic Chongqing hotpot together in the most traditional way. Unlike the hotpot places in tourist areas, this restaurant is extremely authentic and reasonably priced. It has been in business for over thirty years and still draws a steady stream of customers every day. There are almost no out-of-town tourists—only locals know about it. The ingredients are fresh and varied, and the broth is numbing and spicy without causing any digestive discomfort. I really want to recommend this place to international travelers!