Situated in Yuzhong District, at the tip of the Yuzhong peninsula, the Jiefangbei Central Business District, also known as the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street （Monument to the People's Liberation Pedestrian Street), stands as the vibrant heart of Chongqing. Extending outward from the iconic Liberation Monument, a landmark clock tower, this bustling area covers over 36,000 square meters. Renowned as one of the most thriving hubs in western China, the Jiefangbei CBD boasts a plethora of shopping malls, a diverse array of restaurants and hotels, and a multitude of street food stalls lining the nearby streets.
Moreover, the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street serves as a lively nightlife epicenter in Chongqing, drawing numerous visitors in the evenings. Beyond offering panoramic views, it provides ample opportunities to revel in live music and delectable cuisine at various establishments.
Following Chongqing's transition to an independent municipality in 1997, separate from Sichuan Province, the local government initiated the development of the first business pedestrian street in western China. Initially spanning around 24,000 square meters and centered around the Liberation Monument, the shopping area underwent expansions in 2000 and 2001, ultimately reaching its current size. Today, the Jiefangbei CBD stands as a pivotal economic nucleus in Chongqing.
Future plans include extending the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street to connect seamlessly with Raffles City and Chaotianmen Square, creating a continuous thoroughfare from the Liberation Monument to Chaotianmen. This expansion will transform the street into a lengthy promenade adorned with shops, malls, restaurants, and bars on either side.
The Jiefangbei clock tower epitomizes one of Chongqing's most iconic landmarks. Erected in commemoration of China's triumph in the Sino-Japanese War, this tower, standing at approximately 28 meters tall, was once among the tallest structures in Chongqing. Positioned at the heart of the modern-day pedestrian street, the monument serves as the meeting point where the four main roads converge.
The Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street caters to avid shoppers, offering a paradise of retail experiences. Alongside a plethora of malls, visitors can explore flagship stores from prominent international brands like LV, Prada, Gucci, Armani, Zegna, and more. Local brands, including Xiaomi, Huawei, Adidas, and Nike, have also established a presence, enhancing the shopping diversity in the area.
Adjacent to the Jiefangbei Pedestrian Street lies 81st Street, or Bayi Road, renowned for its wide array of popular Chongqing street foods. Here, visitors can indulge in a range of culinary delights, from fruity snacks to barbecues, noodles, hotpot, and an assortment of desserts. Additionally, the street houses several food courts offering delectable dishes at affordable prices.
