RMB 5 for stunning river views: Chongqing's hidden tea havens

Nanshan Mountain in spring is not only Chongqing's "green lung" but also hides countless gems for tea lovers and photographers! From ancient temple teahouses offering river views for just RMB 5 to serene tea rooms nestled in the mountains, these budget-friendly spots satisfy both your taste buds and your thirst for Instagram-worthy photos. However, Jiangbei District has been experiencing foggy weather recently, so please check out these weather tips before heading out: ### [Recommended tea and photo spots in Nanshan] 1. Tu Shan Temple: RMB 5 for a bowl of tea and photos of a thousand-year-old temple with river views - Location: No. 15 Zhenwu Mountain, Nanshan Street, Nan'an District - Features: The oldest existing temple in Chongqing. Entry is only RMB 5, and a bowl of gaiwan tea is another RMB 5 per person. Enjoy your tea while sitting on the mountainside corridor overlooking the Yuzhong Peninsula and the river. The corridor's yellow walls, carved eaves, and hillside river views are all perfect photo spots, especially in the winter sun or after the rain when the mist creates a magical atmosphere. - Reminder: Jiangbei District has been experiencing foggy weather recently. If it's foggy, the river view might be obscured, so it's best to visit on a clear afternoon. 2. Minghe Tea Room: RMB 38 tea fee for exclusive panoramic mountaintop views - Location: Inside Nanshan Armed Police Sanatorium (near Tu Shan Temple) - Features: A hidden tea room on the mountainside. Window seats require reservations and offer 360° views of Yuzhong District. The tea fee is RMB 38 per person, with tea prices starting from RMB 68. Served in Jingdezhen purple clay teapots, the tea service, antique furniture, and misty mountain city views outside the window make for stunning photos. - Value: Slightly pricey but with unbeatable views, perfect for atmosphere-seeking photographers. 3. Jian Kuan Shanfang: Zen courtyard in the mountains, enjoy tranquility for around RMB 50 per person - Location: Fangniuping, Nanshan (navigate to "Jian Kuan Shanfang") - Features: A Zen-style homestay with white walls and wooden decor. The courtyard features bluestone paths, a koi pond, and an open wooden pavilion, all full of ancient charm. Order a pot of tea (around RMB 50 per person) and enjoy free access to photograph the courtyard. Wearing Hanfu or plain-colored dresses complements the green surroundings beautifully. 4. Donglüfang: Mountain spring tea, a secluded courtyard for around RMB 40 per person - Location: Qingshuixi Fitness Park, Inner Ring Expressway, Lianhua Mountain - Features: An old courtyard hidden in the mountains, with cats and dogs playing and tea brewed with mountain spring water. Pu'er, Da Hong Pao, and other teas are priced at around RMB 40 per pot. The mottled earthen walls, old wooden furniture, and greenery outside the window create a natural frame, perfect for forest-themed or vintage photos. 5. Wuyinmen: Gaiwan coffee + old town vibes, around RMB 25 per person - Location: No. 81 Tushan Road, Nan'an District - Features: A creative cafe serving coffee in gaiwan. Lattes and pour-overs are priced at around RMB 25. The blue and white porcelain cups against the backdrop of the old streets create a unique atmosphere. The bamboo chairs at the entrance, the calligraphy wall, and the old street alleys are all great photo spots, perfect for capturing local life. ### [Jiangbei District weather and travel tips] - Weather warning: Expect mostly cloudy and rainy weather in Jiangbei District in late March, with daily temperatures between 15-20°C and wind speeds of 3-4. Fog is likely in some parts of Nanshan. If you plan to shoot night scenes or distant views, avoid rainy days and choose a clear afternoon with good visibility. - Clothing suggestions: Nanshan has significant temperature differences between day and night. Wear a light jacket with layers and comfortable sneakers (some tea rooms require walking on mountain paths). - Transportation: From Jiangbei District to Nanshan, taking a taxi (about 30 minutes) or taking Rail Transit Line 6 to Shangxinjie Station and transferring to bus 384 is recommended. Some tea rooms (such as Jian Kuan Shanfang) require driving or carpooling. Conclusion Nanshan's beauty lies half in the aroma of tea and half in the lens. Whether it's a down-to-earth temple teahouse for RMB 5 or a cloud-top tea room on a mountain peak, you'll find a moment of tranquility in fast-paced Chongqing. Before spring is over, grab this guide and head to Nanshan for a date with tea and scenery! Tip: For foggy photography, try capturing a hazy mood. Use a telephoto lens to capture the looming buildings or use the warm light of the tea room to create atmosphere.