Location & How to Get There

Stairway To Heaven isn’t your average staircase—it’s a jaw-dropping, heart-pumping climb nestled inside the ancient Fishing City (a historic fortress in Hechuan, Chongqing). To find it, head to Ruoshan West Road, No. 41 in Hechuan District. The easiest way to reach here is by taking the high-speed train from Chongqing North Station to Hechuan Station (about 40 minutes), then a short taxi or bus ride to Fishing City’s entrance. If you’re driving, plug the address into Google Maps, but be warned: the roads get narrow near the site, so arrive early to avoid traffic headaches.

Natural Scenery: A Vertical Adventure

Let’s talk about the staircase itself—Stairway To Heaven. Picture this: over 400 steep stone steps carved into a cliff, winding upward like a dragon’s spine. As you climb, you’ll be surrounded by thick forests and the distant roar of the Jialing River below. Halfway up, there’s a tiny wooden hut where you can pause for breath (and a laugh about how your legs are shaking). At the top, the real reward: a panoramic view of the river snaking through emerald hills, with mist rising on foggy days. Trust me, snapping a photo here will make your friends back home seriously jealous.

History Lessons Along the Way

Fishing City isn’t just about nature—it’s a 13th-century war fort that stood against Mongol invaders for decades. Stairway To Heaven was once part of its defense system, used by soldiers to scout enemy movements. Today, info boards along the path share stories (in English too!) about battles and heroes. My favorite? The legend of Wang Li, a commander who held the city for years. Even if you’re not a history buff, the vibe of walking where warriors once trod feels pretty cool.

Practical Tips: What to Bring

Before you tackle Stairway To Heaven, prep like a pro. Wear comfortable sneakers—no flip-flops, please! Bring water (there are few stalls up top) and a hat for sun protection. The climb takes about 30-40 minutes for most people, but it’s steep, so take breaks. Good news: the entrance is free with your Fishing City ticket (around ¥40), and there’s a toilet at the base. Pro tip: Visit on a cloudy day for softer light and fewer crowds.

More Than Just Stairs: Nearby Attractions

After conquering Stairway To Heaven, explore Fishing City’s other gems. Check out the ancient gates and walls, or visit the Monument to the Heroes of Fishing City for a history recap. If you’re hungry, the nearby Riverside Food Street serves spicy Chongqing noodles and grilled riverfish. For adrenaline junkies, combine this with a boat trip on the Jialing River—the views of the staircase from the water are next-level.

Why You’ll Love (or Hate) It

Let’s be real: Stairway To Heaven isn’t for everyone. Your thighs will scream, and you’ll swear off stairs for life… but the sense of achievement when you reach the top? Unbeatable. It’s the perfect mix of exercise, nature, and history—like a real-life Indiana Jones moment. Just don’t forget to stretch before you start, or you’ll regret it halfway up!

Ready for the challenge? Pack your gear and get climbing—Stairway To Heaven is waiting to test your limits (and reward you with bragging rights)!