Testbed 2 Chongqing
1 / 10

Testbed 2 Chongqing

4.6
·23 reviews·, China

A former printing factory reborn as a vibrant artistic hub, Testbed 2 offers a unique 'cyberpunk' vibe with colorful murals and quirky shops.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere and night market

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Testbed 2 Chongqing

Testbed 2 Chongqing

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere and night market

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former printing factory reborn as a vibrant artistic hub, Testbed 2 offers a unique 'cyberpunk' vibe with colorful murals and quirky shops.

4.6
(23 reviews)

"Pretty artistic place with lots of interesting and funky shops."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Colors

Don't miss the iconic orange staircase and vibrant murals for your photos! :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Consider taking a car ride up and walking down to fully appreciate the area. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Orange Staircase

The Orange Staircase

Testbed 2

A vibrant, multi-story staircase that's a magnet for photographers and a symbol of the area's artistic transformation.

Creative Hub & Shops

Creative Hub & Shops

Testbed 2

Explore unique boutiques, art studios, and cafes housed in the revitalized industrial buildings.

Street Art & Murals

Street Art & Murals

Testbed 2

Discover colorful and thought-provoking murals adorning the walls, adding to the area's cyberpunk aesthetic.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Verticality

Chongqing's unique geography means 'ground level' can be deceiving. Expect multi-layered streets and buildings where you might be on the 22nd floor and still feel like you're at street level. Navigating this can be a fun challenge!

Artistic Vibes & Photo Ops

Testbed 2 is a former printing factory transformed into a vibrant creative hub. It's packed with colorful murals, quirky shops, and unique architecture, making it a prime spot for Instagram-worthy photos.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere and night market
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively with local events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Which floor is the groud floor in Chongqing? #China #Chongqing #cyberpunk #重庆 #travel
@hughchongqing
3.2M likes • 28.2M views

📸 Capture the Colors

Don't miss the iconic orange staircase and vibrant murals for your photos! :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Consider taking a car ride up and walking down to fully appreciate the area. :athletic_shoe:

China is literally living in 2090 🇨🇳🐉 #china #chongqing #shanghai #cybercity #beijing #travel #travelguide #fyp #viral
@capturedbytalha
1.8M likes • 16.1M views
From 1950-1970 anything printed with Chongqing was printed at this factory in China 🇨🇳. But, after the company moved out in 2012, this area was converted into an artsy space for all to enjoy! THIS IS TESTBED2 Chongqing #testbed2 #testbed2chongqing #chongqing #china #travel
armyguytravels
28 likes • 1K views

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

Discover quirky boutiques and art studios in this former printing factory. :shopping_bags:

🌃 Enjoy the Night Market

Experience local food and crafts at the lively night market. :street_food:

🏭🖨️🔄🖍️🎨 A historic printing factory reborn as a creative hub! How Chongqing’s printing legacy is fueling modern cultural innovation. TESTBED 2, once the Chongqing Printing Factory No. 2, was a center for color printing in the 20th century. Now, it has transformed into a vibrant space for art, culture, and creativity. This innovative site blends industrial history with modern design. By preser...
urbansoul_cmr
72 likes • 24.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Colors

Don't miss the iconic orange staircase and vibrant murals for your photos! :camerawithflash:

🚶‍♀️ Walk Downhill

Consider taking a car ride up and walking down to fully appreciate the area. :athletic_shoe:

🛍️ Explore Unique Shops

Discover quirky boutiques and art studios in this former printing factory. :shopping_bags:

🌃 Enjoy the Night Market

Experience local food and crafts at the lively night market. :street_food:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Testbed 2 is a highly recommended artistic and vibrant destination, praised for its colorful murals, unique shops, and lively night market. Visitors enjoy the 'cyberpunk' atmosphere and the transformation of the former printing factory into a creative hub, making it a popular spot for photos and exploration.

"Lovely place to spend an evening - there are various food and shopping options here, as well as a night market and even a few pet cafes. Plenty of IG worthy spots for photo taking too"

Yan Ni Tan

"As tourists I do think they have done a very good job to turn this place into attractive tourist place especially for the young people to check in and of course eventually posted in their social media account. Certainly they have shops, cafe, restaurants etc. Some art works in the wall, the orange staircase, big Huawei advertising in the wall etc are quite eye catching…"

Wilbur Lo

"Pretty artistic place with lots of interesting and funky shops.

It's definitely worth a visit if you are in the area.

I would recommend getting a car ride up and walking down rather than climbing all the way up from Li Zi Ba like I did."

TY

What People Like

Artistic atmosphere
Colorful murals
Unique shops

What People Dislike

Can be confusing to navigate

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Testbed 2 is accessible via public transport. The nearest subway station is Lizhiba (Line 3), which is a short walk away. Many visitors recommend taking a car ride up and then walking down to explore the area more thoroughly. Reddit

Chongqing is known for its verticality, and Testbed 2 is no exception. While it can be confusing, embracing the multi-layered streets is part of the experience. Look for signs and enjoy the exploration! TikTok+1

Many visitors suggest starting from the top and walking down to best appreciate the artistic elements and shops. This also helps manage the city's unique topography. Reddit

Yes, Testbed 2 is a great destination for a half-day trip, especially if you're interested in art, photography, and unique urban landscapes. It's also near other popular Chongqing attractions. Instagram

Yes, ride-sharing apps are widely used in Chongqing and can be a convenient way to reach Testbed 2, especially if you're coming from further afield. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Testbed 2 is generally a free-to-enter public space. There are no admission fees to walk around and enjoy the art and atmosphere. Instagram

As an open urban area with shops and cafes, Testbed 2 doesn't have strict opening hours. Shops and restaurants typically operate during daytime and evening hours, with the area being particularly lively at night. Instagram

While the general area is free, individual shops, cafes, or any special exhibitions within Testbed 2 may have their own pricing for goods or services. Instagram

Testbed 2 can get quite busy, especially on evenings and weekends, as it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Consider visiting on a weekday evening for a slightly less crowded experience. Reddit

Yes, many local tours in Chongqing include Testbed 2 as part of their itinerary, especially those focusing on art, culture, and the city's unique urban development. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Art

The iconic orange staircase is a must-capture. Also, look out for the vibrant murals, unique architectural details, and the general cyberpunk vibe of the former printing factory. InstagramReddit

Yes, Testbed 2, with its industrial past and artistic present, contributes to Chongqing's reputation as a 'cyberpunk city.' The blend of old and new architecture is striking. TikTok+1

Testbed 2 is a creative hub, so you'll find various art studios and spaces that may host exhibitions. It's worth exploring to see what's on display during your visit. Instagram

Expect a mix of street art, murals, and contemporary art installations. The area itself, being a repurposed factory, is a canvas for creative expression. Instagram

Generally, taking photos of the public art and the general ambiance is fine. However, if you wish to photograph specific artworks or products within shops for commercial purposes, it's always best to ask permission first.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Testbed 2 offers a variety of dining options, from local street food at the night market to cafes and restaurants serving both Chinese and international cuisine, including Italian pizza and artisanal gelato. Instagram

The area around Testbed 2 has numerous eateries. You can find everything from quick snacks to more formal dining experiences. The night market is particularly popular for trying local delicacies. Reddit

While specific options can vary, many restaurants in Chongqing are becoming more accommodating. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff about vegetarian or vegan choices. Instagram

Yes, Testbed 2 often features a night market, offering a lively atmosphere and a chance to sample various local street foods and snacks. Reddit

Food prices can range from very affordable street food to mid-range cafe prices. You can find options to suit most budgets. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Testbed 2 offers a visually stimulating environment that can engage children with its colorful murals and unique architecture. The open spaces allow for some freedom to explore, and the night market can be an exciting experience with various snacks to try. However, keep in mind that the multi-level nature of Chongqing might require extra supervision for younger children. TikTok+1

Consider visiting during daylight hours for better visibility of the art and a more relaxed atmosphere. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer novelty of the 'cyberpunk' setting can be an adventure in itself. Look for cafes that might offer kid-friendly treats. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Content Creators

Testbed 2 is a dream destination for photographers. The iconic orange staircase, vibrant street art, and the juxtaposition of industrial heritage with modern creativity provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. The 'cyberpunk' aesthetic of Chongqing is on full display here, offering a unique backdrop for urban photography. TikTokInstagram

Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the best light. Evenings offer a different mood with the area lighting up. Don't forget to explore the various nooks and crannies for hidden artistic gems. The multi-level design also offers interesting perspectives for capturing the urban landscape. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

As a former printing factory transformed into a creative hub, Testbed 2 is a must-visit for art lovers. You'll find a dynamic mix of street art, galleries, and studios showcasing local talent. The area's history as a printing center adds a layer of cultural significance to its modern artistic revival. Instagram+1

Take your time to wander through the complex, appreciate the murals, and perhaps discover unique pieces in the independent shops. The transformation of industrial spaces into cultural centers is a growing trend, and Testbed 2 is a prime example of successful urban regeneration. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Transformation of Testbed 2

Testbed 2, formerly known as Chongqing Printing Factory No. 2, stands as a testament to Chongqing's urban regeneration. This industrial site, which was a significant printing hub from the mid-20th century, has been meticulously transformed into a vibrant cultural and creative district. The revitalization project aimed to preserve the area's industrial heritage while infusing it with modern artistic and commercial energy. Instagram+1

The transformation involved repurposing the factory buildings into unique spaces for art galleries, studios, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This approach not only saved a piece of Chongqing's history but also created a dynamic new destination that attracts both locals and tourists. The blend of exposed brickwork, industrial elements, and contemporary art installations gives Testbed 2 its distinctive, edgy character, contributing to Chongqing's overall 'cyberpunk' image. TikTok+1

This creative hub is now a focal point for local artists and designers, fostering a community of innovation. Visitors can wander through the complex, discovering hidden gems, enjoying the street art, and experiencing the lively atmosphere, especially during the evenings when the area truly comes alive with its night market and illuminated spaces. Reddit

Chongqing's Verticality and Testbed 2

Chongqing is famously known as a 'mountain city' due to its dramatic topography, which significantly influences its urban planning and daily life. This verticality means that what appears to be a ground floor on one side of a building might be many stories up on another. Testbed 2, like much of Chongqing, embodies this unique characteristic. TikTok+1

Navigating Testbed 2 can feel like an adventure in itself, with its multi-level streets and interconnected buildings. Visitors often find themselves surprised by the different elevations within the same complex. This can be both disorienting and exciting, offering unexpected perspectives and viewpoints. The advice to 'walk down' rather than 'climb up' is a common tip to better appreciate the layout and the artistic elements. Reddit

This complex urban landscape is a key part of Chongqing's identity, often described as 'cyberpunk' due to its futuristic feel, dense architecture, and the way infrastructure integrates with the natural terrain. Testbed 2, with its artistic flair and industrial roots, fits perfectly into this narrative, showcasing how the city embraces its challenging geography to create unique urban experiences. TikTok+1

You may also like