Question 1

What is the "Hongya Cave 'free photo' then payment demand" scam in Chongqing?

Accepted Answer

Touts position themselves at the best viewpoints of the illuminated Hongyadong cliff complex and the Qiansimen Bridge, offering to take a 'free' photo of you against the skyline. After shooting, they print the image on the spot and demand 30-50 RMB, sometimes blocking your path until you pay. They occupy the prime railings so it is hard to get your own shot. Take your own photos with your phone and politely refuse offers with 'bu yao' (don't want). Never hand your phone or agree to a photo before a price is confirmed in writing.

Question 2

What is the "Fake-antique and inflated souvenir sales at Ciqikou" scam in Chongqing?

Accepted Answer

Shops in Ciqikou Ancient Town present mass-produced jade, 'silver,' old coins, and trinkets as genuine antiques, often with no price tags so they can quote a high figure based on how wealthy you look. Snack and souvenir stalls along the main lane also quote inflated prices to visitors who appear unfamiliar with local rates. Assume anything sold as an 'antique' here is a modern reproduction and buy only for enjoyment. Ask the price before showing interest, bargain hard (start around 30% of the asking price), and compare a few stalls.

Question 3

What is the "Costume-photo and 'scenic' add-on fees" scam in Chongqing?

Accepted Answer

Around Ciqikou and Hongyadong, vendors rent traditional Hanfu costumes and offer staged photoshoots advertised at a low base rate, then tack on charges for the photographer, retouching, extra prints, hairpieces, and props that multiply the final price. Some 'photo spots' and small viewpoints inside scenic areas also collect an unexpected fee once you have posed. Get the full package price in writing before dressing up or posing, and confirm exactly how many edited photos and accessories are included. Decline upsells firmly and walk away if the price keeps climbing.

Question 4

What is the "Fake monks and charm/blessing donation hustle" scam in Chongqing?

Accepted Answer

Around temple and tourist sites a person dressed as a Buddhist monk presses a bracelet, medallion, or charm into your hand 'as a gift,' then demands a donation and shows a ledger of previous large contributions; if you hesitate, the item is snatched back. Genuine monks at sites such as Ciqikou's Baolun Temple do not roam tourist lanes soliciting cash this way. Do not accept bracelets, charms, or 'gifts' from people who approach you, and keep your hands at your sides. If something is placed on you, hand it straight back and walk on; make donations only inside the temple's official donation box.

Street Scams in Chongqing

Hongya Cave 'free photo' then payment demand

Fake-antique and inflated souvenir sales at Ciqikou

Costume-photo and 'scenic' add-on fees

Fake monks and charm/blessing donation hustle

Experienced a scam here?